Despite intense local competition, the South End Buttery has fast become a neighborhood favorite. Some customers come for the excellent espresso, made in a retro Italian Faema machine; others come for the gourmet loose-leaf teas. And everyone loves the cupcakes, named Simon (chocolate), Madison (vanilla), and Harriet (carrot cake), after the co-owners’ three dogs. The sandwiches are upscale versions of old standards—the tuna comes with artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and olive-caper aioli, and the chicken salad is served curried with cashews, raisins, and sweet chutney—though such classics as grilled cheese and peanut butter and jelly are (thankfully) left alone.