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(Annie Zaleski)

When long-time Clifton Boulevard stalwart Truffles Pastry Shop closed in late 2010, the near West Side lost a neighborhood gathering spot.

Earth Bistro Cafe, which opened in November in the storefront that was long occupied by Truffles, is hoping to play a similar role.

The cozy eatery serves fair trade coffee, juices and dishes inspired by the Cuban heritage of co-owners Carlos and Luis Castro.

Tacos, tostados, salads, sandwiches and wraps make up the bulk of the menu.

Among the specialties include Cuban-style guacamole (served with grilled pineapple and plantains), cactus-marinated slaw and mustard concocted from a recipe passed down by the brothers' grandmother.

The menu also boasts a selection of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free items, from tofu burgers and black bean veggie burgers to fresh tapenade.

Carlos Castro moved to Cleveland from New Jersey four years ago to go to medical school, but financial difficulties forced him to leave after one year.

Drawing on his vast restaurant experience, he found work at various area kitchens, but always kept his back-up plan in mind: saving up money to open his own place.

"I worked in a place like this back in New Jersey when I was going to school," he says. "The owner had the same concept, pretty much—he served coffee, salads and sandwiches. He was doing very good.

"I was kind of depressed because I couldn't go to school," Castro continues. "But you end up in this different situation that you just have to deal with."

Indeed, Castro hopes Earth Bistro Cafe is successful enough to let him return to school one day.

"Eventually, I would like to do that," he says.

TASTE BITES: Earth Bistro Cafe

Address: 11122 Clifton Avenue, Cleveland.

Phone: 216-201-9338

Online: Earth Bistro Cafe on Facebook

Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday