Key Takeaways:
- Wide Variety of Signature Dishes: Cali Cafe serves a diverse menu featuring Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, pastries, and more, each prepared with care and fresh ingredients.
- Authentic Colombian Coffee: The coffee menu highlights Colombian beans, available in various drinks and also as packaged beans for customers to enjoy at home.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Cali Cafe offers a welcoming environment perfect for families, casual diners, and coffee lovers seeking a relaxing place to enjoy quality food.
Imagine stepping into a place where the comforting scent of fresh coffee and warm pastries instantly wraps around you like a familiar embrace. The atmosphere hums with quiet conversations, the gentle clinking of cups, and the soft music that sets the perfect tone for a peaceful break. That’s the experience waiting inside Cali Cafe — a charming spot that feels like a gentle pause in the middle of a busy day.
While many cafes offer similar menus, few manage to blend quality, warmth, and personality the way Cali Cafe does. Here, every dish is thoughtfully crafted, turning simple meals into memorable moments that keep guests coming back.
In this piece, we’ll explore the best dishes Cali Cafe has to offer, from their most popular foods to standout sandwiches, freshly baked pastries, and their exceptional coffee creations.
Popular Foods You Shouldn’t Miss
Cali Cafe’s menu is full of standout dishes that highlight their commitment to quality and flavor. Each item offers a unique combination of ingredients and preparation that keeps customers coming back for more. Here’s a closer look at some of the favorites you won’t want to miss:
- Cheese Cake (Small): The small cheesecakes at Cali Cafe are made with rich Philadelphia cream cheese, giving them a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Guests can choose from an assortment of flavors, including vanilla, passionfruit, and even Snickers, though availability can change daily. It’s the perfect sweet indulgence to end a meal or enjoy alongside a hot beverage.
- Egg, Cheese, & Bacon Croissant: This breakfast croissant delivers a satisfying mix of savory and creamy flavors. Flaky, buttery croissant bread is filled with egg, mayo, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham, with the option to add cheese for an extra layer of richness. It’s a hearty and filling option that makes for a perfect start to the day.
- Fried Empanadas (Beef): Cali Cafe’s empanadas feature a crispy corn-based shell that holds a generous filling of either pulled chicken or seasoned beef. The combination of tender meat and crunchy exterior creates a delicious balance of texture and flavor. Served warm, these empanadas make for a tasty snack or light meal any time of day.
- Breakfast Cuban: A creative spin on the traditional Cuban sandwich, this version is designed for breakfast lovers. Pressed Cuban bread with butter holds eggs, Swiss cheese, and your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage, all complemented by a touch of creamy mayo. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that brings a Cuban twist to the morning table.
- Pandebono: The pandebono is a beloved pastry made with cassava flour and filled with creamy cheese. Its slightly chewy texture pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness and the rich, savory filling. This pastry is a customer favorite, often enjoyed as a light breakfast or snack.
- Cuban Sandwich: Cali Cafe’s Cuban Sandwich is a true highlight of the menu, packed with layers of flavor. Pressed Cuban bread holds Swiss cheese, pork, ham, salami, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, mustard oil, and mayo, creating a perfect blend of savory and tangy notes. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and rich textures that make it unforgettable.
Delicious Sandwiches And Hot Food Selections
Cali Cafe offers a variety of hot food options that bring comfort and rich flavors to the table. From handheld favorites to hearty meals, each item reflects the cafe’s dedication to fresh ingredients and satisfying portions. Here are some of the highlights you should try:
Potato Ball With Meat
This savory treat combines tender pulled beef with smooth, seasoned potatoes, all encased in a crispy fried shell. The crunchy exterior gives way to a flavorful, hearty filling perfect for a snack or a light meal. Each bite delivers a warm, satisfying taste that keeps customers coming back.
