By Ashley Norman….
Angelique Euro Café, the “Little Miracle” on the Mile, has been presented with a City Beautiful Award by the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce for its embodiment of the city’s upscale Mediterranean vibe.
The awards, which were presented on Aug. 19, recognize outstanding commercial architectural achievement.
The quaint and friendly neighborhood eatery that occupies 117 Miracle Mile opened in late 2009 after the space underwent a full transformation from its previous life as a Payless Shoe Source store. What was once an enclosed storefront display is now a zen-inducing entryway and tranquil orchid garden that offers the only covered outdoor seating on Miracle Mile.
Brick interior walls summon memories of old taverns, modernized to fit in with the “new” feel of Coral Gables. The wall finish was selected to complement the original ceiling that was re-stained a dark wood to respect the historical feel of the space. Natural woods and finishes were used to craft a feeling of luxurious comfort.
“With Angelique, we wanted to create a truly sensory experience for guests,” said Bloom Interior Architecture principal Robert Ayona. “The design is reflective of the lifestyle we want to convey. It’s all about the European experience of food, drink and socializing.”
In addition to the garden, the “Little Miracle” bar at the front left of the restaurant is a sought-after spot for socializing. Open shelving was built into the brick walls to house and display wine, and large vertical chalkboards hang on either side listing the café’s extensive selection of beer and wine. Seating is comprised of a long banquette on the right wall, and several tables make up a second row of seating. A pastry and coffee bar was added to the back of the restaurant along with a full modern kitchen and open expediting area.
Owners Carlos and Yolanda Rossi, former New York advertising and marketing executives who also have been involved with restaurants in Puerto Rico, are proud that they have been able to personify the spirit of Coral Gables at Angelique.
“When we were scouting locations, we looked all over South Florida, and no one gave us what we want like Miracle Mile,” Carlos said. “Building Angelique was a lot of effort but a lot of love.”
For Yolanda, a Miami native and Florida International University alum, it has been rewarding to connect directly with guests and grow Angelique into part of the community.
“We set out to create a friendly neighborhood establishment where guests feel welcome and are always greeted by name,” she said. “Words can’t express how gratifying it is to be recognized by the chamber of commerce and our guests for achieving this.”
Angelique Euro Cafe was born in the cobblestone streets of Madrid, the boulevards of Paris and around the fountains in Rome. It embodies the unique and complete European neighborhood cafe experience — a welcoming place where guests can indulge in simple and alluring flavors, sip favorite beverages and socialize with friends.
For more information, visit online at www.angeliqueeurocafe.com.
