Emily Shea believes in going with the flow. “What you need will be there when you need it,” says the lawyer-turned-yoga instructor-turned-entrepreneur. Shea and photographer Mark Ostow co-own Kickstand Cafe in Arlington Center (he also owns Cafe Zing in Porter Square Books and occasionally freelances for the Globe). Shea’s sunny outlook buoyed her through the transformation of the 65-seat space, formerly Jam’n Java, off the Minuteman Bikeway. Some things haven’t changed. Young moms with tots in tow populate tables mid-morning, French speakers from a nearby campus of the International School of Boston arrive by afternoon. Window counter seating and a nook for artisanal teas and fair-trade coffee feel brand new. So does the menu. Spinach frittata sandwich with herb-roasted tomato ($4.50) comes on an Iggy brioche roll. Thai chicken curry soup ($5, from Chelsea-based Kettle Cuisine) offers hearty comfort alongside a toasty portabello panini ($8.95) or a Vietnamese-inspired fresh roll ($2.25). Danish Pastry House supplies muffins, scones, and other treats ($1.95 to $3.25). With green smoothies and freshly made juices ($4.50), we feel poised for spring and ready to go with the flow. Kickstand Cafe, 594 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington Center, 781-583-6110.
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ELLEN BHANG