Coffee Break: CineMug

Where: 1607 S. Broad St., 267-314-5936, cinemug.coffee.

The lowdown: CineMug is a caffeine-fueled shot in the arm for the video-rental business.

Backstory: Owner Dan Creskoff is rental-store royalty, one of the final managers of dearly departed TLA Video. "Customers used to love hanging out and talking about movies, so why not provide a place where they could do that?" CineMug opened about a month ago. Creskoff chose South Philly for its "vibrancy."

The beans: ReAnimator Coffee's Foundation Blend, plus a rotating list of single-origins. Nyamasaka, sampled on a recent visit, had hints of coconut and citrus.

The machine: A refurbished Nuova Simonelli Yacht Club, a rare, wood-paneled beauty that's worth a visit itself.

Ambience: The cafe is open and roomy. The staff hosts screenings every Friday, with an emphasis on local artists. Cinephiles also will appreciate the eclectic movie poster decor.

Now playing: Besides killer coffee, CineMug boasts an impressive, ever-growing line of rental movies. Titles range from new releases like Oscar juggernaut "Birdman" to foreign classics like "The Bicycle Thief," this reporter's all-time favorite movie. A three-day rental is $5 (new release) or $4.50 (older titles).

Food for thought: CineMug serves baked goods from South Street Bagels and hoagies from nearby Cosmi's Deli. Try the aptly named "Godfather," a classic Italian with prosciutto, sopressata and mozzarella.

Prices: Coffee and espresso: $2 to $2.50; late and cappuccino: $3.50 to $4; hot cocoa: $3.5 to $4; tea: $1.75 to $2.25.