As a freshman back in '96, I believed Norman's best hangouts were well-kept secrets from first-year students. They're not.

For the next few months, I will attempt to uncover cool hangouts and expose what some of the local places have to offer. Hopefully, I can enlighten others who feel like a stranger to the Norman community and spotlight the kickin', underrated dives.

For my first unsuspecting target, I looked for something close to the OU campus, and the lucky winner was La Baguette, 323 W. Boyd, on Campus Corner. I walked into the cafe, and noticed the "Euro" feel to the interior, a breath of France. There is a non-smoking section and a patio area for patrons who prefer outdoor dining.

The next thing that caught my eye was the diversity of the clientele. Corporate types were in the corner discussing economic bottom lines, artsy-types dining with their musical instruments, and "average Joes and Janes" like myself.

The place carries no unwritten dress codes such as "Goths Only" or "Collared Shirts, Please." I think most can feel comfortable there.

The menu offers mid-priced breakfast and lunch items. I have personally taken a liking to the various pastries and desserts, such as the bread pudding. Manager Gloria Nassar says the most popular menu items are the various quiches and the Tortilla Club. When dining at La Baguette, I would expect to spend $5 to $8 on a good meal and coffee.

As for coffee, I am, by no means, a sophisticated Joe drinker. As far as I know, Java and espresso are my finals week lifesaver. If it isn't candied like an Almond Joy, then it simply means "STIMULANT" to me.

They have a nice selection of coffee flavors and Gloria Nassar and crew are willing to customize your drink if you have a recipe you'd like them to follow. I suggest the Almond Joy.

To highlight the positive points La Baguette offers: 1.) A come-as-you-are atmosphere 2.) A decent drink selection including flavored coffees, soft drinks and fruit drinks 3.) A convenient, off-campus location and 4.) delicious pastries. The major drawback of the place is the early closing time; hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. If you are the breakfast or light lunch type, then I suggest La Baguette.
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