At first glance, Paradigm Coffee & Music is just another hipster coffeehouse. However, it’s also a unique venue for local and national bands, open mic nights and poetry readings.

Paradigm bills itself as a “listening room,” and bassist Tom Abromaitis says that sets it apart from other music venues.

“It lives up to [its name],” said Abromaitis. “It’s completely silent in between songs at Paradigm. It was almost a little unnerving the first time. You can hear your heart beating.” Abromaitis plays with the band The Belle Weather, an act that has played at Paradigm multiple times.

Maybe the vibe of the listening room contributes to everyone’s enjoyment. At night, eclectic lamps and sparse ceiling lights bathe scattered furniture in soft yellow light. Experimental art hangs from the walls. In one corner, a giant pencil drawing of a boy stares down on the room. A chess board populated by multiple piece styles rests on a corner coffee table waiting to be used. Books litter shelves and tables, free for the reading.

Seating is as eclectic as the lamps and books. The building was a furniture store before it was converted to a coffee shop, and an odd collection of couches, chairs and old wooden tables sit haphazardly across the room. The layout morphs with the mood of the patronage or the type of event.

It’s not just the eclectic furniture and mood lighting that make Paradigm’s unique vibe—it’s the people.

Abromaitis said, “It’s totally like playing at home. It’s so communal [being] surrounded by good friends and fans. So rad.”

Shows at Paradigm feel very intimate. It’s a place you’d go to drink a chai latte, sit in a cozy chair and just listen. You’d probably even see someone you know. If not, you’ll meet someone you’ll see there often because it’s just that kind of place.

You don’t just see one show at Paradigm. The smell of warm hardwood, fresh espresso and sizzling sandwiches will draw you back. It’s a sensory dessert: the art and muted colors everywhere; the sounds of music even when no band is playing; a good conversation with anyone—even the barista; the smell of genuine, local food; and the texture of the worn countertops.

At Paradigm, it’s all about the music, but it’s also all about good food, good people and a good time.

For information on events, see their website: paradigmvenue.com or sit at the counter, order a coffee and talk to a barista about what makes Paradigm the way it is.