Before I ever tasted a single bean, the name stopped me cold. Calusa. A roaster bearing the name of…read morean Indigenous people -- the Calusa, the ancient shell-mound builders, the unconquered lords of South Florida's mangroves and waterways. People who never surrendered. People whose bones are folded into this very soil. As someone who walks through this world carrying Taíno blood and the memory of peoples whose names colonizers tried to erase, that word hit different. It wasn't a gimmick. It wasn't a logo. It was a declaration -- that this land has a story older than any espresso machine, and somebody here understood that. That understanding alone earned my curiosity and my respect before I'd even stepped through the door. "The name carried the weight of a people who never bent. That's the kind of legacy worth building a roastery around." Then I learned the story behind the man behind the roaster -- and it only deepened my respect. Luis Arteaga came home from serving in the United States Marine Corps and did what so many veterans do: he looked for work. No fanfare. No red carpet. Just a man with discipline in his bones and calluses on his hands, trying to find his next mission in a civilian world that doesn't always know what to do with people like that. He found his way to the original owners of Calusa Coffee Roasters. They saw in him what the Corps had always seen -- dependability, grit, and a willingness to learn. They gave him a job. A floor to stand on. And Luis did what Marines do -- he didn't just fill a position, he grew into something greater. Over time, through sweat and dedication and an unmistakable passion for the craft, he rose to become the owner of the very roastery that once took a chance on him. That's not a business story. That's an American story. A veteran's story. And it's exactly the kind of origin that makes a cup of coffee taste like something more than coffee. CALUSA COFFEE ROASTERS IS A SOUTH FLORIDA INSTITUTION Fast forward to today, and Calusa Coffee Roasters isn't just surviving -- it is a staple. Walk into the right cigar bar on a Friday evening and someone at the table will mention the name. Sit down at the right diner counter on a Tuesday morning and a regular will nod toward that familiar bag. In South Florida's rich, layered, cafecito-and-culture coffee landscape, that kind of word-of-mouth is earned over years of consistency, of showing up, of never letting the cup get small. Luis continues to build something that belongs to this community -- rooted in the terroir of a region as complex and layered as its people. The coffee is exceptional. Bold where it should be bold, nuanced where it earns it. The kind of roast that makes you sit down instead of rushing out. That's no accident. That's someone who respects the craft because he was forged in institutions that demand nothing less than your best. "When a Marine finds his mission in a roastery, every bag he puts his name on carries the same standard -- do it right or don't do it at all." Meeting Luis was one of those moments I didn't expect to move me the way it did. We are both moving through the coffee world trying to build something that means something -- something rooted in identity, in service, in the belief that what's in the cup should tell a story worth hearing. And here was a fellow Marine who had walked a road I recognize: uncertain ground, earned footing, and a refusal to quit. And finally, if you are in South Florida and you have not made the pilgrimage to Calusa Coffee Roasters on Commercial Blvd, you are overdue. Go for the coffee -- stay for the story. And if you're lucky enough to meet the man himself, shake his hand. He earned it in more ways than one. To Luis Arteaga and everyone at Calusa: thank you for carrying a name that honors this land. Thank you for honoring the service that shaped you. And thank you for a cup of coffee that carries the weight of all of it without spilling a drop. Semper Fi, brother. Keep roasting.

I stopped by Calusa Coffee Roasters to do coffee run for my fiancee. I ordered the iced Americano…read morefor myself and iced vanilla latte for my fiancee with oatmilk. My fiancee seemed content with their flavors and she didn't yell at me. So based on this, I would assume Calusa Coffee has some decent coffees. Please try this place and see if you enjoyed it as much as my fiancee. The location is a bit weird to enter and exit so be careful driving in and out. They offer limited parking so bring plenty of patience with you when visiting!

For a unique experience Living Green fits the bill. It is quirky and has a nice cafe where you…read morechoose from fresh selections like salmon which is quite good. There are also vegetables and starches. I wish they could keep all the offerings heated. There also is a gourmet grocery selection and wine. You can dine in, sit in outside tables or have it boxed for takeaway. My one wish is that "Living Green" would not use plastic utensils and containers for those dining in.