Egg, Cheese, & Sausage Croissant
A flaky croissant is generously filled with fluffy eggs, creamy mayo, and your choice of sausage, bacon, or ham, with the option of adding melted cheese. This combination creates a rich and filling breakfast option that’s both savory and comforting. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a satisfying way to start the morning.
Toast With Butter And Scrambled Or Fried Eggs
Simple yet satisfying, this breakfast classic features toasted bread paired with butter and eggs cooked to your liking: fried, scrambled, or scrambled with tomatoes and onions for added flavor. It’s a light, customizable option that works perfectly for any morning appetite. Sometimes, the simplest meals offer the most comfort.
BLT Meal Chips With Soda
The BLT Meal features crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes with mayo on toasted house brioche bread. Served with chips and a soda, it makes for a complete and satisfying meal. This classic sandwich remains a favorite for its simple, timeless flavors.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Sharp cheese is melted between slices of toasted house brioche bread, creating a gooey, comforting classic. The crisp exterior and rich, melty interior make it a beloved choice for both kids and adults alike. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of soup or a hot beverage.
Freshly Baked Breads And Pastries
Cali Cafe’s bakery is filled with fresh, delicious pastries that combine tradition and creativity. Each pastry is thoughtfully prepared, offering sweet and savory flavors to pair perfectly with your coffee or meal. Here are some of the must-try baked goods you’ll find:
- Pandebono: The pandebono is a soft, slightly chewy pastry made from cassava flour and filled with creamy cheese. Its simple, comforting flavor makes it a popular breakfast or snack choice. The balance of savory cheese and tender texture creates a treat that pairs perfectly with coffee.
- Guava Triangles: These pastries feature a sweet and tangy guava filling combined with smooth cream cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry crust. The balance of fruit and cream creates a delightful bite that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect as a light dessert or mid-day treat, they offer a bright burst of flavor.
- Croissant with Ham & Cheese: A buttery croissant is generously filled with slices of ham and melted cheese, blending rich and savory flavors inside a delicate, flaky pastry. The soft interior contrasts beautifully with the crispy outer layers. This option works equally well for breakfast or a light lunch.
- Sweet Corn Arepa with Cheese: Made from milled and baked sweet corn, this arepa is topped with melted cheese for a comforting combination of sweet and savory flavors. The soft, slightly crumbly texture of the corn pairs well with the richness of the cheese. It’s a simple but satisfying option for any time of day.
- Buñuelo: This classic Latin pastry is made with cornstarch and Spanish cheese, resulting in a slightly crispy exterior with a soft, cheesy center. Its light, airy texture and mild, savory flavor make it a perfect snack or side. Many customers enjoy it with coffee for a balanced, satisfying bite.
- Croissant with Chocolate: For those with a sweet tooth, the chocolate-filled croissant delivers the perfect balance of buttery pastry and rich, melted chocolate. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast between flaky layers and creamy filling. It’s a delightful treat to enjoy as a dessert or a sweet breakfast.
- Alfajores: Alfajores are light, tender cookies filled with caramel, then finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and coconut sprinkles. Each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture balanced by the sweet, creamy filling. They’re a traditional favorite that adds a touch of elegance to any dessert spread.
- Thousand Pages Bread: This layered pastry combines light, flaky layers with rich caramel and Bavarian cream fillings. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite decadent and satisfying. It’s a unique offering that showcases the cafe’s skillful baking.
Exceptional Coffee And Beverages
Cali Cafe doesn’t just serve delicious food — their coffee and beverage selection is equally impressive, showcasing rich flavors and authentic Colombian traditions. Whether you’re looking for a warm cup to start your morning or a refreshing iced option on a hot day, Cali Cafe has something for every taste. Here are some of the standout drinks you’ll find:
- Iced Coffee: The iced coffee is perfect for warmer days, offering a refreshing twist on classic coffee. Customers can personalize their drinks by selecting flavors like white chocolate, hazelnut, caramel, or vanilla. Each sip delivers a smooth, chilled coffee experience that’s both energizing and flavorful.
