Nestled in the back of a Downtown alley, Lost Souls Café provides refuge for those looking for artistic inspiration and/or a good cup of coffee.

In the era of mass Starbucksification, this refreshing coffee spot in the Old Bank District possesses both a tasty latte and a profound mission: Six college friends wanted to open a place where people felt welcome and inspired to express their creativity. Their café is now a hip spot for local residents and others who have come from as far as Orange County to enjoy the spoken-word sessions, open mics and multicultural events that take place there. The front area includes a couch, tables, a DJ booth and enough space to fit a band; those looking for a quieter space enjoy the back area's more modern furnishings and art by local talent. The menu includes a wide variety of hot and cold coffee and tea drinks, fruit smoothies, pastries and sandwiches. Lost Souls is open every day until 10pm, with Sunday, Thursday and Friday open-mic nights being the most popular times to go. —Enid Portuguez