South Beach: beautiful weather, beautiful people, beautiful coffee

South Beach…conjures up visions of beautiful beaches, al fresco dining, and the Kardashians.  Thank God we did didn't see the Kardashians (sorry CMK)!  However, we did see beautiful beaches populated by "beautiful people" who managed to make thong bathing suits with heals the standard dress code for not only poolside, but shopping and dining.  Let's just say I was under-dressed in my bikini and flip-flops.

What may surprise you is that Miami was home to some awesome Cuban coffee!  While it is true we were chasing warmer weather and sunshine…as well as hiding out from our 6 kids still at home--we were also in search of the ultimate local (South Beach) coffee experience.  We stumbled upon that experience at a small local Cuban coffee shop located several blocks away from the famed shopping district…including the Kardashian boutique--DASH.

Las Olas Cafe is located 6th and Euclid.  It is a small, local eatery and coffee shop that is frequented by the locals.  We were the only "touristas" amongst the local Cuban clientele.  The staff welcomed us with warm smiles and beverage and bakery recommendations.  I (Pam) had the cafe con leche and Mike had the traditional Cuban espresso.  We sat at one of the few small tables located in the diner atmosphere and thoroughly enjoyed our coffee experience.  The cafe con leche was rich and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness to be paired with my Cuban cheesy pastry of which I can not remember the name…so it will be known as the "cheesy pastry".  Mike enjoyed the strong, bold notes of the espresso which was served in a "wee" styrofoam cup--which simply added to the ambience and the experience.  His pastry was topped with white sprinkles…which cut the bitterness of the espresso perfectly.  We enjoyed the staff, the locals, and the whole South Beach Cuban coffee experience.  If ever in the Sobe area, you must make time for this cultural coffee gem.  Feel free to skip the Kardashian DASH adventure…unless you enjoy spending $60 on a t-shirt.  Save it for the coffee….this little Cuban diner is truly where the "beautiful people" and beautiful coffee is.

Next coffee shop adventure stop:  Dallas , Texas where my sister, Becki, will be filling in for my husband on this adventure as we run the Dallas Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon in the Lone Star State.  Cowgirl up!!