On a cool, recent night, my
sweet tooth took me to Midtown's Sweet Times Gourmet & Cafe. It was a weird combination. A cafe and bakery was in back and a sushi bar was located in the front of the restaurant, Sorry, but I don't much like dessert-sushi fusion concepts.
So I bypassed the sushi and peeked in the
case at the baked goods. There were a few appealing options, such as
the lava cake. I chose to sample the mango mousse. But there were no prices listed. After ordering two hot teas over the counter, and
then took our seats.
A pint-sized server in an apron, too young to have ever wielded a razor blade, brought our hot pot of tea, two tea
bags, and cups over with careful precision. And as he walked away,
he seemed to cover his eyes in order not to see the semi-nude and
homoerotic artwork on the walls.
The mango mousse, with guava layer, was
smooth and had a light cheesecake-like consistency. The slices of
mango served as both a garnish and nice touch. A guava drizzle and
powdered sugar topped the mousse.
And then the bill came. The mango
mousse ended up being $6 and the teas $3 each. Price gouging is what
it is. With tax and tip, $15 for dessert for two. At the top of the
receipt, the heading read "16 Fifty Restaurant at the Albion."
If I were Sweet Times, I'd try to find my identity as soon as
possible.
Sweet Times Gourmet & Cafe
3451 NE First Ave., Suite 104, Miami
786-369-0359
