Traffic on the once uncrowded cross streets such as NE 15th backs up for blocks at rush hour. The small businesses that sold window coverings, fixed typewriters, or gave haircuts have been replaced by trendy restaurants, clothing boutiques, and shops that sell French soaps or kitchen gadgetry. Of course, there are many opportunities to find a good meal, something that wasn't true only a few years ago. In fact, the area's restaurants are usually crowded, drawing customers from all over town and leaving the locals grumbling about the interlopers. But there's one place where you can almost always walk in and eat without waiting, where the food is simple but good and the price is right.
Mornings bring a flurry of traffic as commuters stop by for coffee and roll.
Others linger over the more substantial offerings, like French toast made with the bakery's signature Como bread. The informal businesspersons' gathering has migrated from the near-deserted Holiday Market and occupies a large table almost every day. Lunch draws a respectable crowd, too. They come for the hearty sandwiches, including a killer meat loaf, pizza by the slice, soups, and the grilled tostis. These are thinner, with interesting combinations such as caramelized onions, sharp cheddar, and cranberry chutney.