Zona Rosa Caffe   

With a ''Bienvenidos!'' to Pasadena's java crowd, Zona Rosa froths up hot and cold drinks in its Mexican-themed, two-story cafe. Located just a few yards away from the Pasadena Playhouse and about a mile away from Old Town, Zona Rosa attracts a mix of theater patrons eager to discuss performances over cups of joe and twenty-something, nuevo bohemians who prefer reading with a book in one hand and a mug in the other. A large wall menu spells out the fresh-brewed fare, including the Zona Rosa cappuccino, made with Mexican chocolate, espresso and whipped cream, and the caffe au lait, made with house coffee (a South American variety) and steamed milk. For those craving the cocoa bean, Zona Rosa's chocolate drinks come in three categories: hot, blanco or Mexican; so pick your percolating poison accordingly. To escape the almost constant sound of fizzing foam, take a hike upstairs and relax on a sofa in Zona's lounge area decorated with Latin art. Musical ensembles ranging from jazz to Latin style make occasional appearances, so check Zona's bulletin board for announcements of upcoming shows. -- Jesse Torres