The Other Side Cosmic Cafe is probably my favorite place in Boston. Not only does it have an amazing beer, espresso, and juice bar selection, but the food is fresh and tasty and the ambience is always lively. Be fore-warned that the music is usually pretty loud (read: I wouldn't go here to work on a term paper or read a newspaper--although I have seen other people do it) and the service is often inefficient (irreverence is part of the whole appeal) but you can always count on a colorful, eclectic crowd, and plenty of people to engage in musical/political/philosophical debates with your people. The Other Side is more than a local hangout staple--it's that place where everybody knows your name.
Pros: Delicious Food, Plenty of Personality, Loud Music
Cons: Loud Music
more