Colada Coffee Shop

Ever since I’ve gotten vaccinated a few weeks ago, I have been itching to start exploring the DC-Maryland-Virginia area more fully. And really, what better way than trying a new coffee shop? I can’t tell you how long it’s been since I’ve been to an indie coffee shop and actually was able to stay and enjoy the atmosphere.

It. Felt. Good!

D.C. still has pretty strict quarantine rules at the moment, where indoor dining is very limited (and may not even be allowed – I can’t keep up with the changing of rules, tbh). So outdoor dining has been all the rage. It’s only been the past couple of weeks, however, where the weather has gotten warm and nice enough for outdoor dining, in my opinion.

Colada Shop

This led me to want to try out Colada Shop on 14th Street – a Cuban establishment that serves coffee, eateries, and alcoholic beverages. The first thing I noticed was the color. Just like in the Caribbean, the exterior was painted a bright and cheerful blue with brightly-colored patio seating available to match. The main window was completely open, allowing fresh air to easily flow inside.

There seems to be indoor seating (currently closed) and additional seating upstairs by the rooftop bar. Honestly, I couldn’t turn down a seat on a rooftop, so I quickly headed up top and found seating to be plenty during a Monday during mid-day.

Menu

Specifically speaking about the location on 14th street, they have a few dining options categorized under breakfast, sandwiches, and snacks, all with a Cuban or Caribbean flare. Their café selection includes all of the classic coffee drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos, as well as some Cuban-flavored drinks like Café Cubano and Chocolate de la Abuela.

Colada Shop Cuban sandwich: Seeing that we were in a Cuban-centric eaterie, I couldn’t help but try their Cuban sandwich during my first visit. I can’t say that I’ve tried a Cuban sandwich before, so I can’t compare this with anything else, but it was quite delicious. Definitely would have again. They do have a veggie option as well.

Café Con Leche: Coffee with Milk made up of 1/2 coffee and 1/2 milk. I thought it was divine! I ordered it with the regular amount of sweetness, which was the perfect amount. You can really taste the coffee, as well. The downside is that they don’t have a decaf version, and with my sensitivity to caffeine, this was not a drink that I could just down. However, if you’re in serious need of waking up, I highly recommend it!

Have you been to Colada Shop on 14th?