Selina’s FriendSip Cafe: Coffee with a Side of Faith and Charm

Driving along the ever-packed stretch of State Road A1A, you never know what you’ll stumble on. It might be a farmers market buzzing with activity or a festive bail bond office clinging to its holiday spirit well into the new year. But if you veer off onto State Highway 17, tucked within a modest strip mall, you’ll find Selina’s FriendSip Café – a place as unique as its name.

Walking into Selina’s is like stepping into the warm embrace of your grandma’s living room. The decor is unapologetically kitschy, a medley of charming knickknacks, cheerful Bible verses, and a still-standing Christmas tree that seems determined to outlast the seasons. The air hums with the sounds of contemporary Christian music, setting the tone for an overtly faith-infused experience. Love it or leave it, Selina’s doesn’t hold back on its identity, which feels right at home next to its newly opened church neighbor.

On my visit, Selina herself was bustling in the back, crafting food and coffee, while a cheerful cashier fielded my endless questions with patience. The small menu offered a selection of intriguing options, each as quirky as the next.

The Honey B Latte immediately caught my attention. At $6.75 for a 16-ounce cup, this hot concoction combines honey, vanilla, and ground cinnamon into a perfectly mellow sweetness. It’s the ideal drink for black​ coffee enthusiasts who want to dip a toe into sweeter territory without diving headfirst into sugary overload. The balance of flavors is gentle yet satisfying, making it a solid starting point for anyone new to flavored coffee.

And then there’s the Salty Monkey, a drink as playful as its name. For the same price as the Honey B, this salted caramel iced shaken espresso topped with banana cold foam is an adventurous delight. The flavors are layered yet harmonious, with the banana cold foam adding a creamy, fruity twist to the rich caramel base. It’s unique, surprising, and utterly worth a return visit.

For a quick bite, the breakfast sandwich is a reliable choice. Priced at $6, it features egg, cheese, and bacon on a bagel. While it doesn’t push any boundaries, it hits all the right notes for a classic breakfast staple. It’s simple, hearty, and satisfying – the kind of sandwich that feels like an old friend.

The baked goods are where Selina’s really shines. Take the pecan cake, for example. At $5, it’s a moist and nutty treat with just the right amount of sweetness, although the frosting might be divisive for some palates. But the true star? The cinnamon roll. For $4, you’re treated to a gooey, hearty pastry that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. It’s the kind of cinnamon roll that can make your day better with just one bite.

Selina’s FriendSip​ Cafe isn’t for everyone, and it doesn’t try to be. If Hobby Lobby and volunteering at your local​​ church sound like a perfect weekend, this place will feel like home. For others, the overt Christian atmosphere might be a hurdle, but the quality coffee and baked goods make it worth a visit.