Colombian coffee is more than a drink; it’s a story steeped in geography, patience, and pride. Cultivated in the misty, high-altitude mountains of Colombia, where volcanic soil meets steady rainfall, Arabica beans develop a smooth body, vibrant yet balanced acidity, and a naturally intoxicating aroma that hints at the care poured into every harvest. But in Colombia, coffee is never merely consumed. It is a daily ritual, a sacred pause, a reason to connect and celebrate life’s simple moments.
From this reverence for coffee grew Colombia’s iconic bakery culture, where every cup is accompanied by something warm, fresh, and comforting from the oven, be it a flaky pastry, a cheesy arepa, or a sweet guava treat. These bakeries are more than places to eat; they are gathering spots, lifelines of the community, and the heartbeat of daily life, where mornings are brighter, afternoons slower, and conversations linger far longer than anyone intended.
In Orlando, Colombian cafés capture this magic, offering far more than caffeine. They deliver authenticity, comfort, and a sense of belonging, spaces where every sip, bite, and smile feels like coming home. For coffee lovers craving depth of flavor, cultural richness, and an experience that stirs the soul, these cafés shine as true ambassadors of Colombian tradition.
1. Mecatos Bakery & Cafe – The Benchmark for Colombian Coffee in Orlando
Mecatos Bakery & Cafe has elevated Colombian coffee culture in Orlando by staying true to its roots while embracing modern café expectations. It is not simply a place to grab a cup of coffee. It is a destination built around quality, consistency, and atmosphere. Every detail, from the way coffee is brewed to the freshness of the food, reflects a deep respect for Colombian tradition.
Many guests arrive searching for coffee near me, but what keeps them coming back is the complete experience, one that feels welcoming, unhurried, and genuinely Colombian. It’s no surprise that when people in East Orlando search for coffee near me, Mecatos consistently becomes their go-to choice.
Why Mecatos Sets the Standard
Mecatos stands apart because it understands that great Colombian coffee deserves equally thoughtful food. Coffee here is brewed using premium Colombian Arabica beans, offering a smooth, aromatic cup that pairs naturally with both sweet and savory items. The café environment encourages guests to slow down, whether they’re enjoying a quiet morning coffee, meeting friends, or working remotely.
Unlike trend-driven cafés, Mecatos focuses on timeless quality. The aroma of fresh bread, the sound of espresso machines, and the steady rhythm of conversation create an atmosphere that feels lived-in and authentic rather than staged.
Waterford Lakes Location: A True Community Coffee Hub
Address: 12400 Lake Underhill Rd, Unit #103, Orlando, FL 32828
The Mecatos Bakery & Cafe Waterford Lakes location is one of the most dynamic and welcoming spaces for enjoying Colombian coffee in East Orlando. Throughout the day, students, professionals, families, and long-time regulars fill the café, creating a lively yet comfortable energy that reflects the heart of Colombian café culture.
This location is especially popular for its balance of accessibility and atmosphere. Whether stopping in for a quick coffee, settling in with a laptop, or meeting friends for a relaxed catch-up, the Waterford Lakes café offers an inviting environment that makes guests want to stay longer. Its convenient placement in a high-traffic area makes it a natural choice for both locals and visitors seeking quality Colombian coffee without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
Menu Designed Around the Coffee Experience
Mecatos’ menu is intentionally built to complement coffee, offering depth and variety without overwhelming the palate.
Colombian Coffee & Specialty Beverages
- Freshly brewed Colombian coffee
- Espresso, cappuccino, latte, mocha
- Cortadito and colada
- Iced coffee and iced lattes
- Blended and specialty coffee drinks
Traditional Colombian Bakery Favorites
- Pandebonos, buñuelos
- Roscones and quesitos
- Guava pastries and tequeños
Savory Items That Pair Perfectly with Coffee
- Empanadas (beef, chicken, cheese, Hawaiian)
- Arepas rellenas with cheese, eggs, meats, chicken, and avocado
- Pastel de Pollo (baked chicken pastry)
- Arepa de Choclo with melted cheese
- Colombian-style hot dogs
Lighter & Balanced Options
- Mecatos Salad with romaine, tomatoes, white cheese, and grilled chicken
- Tropical Salad with mixed greens, fruit, nuts, avocado, and seasonal ingredients
Desserts for a Complete Coffee Moment
- Tres leches cake
- Cheesecakes, tiramisu, and rotating specialty cakes
This variety allows guests to shape their own coffee moment, whether they want something light and refreshing or warm and indulgent.
