Do you only go to Starbucks and Dunkin’ for cups of joe? Are you staying in Miami over the summer and craving something new? I’m here to tell you about some of the best cafés in Coral Gables that will make sipping on coffee an even more glorious experience for your taste buds.
Our campus’s surrounding city has an array of coffee shops with comfortable, cozy and calm atmospheres to choose from. Many University of Miami students enjoy studying at these coffee bars and tasting new beverages and treats. Here are some of their top picks for fellow ‘Canes!
Dr. Smood
Dr. Smood is an organic, plant-based, clean coffee shop. They like to consider themselves the healthiest café around. Dr. Smood serves everything from coffee and sandwiches to lattes and nutritious juices — You name it, their menu has it! Avocado toast is my personal favorite pick. It’s packed with healthy nutrients and flavor. Dr. Smood also has a great study vibe, since it’s quiet and peaceful with plenty of seating, outlets and free WiFi. I’ve studied there a few times and often see other UM students. This café is right across the street from the Sunset Mall and just minutes away from UM’s campus. If you’re staying local, be sure to check it out! @drsmood
Madruga Bakery
Madruga Bakery is a go-to for lots of UM students. Madruga is a rustic bread shop and café, specializing in craft breads and pastries. Junior Amita Tilak enjoys going to Madruga for her beloved pairing: an iced latte with a chocolate croissant. She said that it’s a very nice place to study and relax. The kitchen carries breakfast foods, sandwiches, pastries, salads, soups and more. It’s also incredibly close to UM’s campus, located right by Whole Foods. Due to COVID, they are only doing take-out and pick-up orders and are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. @madrugabakery
Tea & Poets
Tea & Poets is quite a unique café located inside the Sunset Mall. This shop serves coffee, tea, beer and pastries and also regularly features live music and a local market. The interior design of Tea & Poets is calming and mystical, and the business supports a ton of local vendors selling handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, crystals, candles, plants and house decor. Their self-care vibe is unreal! This place also has excellent customer service and plenty of space to relax and study. Plus, there’s free WiFi and outlets everywhere. Tea & Poets whips up rare treats that you can’t find anywhere else, like mini churros. In my opinion, they have the best iced matcha ever. With bookshelves, board games and a PacMan machine, this café is surely unlike any other. If you’re going to check out any other cafe in the Gables, definitely make sure it’s this one. Tea & Poets has something for everybody! @teaandpoets
Blanca Concept Store
Blanca Concept Store is also right by the Sunset Mall. This coffee bar is especially catered toward people who enjoy architecture and design. The owners of Blanca described their shop’s mission: “to bring our love for interior design and aesthetics to a contemporary concept store where you will find an immersive sensory experience.” Blanca has it all, including high-quality joe and home decor. Junior Lauren Maingot loves to come here for a cup of caffeine. This store has an inspiring entrepreneurial story and is a friendly environment for all types of designers. @blancaconcept
words & photo_camila munera
