Francesca's Espresso Bar, Tremont Street in the South End

A dapper storefront in a grand building along bustling Tremont Street in Boston's trendy South End, Francesca's (564 Tremont St., 617-482-9026) is a reliable and highly gay-popular choice for potent coffee drinks, fine teas, and decent salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. Inside you'll find a few cafe tables plus a counter overlooking Tremont Street that's a perfect place to read or work away on your laptop (there's free WiFi for customers). It's along a stretch of Tremont with several other gay-friendly dining options, including Aquitaine, Garden of Eden, and Metropolis Cafe.