Colada Shop

Reviews

• EE

  E.W.P

  Nov 8, 2025
  5.0
  I don't even live in Arlington but I make the trip to get coffee from here when I've got a day off. The best around, and I've been trying a few places.
• TT

  Teresa

  Nov 7, 2025
  5.0
  Great place to work or hang out. Coffee is truly excellent, and the seasonal menu always offers something interesting.
• SE

  Sarah Ebrahimi

  Oct 31, 2025
  2.0
  The food has gone way downhill as they’ve expanded and the value isn’t what is used to be. I ordered a crispy rice bowl and it was packed with spring lettuce mix with very little toppings (overly dry chicken, scoop of black beans, 2 cherry tomatoes sliced in half, scoop of chopped plantains, a 1/4 avocado sliced pretty and small pinch of cabbage. The whole bowl is stuffed with spring lettuce mix to make it look abundant, but it’s really very little food other than lettuce, and not nearly enough dressing to cover the lettuce so it tastes like something other than… lettuce. Very meh and not worth $22.
• DY

  Dave Young

  Oct 27, 2025
  5.0
  I recently visited Colada Shop in Clarendon and had an outstanding meal—one that easily earns it a 5-star review. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my experience: ⸻ Atmosphere & Service From the moment I walked in, the vibe struck me as lively yet comfortable: Cuban-influenced décor, plenty of seating, and a relaxed energy that draws you in. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the pace was just right—not rushed, but focused. The restaurant is described as a “fine-casual spot serving coffee, food, cocktails & conversation.”  Service matched the promise, with quick attention and helpful suggestions. All of this set the stage perfectly for a great meal. ⸻ The Food I sampled three main items: the Cuban sandwich, the yucca fries, and the key lime pie. Each offered its own highlight, and together they made for a very satisfying visit. Cuban Sandwich This sandwich was the centerpiece of the meal—and it delivered. Layered ham, slow-roasted pork, Swiss cheese, mustard, house-made pickles, and a cilantro aioli on Cuban bread.  • The bread was crisp on the outside yet soft inside; a great vehicle for the fillings. • The pork had a rich, slow-roasted flavor that stood out from the usual deli fare. • The combination of mustard + house pickles + aioli gave a tangy, slightly creamy punch that balanced the richness of the meats. A reviewer on Yelp described the sandwich as “gigantic… both were very delicious.”  I agree—this was a sandwich I would order again without hesitation. Yucca Fries As a side, the yucca fries were a standout. These aren’t your standard potato fries—they bring a different texture and flavor profile. The exterior was crisp, the interior pleasantly dense and slightly chewy in the best way. The cilantro aioli that accompanied them added a fresh herbal lift, making the fries feel elevated rather than generic. According to the menu, they are listed as “fraired yucca with cilantro aioli.”  My take: a smart and tasty side that complements heavier plates. Key Lime Pie To close out the meal, I enjoyed the key lime pie. The dessert arrived with a tart-sweet filling on a Maria cookie crust. On the menu it’s described as “tart & sweet filling with Maria cookie crust.”  • The tartness was pronounced—just enough to wake up the palate after the richness of the main dish, but balanced so it wasn’t puckering. • The crust offered a subtle crunch and a sweet, buttery base that contrasted nicely with the tang of the lime. • It felt like a well-thought-out dessert: satisfying without being over the top. In short: a lovely finish to the meal. ⸻ Highlights & Unique Touches • The Cuban sandwich here feels crafted rather than mass-produced—attention to ingredient quality and flavor balance. • Yucca fries aren’t so common on casual menus; the fact they offered them (and did them well) is a big plus. • The dessert selection, including the key lime pie, signals that the kitchen cares about the full meal experience, not just the main course. • The Clarendon location is noted specifically on their site among the Arlington-area addresses.  • Reviewers consistently mention the flavor and structure of sandwiches here as “another level.”  ⸻ Minor Considerations • The sandwich is generous—if you’re light-eating, consider sharing or taking half home. • It’s busy during peak meal hours, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim for off-peak times. • While the key lime pie was excellent, if you’re after something ultra-decadent (rich fudgy cake, etc.), their dessert menu has other options (e.g., dulce de leche cheesecake) you might also enjoy.  ⸻ Final Verdict Colada Shop in Clarendon gets a full 5 stars from me. It hits the mark in atmosphere, service, food quality, and thoughtful menu choices. Whether you’re going for a standout sandwich, an interesting side like yucca fries, or a satisfying dessert like key lime pie, this place delivers. I would absolutely return and recommend it highly to anyone seeking flavorful Cuban-influenced fare in the Arlington area.
• PC

  Paul Carty

  Oct 22, 2025
  5.0
  One of the best Happy Hour deals in the area, 4-8pm everyday for $8 cocktails (recommend the Espresso Martini), and very solid food in a vibe that’s reminiscent of Miami. Recommend the Cuban & the Croquetas!

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