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i think she is: Unpacking the Charm of Miami’s Beloved Brickell Cafe
In the bustling, high-rise heart of Miami’s financial district, Brickell, lies a coffee shop with a name as intriguing as its reputation: i think she is. Tucked away at 169 SW 7th St, this establishment has quietly cultivated a fiercely loyal following, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews. But what is it about this particular cafe that captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike?
It’s more than just caffeine. In a city known for its vibrant energy and fast-paced lifestyle, “i think she is” offers a welcome pause—a place where quality, passion, and a sense of community are brewed into every cup. This article provides a deep dive into the elements that make this cafe a standout gem, analyzing everything from its expertly crafted coffee and homemade food to its unique ambiance and the human touch that ties it all together.
A Name that Sparks Curiosity: The Power of Brand Identity
The first thing that grabs your attention is the name itself: “i think she is.” It’s lowercase, enigmatic, and deeply personal. Unlike the straightforward, often generic names of many coffee shops, this one tells a story—or at least invites you to imagine one. Is it a tribute? A philosophical musing? A fragment of a cherished memory?
This branding is a stroke of genius. It immediately sets the cafe apart, creating a sense of intimacy and artistry before you even step inside. It suggests that this is not a corporate chain, but a place born from passion and a unique point of view. In a world saturated with brands vying for attention, this subtle, thought-provoking name makes a powerful statement. It promises an experience that is authentic, personal, and perhaps, a little bit magical.
The Heart of the Experience: A Deep Dive into the Coffee and Beverages
A cafe’s reputation lives and dies by the quality of its coffee. Based on customer feedback, “i think she is” not only understands this but has mastered it. Patrons consistently praise the beverages, highlighting a level of craft and attention to detail that is often hard to find.
The Art of the Espresso: A Foundation of Quality
For any serious coffee aficionado, the quality of the espresso shot is the ultimate test. It’s the foundation for lattes, cappuccinos, and cortados. One reviewer, “K,” pinpoints a critical technical detail: “I love my espresso based drinks and very few places have their machines calibrated so well. The drink is creamy and smooth.”
This is a significant observation. A “well-calibrated machine” isn’t just coffee-snob jargon; it’s the secret to a perfect shot. It means the baristas have meticulously set the grinder for the right coarseness, dialed in the precise water temperature, and ensured the perfect pressure for extraction. The result, as the reviewer notes, is a “creamy and smooth” espresso, free from the bitterness or acidity that plagues poorly pulled shots. This technical excellence demonstrates a deep respect for the coffee bean and a commitment to providing a superior product. It’s this dedication that elevates “i think she is” from a simple cafe to a destination for true coffee lovers.
A Nod to the Baristas: The “Lisa” Phenomenon
While machines provide the consistency, the human element adds the magic. This is perfectly encapsulated by a glowing review from “YourPawsR MyPaws,” who declares, “For me Lisa is the BEST barista! I don’t know what she does to it or how she does it but her coffee is always taste sssooooo gggooddd!”
This single comment reveals a core strength of the cafe. A great barista is an artist and a scientist. They understand the nuances of tamping, timing, and milk-steaming. They can adapt to the humidity of a Miami day, which can affect the coffee grounds. The “Lisa phenomenon” suggests that the staff at “i think she is” aren’t just employees; they are craftspeople who take pride in their work. This personal touch, where a customer can identify a specific barista as their favorite, fosters a powerful sense of loyalty and makes each visit feel special.
Beyond the Classic Brew: Milk Alternatives and Specialty Lattes
“i think she is” also proves it’s in tune with modern consumer preferences. Jessie Stevens notes, “I had a iced vanilla latte with oat milk. They offer a wide variety of milk alternatives which is amazing!” In today’s market, offering oat, almond, soy, or other non-dairy milks is no longer a niche perk; it’s a necessity for an inclusive and customer-focused business. By providing a wide variety, the cafe ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences, can enjoy a delicious, customized drink. This small detail speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction.
A Taste of Miami: The Colada Conundrum
No review of a Miami coffee spot would be complete without mentioning the colada, the iconic Cuban-style espresso shot meant for sharing. Interestingly, this is one area where the cafe received a rare critique. Jessie Stevens found the colada to be “the only disappointing thing,” describing it as “pretty acidic” and “way to sweet.”
This piece of feedback is invaluable for an objective analysis. The acidity could be a characteristic of the specific single-origin beans they use, which might be a departure from the dark, robusta-heavy roasts traditionally used for Cuban coffee. The sweetness is also a matter of personal taste, as a colada is defined by the thick layer of espumita created by whipping the first few drops of espresso with a generous amount of sugar.
While this one review points to a potential area for refinement, it also highlights the cafe’s ambition. By offering a colada, they are engaging with local coffee culture. The critique suggests they may be applying a specialty coffee-style “third wave” approach to a very traditional drink, which might not align with everyone’s expectations. This is not necessarily a failure, but an interesting intersection of different coffee worlds.
