A few blocks southwest of Downtown Colorado Springs' neon-lit main drag stands a cozy, white house marked by dark red umbrellas. No matter the season, there are inevitably street bikes leaned on the patio's iron fence or the trunks of Cascade Street's giant, reaching trees or against the older house itself. This is Shuga's—an off-the-beaten-path, ever-so-cool spot in Colorado Springs.

This is where the Springs' artsy, indy crowd often relaxes (hence the street bikes). Besides the excellent espresso, inventive martinis and gourmet tapas, Shuga's cafe and bar attracts its sophisticated crowd precisely because it is away from downtown's stressful G.I.-meets-cowboy brawl of a main street. Instead, Shuga's occupies a renovated house in an otherwise unremarkable part of downtown. And
that is exactly its charm.

Stepping off this quiet section of Cascade and inside, one is greeted by high ceilings that dangle thin strings tasseled by origami swans. The bar is erected against a wall that appears to be part of a 1930's Italian advertisement. Otherwise, walls are adorned with local art, likely from one of the present patrons. Even the tables themselves are pieces of art.

But perhaps more renowned than its atmosphere and art, and more importantly for a cafe and bar, are the food and drink here. The tapas, such as the Auntie Pasta, are delicious and ideal for sharing, perhaps even with that favorite book club or those philosophy friends. If sharing or deep discussions isn't quite your thing, there are tempting entrees and cozy tables for two. The late afternoons feature various happy hours, and the bar stays open with the rest of 'em,
until 2 a.m.

Shuga's is a sweet and sassy treat that helps keep the city in its state of progression. But, do beware—with such artsy sassiness, a sassy wait staff can be expected, too.