Library A Coffee House   

Unlike many other Los Angeles cafes, The Library rejects the whole frumpy, hipster mentality. The two-room venue is filled with beautiful antique furniture and Persian rugs that give the place the look of a classic Paris salon. The decor may be European, but the feeling is relaxed. Opened in 1992 as a gathering place for gays and lesbians, the cafe serves specialty blended drinks to go with sandwiches, soups and delicious cakes. Rock, jazz and folk bands usually play three nights a week (often Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), and the kitchen serves pastas and 12 flavors of ice cream to go with the musical treats. For those curious about the name, the cafe's bookshelves are filled with novels, textbooks and cookbooks, all for sale. -- Andrew Asch