The ancient Japanese art of cultivating miniature trees is a quiet demonstration of patience, perseverance and precision. Each bonsai tree demands years of gentle care, reflecting the idea that with devotion, even the smallest beginnings can become something strikingly wonderful. It may seem fragile, but when nurtured with purpose, it proves that growth is always possible with the right hands guiding it.
Claudio Kenzo Tamae, alongside his girlfriend Keila Souto, had this in mind when they created their business, The Bonsai Coffee Truck two months ago. It is a cozy mobile cafe that specializes in homemade specialty coffee and has quickly become a neighborhood sensation. It is located at 211 NE 97th St, but also travels around the city to serve its gourmet brew.
“We wanted something small that would grow into this beautiful thing,” says 27-year-old owner, who calls himself simply “Kenzo.” He graduated from FIU’s College of Business in 2022 and planned to go to law school, but then realized his deep love for coffee.
When the couple started the truck a few months ago, they knew it was a gamble and that the journey would be hard. They invested much of their own savings. They recently took their java on the road to Cars and Coffee, a laid-back morning meetup where car lovers gather over coffee and conversation. Held in the Immaculata-La Salle High School parking lot, the free event featured an impressive mix of luxury rides like Aston Martins, McLarens, Lamborghinis and Porsches, alongside classics like the vintage Corvette Z06.
“It’s just both of us doing a little bit of everything,” says Souto, a 29-year-old from Argentina. “But we complement each other very well.”
Kenzo met Keila while working at various cafes throughout Miami including Tinta y Cafe in Miami Shores. The natural next step for them to branch deeper into their love for the craft.
“It felt like the moment was there, and it was a now-or-never type of thing,” said Souto.
They bought an imported small 1998 Dentsu Truck from Japan, which seems to fit since he is half Japanese, half Brazilian.
Kenzo spends most of the time in the truck making and designing the menu while Keila deals with finances and marketing. She notes, “He’s a big dreamer. I’m a little bit more grounded and realistic.”
Coffee is made from high-quality beans and processes, so prices can be high, some starting at $10.
“We’re trying to introduce a new style of pop to Miami, which a lot of the United States is already doing,” he explains.
There are seasonal flavors, mocha drinks and homemade sweeteners to replace artificial sugars.
“What stands out besides the taste is the service,” says Keitlyn Cancino, a 22-year-old coffee lover. “They seem to care about what they are doing.”
Her boyfriend Tyler Casas agrees.
“It’s convenient, because we’re so close, and we really like the coffee,” said Casas.
