ELLISTON PLACE. Students love this quaint little coffee bar, and here's why: It's close to the university and it's always open. Folks find it easy to kick back and relax in one of the cozy rooms here, especially sampling one of their great desserts and some great Columbian brew. To complete the whole coffee house mystique, a few nights each month Cafe Coco hosts poetry readings.

HILLSBORO VILLAGE. Breakfast is served all day at this fun coffeshop and cafe. Rustic brick walls, old tile floors, and marble countertops create a comfortable atmosphere conducive to hanging out or studying, allowing it to serve as a necessary part of the Hillsboro Village scene. Menu items include a breakfast Meat and Three, Salmon Scramble, Egg McFido, and bagel sandwiches like the Bachelor Bomb or Hangover Bomb.

MIDTOWN. The friendliest coffee shop in town (Sam, the owner, will never forget your name) is just steps from Vanderbilt University and Music Row. JJ's serves Lavazza coffee, has beers on tap, offers muffins and sandwiches, and boasts one of the best selections of European and exotic chocolates in Nashville. You'll also find a sampling of imported cigars and fine teas, along with a well-stocked magazine section.

HILLSBORO VILLAGE. Jackson's is a bar, coffehouse and cafe all rolled in to one. Breakfast items such as the biscuits and gravy, steaks and eggs, and made-to-order omelettes are served with an extensive wine and beverage list. Sit out on the patio for some top-quality people watching and dining.

DOWNTOWN. Offfering tasty cakes, fresh coffee and awesome deli-style sandwiches for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kijiji Coffee House enjoys a reputation with the Fisk-area residents and students. Kijiji is Swahili for "village," and seems to mirror the friendly atmosphere and ambiance the owners have created.