A new Cuban spot in Pasadena may just be a must-stop location on the way to or from the beach. Azucar Cuban Café had its grand opening this week at 7224 Central Avenue, and we just got our first taste of the new hotspot this morning.

Azucar has a wide range of foods, open daily from 8 am – 5 pm, serving up delicious Cuban breakfast in the morning and dishing out full Cuban meals for lunch and dinner. In addition to homemade baked goods, Azucar showcases a full lineup of sandwiches, empanadas, croquettes, soups, appetizers, and even a Cuban pizza. The pizzas are made fresh to-order, so the cafe recommends calling ahead by 30 minutes.

Azucar brings Cuban flavors to the Pasadena area

The new café also has what may very well be the best breakfast deal in town: a Café Cubano (espresso with brown sugar) and a Cuban breakfast empanada (sausage, egg and mozzarella) for only $4.99. The flaky empanadas are created with their house-made dough, and the scent of fresh-baked goodness permeates the entire café.

We also got a taste of the mango cheesecake and the guava bread pudding on our visit, and we came away highly impressed. We’ll be back soon though, after getting a look at some of the more savory options. The corn tamales, stuffed potato balls, and bolitas de queso are all calling our name.

Azucar also offers a build-your-own Cuban meal, where you can choose between white or yellow rice, chicken or pork, and pick your side of either yuca or fried plantains. See more from Azucar by following along on Instagram.

What to read next:

• Our popular St. Pete history walking tours return this fall
• Massive comedy fest brings big acts to iconic Tampa Bay venues
• The 15 can’t-miss concerts happening in Tampa Bay
• Burg Built: Matter of Fact is an EDGE District star for curated men’s clothing