If you've never tried pavlova, you're in for a treat. Pavlova is a dessert featuring a crisp baked…read moremeringue shell with a soft, marshmallow like center. It's traditionally topped with fresh whipped cream and fruit, most often strawberries. The dessert was created to honor Russian prima ballerina Anna Pavlova following her celebrated 1926 tours of Australia and New Zealand. The strawberries are arranged on top to resemble her iconic tutu.
I've been craving pavlova ever since a trip to Miami, where the dessert is especially popular for birthdays. I had hoped to visit the most well known pavlova shop in Key Biscayne, but it was too far away to make it that day.
That's why I was so excited to discover Pavlova & Co., a new shop much closer to home. Located on Wiles Road, it's easy to miss but well worth seeking out. The interior is decorated in shades of pink that would have Elle Woods' approval. You order at the counter while browsing a menu that includes pavlovas, cannolis, obleas, fruit salads, strawberries and cream, croissants, coffee, and other beverages. They even offer sugar-free and gluten-free options.
The owner kindly explained that the Key Biscayne bakery I had been searching for serves a more Latin-inspired interpretation of pavlova by incorporating almonds, while Pavlova & Co. stays offers the traditional Australian version.
The pavlovas come in flavors such as dulce de leche, Dubai, crème brûlée, and their signature strawberry passion fruit, which I chose. I also ordered the Pavlova Latte, made with dulce de leche, pavlova cream, strawberry, and a meringue topping.
So much care goes into the presentation. Just before it was handed to me, my pavlova was dusted with edible gold glitter, making it almost too pretty to eat.
One complaint people sometimes have about pavlova is that the fruit isn't sweet enough. That certainly wasn't the case here. The strawberries were served at the peak of freshness and bursting with flavor. The dollop of tangy passion fruit provided the ideal contrast to the sweetness of the delicate meringue. After my first bite, I completely understood why this dessert has remained so beloved for nearly a century. Its light, airy texture and fresh fruit make it the perfect summer treat.
Pavlova & Co. has only recently opened, so be sure to stop by and support this wonderful new local business. Whether you're treating yourself or sharing one with someone you love, it's a dessert experience that you will savor.