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The Pillow Cafe-Lounge isn't the haven of soft, silken cushions you might expect; rather, it's a muted bit of rusticity with white and brown walls, wood-paneled tables and bucket chairs. (The few multicolored pillows tossed along the front window seat are quickly claimed by lucky customers.) Making up for the unexciting decor, the spot's good-natured vibe invites locals to take an afternoon coffee break. Among the kitchen's mix of simple American favorites are muffins (baked off-site) as well as a slew of fresh salads, sandwiches, and panini. The deconstructed bagel and lox comes ready for assembly with a generous pile of smoked fish, cream cheese, and salty capers, plus slivers of red onion, cucumber, and tomato. Thick-cut slices of crusty sourdough hold together the excellent goat cheese sandwich, pungent with sun-dried tomatoes, garden-fresh pesto, and organic greens. Most satisfying, the café puts extra care into its drinks, serving farm-roasted hot and iced coffees and teas, and smoothies like the mocha Pillow shake, a frothy blend of mocha, bananas, milk, and ice. — Brooke Barrier

Goat cheese sandwich, $8.95; Caprese panini, $8.95

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