TIABI Coffee & Waffle relies on creativity as a main ingredient

Walking through the doors of TIABI Coffee & Waffle at 3961 S. Maryland Parkway feels like a breath of fresh air. The cafe makes it a point to inspire others through its chalk art, photos collages and friendly staff.

That makes sense considering TIABI stands for "To Inspire And Be Inspired." The eatery was created by UNLV alumni Mae Pineda and Tiffany Stiles, who graduated in 2008 with degrees in journalism. When the recession struck, they found solace in management and the food and beverage industry, eventually leading them to open the waffle/coffee house in late 2013.

The restaurant offers both sweet and savory options, such as the Bananatella waffle (topped with bananas, Nutella drizzle, almonds and whipped cream); the West Coast Wafflewich (served with chicken, bacon, avocado, tomato and cheese); and the Hashtag Breakfast Sandwich (a Belgian wafflewich stuffed with turkey sausage, egg and cheese).

Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free meals also are available. Meals range between $5 and $7.

And what's a cafe without caffeine? TIABI serves a variety of coffees, teas, smoothies and ice blended drinks. Signature drinks include Tiff's Waffle Macchiato (a cinnamon vanilla latte topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce and served with a churronimo waffle) and Mae's Frozen Hot Chocolate Frappe. Drinks range between $2 and $5.50.

Although seating is limited during busy hours, the cafe caters to families and groups. The large menu seemed overwhelming at first, but the staff was happy to make recommendations.

TIABI is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Catering and online ordering are available.

Call 702-222-1722 or visit iwanttiabi.com