Café Clave (43rd and Locust): 12–minute walk There’s a quiet study room in the back with ample outlets, wi–fi, spinning chairs and committed workers. We’ve witnessed people enforce the quiet rule: this is a spot for serious work. The cash–only shop serves great empanandas and often has live salsa music come evening.
Lovers and Madmen (40th and Ludlow): 10–minute walk Market St. isn’t scary when you’re at Lovers and Madmen. Despite an early closing time of six, this is a great hang–out spot known for good cupcakes, excellent tea and a cozy, quiet atmosphere good for reading, blogging or catching up with a friend. If you come near closing, ask for your drink in a to–go cup.
Good Karma Café (22nd and Pine): 25–minute walk This fair–trade committed establishment has an artsy–eclectic interior, large tables and really solid (free) wi–fi. Grab a strong Iced Coffee and snag a seat outside while the weather still allows it.
Nook (20th between Market and Chestnut): 10–minute ride on the Market–Frankford line, eastbound If you like people–watching and great pastries, Nook is the place for you. A long bar along its enormous front windows let you look over 20th St. while you munch on an eclaire made onsite by Edna, the head baker. The coffee also happens to be great.
Red Hook Coffee & Tea (765 S. 4th St): 25–minute ride on the 40 bus, southbound Sometimes you just need to get as far away from Van Pelt as possible…and Red Hook is the place to go. With huge comfy couches, cool art on the walls, speedy and friendly service and amazing sandwiches, this Queen Village gem is a great place to escape for an afternoon.
