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Flamepoeira - CLOSED
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Arts & Entertainment Art Galleries Shopping Art Galleries Coffee & Tea, Art Galleries [Edit]
3 Lewis St(between Commercial St & Fulton St)
Boston, MA 02109
Neighborhood: North End
(617) 227-9880
- Nearest Transit:
-
Commercial St @ Fleet St (4)
Atlantic Ave @ Commercial Wharf (4)
Commercial St @ Battery St (4)
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
46 reviews for Flamepoeira
Review Highlights
"...have a sign and it is quietly tucked away on Lewis Street."
(in 5 reviews)
"...eggs, potatoes, and cheese atop a slice of japanese bread."
(in 3 reviews)
"I also made sure to try on of his Coconut Bubble Teas."
(in 11 reviews)
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46 reviews in English
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Review from R W.
Auburndale, MA
5/10/2010
I wish this place did not close. If you haven't heard, they closed on Easter. They just weren't bringing in enough $.
It was very artsy, and also kind of intimidating. But the staff and the food, and of course Langelo were very welcoming and a rare find in the city.
I hope Langelo decides to open up somewhere, maybe with a less $ overhead, because I would absolutely travel for some flampo -
Review from Chere P.
Boston, MA
8/9/2007 ROTD 8/26/2007
OMG I loved this place! I'm not a coffee drinker in the least bit, but I loved how cozy this place was.
It's very quaint with an artistic appeal. I think it'd be great for a first date coffee meeting, or a nice place to take a book and have some alone time on a Sunday afternoon.
Inside is decorated with the owners artwork which is fantastic and for sale. But unless you have a black amex or a rich husband you'll probably just want to come back and admire from a distance. $$ Ca Ching!
The owner is a sweetie and so friendly. The only reason I am not giving this place 5 stars is because the bubble tea - which is my favorite, was not quite up to par. It's not traditional milk tea & the little balls are supposed to be chewy - these were kind of dry. Ewwww :( But that aside is not a reson to miss this place.
I'll go back for sure. But I'd just get myself a coke and cozy up and read a book.Listed in: Get'cha swurve on
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Review from Kiwi H.
8/10/2007
I think I've just found my favourite cafe in Boston. This place resonates deeply with almost every nuance of my being. Cafe, lounging spot, art gallery, music to dream to, and people who pretty much epitomize my desires and passions in life.
I have a tremendous level of envy and respect for the owner, Langelo. He has created a space which is bright yet warm, fresh yet cozy, and inspiring yet soothing. Mismatched chairs and tables that all seem to go together, candles and incense set the tone for a fantastically surreal location, and the music just brings it all together to create a seductively happy place. Beautiful artwork lines the walls, mostly painted by Langelo himself, although he does display other artists' work from time to time. He is also a writer, and while I have not read his published memoir, I think it's great to see someone taking so many of the things I share the same passion for, and pursuing them with such fervor - art, cafe (and the internet!), literature, music, dancing, even a martial art!
While I do wish there were more comfy, plush couches and pouffes to snuggle down in, they do have free Wifi for those who want to hunker down for hours, have a chat with the lovely staff and get some work done. This is the sort of place I would feel comfortable sitting and reading in for ages, so it's a shame that they're currently only open until 7pm from Sun-Thurs, and until 9pm on Fri-Sat. I know I sound like I'm gushing but it's just got a style that truly suits my sentiments. Honestly, if they had sheesha here and/or a little garden patio out the side or back, I'd probably want to marry the place. If only I could come here more often - it's a shame I don't frequent the North End, although I'll probably be trying to make more trips out here now!
An eclectic, inventive menu and a full array of desserts and sweet treats are available, complemented by a large list of beverages, including bubble tea among the other typical hot cafe beverages like rich coffee, hot cocoa, chai, and tea to begin with. While the tapioca balls in the bubble tea are a little denser and less gummy-chewy than I normally like, the drinks that they swim in are incredibly fresh, and I would even suggest getting some of those juices and mixes on their own if you don't care for the boba. I still need to keep on exploring the menu, but the vibe of this place really draws me in like a moth to the flame - or in this case, flamepoeira.Listed in: Hibernation, sort of
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Review from Christopher M.