Wonderful breakfast, service, and atmosphere The menu was…read morefantastic, I enjoyed my visit

Service outside, inside, time and taste is great. Not too much seating inside but you can still…read moregrab & go as I did. If you're in the area give them a go. SunnyB

Rose's is a cute, modern coffee bar inside of the Del Mar hotel. It's easy to find, but depending…read moreon what time of day you're going, you may have to fight to find street parking. I work nearby, so I just strolled in during my lunch break for a little midday pick-me-up. The staff is pleasant and helpful. My only suggestion is to perhaps have an allergens list for the individual baked goods. I tried to ask the staff about whether some of the treats contained nuts (in particular, the s'mores bar, and the chocolate chip cookie) as I have a peanut allergy (tree nuts are okay). There was a bit of a language barrier and the staff seemed unsure, and tried to err on the side of caution (which I appreciate). However, knowing that a s'mores bar or a chocolate chip cookie is unlikely to contain actual peanuts, I was a little frustrated because it would have been okay for me personally if it was simply that the baked goods were "processed in a factory that manufactures peanut products". Those trace amounts normally don't affect me. I feel like this was likely the case, but again, I'm glad that they just proceeded with an abundance of caution. I settled for a cheese danish even though I was really after a chocolate craving. Good on the staff for being cautious, disappointing for me that I couldn't cater to my chocolate craving. Oh well. I also ordered a Get Green smoothie, which was refreshing and delicious. The coconut water makes it super hydrating. Whether you're staying at the Del Mar hotel or just work nearby and want a little treat, this spot is a great place to stop in.

This place has been our go to for a couple of years now. We first came looking for paletas on a…read morerandom search and to our delight, they have much more than that. First and foremost, their paletas are soooooo good and unique. They have the best flavors not found elsewhere and ingredients are carefully sourced. They don't cut corners.... Guava and cream, horchata, honey and goat cheese, passion fruit, Parmesan ricotta, lulo (IYKYK), among others. And if you're courageous and adventurous, go for their alcohol infused ones (vodka-lime, daiquiri, amaretto, mojito and so much more). They also have very unique gelato flavors. I tasted their lavender one today... no artificial colors!!!! Pure goodness. And that's just the beginning. They have to die for croissants and other artisanal specialty French pastries. I've never had a croissant like the ones they have at D'Liras. At every opportunity we drag friends and family and they all fully agree. I highly suggest visiting this place... it will become your go to for frozen and authentic French treats. Ps. Are my paketa way too fast and missed the photo opp!

When you walk past D'Liras in the morning you'd swear you were in Europe. The smell of fresh baked…read morecroissants makes your mouth water. The place feels like a small European cafe. The croissants can be filled with a variety of cremes and are super delicious. When you get done to go they don't just throw them in a bag. They present them in a box with a few whip cream touches. Super classy.

Nice bakery offering both salty and sweet products. Best part? It's open late so you don't have to…read morehave dessert at a restaurant. Or if you have a craving around 10 pm? They got you!! The white chocolate tart was really good, specially the graham cracker bottom. They have parking in and around the area as well as a sitting area outside.

The water is amazing, but no ice…read more The coffee and pastries are great. But I always foolishly order a breakfast sandwich. Not needed after the pastry, also not amazingly delicious as the water. The staff is wonderful..

Cat rescue with snacks and drinks while you per the cats and maybe adopt. There a toys, tshirts…read moreyou name it. It's run by a dedicated staff of volunteers. There's a buzzer at the front door so they can carefully unlock without escaping kitties bolting through the open door. It's almost like a secret cat speakeasy upstairs with a small sign on the street. There's also a great pizza place on the first floor of the same building. Terrific concept and extremely well run

This is such a sweet little place! My daughter and I were looking for some cat snuggles, so I…read morelooked up cat cafes and this is the only place that showed up. They have a simple and cute setup for these adorable group of cats. They are well loved, have lots of toys with which visitors can help play with, and a small offering of simple snacks and drinks that all go toward the care of the cats. They have helpful attendants who care for the cats, and are all so loving. These cats are so lucky!

I've been coming to the Bakery Bar for at least two years, multiple times a week. Yet, this is my…read morefirst review. The food is amazing! Whatever you order, you will be satiated, and very happy! From the pastries to the bread, from the salty stuff to the homemade ice cream, everything is home made, and you can feel it! The staff is second to none. This family owned business employs family. They're super nice, and always welcoming. For the ambiance, you literally feel like you're transported back to the Old Country, specially on an important game day of the Italian or European football league (soccer for the Americans). The bar fills up with regulars, most of them Italians, and yeah, it's really cool! So... Look nowhere else for a breakfast, lunch, or afternoon break. That place is it!

