Charming Cafe with Korean-Inspired Drinks and Pastries
Located in Buena Park, Smoking Tiger is named after a phrase used to reminisce about a very old time in Korea, meaning to share Korean culture without the barriers of language and culture. The iconic purple of Smoking Tiger is impressive, evoking a sense of excitement as if entering an amusement park.
As you enter, a variety of breads, cookies, and the menu catch your eye, and there are so many delicious-looking options that you always find yourself pondering what to choose. Note that the breads here are very popular and sell out quickly, so if you want a variety of choices, it’s best to visit early.
The first drink, the refreshing pineapple ade, stands out with its bright pineapple flavor, perfectly sweet yet retaining the essence of pineapple’s aroma and taste. Notably, it uses jasmine tea as a base, allowing you to enjoy a subtle jasmine scent as well. Next to it, the banana milk latte combines banana milk with espresso, creating a delightful balance where the smooth banana milk envelops the bitterness of the espresso. Both drinks impressively highlight their unique charms.
The second and third photos were taken on a different visit, featuring the Sweet Corn Latte, which offers a nutty yet natural sweetness and smoothness of corn, and Bam Bam topped with rich chestnut cream, along with a selection of pastries and cookies. The Pop-Tart Kroong-Ji and Kouign-Amann were new experiences for me; the Pop-Tart Kroong-Ji features a crispy crust with a sweet filling, while the Kouign-Amann is a pastry layered with butter and sugar, providing a crispy texture and deep flavor. The Kouign-Amann is even better when warmed slightly in the microwave. Additionally, the Cream Cheese Garlic Bread, which I never miss buying during my visits, combines smooth and nutty cream cheese with fragrant garlic, delivering a consistently satisfying taste. Sconkies are also a must-try, characterized by their crispy exterior and chewy interior. On this day, I chose the Lotus S’more and Blueberry flavors; the Lotus S’more offers a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors, while the Blueberry adds a refreshing taste for a more abundant flavor experience.
Smoking Tiger Coffee & Bread
How about experiencing special flavors and a leisurely time at Smoking Tiger Coffee & Bread, where you can enjoy a variety of pastries and drinks?
