Small Business Saturday (Sweets): Local Spots We Love
Cream Parlor's Delicious Desserts
We all did the turkey thing, and many did the Black Friday shopping thing, but today is Small Business Saturday. We’re all about shopping local and supporting our community. I try my best to buy most of my goodies locally, for several reasons - I know where it’s coming from, I know there’s lots of love put into it, and it just feels good to support the smaller businesses.
In honor of Small Business Saturday, this week’s Saturday Sweets will highlight some of Miami’s best small businesses serving sweets that everyone needs to check out.
CREAM Parlor
Do you want butterflies on your ice cream? Or endless amounts of sprinkles? Cream Parlor can and will make it happen. This adorable ice cream shop operates without an actual dessert menu, because it encourages guest to have fun with what they’re eating. It’s like Miami’s very own Willy Wonka factory. Possibilities are endless and owners Johnny and Ainsley are always on hand to help guests have a great time. 8224 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33138
Madruga Bakery
Located in South Miami, Madruga Bakery is making breads and pastries fresh every single day. Owner Naomi Harris may have not planned on going the baking route in life, but it’s safe to say Miami is so happy that she did. Along with fresh breads, the menu has plenty of tarts and galettes. The chocolate chip banana bread will be one of your favorite things, and you can thank me later. Pair that with a latte or the rose flavored ice tea and you’ll be in heaven. 1430 S Dixie Hwy Suite 117 Coral Gables, FL 33146
Cindy Lou’s Cookies
Cindy Lou’s Cookies are easily one of the best kept secrets in Miami’s dessert world. You may have had them once or twice at Panther Coffee or any other the other dozen spots she delivers cookies to. Her menu is about a mile long, with some favorites like: Nutella Swirl - a delicious chocolate chip cookie base, minus the chips, with heath bar candy added for crunch and swirled with Nutella for a perfect twist on the classic. In Cindy’s eyes, “cookies warm the heart and nourish the soul.” And I’m not about to disagree with her. Placing a big order? Be sure to check her out in her cute kitchen in Little River. 7320 NE 2nd Ave Miami, FL 33138
Exquisito Chocolates
Exquisito Chocolates sources direct trade cacao beans from over eight origin farms in Latin America and the Caribbean. They produce bean to bar chocolates using only the best and most ethically sourced cacao beans. We roast our beans and grind to perfection using only sugar, no preservatives or additives. Everything in their shop is made by hand. 2606 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL
Honeybee Doughnuts
Serving Panther Coffee and making doughnuts daily, this South Miami spot is ready to satisfy any sweet tooth. Make sure to stop by early, as they tend to sell out fairly quickly. Between the new mini doughnuts and milkshakes, there are almost too many options to choose from. But these doughnuts aren’t so heavy that you’ll feel guilty eating a few. Keep it traditional and be sure to get at least one of the honey whipped cream filled doughnuts. 7388 Red Rd South Miami, FL 33143