Top Picks: Valleywag's Guide to Palo Alto Wifi

Not known for much besides its lovable crap bar atmosphere, Rudy's nevertheless has free wifi if you don't feel like braving the coffeehouse scene. You won't be … disturbed in its dark confines, though Valleywag cautions that the joint doesn't open till 2 p.m. Nothing like working industriously among a crowd of afternoon rummies to make you feel productive. [link]

This Italian mini-chain has embassy locations like this one in Palo Alto (there's another in Tokyo). The coffee product is meticulously Italian, pleasing those who can be … snobbish about such things with serious attention to proper roasting and frothing, etc. Despite near universal praise of the brew, Valleywag gives the paltry wifi a thumbs down. [link]

The fearsome grand lord of Palo Alto power coffee spots, as it's veritably infested with Silicon Valley entrepreneurs both catching and pitching, if you know what we … mean. Valleywag touts the free wifi and web-celeb spotting; locals routinely name it the best coffeeshop in Palo Alto, praising both the java, savory if dainty lunchables, and large dessert selection (all of which are a little overpriced, but you're paying for the ambiance). [link]

Another teahouse, this one still quite friendly and twee (in a good way). Chai fanatics love the place, and their sandwiches also win praise. Wifi free with order, … but Valleywag notes you can horn in on the network from the nearby Coupa coffeeshop. [link]

Much loved local tea shop (with coffee if you must) that's gotten a bit less cozy and more sleek, but still commands a loyal following. Free wifi and, according to … Valleywag, an attractive Stanford student clientele. [link]

Opened this spring, this Peet's is just like every other station in the chain. Valleywag recommends pilfering wifi from the Apple Store across the street, if your laptop … is manly enough to snag the signal. [link]