Somerville, MA
11/22/2008
Originally, I gave this establishment three stars because while I really liked the place, the directions on the website were bunk and got me lost- in the employees words "oh yeah the directions on the site are wrong". Personally, I think when you're an out of the way shop, it behooves you to give careful, concise directions. Of course, when I called here after walking around for 45 minutes, the employee who tried to direct me (and tried very hard, I give her an A for effort), interjected quite a few times with "I don't know the area" and "God, I hate the north end" Not exactly a conversation that instills confidence in me or in the information I'm being given. That was one my one criticism of this place.
Then I got this from the owner:
"Christopher--
If you had come to Flamepoeira and let the place warm your heart, maybe and possibly maybe you understand its value and beauty. The girl you insulted did her best to give you direction... so much so she went out into the cold trying to figure out the street names for you. She had arrived Boston six months ago, working very hard to make ends meet. The direction on the website is correct. You should ask the City of Boston to label their streets more clearly. I do not understand why you yelpers find the necessity to attack people who pursue their hearts. Do you understand the level of difficulty? Are you daring enough to pursue your heart? We are trying to make a living, doing things that would make us happy. I offer you one word: Humanity!"
Uh, seriously?
Thank God Flamepoeira isn't the only cool place in Boston that serves tea and desserts. Needless to say, I won't be back. -
Review from Charoline D.
Greenwich, CT
10/18/2007
4 stars for atmosphere alone.
LizZzard and I came here after work on our way to her apartment to scope out the tea selection and warm up our little paws after a chilly autumnal walk from work. Cozy and small, we're greeted by plush settees, local artwork, and warm incense. Now, I sort of hate incense for the most part. It reminds me of cheap fabric wrap skirts and patchouli scented idiots, but now, I think it's certainly something atmospheric and I tend to like it if the space is clean and well thought out.
There is a selection of bubble tea, hot tea, iced teas and coffee as well as pastry and cake. But my experience with the hot tea, was just sort of "meh". The tea selection is "republic of tea", and that's not really my bag if I'm going somewhere new that I think might inspire me to travel to foreign lands and paint watercolors. You might have seen republic of tea at places like...Panera (gasp*). I'd kind of preferred it if it was loose tea or something a little more exclusive. While my chocolate allergy is raging this week, I begrudgingly had to pass over the hot cocoa etc, but I'd like to come back and experiment with some of the other coffees and food selections.
If I still owned a laptop and lived local, I could definitely see myself there often doing design work while I sip, sip, sip. The atmosphere is a little bright for me, but it encourages productibility rather than my usual dark velvet, black tea lounge-a-rama that I'm more drawn to. -
Review from Debra L.
6/11/2007
I have to give this place only two stars, even though I wish I could give it more. It's a great little place and a neat concept. Interesting art work on the walls even though I think the artist is a little breast obsessed. Cool/comfy seating. And, I liked how they brought my salad out on a tray that resembled a breakfast in bed tray (so that I didn't have to bend to eat off the very low table).
The problem is that my food was just not good. I had the mixed green salad with feta cheese topped with spicy lemongrass chicken salad (it was recommended by the guy working there). The flavors did not go well together. The vinaigrette on the greens clashed with the chicken that had its own unique sauce which really clashed with the feta cheese. There was just something very off about the chicken and it also had too many onions. The chicken was seasoned with curry & lemongrass and served cold and it smelled and tasted funny. It was different than what I'm used to curry and/or lemongrass tasting like. I ate it because I was hungry but I felt really queazy after.
And I got the feeling that the two guys working there were staring at me the whole time. There was only one other patron there besides me. They were nice enough but they were a little strange. And the music they played was strange. The whole place, including the menu, is just strange.Listed in: The Old Neighborhood
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Review from Roni E.
8/10/2007
I have to say that I was not entirely impressed with this place. Granted I didn't eat anything. I did have the Taro Tea minus the bubbles/pearls as per my friendly Yelpers advice. And it was actually okay. It was more of a frozen/blended tea rather than the normal liquid.
