Con Azucar Cafe, at 101 E Santa Clara St. San Jose, CA — (408) 982-3012, has quickly garnered a sizable following, delighting its patrons with its charming ambiance, creative drinks, and mostly traditional Mexican pastries. Of course, the versions you might see on social media are the size of a baby elephant, but who's keeping track of something like that. Otherwise, the cafe embraces its Mexican influences while still catering to the tastes of modern coffee drinkers, resulting in a one-of-a-kind experience that has captivated the hearts of many regulars.
Upon entering the cafe, visitors are greeted with a charming and cozy atmosphere, featuring bright, flower-laden decor and an inviting vibe. It's a great spot to enjoy a warm cup of coffee, snap some Instagram-worthy photos, or have a casual bite with friends. The limited seating ensures an intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect place for coffee-lovers to relax and savor every sip and bite.
Con Azucar Cafe takes pride in its menu, which offers a range of unique drinks, sandwiches, and Mexican baked goods. Among the most popular items are the marzipan iced latte, matcha horchata, iced Duvalin latte, and, of course, the famous giant concha. The Instagram / TikTok nature of this monstrosity aside, it can come with a proportionally oversized cup of coffee, that - of course - some guests found a little over-hyped, but others thought was the best thing since sliced concha.
@miiina87
Con Azucar has also blossomed on TikTok, with numerous posts going viral, showcasing the cafe's unique offerings like giant conchas and basketball hoop-sized coffee cups. The cafe's playful spirit and eye-catching creations have captured the attention of millions of viewers and helped solidify its appeal to younger generations who are always on the lookout for exciting and visually stunning food experiences.
Despite the long wait times endured by some patrons – with some even reporting to have queued for two hours – the general consensus is that Con Azucar is well worth the wait. Visitors are appreciative of the attentive and friendly staff who often take the time to explain the menu, making for an enjoyable overall experience. The attentiveness doesn't stop at the food and drink; the cafe's cleanliness, its prompt service during off-peak times, and the complimentary refreshments offered to waiting customers are all markers of the dedication Con Azucar has to delivering a top-notch experience to its patrons.
While some visitors might find Con Azucar's prices on the higher side, with specialty lattes priced around $7 and avocado toast and sandwiches at $14, it is worth considering the quality of the ingredients and the unique flavor combinations that make these offerings stand out from the crowd. And it's not just about the taste; the eye-catching presentation of the cafe's food and drinks, including the stunning artwork on their hot drinks, adds a layer of visual delight that's a testament to the cafe's commitment to providing its patrons with a memorable experience.
@missfoodiebayarea
While Con Azucar Cafe may have room for improvement, it's undeniable that its unique offerings and charming ambiance have carved out a special niche in the Downtown San Jose coffee scene, standing proud among other cafes. Despite the criticism, it's important to remember that every taste and preference is subjective. For those willing to brave the queues, an unforgettable Mexican coffee shop experience awaits at Con Azucar Cafe, along with instagrammable delights you'll have to resist devouring until you've captured that perfect shot.
The next time you find yourself craving a caffeine fix, head to Con Azucar Cafe, open Monday-Friday 7 am - 7 pm and Saturday-Sunday 7 am-8 pm, and indulge in an experience that is as captivating as it is delicious, enjoying the cafe's unique food offerings, beautiful drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will keep you coming back for more.
