Underground Coffee and Ales — Highland, NY, Sunday September 3, 5:49 pm

Vineyard Avenue is tranquil as the sun breaks through the clouds after a day of downpours. Nestled in between a church and a bar is Underground Coffee and Ales, the glowing neon sign in its window is the only thing indicating that the café is open.

Inside the restaurant, bare lightbulbs illuminate the rustic space. Exposed piping runs alongside the ceiling and brightly colored chalk covers the menu board behind the bar. A library-style ladder is attached to the shelf in the right corner, stocked with ciders and craft beers. On the other side of the room, a small counter holds milk and sugar while the refrigerator next to it stores more brews.

As I take my seat next to the window adorned with the Underground logo — a coffee bean and a hop — The Smiths play softly over the speakers. The café is nearly as quiet as the street outside, except for the music, the sizzle of the grill and the murmur of a few customers’ voices. The television is on, but the sound is muted.

At the table behind me, a group of men play one of the many card and board games that line the bottom of the cider shelf while enjoying their drinks and sharing a few laughs. The occasional person walks in for their fix of coffee, brews, or food. One customer speaks to one of the bartender-baristas with familiarity, and greets one of the card-playing men. He leaves with two coffees, shaking the hand of his friend before parting.

When I pay for my burger and fries at the register, the bartender-barista compliments me. When I thank her she replies, “My grandma always told me if I see something nice I should say it.” At Underground Coffee and Ales you can find food and drinks, board games and good advice.