Tasty snacks, quiet company.

I walked into Miro, a quaint little cafe on the corner of Ballard Ave. and instantly felt at home. The lights were pleasantly dimmed and a huge window allowed natural light to illuminate the room. The decor was rustic, with wooden tables and chairs. Potted plants sat on the windowsills while local artist’s work lined the walls, adding to the relaxed ambiance.

Soft, calming music was playing and besides the occasional sound of coffee brewing, the restaurant was quiet and still. Almost everyone was cozily situated in their own corner, laptop screens open and working on one thing or another. Many people had pots of tea sitting on their tables kept warm by a candle underneath. Other people talked in hushed voices with their hands around mugs of steaming coffee and tea, absentmindedly nibbling on a loaf of bread or a muffin.

Miro’s environment was perfect for a relaxed study session while squeezing in a light snack, or just a peaceful getaway. I came prepared with my backpack ready to get some homework done, while sampling some of their tasty treats. At the far end of the cafe were several different pots of tea set out for tasting. Toasted coconut and a detox tea were just a couple of the options they had the day I visited. Both were tasty and made me want to order a pot of them! Several different bags of tea were available for sale, along with handmade teacups and pots crafted from glass and clay.

Upon looking at the menu, I could tell the tea shop catered to a variety of different people. There were cakes and cookies, all sorts of different teas and coffees, gluten-free and vegan options, as well as sweet and savory crepes to choose from. One of the helpful staff working there explained to me that the many different types of breads, cookies and cakes were switched up daily. The option offered to me included a gluten-free blackberry biscuit, gluten-free and vegan apple spice cake and brownies, and different sandwiches.

I opted for the most popular, masala chai latte with hemp milk and a gluten-free crepe, which consisted of yellow squash, eggplant, zucchini, kale, peppers, goat cheese and tomato sauce. My latte immediately heated me up to the bone with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. It was hard not to down it right then and there, but I forced myself to sip slowly so I could savor it longer. A few seconds later, my crepe was brought to me. It was huge and beautifully presented. I smelled it even before it was brought to me and I eagerly took my first bite. The flavors were rich and I could tell the vegetables were fresh from their bright color and crisp taste. I loved the gooeyness of the goat cheese melted into the dough and balanced with the crunchiness of the peppers and zucchini.

As much as I wanted to continue eating my crepe, my stomach was so full that I had to call it quits. However, I stayed at Miro well after I finished my tea and food. I found it was a perfect place to accomplish all my work. After hours spent at the tea shop, I reluctantly left my warm seat in the corner by the large window and prepared for the cold outside, promising myself I’d be back soon.

Final Grade: A.

The staff were quick and friendly and the variety of teas, coffees, pastries and snacks were all delicious!

By: Hannah Zundel-Davis