I needed to be in Highland Park so in my quest for the perfect space to work, I tried out the Bookshelf Cafe today. Although I'm not going to be adding it to my regular rotation, it's a nice space with potential.
Pros:
-good coffee with a range of accoutrement like agave nectar
-huge baked goods and delicious-smelling food (nothing g/f so I couldn't try anything)
-comfortable furniture with some nice cushions to sit on or put behind your back
-good music at an appropriate volume
-tons of books to borrow or even buy
-games to play and a scheduled game night!
Cons:
-the building vibrates constantly--a heater or humidifier?
-it kinda smells like a basement
-no gluten-free food options
-the barista didn't seem to want to be there; she wasn't rude, but she definitely wasn't friendly or welcoming. The owner mentioned in the other reviews was clearly not around.