Stardust feels like a staple in Orlando. It’s one of the first coffee shops I found when I moved here way back when. It truly feels like it’s been in the city forever. I’ve recently gone a couple of times and have a fresh perspective.
The Parking: This is one of the most stressful parking lots. It’s tiny and almost always full. I lucked out this last visit and got a spot. But there is nothing worse than trying to find a spot, not finding one, and having to back out. There are a couple of spots on the side road, but it is pretty limited and packed most of the time.
The Atmosphere: It feels super-hipster, very chill, and lived-in. There are used books and DVDs for sale. The decor is so whimsical and borderline hoarderlike in a cutesy way. I love the amount of space here, plenty of tables, and even some spots that are a bit more private. One downside is that both times I’ve gone recently, the Wi-Fi was extremely unreliable.
The Coffee: There is also a food menu here, but I’ve never ordered anything off that side of the menu. I did smell some yummy sammies, though. I’ve tried a couple of iced coffees, and on my last visit, a hot mocha. They basically have any flavor you can think of, I believe, with one of the popular syrup brands, probably Monin or Torani. I’m not sure if I’ve just missed it, but I’ve never seen a signature flavor combo or specialty drink. I understand they aren’t trying to be fancy, and going for the no effort cool girl vibe. The coffee isn’t bad, but it’s also nothing special.
If the parking and Wi-Fi were better, it would be an awesome place to work out of. I could totally see having a no-screen day, maybe reading a book or doing something creative. There is a nostalgia about this place, and it has a charm I can’t quite explain. With the amount of specialty coffee shops we have in the area, if I am twisting my arm to go out (yeah, right) instead of using my Nespresso, there are so many places I’d opt for over Stardust.
Rating: 6.4/10
Address: 1842 Winter Park Rd, Orlando, FL 32803
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