If you’re a
coffee lover like me and aren’t into paying top dollar for a mediocre cup of
coffee, check out Colada Shop in Sterling, a hip little Cuban café/bar nestled
in the Cascades Overlook that serves coffee, beer, wine, cocktails, sandwiches,
and snacks.
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| Chicken empanada |
Colada offers a variety of robust coffee concoctions
that are a flavorful step up from the typical chain coffee shop offerings. My
go-to brew is the Café con Leche, a shot of espresso with steamed milk and
whipped sugar, a perfect fit for my taste buds. If you want something more high
octane, knock back the Café Cubano, a sweetened coffee “shooter.” All of Colada’s
coffees can be prepared hot or cold, including several options for customizing.
The menu features a few sandwiches, including the
classic Cuban, but what keeps me coming back are the
empanadas. The Picadillo (beef), chicken, and spinach and cheese empanadas are equally delicious, the shells light and crispy with no hint of
greasiness. These small pockets pack amazing flavor and are $2.75 each or three
for $7. For a sweet tooth, try
the guava or sweet cream cheese Pastelitos, $2.25 each or three for $5.50.
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| Outdoor seating at Colada Shop Sterling |
If you're more of a happy hour type, Colada has got you covered
with their Colada Hour from 4-7 p.m. daily. You can soak up the Cuban vibe inside or on one of two outside patios (one is covered and heated) and enjoy $5 cocktails (including the
Original Cuba Libre), house wine, and beer, and those crave-worthy empanadas
for $1.50 each.
Colada Shop
Cascades Overlook
21430 Epicerie Plaza, Sterling
1405 T St. NW, Washington, DC
