1 Canvas Coffee Company, 400 E. Girard Ave., 215-425-0524

Ever since Northern Liberties became the hipster hideout of choice, Fishtown has been catching the runoff. Stationed along the deserted F-Town border, this neglected Internet cafe has remained underground despite the aroma of Sumatran coffee wafting outside. Well worth the trolley ride, this hidden treasure is a must-find for the refined coffee palate. If the vegan nacho salad with mock beef doesn't X-mark the spot, strike gold with the mysterious black-and-white sandwich.

2 La Calebasse, 4519 Baltimore Ave., 215-382-0555

Don't ask for a menu. Beg. This top-secret, diamond-in-the-West-Philly-rough insists you speak in code if you wish to sample its West African cuisine. Order what you want, then tuck away the Poisson Braise and Thiebou Djeun with privacy in the dimly lit dining cove.

3 Chloe, 232 Arch St., 215-629-2337

Here, the plate speaks louder than herds. This secluded retreat — one of the few Old City restaurants that don't crowd the sidewalk with outdoor seating — is perfect for a romantic tryst. Prepare for love at first bite when you try the contemporary BYOB's fig pizza.

4 Cafe Sud, 801 E Passyunk Ave., 215-952-0499

Hideaway cafes, as a rule, thrive on window displays, and this off-the-beaten-path bakery is no exception. One sip of the mountain-peaked marshmallow cocoa and you get a backstage pass into a world of Moroccan delicacies, made-to-order juices and French toast worth the mug tip. What you don't know can't hurt you, but it sure tastes delicious.

5 My Thai, 2200 South St., 215-985-1878

Far removed from the pandemonium of South Street, the most clandestine curry in the city is cooking at this tiny corner restaurant. The cuisine is hot, but the scenesters have yet to shout out loud — enjoy pad thai in peace, before the hordes descend.