Amazonica

This spot specializes in dressed-up versions of cholados, a Colombian creation that straddles the line between drink and dessert. A traditional cholado is a cup filled with crushed ice, fresh fruit, jams, purees, syrups, and condensed milk—just to name a few of the components. Amazonica serves their version of a traditional cholado, The Paradise, with a berry puree, diced ripe mango, green apple, strawberries, pineapple, and bananas, along with the requisite drizzle of condensed milk and an orchid to put behind your ear so you can look cute while you eat. They also have an affogato-inspired cholado and even one featuring Miami’s favorite pairing of guava and Maria cookies with vanilla ice cream and arequipe (AKA Colombian dulce de leche).

Amazonica also features obleas, which are giant wafer sandwiches. We love the merengón, which has sliced strawberries, crushed meringue cookies, and whipped cream. Amazonica has locations in Upper Buena Vista, Aventura Mall, and Brickell. The Upper Buena Vista location has the best atmosphere, although it’s mostly outdoors, so be prepared to eat fast if it’s a hot one.