Not your average coffee experience, a cuppa at Presto Strange O is – dare I say – spellbinding. After trundling onto the scene with a cafe on wheels, owners Jay and Jess Case planted roots along Warwick Neck Drive’s scenic waterside to turn Presto into a permanent spot when Rhode Islanders simply couldn’t get enough of their funky takes on caffeinated beverages. “We are so happy to give back to our very own neighborhood with our cafe,” they share. With the expansion into their very first brick-and-mortar came a breakfast and lunch menu with the same exuberance as their beloved coffee selections.
Dark and moody walls lend to an eccentric space to partake in your morning joe. Green string lights frame a vibrant wall painted with colorful flowers, creeping vines, and whimsical critters, and a neon sign reminds you that coffee is “the perfect drug” – as I took the first long sip of my Nutella Latte, it was hard to disagree.
Whether you visit for a coffee on the go or a friendly meet up over devilishly delicious lattes, Presto is equipped for your caffeine needs. “We love that we have become a fun meeting spot for our community and we truly appreciate everyone that walks through our door,” says Jay.
As a true Rhode Islander, I was most enthusiastic about the iced coffee choices at Presto Strange O, where they take flavored lattes to the next level. Think Strawberry Fluff Vietnamese, Bananas Foster, and Cannoli (complete with a mini pastry perched atop a pile of whipped cream). I chose the Crystal Ginger Chai (iced, of course!), in which sweet ginger crystals are melted down with heaps of cinnamon and blended with their house chai. It’s the perfect midday pick-me-up.
I also adore brewed flavored iced coffee, and Presto happens to have my favorite flavor, blueberry. I’m in good company loving fruit-forward coffee drinks for summer – try a staff favorite, the Blueberry Pancake Latte, too.
As a breakfast stop, Presto Strange O packs a punch. I paired my cool drinks with a warm slice of Nutella Toast – light and crispy white bread with a generous helping of the irresistible nutty chocolate spread, and topped with a neat pile of sliced strawberries.
Going for a savory meal? The Lox Bagel quickly became a favorite, layered with smoked Nova lox, salty capers, and tendrils of thin-shaved red onion. This bad boy is only on the menu on Sundays, so plan ahead. Deliciously ‘grammable Avocado Toast is always available and equally beautiful, featuring ribbons of pink pickled onions, pops of red with sundried cherry tomatoes, and sprinkled with sesame seeds. This healthy medley of flavors makes for the perfect lunch. For on-the-go diners, I would recommend one of their Chickpea Salad Wraps.
If you’re looking to make your pre-work coffee a whimsical adventure or turn brunch into a caffeinated thrill, Presto Strange O is a must-visit.
Follow @bunsandbites on Instagram for more of Laura Afonso’s foodie best bets.
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