Cozy, quiet, and pleasant describe Cup 'N' Cork perfectly. It is the ideal alternative to chain coffee shops.

The cafe is a family-run business owned by Kim and Barry Robinson since September 2005. Barry brings experience to the business having worked for a well-known coffee chain. Kim, who has always loved baking, makes breads, croissants and muffins daily. Their two daughters also help.

The menu includes deli sandwiches, paninis, soups, salads and wraps. Some of the most popular menu items are the turkey and Monterrey Jack panini, the citrus chicken salad and the chicken salad sandwich.

The array of coffees is flexible, offering 15 sugar-free options. Naturally, the decaffeinated options are also available.

:Cup 'N' Cork owner Kim Robinson waited for cup of organic Guatemala dark roast to finish brewing Friday in downtown Cape Girardeau. In addition to coffee, the cafe offers a variety of wine and soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps. (Kit Doyle)

Wine connoisseurs may choose from a selection of more than 190 different wines imported from all over the world.

Cup 'N' Cork also specializes in gift baskets of coffee and wine during the holiday season, including Valentine's Day baskets that can include sparkling wine, chocolate fondue, bananas and strawberries. The Robinson's said the baskets can be specialized to meet the customer's tastes.

Cup 'N' Cork's location, 46 N. Main St., is excellent because of the revitalization of downtown Cape Girardeau, the Robinsons said. It's been popular with out-of-town guests.

"There are a lot of tourists who come in," said Katelin, the Robinsons' daughter.

The cafe's clientele is not limited to out-of-town visitors. The Robinsons said various groups including bridge parties, birthday parties and Red Hat societies, gather there weekly.

The cafe often hosts live local entertainment at night in an intimate acoustic setting. The University Players performed a cabaret in December, and comedy acts such as the River City Players have been part of the entertainment, as well.

The cafe is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.