Printers Inc Cafe
(650) 323-3347
320 S California Ave
Palo Alto, CA 94306

On California, there are only a few spots to work, and Starbucks is one. But no worries, Printer's Cafe is large, airy, comfortable and recently came to their senses and started offering wifi for free. The food is uneven, but soup and sandwiches are usually satisfying. There are as many students and moms as tech workers, and it lends to a more relaxed atmosphere than the university avenue pitching haunts.

Power: a couple, one hidden under the wooden bench
Wifi: yes
VC spotting: rare

Yogi Berra once said "No one goes there anymore — it's too crowded." He could have said it about Coupa Cafe. This cozy -comfy cafe in Palo Alto is too cozy, as it's packed to the gills with tech workers, students, VCs (although they are relocating to other venues) and locals. The food is awesome, especially the Argentinian specialty, Arepas.

Power Outlets: Lots along the wall in the main room. They don't let you plug into them if you are in a center table, though.
WiFi: yes, though they've been known to turn it off during mealtimes. You can sometimes crib from the teahouse next door.
VC Spotting: Perhaps they come back if things quiet down...

I've decided to start a new "series": Homes for the New New Migrant Worker, or Cafes that Won't Kick You out.

Our inagural cafe: Cafe del Doge in Palo Alto.

The cafe has had a few other names in the past, but this latest incarnation looks like it will make it. It's arrogantly, vigorously Italian. I've been abused for wanting to add more milk to my hot chocolate (which is the best in the valley, if a bit strong for my taste. Think melted chocolate bar.) It's a narrow space, and the key seats are in the mezzanine where you can look down on people.

Power Outlets: yes. At least two upstairs
WiFi: Yes, not a bad connection. If it goes down, you can sometimes crib from Neotte next door.
VC sightings: plenty