Polcari's Coffee, Boston

This cute little shop might initially appear to be a café, but it's not – it's a true-blue store. While you can indeed find coffee here, it's strictly in bean form, as they don't brew it on the spot. The air is rich with the aromatic embrace of coffee, and that alone is reason enough to step inside. And once you do, prepare to be transported back in time, surrounded by brass weighing scales, a vintage mechanical cash register, and an impressive array of glass jars brimming with coffee beans. You'll also discover a treasure trove of seeds, nuts, candies, along with an assortment of spices, herbs, extracts, and olive oils imported from Italy, all offered at great prices.

This little slice of nostalgia has been a neighborhood fixture since its establishment in 1932 by Anthony Polcari, an Italian immigrant. It's like a living museum, a place where you can soak in the old-world charm and savor a taste of Boston's Italian heritage. One of the ex-employees, who had worked here for 26 years, now runs the place and is dedicated to preserving the Polcari family legacy alive. The fact that you'll often find local food enthusiasts and coffee connoisseurs frequenting this place is a testament to its authenticity.

The staff here are not just friendly but also more than happy to share their knowledge about coffee and regale you with tales of North End history. If you're ever in doubt about what souvenir to bring back from your Boston adventures, simply grab a pound of Polcari's coffee. And if you happen to visit during the summer, don't leave without trying their homemade Italian slush – a delightful concoction of shaved ice with a splash of lemon. It's an absolute must on your North End exploration checklist!