photo: Courtesy of Nick Flandro

Its '70s-style sign looks a lot like a dive bar's, and the namesake nautical star is commonly requested by newbies at a tattoo studio, but the Star Lounge Cafe brings such a warm vibe to this forlorn corner of Ukrainian Village that the spot is sure to trump the trend card.

Co-owned by three friends, the lounge doesn't quite cater to 9-5ers, as it shuts down around 9 p.m.; however, it's a nice spot to spend a day working, thanks to a warm, burnt orange interior and hardwood floors. On the weeknight we stopped in, a focused clientele filling the wooden booths and small tables seemed intent on taking full advantage of the free wi-fi and countless electrical outlets. However, there's also room for those off-the-clock. Lounge on the teal and white, Urban Outfitters-esque furniture in back, or take a look at the local art, now almost a coffeehouse requisite in this 'hood. If you find the close quarters or the nu-jazz soundtrack a little too stuffy, head outside to the small back patio for a breather.

Service is pleasant but not cloying: servers don't hustle food out to your table, but they'll politely announce that your order is up. Snacks include a selection of baked goods from Lincolnwood's New York Bagel & Bialy as well as pastries from Little Miss Muffin, but it's the sandwiches that earn the cafe its gold star. The East Village Veggie, iron-pressed and filled with vegetables, Greek dressing and hummus, is killer and just under $6 (including bagged chips). Star Lounge also has a kids' menu and pseudo-play area; among the solo writers, laptop artists and nearby Atomix-types settled in, we found an older crowd likely to contain a few parents. An anemic book selection in back currently includes mostly best-sellers and sports books, but with time and patron reciprocation, we're guessing that will fill out with some Vonnegut and Bukowski titles.

The Star Lounge has big plans to expand its menu with shakes and ice cream and eventually host music events about once per week.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Libby Ramer