- Cafe con Leche 12 oz Medium: The medium 12 oz Cafe con Leche offers the same rich combination of Colombian coffee and steamed milk but in a smaller portion. This size is perfect for those seeking a warm, creamy coffee without the larger volume. It’s a comforting option for any time of day.
- Hot Chocolate: Cali Cafe’s hot chocolate features traditional Colombian preparation using Corona brand melted chocolate. A hint of cinnamon and clove adds depth and warmth to the drink, making each sip rich and aromatic. It’s a cozy, flavorful treat, especially perfect for cooler days.
- Café Americano (Black Coffee): This Café Americano features bold, black coffee made directly from Colombian beans. Smooth and rich, it offers a full-bodied flavor that highlights the natural characteristics of the high-quality beans. It’s a perfect choice for coffee purists who enjoy their coffee strong and simple.
Final Thoughts
Cali Cafe isn’t just a place to grab a bite — it’s where quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a warm atmosphere come together to create memorable moments. Whether you’re stopping in for a flaky croissant, a hearty Cuban sandwich, or a perfectly brewed Colombian coffee, each visit offers a taste of comfort and care that keeps guests coming back time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cali Cafe
What is the most popular pastry at Cali Cafe?
The Cheese Finger and Pandebono are among the most popular pastries due to their creamy fillings and balanced sweetness. Many customers pair them with coffee for a light breakfast or afternoon snack. Their popularity stems from the taste and texture that appeal to a wide audience.
Are the empanadas baked or fried?
Cali Cafe’s empanadas are fried, giving them a crispy, golden exterior. The fried shell holds tender pulled chicken or beef inside, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. This preparation method enhances both texture and flavor.
Does Cali Cafe offer any low-sugar dessert options?
Most pastries and desserts at Cali Cafe are traditionally sweet. However, Sweet Corn Arepa with Cheese is naturally less sugary than other baked goods. Guests concerned about sugar content should ask staff for recommendations.
Are the croissants made fresh daily?
Yes, the croissants at Cali Cafe are baked fresh daily to ensure optimal flavor and texture. The buttery, flaky layers are a result of careful preparation each morning. Fresh baking is a key part of maintaining the cafe’s high-quality standards.
Are the meats in sandwiches and hot foods cooked in-house?
Many meats, like pulled pork and pulled chicken, are prepared in-house to maintain freshness and flavor control. The house-prepared meats allow Cali Cafe to ensure consistency in taste. This also adds a homemade touch to many of their menu items.
Do the baked goods contain preservatives?
Cali Cafe focuses on using fresh, quality ingredients in their baked goods with minimal preservatives. Most items are intended to be enjoyed fresh to maintain flavor and texture. It’s always best to consume pastries shortly after purchase for the best experience.
Is the guava used in pastries fresh or processed?
The guava used in pastries like Guava Triangles and Guava Bear Claws is typically a sweetened paste. This form preserves the fruit’s tropical flavor while ensuring consistency in texture and sweetness. It’s a traditional ingredient in many Latin pastries.
How spicy are the hot food items?
Most hot food items at Cali Cafe are mild and focus on rich, savory flavors rather than heat. Dishes like empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, and pot pies are seasoned but not spicy. Guests looking for extra heat can usually request hot sauce on the side.
Are the Thousand Pages Bread and Alfajores traditional recipes?
Yes, both items are inspired by traditional recipes with a Cali Cafe twist. Thousand Pages Bread combines layered pastry with caramel and Bavarian cream, while Alfajores are classic caramel-filled cookies with powdered sugar and coconut. Both reflect Latin American dessert traditions with attention to authenticity.
Are weekend-only items worth the visit?
Yes, weekend-only items like the Chicken Pot Pie and Cinnamon Bun are highly sought after by regulars. These limited-time offerings bring something special to the weekend menu and often sell out quickly. Many customers plan their visits specifically to enjoy these exclusive items.