Across the street from Washington Square is one of North Beach's most venerable neighborhood hangouts. The century-old corner cafe -- small, well worn, and perpetually busy -- is one of the oldest and best original cappuccino cafes in the United States. I stop by at least once a month for a meatball or eggplant focaccia sandwich and a slice of Mario's house-made ricotta cheesecake, and then recharge with a cappuccino as I watch the world stroll by the picture windows. And no, they don't sell cigars.