Travel

Between the commercials, Katy Perry, and all those nachos there was a game to be played, and at the end of it all the New England Patriots came out the winners in this year’s Super Bowl. Now it’s time to plan a victory parade. as even the mayor of Boston chimed in that it’s time to “cue the duck boats.”

We’re not hating on you, international conglomerate and purveyor of Britney Spears’ beloved Frappuccino. But sometimes while traveling, we really want to experience the indigenous coffee culture of each city. What strange customs do these metropolitan peoples have? What totem-like logos adorn their cups? What local slang terms are used as Wi-Fi passwords?

It’s anthropology, guys. And besides, it’s good to know a solid spot for a caffeine fix when you’re fresh off a redeye.

If you’re visiting Boston. Thinking Cup should be on your radar. It’s a trio of classy coffee joints that offer a good glimpse of local color — and not just via the collections of old newspaper clippings that line walls and gaze up from underneath glass-topped tables. Each location is in a tourist-heavy neighborhood with prime people-watching opportunities.