I was here for the Yelp OH as well. What I was impressed with was the environment. The staff was super friendly. I absolutely loved how artistic and cozy feeling this place was. As soon as I walked in, I noticed the art work and the comfy colorful chairs. Oh and the incense - the incense definitely adds to the coffeehouse feel.
Although, not a typical coffeehouse, I'd say this is pretty close to what I'm used to. Though the location is a little offtrack. I would expect this place to be in a more visible area of the North End rather than being tucked away in the back.
If I could ever make the trek back down to the North End, where I don't get lost, I'd stop by again and give them another shot.Listed in: Bubbles!
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Review from Shana K.
Nashville, TN
11/12/2007
Thank you Yelpers for heading me to this place.
I felt immediately at home here. After a rather craptacular morning, I made my way to the North End to find grab something warm for my belly.
Dangelo greeted me with a *free* smile, took my order and invited me to have a seat. The paintings were fun and since I'd brought an art book to read, very apropos to my mood. A few regulars came in to read/work and I loved eavesdropping as Dangelo made introductions. The music was a little to loud to read by, but set the perfect tone for this artsy getaway.
My chai was simply lovely as I had the choice of sweet or less-sweet and my food (Vincent Van Gogh) was plentiful and hit the spot for brunch.
This is a very comfortable place to come alone with a book or computer, or with friends. I'll be back there for sure. Who knows, I may even get my art on the walls! -
Review from Heather G.
Boston, MA
3/25/2010
this is a great little find.
I used to live across the street and didn't notice this place until i tripped and fell onto the doorstep one day (almost literally). It's tiny and nondescript from the sidewalk, but man am I glad I saw it.
The coffee they brew is great, and the tea choices abundant. They even sometimes make bobas for bubble tea shakes (but that's a hit-or-miss depending on whether they decide to make them that day).
The atmosphere is serene, zen-like, and artistic. The owner, Langelo, embodies the whole free spirit/bohemian thing with his wall-photography, art for sale, and fortune cookie-like colloquialisms. He's a true live-and-let-live, judgment-free-zone type of guy. I think he truly wants to create an environment where people can come, relax, hang out, and let the creative juices flow.
And the food. Oh the food. It's a bit overpriced for what it is, but it's all made-to-order and delicious. Most items come on a slice of toasted japanese bread and a side salad of mixed greens. What is on the bread varies, and you can get sandwiches (named for artists) made with things like curry chicken or beef, dumplings, and an array of non-meat items like veggies and eggs.
My absolute favorite is the Van Gogh, which has scrambled eggs, potatoes, and cheese atop a slice of japanese bread. Great for brunch when paired with a cool, light, mixed greens salad.
They also offer most of their sandwiches made into a salad or fried rice and a few noodle-dish options.
Really inventive menu that the owner created himself, and a great atmosphere to enjoy it in.Listed in: Brunching in Boston
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Review from Sarah B.
Ann Arbor, MI
4/21/2007
I walked into Flamepoeira today because I've been meaning to visit, it was gorgeous out for the first time in far far too long, and I was craving chai. Upon entering the cozy little establishment, I could tell it's a fun place to hang out (free wireless, funky artwork, faint scent of incense, nice music softly playing in the background).
I asked the guy who was working there (a very friendly barista) why "flamepoeira" and he said it was named for the combination of flamenco and capoeira. I went to the website (http://www.flamepoeira...) and apparently they offer flamepoeira classes every Monday and Thursday evenings... limit is 6 people (I have no idea how busy they get - but if I ever go - I'll post some info on it...).
I think that's a really nice, unique idea :)
Their chai was good.
The only reason I took off any stars is because it's kind of expensive (and tucked away/out of the way). But if you live in the north end, it's definitely worth popping over to check out. -
Review from Mo N.
Boston, MA
2/23/2008
I just plain like being here...
I don't know if it's because of how friendly and knowledgeable the owner is.
