Ever daydream about taking a Venetian holiday? Romantic gondola rides, strolling the Piazza San Marco, sipping espresso at a sidewalk cafe...If your future travels are more likely to involve the L than a gondola, take your daydreams to The Italian Coffee Bar, where you can soak up a piece of Venice right in Evanston.

Inspired by a coffee bar he discovered on his own Venetian holiday, owner Chris Casas has done his best to recreate a similar look and feel. From the creamy orange and yellow walls to the deep brown, tiled tables, the vibe is very warm and very Italian. Unlike a certain major coffee chain (that means you, Starbucks), this is not the place to plug in your laptop and get down to work; the area is too small and the feel is too relaxing. But this is the place to bring a friend or a book, and savor a great cup of coffee.

And the coffee is exactly that: great. Casas promises that he uses only the best ingredients, and the proof is in the pudding...err, coffee. The rich and smooth flavor can be made in a dozen different varieties of lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and macchiatos. There's also a large whole bean coffee menu and a few juice drinks. And be sure to pair that caffeine buzz with a little sugar high: The Italian Coffee Bar has a tasty selection of freshly made pastries (there's a gloriously large chocolate croissant) and Italian cookies. If you're looking for something more substantial, fill-up with a bagel or an authentic panini. And remember that your Venetian coffee break will not be complete without a visit to the gelato case. How do you say "yummy" in Italian?

Centerstage Reviewer: Ashley Hamilton