by RAQUEL WHEBY

LoveCafé is a trendy, friendly place to grab a tasty bite. This American deli-style restaurant is just what college students are looking for. It won’t hurt your pocket any more than daily visits to Starbucks and the atmosphere is more relaxed.

Observer photo by Stefan Zierock
LoveCafé is located at 1501 U St. NW, just minutes from the U Street Metro stop on the Green Line.

The restaurant is still young — about four years old, with walls painted in two shades of yellow, dark wood floors and furniture. It is trendy from style to music. In fact, guests can enjoy various tunes playing in the background — from Beyonce to Weezer — and it’s not overbearingly loud. Welcoming smiles greet you as you come through the door. You can’t help but get the feeling of walking into a best friend’s kitchen with them saying, “Make yourself at home.” It is hard to find anything to complain about at LoveCafé, but if you do, an owner or general manager is usually available to take your queries.

Observer photo by Stefan Zierock
LoveCafé is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-Midnight; and Sunday 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Last, but most important, the cuisine at LoveCafé will have you come back for more.

“It’s great,” said LoveCafé first-timer Stefan Zierock, as he ate the grilled chicken torta, a salty tart.

Observer photo by Stefan Zierock
LoveCafé’s menu includes coffee, espresso, desserts and sandwiches all at a reasonable price.

After having the tomato, basil and mozzarella, I had no choice but to agree with Zierock. The meals fit into the average college student budget, and will leave extra cash for a night out. But be careful: extras will add up. My sandwich was about $8, and extra mozzarella runs an additional $2.

Observer photo by Stefan Zierock
LoveCafé offers a wide selection of cupcakes and desserts, which are baked daily at CakeLove.

LoveCafé is also known for its amazing desserts.

“The cupcakes are always good,” said Sheila Vargas, the 26-year-old general manager.

The best selling cakes are the strawberries & cream, Neil’s Hat Trick and toffee crunch, according to Vargas. But, be aware if you are looking to be “America’s Next Top Model,” because these desserts will bounce your daily calories.

“Everything is made from scratch. Nothing is fat-free. That’s what makes it so good,” added Vargas with a warm smile.

LoveCafé is located at 1501 U St. NW. 202-265-9800.

Earlier editions of the story contained incorrect photo credits.