If it's because of the ambience, the decor (gorgeous art on the wall), the music, the seating etc.
If it's because of the avocado smoothie that I always get.
If it's because of the Grilled Eggplant, Feta, Olives, Capers, Red Onion, Celery, Tomato and Red Wine sandies.
I don't know!
I just plain like being here...
Just my $0.02... -
Review from Doris K.
8/22/2007
Not my favorite place although very cozy and comfy. I think that it's great that the owner has his art displayed on the way but the drinks need some work. I didn't get any bubbles but I heard that it was very mushy. Bubbles should always have a chewy texture to them. As for my chai it was overly sweet but my tiramisu was not bad although they aren't the ones that make it.
Overall it's really cute and quaint but parking's hard to find and it's quite a walk from the T station. Unlike most of the yelpers, I really didn't enjoy the incense - too overpowering.
Restrooms: Clean, clean, clean. Need I say more? Nice ambience too although I don't know why you'd need it.Listed in: Need To Go??
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Review from Jess K.
4/22/2007
What an anomale in the North End! Bubble tea and impressive ambiance. Need a change from the standard capuccino and biscotti? Check it out.
http://www.dailycandy....Listed in: My Life in Boston's North End
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Review from Jocelyn G.
Boston, MA
3/2/2008
I never knew this place existed before we had a meeting for Frosty's Kids in the winter, but I definitely am going to go back the next time I'm in the North End. The owner let us meet after hours and put out a huge spread for us of sandwiches, desserts, and other tasty treats. They were all delicious.
I especially like the set up of the area and the artwork that was on the walls...very cool and cozy. -
Review from Julia F.
1/13/2009
I had read incredible things about this place on Yelp, and so when I found I was working around the corner the other day, I decided to check it out for myself.
There were two men working - I'm assuming one of them was the owner, only cause he was more articulate and (jokingly) trying to sell me his pastry case. I got two coffees - they put cream and sugar in for you, apparently. Which is odd for a small place, I think. The coffee was good, not too strong, but strong enough to do the job. A little pricey, but so is the neighborhood.
I dragged my dad back here for lunch the same day, and we both got the Monet sandwich to go. Turns out those buggers are really hard to eat without getting your hands around them. But, it was really good, enough food for two meals probably too! It came with this little side salad (?) which had a really rich/sweet dressing on it. I liked it alot.
Apparently they have bubble tea here sometimes too, according to the guy who wasn't preparing our sandwiches. I wonder what this "sometimes" is... The decor is really cute. I could imagine it's a nice place to just plotz and read or whatever, although the staff seemed a little starved for interaction the day I went, so I'm not sure you could be guaranteed total peace and quiet. Around 20 bucks later we were on our way out the door. -
Review from Min L.
Somerville, MA
5/18/2008
This is a cozy and comfortable place to grab a bite and sit down with a good book on a cold winter afternoon. It's tucked away on a quieter street in the North End and its walls display the owner's funky artwork.
The menu here is creative, and though I don't remember exactly what I ordered, I can almost taste still the sweet, flavorful beef that was marinated similar to bulgogi, sauteed with onions, and sitting beside a pillow of rice with a salad on the side. Either I was really hungry that day or the food was really that pleasantly memorable. -
Review from Rekha M.
Cambridge, MA
9/28/2007
It was nice to come across a new indie coffee shop and gallery tucked away in the North End. I like those kinds of discoveries. The lunch menu is creative and looks yummy. The sandwich I had was delicious - the portabello mushroom was marinated in something that gave it a round flavor, and the Japanese bread was a little sweet.
I appreciate the wide tea selection and the free wifi. I will return, definitely. -
Review from Cara P.
Cambridge, MA
11/20/2007
UPDATE: I am upping my review. I came here to give it a 2nd chance and I must have been in a bad mood. This place is awesome! I completely took all the great about it and found the negative in it...I still think the menu is overkill but that is only because I can never make up my mind. I am glad I gave it another chance!! My bad!
Although located in North End, you will not find this shop on Pasta Way. You might not even find it. They do not have a sign and it is quietly tucked away on Lewis Street.
