Despite the unrelenting assault of Starbucks on, well, just about everything, some independent coffeeshops are popping up, too. Monday sees the opening of a new cafe in Lincoln Square, the Grind Company. In addition to joe, they'll have food, juice, and "free wi-fi with purchase." The Tribune also runs a profile of a place that's caught my eye near Milwaukee and Central -- a vintage store and cafe named Kouks Vintage Cafe. That's the best idea since they put bars in bowling alleys.

Eric writes in to also recommend Beans and Bagels, a coffeeshop devoted to the Brown Line. In addition to the Montrose store, they've recently opened another shop near the Rockwell stop. Well worth the trip.