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Breakfast in the suburbs can be fabulous, especially at a place like C’est La Vie, with its ethereal, stylish, and chic ambiance.
The idea of C’est La Vie comes from Belinda Charles, an entrepreneur who started her cafe as a mobile beverage truck. In its original form, the truck catered weddings, birthdays, parties, and business events.
In 2024, Charles expanded to a brick-and-mortar shop located in the heart of College Park. The cafe has classics like espresso, flavored macchiatos, and lattes. Guests can also enjoy pastries like strawberry danishes and flaky red velvet croissants. On weekends the cafe serves adult beverages and wine.
“The inspiration behind the cafe is my love for coffee. I wanted to create a space that feels like your living room,” says Charles.
She shares that during the week, the cafe gets more travelers and those visiting from the airport. Weekends are busy and usually have neighborhood residents.
“I felt like the neighborhood needed it,” Charles says. “You see cafes in Buckhead, in Sandy Springs, and I wanted to bring it to us. People who look like me. College Park needs this. We need this.”
Charles recommends the lavender latte and the almond croissant, as it is not too sweet. If you are in a savory mood, she recommends the egg bites.
C’est La Vie is not only a hot breakfast spot, but a hub for community and civic engagement. Nonprofits hold meetings here; minority-owned organizations host networking events. Artists even shoot music videos. There is a visible commitment to giving back and investing in local communities.
Charles feels an immense connection with other Main Street business owners, who meet monthly.
“The businesses in College Park are very supportive of one another. We want to be prepared for the World Cup that is happening next year,” she says.
Where: 3727 Main Street, College Park
When: Daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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