I could never see my ass warming a spot on one of their oversize settee anytime in the near future.......Why? Well I don't like the fact I would have to pop a Valium every time I come here.
I have been here once....once is enough. Where was I? A coffee shop that is hip, yet trying to be peaceful and welcoming. It does have an eclectic feel with ...is it Euro, Buddhist, Asian or Moroccan influences....or all?? No, no....it is a lounge/art gallery.....with......free WiFi....
I walked in with my friend one weekend to an empty shop. While in deep thought contemplating between quickly robbing the gallery (yes the pieces are amazing) or their baked good selections, I was politely interrupted by the burn of a warm smile. I should have known one would be thrown my way. Their sign boasts that "Smiles are free."
I couldn't make up my mind what to get. Though I was never medically diagnosed, I have severe problems concentrating sometimes. There was so much going on at THAT moment. Whimsical yet jazzy music, patchouli wafting in the air; the brewing aroma of fruity teas dancing at the tip of my nose. It was quickly headed my way. YES folks........I was experiencing it. What I call: "Clusterfuck awareness. "
It was overwhelming......Chromatic and cher pieces of art placed on their walls, torrid incense, the resplendent lighting, redolent bouquets of fresh flowers, several tea lights scattered through out added to the relaxing side of its personality, all while piercing yet irenic music is in the background.
I could feel the overly happy counter person staring. Did I want Bubble Tea? coffee? Grilled Cheese? Euro Sandwich?.....Does that say beef pozole?? The menu was ALL over the place. My friend ordered the Euro Sandwich. She said it was bland and soggy. I settled on a Coconut Slush with Boba. Cara was NOT a happy camper. The Boba was a NoGo. PLUS it is expensive-nothing we ordered was worth the price.
We took our items to go. If you do sit down at the low to floor seating with material draped over them, you may just be forced to carry on a conversation with the employees.
I am all for people perusing their dream. Opening a coffee shop just how they want it; creating their vision. Yet, this place seemed like the owner swooshed every hobby, desire and interest he has ever had into one small dream. His prerogative? Yes. Money from my wallet? no. -
Review from Robby T.
Manhattan, NY
2/9/2008
I wanna give this place a 5-star for the friendly service and tasty, creative food (I had the Salvador Dali...an open-faced Euro-style marinated beef sandwich). But, despite the for-sale funky art on the wall, attention to bathroom stylings, and comfy throw pillows....something about the space still speaks "coffee house" to me. That's not a bad thing; it just doesn't take the space to its full potential. Picky, I know.
But go for the good people, free wi-fi, and slightly offbeat tasty menu!...Four stars is sometimes all you need, after all! -
Review from Jack M.
Boston, MA
11/12/2009
I wanted to like this place, but I didn't.
I walked in hoping for some coffee or food. I saw numerous new-age hippies crouched over their laptops giving me the evil eye. Maybe it was the tie? There's no real menu - not one I could see - at least not one that was clear and had prices. Funky weird music playing. Place looks like a college art student decorated it (not in a good way). I guess you're not allowed in here unless you have facial hair, a small dog, and an apple laptop. -
Review from TJ M.
Boston, MA
6/1/2008
We finally stopped into Falmepoeira and loved it. It provides a very bohemian vibe and the staff couldn't be more friendly or welcoming.
We both ordered different versions of the modern melted cheese sandwiches and they were great. I believe the sandwiches are named after the owner. (Recommendation: The avocado version is better than the Japanese apple version).
We are definitely planning to go back... many of their sandwiches make for a perfect alternative to the typical breakfast / brunch... if you are looking to mix it up this is the place. -
Review from Neno S.
Boston, MA
1/6/2008
Get on Hanover from the Haymarket side.
Walk to Richmond st. then take a right.
Walk to Fulton take a left. Then a Right on Lewis st.
You will not regret it. It seems to be a very nice, artsy and vibrant hidden getaway from the tourist madness on Hanover st. It's internet ready and the crowd seem to be all studying or chatting. Coffee was incredible.