Services & Locations
Mecatos offers dine-in, takeout, catering, online ordering, and a rewards app, making it easy to enjoy authentic Colombian flavors anytime. Beyond Waterford Lakes, locations at Hoffner, Curry Ford West, Lake Underhill, MetroWest, and Apopka ensure that Colombian coffee and bakery delights are always close by.
At Mecatos Bakery & Cafe, every cup of coffee and freshly baked pastry is a celebration of authentic Colombian tradition. The Waterford Lakes location, along with its other Orlando cafés, provides a warm, inviting space where guests can pause, connect, and enjoy time with family or friends.
More than just coffee, Mecatos creates memorable moments, whether a quiet morning, a casual catch-up, or an indulgent afternoon treat. Each visit captures the heart of Colombian culture: comfort, flavor, and togetherness, keeping locals and visitors returning again and again.
2. Pal Campo Restaurant & Bakery – Coffee with Rural Colombian Roots
Pal Campo brings the spirit of Colombia’s countryside into Orlando through a coffee experience that feels honest and unpretentious. Their approach highlights traditional preparation methods and familiar flavor profiles, creating a cup of coffee that feels comforting rather than experimental. Paired with rustic baked goods and hearty snacks, coffee at Pal Campo reflects the way it’s enjoyed in rural Colombian towns: slow, grounding, and deeply connected to daily life. It’s an ideal stop for guests who value authenticity, warmth, and flavors that feel rooted in tradition.
3. Sazón Colombiano Express – Fast Coffee, Bold Tropical Flavor
Sazón Colombiano Express is perfect for guests seeking authentic Colombian coffee on the go. Strong, flavorful coffee is paired with bold, tropical-inspired menu items, ensuring that even a quick stop is a memorable experience. Efficient yet authentic, this café demonstrates that fast service doesn’t have to compromise quality or flavor.
4. La Antioqueña Bakery & Café – Coffee with a Hearty Pairing
La Antioqueña Bakery & Café offers Colombian coffee in a family-centered, welcoming environment. While the café is well known for its generous food portions, the coffee experience stands out for its comfort-driven approach. Guests often pair their coffee with savory baked items or traditional snacks, turning a simple coffee break into a satisfying pause in the day. The relaxed setting and familiar flavors make it a great option for those who prefer coffee moments that feel substantial and nourishing.
5. El Cafetal Colombian Bakery – Neighborhood Coffee Culture
El Cafetal Colombian Bakery captures the essence of neighborhood café culture, where coffee is part of everyday routine rather than a special occasion. The atmosphere is casual, friendly, and approachable, encouraging guests to stop in regularly rather than occasionally. Coffee is enjoyed alongside freshly baked bread and pastries, mirroring how it’s served in Colombian homes and local bakeries. It’s a place where familiarity matters, making it especially appealing to guests who value consistency, comfort, and community.
Conclusion: Where Colombian Coffee Becomes a Feeling
Colombian coffee is meant to be experienced, not rushed. It carries stories of the land, the farmers, and the culture that shaped it. Orlando’s Colombian cafés honor this legacy by creating spaces where coffee feels personal, comforting, and meaningful.
Among them, Mecatos Bakery & Cafe stands as the defining standard. Especially at its Waterford Lakes location, Mecatos brings together premium Colombian coffee, an expanded and thoughtful menu, freshly baked goods, and an atmosphere that invites people to stay a little longer.
For Colombian coffee lovers in Orlando, Mecatos doesn’t just serve coffee; it creates moments. Moments filled with aroma, warmth, conversation, and flavors that feel unmistakably Colombian. And that is what keeps people coming back, cup after cup.
