Caffe Vittoria   

296 Hanover St
Boston, MA 2113
617-227-7606
www.vittoriacaffe.com/main.htm

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Starbucks has brainwashed American consumers so effectively that we tend to forget that espresso originated in Italy. Denizens of downtown's caf society would rather go thirsty than order Americanos, and it is for this breed of caffeine connoisseur that Caffe Vittoria exists. Undoubtedly the best place in Boston to channel Anna Magnani, the Hanover Street standby serves cappuccino the way they drink it on the Via Veneto, layering rich, bitter espresso with steamed milk and a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa. Forget the lexicon of venti half-caf frappuccinos disseminated by big-name coffee chains: Here the fussiest drink you can order is a mocha. The pressed-tin ceilings and marble-topped tables serve as a stage set for style-conscious North Enders, who stop in for pick-me-ups before clubbing and aperitifs after dinner. There's also an estimable dessert menu, featuring the city's best gelati and staples ranging from cannoli to tiramisu.