My friends ordered food that looked amazing and everyone seemed really relaxed. The decor is very Ikea, but it's not tasteless. It goes really well with the bright colored paintings that bring a lot of life to this place. I liked it! I'll be back! -
Review from Vanessa F.
Boston, MA
1/11/2009
I ordered the Picasso sandwich (Portabello mushroom, avocado, mozzarella), a cappuccino, and a love potion smoothie. Everything was pretty good. I guess my only knock is that the cappuccino was rather small and it was more of a latte than anything. Cappuccino is supposed to have a good amount of foam on top.
However, what really made this place great was the atmosphere. It is very conducive to reading, studying, or just hanging out with friends. They really don't try to rush you out and give you plenty of time to just relax and enjoy your time there. There are a lot of coffee shops where the employees start looking at you funny if you stay for too long. Not so here! Our group felt very welcome.
This is definitely a place worth checking out if you want to just relax. It's a touch pricer than you would expect, but not too bad. -
Review from Michael D.
Boston, MA
8/15/2009
I'll echo Jonathan B. ("How often do you find places anymore where everyone knows your name and you are always greeted with a smile") and Mo ("I just plain like being here")....
Flamepoeira is a beautiful little nook at the edge of the North End, my favorite example of my neighborhood's young & artsy side (The Wine Bottega being a close second). When I want a dynamic meal to spice up my afternoon, or an incredibly frothy smoothie, or even just when my internet is down and I need a hangout with WiFi, this is my place.
I have had about half the menu, and I've never been less than delighted. Each dish is interesting, with Asian or Latin inspiration, cleverly designed and presented. The smoothies and shakes are delicious -- though if you're a bubble-tea snob, beware that Langelo uses much smaller boba than you're probably used to (which I happen to find delightful).
Has anyone mentioned the music? Seems like every time I walk in, the soundtrack is a perfect complement to my day, whether it be salsa or bossa nova or lounge or meditation music.
Check this place out. The North End has many treasures, both classic Italian and avant-garde -- and this one's not to be missed. -
Review from Daren M.
Boston, MA
3/28/2009
I love this place. This is my go-to spot in the North End and in Boston in general! The ambiance: the art, decoration, chill lounge music, the drinks, the sandwiches, the salads, everything is solid and consistently high-quality. I'm obsessed with The Matisse: Avocado, Egg, Mango, Onions, Feta, Greens, Balsamic Vinegrette and Japanese Toast. It's basically food porn. I normally just ask the owner what he recommends and the dishes never disappoint! I'm shocked it's empty during the weekdays - it should ALWAYS be packed - Langelo is the best in terms of hospitality and everyone that works there is so nice, friendly, with zero attitude. THIS IS BEST OF BOSTON.
*A note to the 1 star from Christopher M.: In my opinion, that's a "bunk" review and highly overdramatic. The North End is very confusing on the side streets for anyone who doesn't live there. This is his way of getting attention because he either lost face or is just an unhappy, spiteful person in general. 1 star is unconscionable given the quality and good nature of the food, owner and employees.* -
Review from Carissa H.
Boston, MA
8/11/2009
This lovely sandwich shop is a welcome respite from the more-of-the-same eateries normally found in the North End.
The entrees are named after fine artists, but it completely lacks pretense: the Francis Bacon dish is vegetarian. There are options for everyone, be you omnivore, vegetarian, or vegan. The setting is cheerful, but not overbearing.
The staff is prompt, friendly, and efficient. Also, the meals are presented as beautiful heaps of complementary flavors which go beyond your normal sandwich combination.
As an aside, the bathroom is a gem. It's roomy, clean, and offers an array of books which would please any reader (as a writer, I find things like this important). -
Review from Gail G.
Boston, MA
9/11/2009
I almost missed this place since it's hidden in the North End. But I kind of prefer it that way. It adds to its charm. The food is great and reasonably priced. I love the bench seating by the window and the owner's artwork on the walls. The owner is extremely talented. He said he was also a Northeastern U alum, worked as an engineer and realized he didn't like it. And here he is, with his own gallery/cafe. I can definitely tell this place is his pride and joy.
