After a couple of weeks of Spanish revelry, followed by a brief Parisian stopover, my friend and I headed to Prague for a weeklong absinthe binge. To come down from the green stuff, we would waste our days sublimely away sitting in grand cafes (and occasionally internally rhyming), sipping coffee, reading papers, and indulging in sumptuous fare.

European cafes are beacons of culture and local staples. More importantly, they serve fantastic food. Conversely, North American cafes water down the zeitgeist, boasting quick service and fast turnaround in focus group designed chain confines. Thus, the advent of Ortine comes as a refreshing surprise.

From owner/Chef Sarah Peck, Ortine has just opened its doors in Prospect Heights. Peck spent ages combing the burgeoning area for an appropriate space. "I basically just walked around," she remembers. The statement hints at Ortine's neighborhood leanings.

Prospect Heights is in flux as nouveau condo dwellers mix with long-time denizens. Ortine hopes to bring both factions together. Aesthically, the café has what Peck calls a "homegrown look." Assembled with homey eclecticism in mind, it brings together handmade tables -- care of Peck's father -- antique chairs, French country wallpaper, and a modern Danish chandelier. Of the mix of new and vintage décor, Peck says, "it's sort of like my house," adding, "it's cozy." The room seats approximately 35, though a seasonal backyard will up the tally.

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner -- another Euro café hallmark -- the restaurant relies on a seasonal selection. Thus, the card will change over time. For the opening, the menu boasts an alluring Marinated Portobello Mushroom and Goat Cheese Salad, Italian Sausage on a roll, Cornish Game Hen, Mushroom Lasagne, and Braised Short Ribs.