The Short List: Best coffeehouses

Welcome to The Short List. Each week we'll pick a topic and share our favorite - or, in some cases, maybe our least favorite - things about the Tampa Bay area.

Sometimes getting a cup of coffee isn't about the cup of coffee -- it's about the experience. This week, we take a look at five cool independent coffee shops that offer more than just a jolt of caffeine. Sure, you can grab a quick coffee at McDonald's or Starbucks, but they're all generic and interchangeable. Why not soak up some one-of-a-kind charm while sucking down your next cup of joe?

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1. Cafe Hey: The name "Hey" means "happiness" in Cantonese, and it fits this cozy Tampa Heights spot well. Take in eclectic works by local artists that adorn the shop's exposed brick wall while you sip organic, fair trade coffee (we like the Black Hole with two shots of espresso) or nosh on a fresh, homemade sandwich (the Black Forest ham-stuffed Ric Ross is to die for). The Wi-Fi is free, natch.

2. The Globe Coffee Lounge: A quirky atmosphere and super-friendly staff are among the reasons The Globe in St. Petersburg has endured for more than a decade, but its defining feature is that it's just plain fun. Books, board games and free Wi-Fi are just the tip of an entertainment iceberg that also includes frequent special events, live music, tarot readings and game nights. Try the vegetarian-friendly menu.

3. Cafe Bohemia: Home of the giant biscotti, this small cafe (pictured above right) features a great outdoor patio where you can sip locally brewed coffee or dig into one of their homemade desserts. Local artwork adorns the walls, and you never know what you'll hear (a song? a poem?) during open-mic night every Thursday.

4. Buddy Brew: The first thing you'll notice is the super-cute dog logo in the window. Named after the owners' dog, Buddy Brew opened in May and locals are already raving about their coffee, which is brewed with freshly hand-roasted beans. They also sell bags of the beans, which they'll even grind for you.

5. NOLA Cafe and News Stand: With locations in Tampa and St. Petersburg, NOLA is the area's version of New Orleans' infamous Cafe du Monde. The cafe au lait is a must-try. (It even works iced.) NOLA opens at 6:30 a.m., serving early birds heading to work. You'll score brownie points in the office if you bring in some of their delicious, crisp beignets.