By Briana

So unfortunately Noel has forgotten to inform you all of her wonderful sister that she has been blessed with. I am Briana and will be doing a short foodie segment for my Jersey readers. I’m a native Jersey girl and at times we girls from the shore can get stuck in the Chipotle, Cheesecake Factory, and Starbucks life and forget there are other venues that sell coffee and food (lol). I was down by Belmar Beach the other day and spotted a rustic yet warm coffee lounge called Stay Gold. As I entered the cozy yet eclectic setting, I was given the option to eat in the lounge section that offered a comfortable couch near the fireplace or be seated  in the dining area of dark oak tables and chairs.

Their were two menus to choose from, one with fresh juices and smoothies, cafe drinks, and breakfast items. The other menu offered tapas and lunch items such as sandwiches, salads, soups and paninis. At the time, with it being so warm and cozy on the indoors and wet and snowy outside I ordered their Golden Caramel Latte.

The presentation of the latte was mouthwatering and the smell of the coffee and caramel sweet to the senses. As I took the first sip, I automatically thought,”this is wayyyy better than Starbucks!” It had the great balance of sweetness from the caramel and smooth espresso taste creating a blend of flavors that you wanted to savor.

Later, my order of berries & cream waffles was placed in front of me, and to my surprise I stated, “thank you lawd it’s fresh fruit”. So many restaurants when serving breakfast food use fruit thats been sitting in some processed syrup but not Stay Gold! Although I only had one waffle, it was more than enough!!! Everything was served hot and taste delicious. It was a perfect choice for such a cold day.

Stay Gold is a MUST VISIT! With funky art work from local artists to the down to earth baristas, it’s my new hang out for the upcoming summer of 2014! *Swishes*

Images :: Briana’s Phone

Featured Image :: Stay Gold Instagram