More Than a Drink: The Culinary Offerings
“i think she is” wisely understands that a modern cafe must satisfy the appetite as well as the thirst. The food menu, though seemingly simple, is another area that receives effusive praise, particularly for its homemade quality and fresh ingredients.
The Magic of Açaí Bowls
One reviewer, “Theodysseyhour,” raves that their “açaí bowls it’s pure magic.” This is high praise in a city like Miami, where açaí bowls are a staple of the health-conscious lifestyle. A magical açaí bowl is about balance: the base must be thick and frozen, not a soupy, sugary puree. The toppings should be fresh and complementary—think ripe fruit, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of honey or nut butter. The enthusiasm for their bowls suggests that “i think she is” sources quality ingredients and assembles them with care, providing a healthy, delicious, and aesthetically pleasing meal.
Homemade Comfort: Pastries and Light Bites
Perhaps the most compelling culinary praise comes from reviewer “K,” who celebrates finding a place that “makes some of their food options homemade.” This is a crucial differentiator. In an industry where many cafes rely on pre-packaged, thawed-out pastries, the commitment to homemade food is a testament to the “passion” the reviewer mentions.
The specific shout-out to a “guava and cheese pastry” further grounds the cafe in its Miami locale. This beloved combination is a cornerstone of South Florida’s culinary identity. By offering a fantastic version of this classic, “i think she is” shows respect for local tastes while executing it at a high level. It’s this blend of familiar comfort and quality craftsmanship that makes the food a key part of the cafe’s charm.
Crafting the Perfect Vibe: Ambiance and Atmosphere
A coffee shop is often referred to as a “third place”—a home away from home and work. The physical environment is paramount, and the reviews paint a picture of a space that is both beautiful and functional.
A Sanctuary for Study and Solitude
Multiple reviewers describe the cafe as “beautiful and very quaint.” One patron explicitly states, “I love to come here and read or study.” This indicates that the cafe has successfully created a calming and productive atmosphere. The “inviting” vibe and comfortable seating, whether inside or out, make it an ideal spot for students, remote workers, or anyone looking to escape the city’s frenzy for an hour or two. The decor and layout are clearly designed to foster a sense of peace and focus.
The “Hidden Gem” Appeal
Adding to its allure is its slightly clandestine location. Sabrina Gazaway describes it as a “beautiful spot tucked into the side of a sushi place.” This “hidden gem” quality enhances the customer’s sense of discovery. Stumbling upon such a charming place feels like being let in on a wonderful secret. It’s an intimate alternative to the sprawling, impersonal coffee chains that dominate major street corners, making the experience feel more exclusive and personal.
The Verdict: An Objective Analysis of ‘i think she is’
Synthesizing the wealth of positive feedback with the few, minor critiques allows for a well-rounded and credible assessment of “i think she is.”
Strengths:
- Exceptional Coffee Quality: The focus on well-calibrated equipment and skilled baristas results in a consistently superior coffee product, particularly for espresso-based drinks.
- Authentic, High-Quality Food: The emphasis on homemade options and fresh ingredients, like the lauded açaí bowls and local pastries, sets it apart from competitors.
- Charming and Functional Ambiance: The “quaint” and “inviting” atmosphere makes it a perfect “third place” for work, study, or relaxation.
- Strong Brand Identity: The unique name and “hidden gem” feel create a memorable and personal brand that fosters customer loyalty.
- Excellent Customer Service: The overwhelming majority of reviews highlight a warm, welcoming, and attentive staff that makes customers feel at home.
Areas for Consideration:
- Consistency in Niche Offerings: The critique of the colada suggests that while their core coffee offerings are excellent, there may be an opportunity to refine their approach to more traditional, localized drinks to meet all customer expectations.
- Managing Peak Times: One reviewer’s mention that service “could’ve been more attentive” is a common challenge for any popular, small establishment. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining a relaxed vibe and ensuring efficient service during busy periods.
Plan Your Visit to This Brickell Gem
If you’re in Miami and seeking an authentic coffee experience that prioritizes quality and community over speed and volume, “i think she is” is a must-visit destination.
Location: 169 SW 7th St, Miami, FL 33130, United States. It’s nestled in the vibrant Brickell neighborhood, making it an accessible stop for those working or exploring downtown.
What to Expect: Prepare for a cozy and welcoming environment. Whether you sit inside to soak up the quaint atmosphere or enjoy the Miami weather at an outdoor table, you’ll find it to be a relaxing escape. Be sure to try one of their expertly prepared espresso drinks and consider pairing it with a homemade pastry or a refreshing açaí bowl.
In conclusion, “i think she is” is more than just a place to get coffee. It is a testament to the power of passion, craftsmanship, and community. It is a place where a well-calibrated machine and a skilled barista’s hands work in harmony, where homemade food feels like a warm hug, and where the ambiance invites you to stay a while. It has earned its stellar reputation not through flashy marketing, but through the consistent delivery of a genuinely excellent and heartfelt experience, one cup at a time.
