Artefino Art Gallery and Cafe

1900 Superior Avenue in the Tower Press Building
http://www.artefinogallery.com/

Artefino is one of those places where you enter the building itself and go "oooo". Located in the Tower Press building, across from the Plain Dealer, the building has been transformed into condos and lofts, with designated space for artists. Entering the building from the rear, we passed by numerous living-work spaces of photographers, sculptors, and watercolor artists, just to name a few...and we weren't even in the coffee shop yet!
The atmosphere of Artefino is retro-chic and modern. Trendy. Very trendy, with a red-vinyl couch and high-top tables with backless chairs. But with all that plastic, it's surprisingly comfortable. And very artsy, with paintings on the walls and a small shop where local artists display some of their work.
The service is incredible. When Kyle got his "Iced Hawaiian" (espresso with chocolate and coconut), the barista told him that if he wanted more or less flavor just to let her know. I was half-expecting Kyle to take a sip and walk over to the Barista and get a new one, just for kicks. I, on the other hand, ordered a Mexican Mocha (espresso with chocolate and cinnamon). It didn't have as much cinnamon as I expected, and the mocha was sweeter than most, but overall I was very pleased with my choice.
I walked with the owner of the cafe as I left, and she asked me about my experience and if I enjoyed my coffee. Very cool lady--her husband renovated the Tower Press building a few years ago. She told me that I should come back for the Tower Press's Sparx in the City event, where all the artists open up their living-work spaces. I would definitely come back to Artefino--the atmosphere and the people put this place over the top...and I want to try one of their Panini sandwiches. Those things look amazing!