Years ago, my friend Claudia and I frequently bemoaned the limited choices for enjoying a simple, exceptional cup of coffee. While you could certainly indulge in a delightful cappuccino at various restaurants, what if all you craved was a relaxed moment sipping a latte with a friend? Yes, our coffee-related laments preceded the emergence of Starbucks and the popular sitcom “Friends,” in which many memorable scenes unfolded within the fictional and quirky coffee haven known as Central Perk. Fast forward several decades, and the notion of an upscale coffee establishment offering a no-nonsense, robust cup of Joe alongside an array of fancy coffee concoctions ranging from a standard espresso to a salted-caramel-double-butterscotch-extra-dry-pour-over-cold-foam-latte, has become an integral part
of the urban landscape. Claudia and I occasionally jest about how we should have opened our dream coffee shop, as Starbucks essentially mirrored our vision. Ah, the regrets of life. Still, I prefer to focus on the positive and appreciate the multitude of coffee options available in our neighborhood. Here are a few favorites and new options around town.
Years ago, my friend Claudia and I frequently bemoaned the limited choices for enjoying a simple, exceptional cup of coffee. While you could certainly indulge in a delightful cappuccino at various restaurants, what if all you craved was a relaxed moment sipping a latte with a friend? Yes, our coffee-related laments preceded the emergence of Starbucks and the popular sitcom “Friends,” in which many memorable scenes unfolded within the fictional and quirky coffee haven known as Central Perk. Fast forward several decades, and the notion of an upscale coffee establishment offering a no-nonsense, robust cup of Joe alongside an array of fancy coffee concoctions ranging from a standard espresso to a salted-caramel-double-butterscotch-extra-dry-pour-over-cold-foam-latte, has become an integral part of the urban landscape. Claudia and I occasionally jest about how we should have opened our dream coffee shop, as Starbucks essentially mirrored our vision. Ah, the regrets of life. Still, I prefer to focus on the positive and appreciate the multitude of coffee options available in our neighborhood. Here are a few favorites and new options around town.
The Seed
2016 E Sample Road
Lighthouse Point
954-532-4171
The Seed is the germination of the coffee dream of two women. They started with a spot in Boca and opened in Lighthouse Point a few years later. The light and airy atmosphere surrounds you as soon as you walk in. As per a coffee house worth its beans, The Seed offers drip, cold brew, pour-over and all the espresso-themed drinks of your dreams. Try the nitro stout for an iced coffee that will knock your socks off (in a good way). They also have a selection of tea-themed offerings, plus smoothies. For something a little more substantial, they offer açaí bowls. Occasionally, they also serve seasonal drinks such as the summer of ‘23 strawberries and cream matcha latte with cold foam. Say that 10 times fast.
Pascal & Cathy
998 N Federal Highway, Suite 4-5
Pompano Beach
954-756-1496
Head over to Pascal and Cathy on a weekend morning, and you will find a slew of people lined up to score some fantastic French pastries. You’ll find homemade croissants — the classic plain plus chocolate, Nutella, almond and my favorite — pistachio. They also offer baguettes and other breads; you can watch the bakers preparing them on the premises. Naturally, there is coffee to go along with all the treats. Get yourself a latte, a homemade eclair and pretend you’re in Paris.
The Little Coffee Shoppe
1172 N Federal Highway
Pompano Beach
754-444-6443
The Little Coffee Shoppe is just that. The decor has a modern sensibility but manages not to be sterile by using warm tones with plenty of wood and brown tile tables. Of course, they have all the usual offerings, from cold brew to lattes. The cortadito was the perfect afternoon pick-me-up with notes of chocolate and just a touch of steamed milk. The Coffee Shoppes’ first location is in Coral Springs, but we’re delighted they came east.
Byte & Coffee
2424 N Federal Highway
Lighthouse Point
954-218-7559
As of press time, Byte & Coffee had not opened , but we didn’t want anyone to miss an opportunity to enjoy a cup of Joe close to home.
HOMEMADE TREAT
While heading out for a coffee treat is always a treat — it is just that. Indulging in a fancy espresso concoction on a daily basis gets pricey pretty fast. Here is a recipe ripoff of a Starbucks Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte. If you’re thinking you won’t be able to make this at home because you don’t own a fancy espresso machine, fret not. A simple moka pot will do the trick and you can even pick one up at Publix for about $15.
Homemade Shaken Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte
Makes one drink
Ingredients
2 shots espresso
2-4 teaspoons brown sugar syrup (recipe below)
3 ounces oat milk
Preparation
Add all the ingredients to a mason jar, fill the jar with ice, cover and shake. If you don’t have a mason jar, stirring with a spoon is certainly an option. You will simply have to call your drink a Homemade Stirred Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte To make brown sugar syrup , measure equal parts dark or light brown sugar and water. Heat the water in a pot on the stove. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Let cool and store in a jar.
Cafe Sportivo
2219 E Atlantic Blvd.
Pompano Beach
954-782-6672
If you want to kick it old school, Cafe Sportive is the place. You won’t find Frappucinos or salted caramel anything. But you can get a simple espresso, cappuccino or latte along with Italian baked goods and desserts. This is the place you go when you want to sit with a friend or a book and simply relax. It has an unmistakable European feel minus any pretense.
Chez Cafe
1631 South Cypress Road
Pompano Beach
954-933-3453
Chez Cafe has “Central Perk” vibe — even if it is over 1,000 miles from New York’s Central Park. The decor is funky yet cozy — perfect for a quick bite or if you are in need a place to relax with a good book and an iced latte. In addition to all the coffee, Chez Cafe serves breakfast and lunch all day long with take-out available.
Foxtail Coffee
1700 NE 23rd St., Suite 105
Pompano Beach, (Pompano Citi Centre)
954-317-3343
Foxtail Coffee is a growing coffee shop chain. As you step inside a Foxtail Coffee shop, you are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor features a mix of rustic and modern elements, with soft, dimmed lighting. Comfortable seating options are available, including cozy couches, communal tables, and barstools along the counter. Naturally, they have all the usual caffeinated suspects.
The Soulful Steep
122 N Flagler Ave.
Pompano Beach
954-222-7685
And for all the tea lovers, The Soulful Steep is now open in Old Town Pompano Beach. This place is the height of Bohemian chic and offers a warm and inviting escape from the ordinary. Stepping inside feels like entering a world where time slows down and creativity flourishes. With its mismatched vintage furniture and eclectic artwork adorning the walls, the decor creates an enchanting atmosphere. They offer a plethora of teas, coffee, baked goods, light eats, a salt cave and a funky emporium of gifts — or pick up something for yourself. Honestly, if you spotted Ross and Rachel in this place, you would swear you were on the set of “Friends.”
Modern Rose
331 SE 15th Terrace
Deerfield Beach
954-405-8448
Nestled in Deerfield Beach’s Cove Shopping Center, the small local coffee shop known as The Modern Rose offers a warm and inviting escape from the ordinary. As the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, patrons gather at weathered wooden tables to savor expertly crafted tea and coffee drinks and indulge in decadent pastries. The Modern Rose draws a diverse crowd, from the more sophisticated teenager looking for a spot to unwind to business professionals meeting over coffee and all the creative types in between. This cozy haven offers a break from the ordinary and a bit of community connection.