coffee, pastries, tea delights (2)

Tiny Tang.

You’ll say goodbye and hello over and over. The East Village’s Ciao For Now has the relaxed atmosphere of a family diner, but the flavors of an upscale café. Forget the monopoly, and grab a lemonade or coffee off Avenue A for a pleasant afternoon. Though the décor is not overtly impressive, the mood is inviting. Chairs surround only three corner tables, reminiscent of miniscule Happy Days set. Diners share table space, and quietly acknowledge, instead of invading, your personal area.

Located at 512 E. 12th St. between Avenues A and B, Ciao for Now give you more for your buck with a standard selection of coffees and freshly made sandwiches that are too good to pass up. Try an avocado and cheddar sandwich, topped with guacamole and cucumber with one of their freshly squeezed juices (we recommend grapefruit). Sample the Cobb or Roasted Beet salads with an iced orange juice, for a healthy lunch in a hip place, sans pretension. The fresh mozzarella with pesto, artichoke and tomato between sourdough is simply divine with fresh vegetables and gooey cheese, served fast. Whether you’re coming from work in heels, just rolled out of bed, or finished a class, Ciao For Now welcomes anyone, even if you’re not Italian. Favorite pastries include the ginger snaps and chocolate cupcakes alongside the lovely aroma of a caramel latte.

A young crowd normally stops in to grab a pre-packaged sandwich or yogurt, but the locals enjoy people watching on the two outside benches. With a relaxed vibe, the food is anything but, baristas focus on your special requests. At times, Ciao for Now can become stroller central, crowding the already small space. Music may or may not be playing, probably depending on who is working. Make sure the laptop is fully charged, for outlets are difficult to find. The line moves quickly as managers shout out orders, typical, but assertive, aware of New Yorkers pace. You’ll leave, but say “Ciao” pretty soon when you return. Until next time, Ciao For Now.