how it all began…

Phil and Melodie were both born and raised in NYC with deep roots in Puerto Rico with Parents and Grandparents originating from La Isla. Phil’s maternal grandparents call home to Puerta De Tierra in San Juan as well as Aguas Buenas and his paternal grandparents from Guanica. Melodie’s maternal family call home to Caguas and her paternal family call home to Guayama. A beautiful blend of Caribbean people all with the same passion, hospitality, resilience, character and pride that we call Boriquas.

Phil (Executive Chef/Owner) grew up in The Bronx and was raised in his younger years by his late Grandmother and Grandfather. Instilling in him the family aspect and culture of Puerto Ricans from la isla del encanto (The island of enchantment). Family means everything to him as his Grandparents were the Matriarch and Patriarch of the family keeping everyone close and in order. They’d spoil their grandchildren and children while teaching them valuable life lessons. Nothing is given but earned and both of them worked hard to provide a future for their family. Abuelo (Grandpa) was a foreman at a lamp/lighting warehouse in Long Island, NY and Abuela (Grandma) was a soldier for Christ and a meat packer / deep freezer worker in the Bronx, NY for many years. 

Melodie (Executive Chef/Owner) grew up in Brooklyn and was raised in her younger years by her mom and grandmother. As a kid she played in the streets of Knickerbocker Ave. shortly before moving to Connecticut. Abuela (Grandma) was known for many years as the Limber (Puerto Rican Icee) lady as she lived on the first floor and used to sell these small cups of flavored to Icees to the neighborhood and community. Everyone called her Abuela Risa (Smile) because she’s always smiling and giving the aura of happiness and unity. A culturally spirited definition of what it’s like to be an Abuela from Puerto Rico. Her Mom would later move to Connecticut to raise her in a suburban environment. It is there where she’d learn some of the most valuable life lessons. She’d learn about family, culture and cooking that had been passed down from Abuela Risa. 

why cafe con leche?

Growing up Puerto Rican there was always Cafe Con Leche. An espresso coffee made in a colador (colander), coffee kettle mixed with boiled or evaporated milk and extra sugar to give it a sweet candied taste. Often served with buttered export soda crackers and queso de papa (sharp cheddar cheese). It’s not so much the drink that made Phil choose this name but the meaning behind it for him. As a kid and throughout life Cafe Con Leche meant more than just coffee to him. A lover of everything coffee related is really less about it’s aromatic smell and taste and more of what it symbolized for him growing up. It became a sense of togetherness, unity, family, fun, holidays, memories and love. Whenever Cafe Con Leche was brewing there was always a fun time to be had, family to come visit, holidays to be celebrated and memories to be made. It is the same atmosphere, culture, togetherness, unity and memories we’re creating here at Cafe Con Leche. We’re giving everyone a chance to experience our culture while allowing those who know it to have a nostalgic feeling of what Cafe Con Leche means to them.

the food:

A blend of both of Phil and Melodie’s parents & grandparents recipes that all tie back directly to La Isla. We offer an Authentic Puerto Rican cuisine experience that truly differs from a NewYork Rican restaurant. All of our foods are prepared freshly and we don’t freeze any of our products. We make our own fresh sofrito as the base of all of our meats. We cook with love and passion while never deviating from our recipes. It is what makes us a truly authentic experience. Our food takes time to create because we care and won’t ever take shortcuts. We want you to feel apart of our family so sit back, grab a drink, listen to some salsa, eat some food and enjoy your experience.

the bible verse:

“For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. '” - Jeremiah 29:11

A verse that has resonated deep within their lives and has carried them through all of their trials and tribulations. With each location they’re sure to give the glory to God and remind those who enter of how they continue to survive and thrive during some of the most difficult of times. Their faith is what keeps them together and able to continue to provide the amazing atmosphere that is Cafe Con Leche.