They were playing Erykah Badu the first time I came here -- one my favs. It's a refreshing change from the usual alt-rock/indie I usually hear when I'm sitting in a coffee place.
My only complaint is...later hours! I'd rather go here when I'm in the North End for the evening and avoid the Hanover street crowds. -
Review from Helena K.
Arlington, MA
1/19/2010
A friend and I needed a brunch place near Henia's salon before our mani pedi's, and we could not have asked for a lovelier experience.
The place is small, and decorated with the owner's/chef's/artist's own work. We were the only patrons there, so we had time to chat with the artist and his lovely barista.
The mismatched, but somehow fitting, furnishings were very comfortable. The menu is as eccentric as the decor, complete with items named after famous artists.
Although I was surprised that my french toast order was quite literal (one piece of french toast as stated in the menu), it was absolutely delicious.
I hope to go back and try the soup. -
Review from Shannon S.
Somerville, MA
1/29/2007 2 photos
Newly opened in the North End, and down a side street, you might not see this edgy new coffee stop. There is no sign out front--just the bright art on the walls which seem to beckon people to look inside.
It took me only two seconds to fall in love with this funky little coffee & tea shop in the North End. From the moment I walked in, I immediately thought--this is new & different. This is funky, soulful and bright. This is a place I could come to and have a conversation during lunch--or bring a book and read--completely forgetting I live in Boston and just absorbing the warmth and bright quality of the whole place.
Somehow the owner and artist, Langelo, (who I had the privilege to talk to about his vision)-- had managed to create an unusual and bright little haven on a cold winter's day. What you'll find here is an exciting mix of art, tea, eclectic music. The ambiance is cool-chic with low-to-the-floor furniture and coffee tables which give the place a very cool lounge feel. The narrow space, lined with Langelo's art gives an interesting appeal. After speaking with him, he divulged that he can't help but rearrange the furniture and experiment with the menu, so everyday you might find something exciting and different at this little coffee shop. Though Langelo's art hangs on the wall---you might actually say that the way he runs his shop is a work of art itself---an extension of his vision.
He explained to me that everything he prepares---food, tea, coffee is made to order---so it may take 10 minutes but you'll be certain to get quality and variety each time. He also explained that he loves experimenting with flavors so the menu is shaped to fit what he's experimenting with recently. Whatever he's doing is spot on though, because I tried this amazing Euro Sandwich---an open-faced sandwich with fresh avocado, tomato, mozzarella, egg with a portabella mushroom on top. It was wonderful. I loved the fresh flavors, the interesting way it was served. Langelo actually brought it to me on an elevated dining tray so I didn't have to bend down to the low coffee table. I also made sure to try on of his Coconut Bubble Teas. The Coconut was SUPER tasty though the bubbles weren't exactly right. They seemed a little different from what I'm used to---but the Coconut ice was so amazing---I didn't mind that the tapioca balls weren't the way I like them.
Though the space is only open until 7pm, this is a great haven in the North End if you like art, experience, and great teas, coffees, and fresh sandwiches and salads. He also has a pastry counter full of Italian deserts as well as his own creations, too.
He mentioned that though his place is only open until 7pm now, he hopes to be open later in the future--especially during the summer months. He also mentioned that at night he likes to light candles for extra ambiance.
I can see this place being super busy in the future one the word gets out about this amazing little place---it was nearly empty when I went in---just me and two other customers, but give it time---this unique little hidden stop has TONs of potential and a soulful, captivating person behind it to keep the place interesting year-round.Listed in: Interesting Outings for…
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Review from Michaela L.
Portland, OR
3/11/2008
One of our neighborhood standbys for bubble tea and excellent, fresh asian-fusion food unlike anything else in the North End. Very cozy spot with local art, a well-stocked bookshelf, and lounge-y world music at a volume that doesn't intrude on your great conversation. My only complaint is that Langelo doesn't keep it open later.
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Review from Jonathan B.
