Crema (noun) — A layer of cream and foam that sits at the top of espresso, and a telltale sign of a perfectly pulled shot.

Given that definition, Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar has a lot to live up to, but the staff is more than up to the task. The sounds of freshly frothed milk and ground coffee beans form a never-ending symphony as baristas brew, mix, and pour two dozen varieties of hot and iced espresso drinks. For drinks without caffeine's dose of microscopic alarm clocks, the menu also features fresh juice and fruit smoothies, including vitamin-packed "power drinks."

Beyond coffee and fruit, Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar specializes in another culinary cornerstone: sandwiches. Within the open kitchen, the cooks load French baguettes, ciabatta, and sub rolls with fresh meat and veggies to craft items such as the La Crema, striated with layers of prosciutto, mozzarella, red roasted peppers, and arugula. Early diners break their fast on warm butter croissants with scrambled eggs and homemade greek spinach pies, and sweet and savory crepes bridge the syrup-filled river separating breakfast, lunch, and dinner.