Why Buy WiFi?

The Grub: Salads and sandwiches are named after regular customers; look for above-par waffles, and regular and spiked coffee drinks including the "Rude Boy" (espresso with a shot of Baileys). The full bar gets a good response most nights.

The Crowd: You name it, they're here: grad students, awkward first dates, mommies and their tots, free agents -- "diverse" is the word to describe it.

2459 18th St. NW, 202-232-5500, http://www.trystdc.com/ .

A Few Things to Keep in Mind Before You Go

· Arrive at your destination early to get a seat. Most of the places on this list fill up fast and finding a spot on the weekends can be next to impossible.

· Be prepared to deal with any technical difficulties on your own (don't expect the barista to help you when you can't get online).

· Charge your battery in case you can't find a place to plug in.

· Consider using Web-based e-mail. You may have trouble sending e-mail from Outlook or other software programs. For complete details on why this occurs, visit: http://www.jiwire.com/top-wireless-tips-hotspots-travel.htm .

· Don't conduct secure transactions over public hotspots. According to the Wi-Fi Alliance, many hotspots leave all security turned off to make it easier to access and get on the network in the first place.

· Keep an eye on your laptop at all times and take it with you if you need to use the restroom.