Newsday • exploreLI.com

Thursday, January 7, 2010

By Ian J. Stark

Personally: It what sets a place from all the others. Maybe it's the shabby chic furniture, the indy music playing in the background, or the walls lined with interesting local artwork. In any case, you can find a distinctive atmosphere in suburbia. Here's a look at some of the coffee houses, cafes and gathering spots that move to a beat of a different drummer.

Antique lamps and furniture are only the beginning of the unique decor at Tiger Lily Café also in Port Jefferson. Femininity is applauded here - the place has posters of lady singers, "girl power" post cards and such. Its trendy Medusa's Lounge has a deck that overlooks the village (156 E. Main St., (631) 476-7080, tigerlilycafe.com).