Peet's Coffee & Tea

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene – Since its Berkeley beginnings in 1966, the chain has swapped its beatnik spirit for corporate glory. Cool flagstone floors and rich mahogany-colored paneling make for a sleek stop, but not a haunt in which to linger. Once the den of intellectuals and fringe artists, Peet's went IPO in early 2001 and is now frequented almost exclusively by people who want the conveniences of a franchised coffeehouse without kowtowing to Starbucks. – – The Food – The coffee is robust without being overbearing. Strong but not bitter, Peet's "deep roast" beans make for a fine…