La Prima Tazza

638 Massachusetts St.

One of Lawrence’s finest establishments, this coffee shop is nestled between Liberty Hall and Free State Brewery and often overlooked by Starbucks’ frequenters.

Menu: You’ll find house coffee for $1.25, specialty espresso drinks from $1.75 to $3.50, locally baked goods (muffins, scones, zucchini and pumpkin breads), $2 bags of decadent candies such as tiramisu caramels, chocolate-covered cherries and mint chocolate-covered malt balls. Try a refreshing cold-filtered coffee drink; this coffee is brewed differently and gives their iced drinks a strong, unique taste.

Attire: Always casual

Date-worthiness:

A perfect stop pre-movie or post-dinner.

Booze: No alcohol, but the espresso can intoxicate you without the hangover.

Seating: Sit in the window for prime people-watching or towards the back to concentrate on studying.

Bring Mom? Yes, it’s perfect for catching up and relaxing with your parents.

—Britta Florman