It’s important to stop and smell the roses every once in a while. You know, reflect on life. Bake cookies from scratch. Enjoy a little down time at a cozy cafe.

But Starbucks? Come, now. Do yourself a favor: Head to Cafe Lo Cubano, a warm, intimate new Cuban cafe in Laurel Heights. Their goal: to make a space that’s quintessentially Cuban. And attention’s been paid to every last detail. Plant yourself on the Dunbar sofa or on an Eames chair. Glance out the eighteen-foot windows or take in the hand-painted mural. Maracas, congos, and bongos add an authentic touch.

But the real attraction is the libations and vittles. For a caffeine jolt, sip on a Cafecito, Cortadito, Cuban Mocha, or a Cafe con Leche. For another kind of buzz, a great selection of Argentinean wines and Cuban beers are on hand. Munch on one of Johnny Alamilla’s (of Alma fame) pressed Cuban sandwiches and listen to Cuban jazz in the evenings.

They may finally have found something better than stopping to smell the roses.

Namely, waking up and smelling the coffee.

Cafe Lo Cubano, 3401 California Street, at Laurel Street (415-371-9944 or cafelocubano.com).