Dwelltime

Dwelltime Coffeebar and Bakeshop 

Address: 364 Broadway
Neighborhood: Cambridge (Inman Square)
T-Stop: Central
Hours: MF 7-7 Sat 8-6 Sun 9-6
Wifi: Free when on; off during lunch hours

Though closer to Inman Square than Central, this coffee bar is a quick ten-minute stroll through the quaint side streets of Cambridge.  With its broad windows, natural light, and open rectangular shape, I liked that Dwelltime’s style was reflective of the city’s smart casual feel.  A middle island “barismo” surrounded by about ten small, scattered tables, the room’s layout felt like a wide stage with different vignettes playing out simultaneously.  I like their Wifi policy: free connection except during peak hours (11am-3pm) to foster a social feel when the café is serving lunch, and the setting was a nice place in which to do work.  Dwelltime also features a clear view into the pastry chef’s kitchen (the menu changes weekly!) and high-tech features like a TV menu display and payment on an iPad.  The long bench along one wall made nearby conversations more audible than expected and, at $3.22, my 12 oz. small (heavily iced) coffee felt a bit overpriced for the taste, but the bar-like feel and coffee on tap definitely make this spot unique.