CAO Bakery & Café is named after the Cao family whose baking traditions spans three generations. The word, CAO, is also an acronym for Cuban American Original, which is reflected in the brand’s mission to provide the best of Cuban baking in a warm and inviting café atmosphere. CAO is famous for their Pastelitos, traditional Cuban pastries, and for their variety of desserts that are made with the same recipes passed down from generation to generation.

CAO is led by South Florida residents and childhood friends: Antonio (Tony) Cao and Carlos De Varona. Tony, a third generation baker with over 20 year of baking experience, leads the team with his passion for baking and vision for expansion. Behind the numbers and financials is Carlos, with an extensive background in business and real estate. As childhood friends, Tony and Carlos grew up in Hialeah, Florida. They met in grade school and remained friends. Carlos studied business and graduated with a Finance degree, while Tony followed his family legacy and pursued his passion for baking. Their paths crossed again in 2014 when Carlos expressed interest in opening a bakery. At the time, Tony owned two bakeries and was ready to expand with a partner. In 2015, they opened their first stand alone and 24 hour location, making it the most successful location for the brand and flagship store.  The duo knew they had built something special with that location as it quickly became a well-known Miami landmark for pastelitos and cafecitos. The growth of the brand happened quickly as the demand for Cuban food and fast casual eateries became more popular. Today CAO’s have 14 locations throughout South Florida. The brand vision is to introduce CAO across Florida.

Cheers to the next Cafecito in your neighborhood.