[QUICK STATS]
Food: Colombian Cafe…read more
Service: Speedy and Concise
Interior: Cozy & aesthetic with an artful air.
Price: ~$10/per person
[REVIEW]
Right off of 82nd Street Station, tucked between pharmacies and perfume shops is recently-opened Santuario Cafe-- a bohemian Colombian coffee shop, complete with a warmly lit, inviting atmosphere amongst various plants and minimalist artwork placed about the cafe. The open coffee bar allows one to immerse themselves in the progress of their handcrafted drink, while their aesthetic pastry case boasts both American cafe classics and golden-sweet Colombian fare. Despite their small interior, their seating includes wicker-woven chairs with modern white oak tables, a plush couch, and a wall-side bar. This coffee shop stands out pleasantly from the bustling metro corner, creating an unmistakable and iconic addition to the Jackson Heights roster fit for any Instagram aesthetic chasers.
My friend and I dropped by on a Monday in the early afternoon, drawn in by the olive tree in their window. The dining area was full of laptops, but their handwritten chalkboard menu drew us in further. It showcased a variety of delicious items, from their Santuario Signature beverages to Colombian Classics food menu, including a note that their matcha is 1st harvest from Yame in Fukoka, Japan. In lieu of their overall appearance, a feel that few drawings of their items on the menu would've added to the homey experience. I also wish there was more specification on what the prices meant on the side, as there was no indication if it was intended for Hot/Iced or Size difference.
Despite that, my pal and I were intrigued, getting two medium iced lattes from their Signature series: Dulce de Leche (with Oatmilk!) and Strawberry Matcha. The barista at the register insisted we get one of their pastries, going as far as to list every item out (which to be honest, was a bit awkward!) to which we respectfully declined. As the espresso was being pulled, the cafe was filled with the scent of fresh coffee--always a positive sign. Both were served in rounded glasses with a wooden coaster.
The Dulce de Leche Latte was breathtakingly velvety in both taste and color, perfectly balanced with the rich doppio espresso (which on their menu, specified this blend had notes of chocolate and caramelized honey). However, the drink lacked the key sweetness which we ordered it for. If it was a regular latte, it would've been perfect, but there was little to no indication there was Dulce de Leche at all, which costed extra for its inclusion on top of being iced. We did see the barista add something to the glass before the milk and espresso, but even before and after stirring, the flavor was completely absent. For something coined as a Signature drink, I have to knock down a star for it being sorely underwhelming and disappointing.
When I approach matcha at smaller cafes, I am skeptical about the quality and preparation as powder pockets are common, but this Strawberry Matcha Latte held a beautifully layered appearance. I made sure to note the barista utilized the proper whisk to craft the matcha, dutifully measuring their house strawberry syrup in a jigger before assembling with milk. Through the glass, it showcased the vibrant green of the matcha alongside the vivid reds of the berry. I appreciated how the subtle sweetness of the Strawberry paired with the smooth, full flavor of the matcha. I would've loved there to be more strawberry than just the single ounce measured out, but that's feeding into my particular palette. What's important about the latte is that it was refreshing, and Santuario checked that box.
If I return, I'd love to explore their Signature Blue Coconut Matcha, but overall it was a pleasant afternoon pit-stop!