Right across from Starbucks, Diesel is anything but corporate-looking. Most baristas are women in boys' outfits with body piercings and black boots, and the whole place has an "alternative" look. While I prefer Starbucks for coffee (though you may not), I'd definitely point to Diesel for food. They have a nice sandwich, soup, salad and sweets menu that has never disappointed me.
They also re-did the whole place this year. I can't remember if they kept the pool tables, but they opened up theback of the store with more seating and a computer area - much appreciated by the grad student in need of caffeine, food and place to study.
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