North Hollywood, CA
3/20/2009
Yet another review that should have been done awhile ago. I miss the North End so bad it hurts sometimes. I am returning to Boston in a few weeks and this place is my first stop. What makes Flamepoeira special, fresh, crazy, cozy, chill and just down right incredible is the owner Langelo.
His artwork drips into his food, coffee, tea, dessert, etc. This guy is truly a renaissance man. I need to add that I have rarely seen an owner of a business so customer oriented. I am talking private parties featuring fine original art, wine, punch, cheese, cake and genuinely sweet loving human beings. Live bands, art, books and a view outside. This kind of place is a dime a dozen and a sparkling light when its cold and rainy in the bean.
The food and drinks at Flamepoeira are made with love. Get an avocado smoothie and some breakfast (Sandra) then proceed to transcend time and space on one of the many cozy couches. Great mix of food and if you are a first timer listen for the "voila!" from the kitchen and watch your sexy food appear.
I am missing a love potion... a Langelo secret special that is always fresh and changing with the seasons produce. This place makes me honestly sad that I am in L.A with no real counterpart. How often do you find places anymore where everyone knows your name and you are always greeted with a smile, handshake or a hug? -
Review from David G.
Saugus, MA
Updated - 5/16/2010
I can't believe this place closed. Boo hoo.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/3/2009
This place is so awesome it makes me wish I was Gay. I think the girl who mentioned the breast… Read more »
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Review from jennifer a.
Brooklyn, NY
4/14/2007
a stellar new spot in the north end: off the cannoli-beaten path, and hitting the mark on all necessary cafe requisites:
excellent and varied lighting, quality caffeine, warm staff, original artwork, sophisticated sounds...
ideal for focused working/studying, fabulous grubbing, lounging, reading, and the like.
best of luck to this amalgam of creativity and delight! -
Review from Mark M.
Boston, MA
6/1/2010
This is not a meat and potatoes type of place that I love. I'm not saying it is bad, I know people that swear by it, but why pay 15 bucks with the goose across the street?
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Review from Deb K.
Boston, MA
2/25/2008
A place where the owner will sit with you and have a cup of coffee? Places like this still exists these days? A nice piping hot cup of tea with some great convo and my friend got to use the free wifi while waiting for me to arrive. Will be back to try the food.
Listed in: Eating my way through my hood
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Review from Ben L.
8/24/2007
So I went here for a yelp event and though there were many things that I enjoyed I was let down by the bubble tea. I had a Tai tea and the tea itself was enjoyable enough the boba were quite disappointing. they were rather cut up and too squshy. They also managed to forman amazing clump in the bottom of my cup that kinda threw a wrenck in my drinking experience. A word of advice, just go without the bubbles. As far as everything else is concerned I was quite pleased. The location is a little out of the way and a great place to have a non-italian cafe in the north end. The furnishings were modern and rather nice. I highly recommend this location if you are in the area and want to mix it up.
Listed in: Bubble Tea
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Review from Candace O.
El Paso, TX
7/24/2007
I thought this was a great place! I wish there were more places in Boston like this. I had the curry chicken over stir-fried noodles and it was really good. I have already recommended this place to a bunch of friends. I'm going to be back again soon!!
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Review from dalet z.
Huntington Beach, CA
Updated - 4/4/2010
did it really close???
when? and most importantly WHYYYYY???
this makes me so so sad.
some of the best food i've ever eaten was eaten here, and now it's gone. where will i ever eat such delicious sandwiches?
this has definitely put a damper on my mood for today. * sigh *1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/12/2009
my friend and ex-roomate who lives in the north end took me to this place one sunday morning for… Read more »
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Review from Huan z.
Somerville, MA
7/22/2008
Very delicious, and super yummy dessets. For people who like chocolate, make sure you check this place. I got a parking ticket when I was visiting this place, but I am still glad about the food.
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Review from Alison B.
Boston, MA
4/28/2010
Seriously.. I am deeply saddened that this cafe closed. It was SO GOOD. Their spicy noodles with lemongrass chicken and Picasso salad with blue cheese and portobello mushroom was TO. DIE. FOR. I will miss it terribly : (
