I was first acquainted with this shoppe having forgotten a lunch and being in desperate need for coffee. My friends and I saw the “We’re Open” banner and pulled right in. From my first step inside, I felt calm. Alternative tunes stream through the speakers of the little rectangle nestled beside Bernie’s Burger Bus. This was the city of Bellaire’s newest gem. A comfortable hangout for students, coffee lovers, or just those who need a place to land. The Dandelion Cafe had a warm feel like a home away from home.

It had a very modern ambiance to it. White washed over the comfortable building and was the dominant color theme of this quaint cafe. The place was bright, but not too bright; quiet, but not too quiet; small, but not too small. It was very much a “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” feeling of being just right.

The light smell of coffee wafted through the air, however my taste buds begged me to try a hot tea. It was a rather gloomy day, so I decided to ask for it to be prepared English style, with milk in it. I sat at one of their multicolored wooden tables and enjoyed one of the hand-pressed paninis. It had artisan bread with a delightful combination of basil, mozzarella, and deli meat. Needless to say, it was delicious. My friend ordered a hazelnut latte and was very pleased. I stole a sip or two from her cup, and tasted how once again, it was just right. Not too dark, not too sweet. My tea arrived smelling like a sense of peace. The presentation of the drinks and food was lovely. I adored the cups and saucers are a pale yellow with a single dandelion printed on them.  

The staff was very friendly and helpful. The lunch crowd was subtle, so there wasn’t too long of a wait. They also had a variety of juices, smoothies, and the glass case by the checkout is filled with pastries and bagels. If you are in a rush, you can get yourself a nice cup of joe and a brainfood filler without crunching time.

I can firmly say that I will be spending my lunch and thinking time here. The welcoming air and feeling of cleanliness sparks creativity that I have yet to find in other local cafes. I was very glad I found the Dandelion Cafe and rebooted myself on that gloomy day.