Cafe Zing! in Porter Square, Cambridge

You'll find the treasure that is Cafe Zing tucked in the center of Cambridge's Porter Square Shopping Plaza. Located in the front of Porter Square Books, this funky coffee bar is owned by local photographer and Cambridge resident Mark Ostow. Here you'll find fair trade coffee beverages, quality teas, and an array of local pastries and snacks - all offered in a casual setting, surrounded by books. A few scattered tables in the center of the cafe, seasonal outdoor tables, and a variety of counter seats scanning the length of the front windows are welcome spots to pause and observe Porter Square in action. I usually visit Cafe Zing when I crave a coffee in between errands and appointments. Sometimes I like to work or read to the soundtrack of background cafe chatter -- it's not hard to run into familiar faces doing the same. There's an easy going vibe at Cafe Zing, even when it's buzzing with activity, and I find that I don't mind waiting for coffee when I can browse the books on display. A double shot Americano and the ever popular Vietnamese Fresh Rolls are my go-to menu items. And the Aztec Hot Chocolate is not to be missed if you are in the mood for a special treat.