Italian based bakery & cafe with counter service and a welcoming tranquil outside covered patio…read more Several free parking spaces surround the business with the busy front patio visual to passerbys along Oakland Park Blvd. Caught a glimpse of the large sign "The Bakery Bar" while driving by and it looked intriguing so had to take a peek. The front patio was filled with patrons having their morning pastry and coffee discussing the booming stock market. The scent of fresh bread blasted through my nostrils and noticed several loaves of bread standing prominently at attention behind the cashier, hovering above the pastry display, as I ordered a Julius Meinl Austrian med-roast espresso. Loved the attention to detail with the presention of my espresso served in a miniature cup on a saucer along with a metal spoon and a heart shape sugar cookie which was a nice touch. Quenched my thirst and onto my next adventure.

Aroma Joe's is a solid go-to spot if you're into sweet, customizable drinks and quick drive-thru…read morecoffee. Their menu stands out compared to typical chains--especially with their "Rush" energy drinks and flavored iced coffees, which a lot say they are consistently good and more creative than some competitors. One of the biggest highlights is the friendly service. Staff are helpful and make the experience feel more personal. The atmosphere is usually clean and upbeat, making it a nice stop for your morning coffee run.

It's so great to have another drive-through coffee place that isn't Starbucks or Dunkin. The menu…read morehad a big variety from coffee to espresso to lemonade to energy drinks. We tried their Christmas drinks which were the Merry Mocha and the Peppermint Mocha. The Merry Mocha was not my favorite, but I recommend the Peppermint Mocha (I just wish it had more ice because the bottom of the drink was hot). I also tried the chocolate chip muffin which was good. There were two cars in front of me, and we waited about 15 minutes. The employees were friendly. I'll definitely be back to try more of their menu.

The Alchemist Café is an absolute must-visit! We discovered this gem eight years ago, and now it's…read morea tradition--we make it a point to come back every single time we are in town. I especially love coming here for their coffee. The service style is great; you order at the counter and then pick a spot to sit, and the friendly staff brings everything right to your table. We stopped in today and caught it at a great time when it wasn't as busy as usual. We ordered the pepperoni pizza, four-cheese pizza, and avocado toast, along with the Alchemist coffee, passionfruit tea, and a Sprite. Everything was delicious, and sitting in the outdoor seating area is always a highlight. This place is an absolute five stars to me--after eight years, it never lets us down!

I first reviewed this restaurant 10 years ago. Yikes! 10 years. The menu has changed slightly but…read morethe basics are there. I enjoy their cold coffees and freshly made food: the Greek or Mediterranean toast with olives and feta is my favor: you'll be surprised how filled up you get. The service is what it is. Please when it's time to order and when they bring the food but that's okay. There's nothing formal about this place. It's cozy and beautiful with the greenery. They have lots of parking and I've never had an issue. The best feeling is having breakfast alone in the am. I could stay there forever. Definitely recommend

Was at the Las Olas art show and decided to go to Ann's Florist and Coffee Bar…read more It's a luxury spot and is a combo of a flower shop, coffee & bakery shop and a wine bar. Opened since the 1970's and French inspired. Cute and stylish place to go. Either sit down service or take out. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Service was quick. The latte and croissant was to die for. So many pastries to choose from that it's difficult to pick. I love the neon sign on the wall that says "Meet me by the grinds." There even was a champagne vending machine to buy small bottles. Wine bar located in the back. Attached is a beautiful floral store to buy flowers and other items. What a cozy and unique place to go. I will definitely be back next time I am in that neighborhood.

I came with a group of friends Saturday around 10ish in the morning. Needless to say it was busy…read more It's nicely decorated Inside and they also serve food. One side is the floral shop and the other side is the coffee bar. The entrance to the coffee bar where you place your order is way too small for the amount of traffic flow they have coming in and out. I felt like I was in the way no matter where I went. The employee taking our order was not the nicest and definitely was overwhelmed. This isn't a regular coffee shop where you can place your order to go and still drink your coffee or hang around. We were told If we were not eating or drinking at the coffee bar you will not be able to sit down. Ordered two iced lattes and two empanadas. Coffee was okay but the empanadas were really good!