Why Buy WiFi?

The Crowd: Diverse, urban sophisticates with a penchant for social activism, intellectual debate and the arts.

2021 14th St. NW, 202-387-7638, http://www.busboysandpoets.com/ .

CABOOSE CAFE & BAKERY

WiFi Basics: During weekdays, you'll likely be able to get a table near one of the several outlets in this friendly neighborhood cafe. No registration is required.

The Vibe: Bright and quaint, with murals and other works by local artists.

The Grub: Sandwiches, salads and soups, plus homemade goodies including muffins, tea breads, cakes and pies. There's beer and wine in addition to coffee and tea. Omelets are served on weekends. A full dinner menu includes chicken and fish entrees, options for kids and Ethiopian dishes. Artisanal bread -- baguettes, ciabatta, sourdough and more -- is baked fresh daily.

The Crowd: Young families, stay-at-home moms and dads, local business people and retirees.

2419 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, 703-566-1283, http://www.caboose-cafe.com/ .

LOVE CAFE

WiFi Basics: During the week, it's easy to find a cozy booth or table and work. Outlets are conveniently scattered throughout the small cafe, and there's plenty of light and free samples for the taking. Weekends, however, are another story: The place gets packed with those craving a sugar fix, so expect to wait for a prime spot. I had trouble sending e-mail using my Entourage software, so I was limited to Web-based e-mail. No registration is required.

The Vibe: Nothing fancy -- a laid-back mishmash of tables and chairs, with exposed brick and black-and-white photos of jazz and blues legends on the walls.

The Grub: This place is all about sweets made at CakeLove, its sister bakery across the street. You'll find an assortment of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and pastries. (Drinks include tea, coffee and cold beverages.) You can also order simple fare such as a BLT or Caesar salad, and breakfast includes French toast and frittatas.

The Crowd: A mix of U Street denizens -- worker bees, students, yuppies and hungry shoppers.

1501 U St. NW, 202-265-9800, http://www.cakelove.com/ .