Algiers

Algiers may be the only Cambridge coffeehouse to have been written up in The Times of London, which raved about the café's excellent beverages ($1.75 to $3.25) and cited the frequent and easily overheard debates between Harvard professors as they sip afternoon tea ($2.50 a pot). Also, since it's just next to the Brattle Theatre, the café attracts many filmgoers who discuss classic movies over late-night coffee.

But being renowned for coffee and atmosphere means that too often the café's inexpensive and delicious food is overlooked. This is an excellent café for a hearty brunch or a light dinner. Breakfast dishes ($2.95 to $7.25) include airy omelets, french toast, and pancakes. Lunch and dinner entrées ($4.95 to $9.95) feature such tasty sandwiches as the spicy Merguesa (with lamb, hummus, tuna, felafel, and fresh parsley) and the baba ghanoosh (stuffed with eggplant, tahini, olive oil, and garlic). Cheese lovers should try the cheese plate, which features generous portions of odoriferous camembert, havarti, feta, and port salut. There are over a dozen entrées, and most come with fresh pita bread.

Algiers, located at 40 Brattle Street (Harvard Square), in Cambridge, is open Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to midnight, and on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Call 492-1557.

-- Theresa Regli