Virtual L

Blue Line California stop

Logan Square is known for having some of the best Mexican eats in town, but the neighborhood's offerings don't stop at taquerias.

NoFriction Cafe, 2023 N. California

This pretension-free coffee shop feels like a burst of sunshine. Country-style wood tables rub shoulders with mosaic-tile-top tables for two. Neutral-color walls dotted with local artists' work, sing-songy sounds a la Rufus Wainwright and lots of natural light provide a pleasant backdrop. Top it off with free wi-fi and good food, and you just might have found a second family room. Besides fruit smoothies ($4.50) and canisters of sweets, the menu offers substantial eats for breakfast and lunch.

Fireside Bowl, 2648 W. Fullerton

For music lovers who flocked to the Fireside when it was a rock venue, it's tough to separate the memories of the old from the reality of the new. Reminiscent of an old Coke bottle, the outside of Fireside is painted in cherry red. Enter the building and find a bar that's straight out of a Tom Waits song, a pool table with the remnants of a just-finished game and a small bar filled with spirits and a few people drinking them in solitude. Head for the alleys and find the wooden panels and simple setting a change of pace from glow-in-the-dark bowling.

Bob Inn, 2609 W. Fullerton

"Only at Bob Inn" is a familiar mantra to regulars at this family-run establishment. Right next to the vintage video games and a little farther from the pool tables sits a jukebox destined for a spot in every patron's heart; it blasts out classic tunes that jibe with the bona fide Chicago corner pub atmosphere. This is that clean, cozy bar where, just as you take a swig of Miller High Life, Boston's "More Than a Feeling" starts pulsing forth. Combined with the low beer prices, such details make Bob Inn downright magical.

Panaderia La Central, 2218 N. California

When 40 cents will buy you one of the finest home-style pastries in Chicago, every jangling pocket starts to sound like a chorus of singing angels. Located just steps away from the L stop, it's perfectly situated to become the most anticipated part of any morning commute. It's nearly impossible to decipher the contents of the various pastries, turnovers, twists and cookies lining the racks, but you've got nearly nothing to lose by taking a chance on one.

Cafeteria Marianao, 2246 N. Milwaukee

Cafeteria Marianao serves huge, steaming, crusty-bread sandwiches that are made to order as you watch. The steak sandwich overflows with chopped steak, grilled onions, gooey cheese and tomatoes. The loaded Cubano, packed with roasted pork, ham, cheese and pickles, is as authentic as they come. And don't underestimate the power of a simple pan con mantequilla (bread slathered with melty butter) paired with a cup of dark-roast cafe Cubano.