Los Angeles, the city of angels, is also a city brimming with incredible coffee shops. From trendy spots with Instagram-worthy lattes to cozy cafes perfect for a quiet afternoon, LA has a coffee shop for every taste and mood. This guide explores 18 of the best coffee shops the city has to offer, categorized for your convenience. This list isn't exhaustive, but it's a great starting point for your caffeine adventures in LA!
Trendy & Instagrammable Coffee Shops in Los Angeles
These coffee shops aren't just about the caffeine; they're a total experience. Expect beautiful aesthetics, creative drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
1. Alfred Coffee
Alfred Coffee is synonymous with LA's trendy coffee scene. Known for its chic minimalist aesthetic and perfectly crafted lattes, it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Their famous "But First, Alfred" slogan is instantly recognizable. They frequently collaborate with other brands, keeping their offerings fresh and exciting.
2. Blue Bottle Coffee
A Bay Area favorite that's expanded to LA, Blue Bottle Coffee is known for its meticulous coffee sourcing and brewing methods. They offer a range of pour-overs, espresso drinks, and seasonal offerings. The focus is on high-quality beans and a clean, sophisticated environment.
3. Go Get Em Tiger
With several locations across LA, Go Get Em Tiger (GGET) is beloved for its expertly pulled espresso, friendly baristas, and minimalist design. They’re known for their strong coffee and commitment to quality. It's a perfect spot for both a quick caffeine fix or a longer, more leisurely coffee experience.
4. Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Another well-known name in the specialty coffee world, Stumptown Coffee Roasters brings its commitment to ethically sourced beans and expertly crafted coffee to LA. Their locations are often spacious and inviting, providing a comfortable environment to enjoy their coffee.
Cozy & Relaxed Coffee Shops in Los Angeles
Sometimes you need a quiet place to unwind with your coffee. These cafes offer a relaxed atmosphere perfect for reading, working, or catching up with friends.
5. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia is a coffee roaster with several cafes in Los Angeles, known for its direct trade relationships with coffee farmers. They prioritize quality and sustainability, and their cafes offer a comforting and sophisticated environment.
6. Gjusta
While known primarily as a bakery, Gjusta boasts an exceptional coffee program, using expertly roasted beans and serving up perfectly crafted espresso drinks. The bakery’s atmosphere is warm, inviting, and busy - expect a delicious treat alongside your coffee.
7. Cafecito Organico
For a taste of Cuban coffee culture in LA, Cafecito Organico is a must-visit. This cozy cafe offers strong, sweet Cuban coffee, alongside pastries and a friendly atmosphere.
8. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
A long-standing LA staple, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a familiar and reliable option for coffee lovers. They offer a broad menu of coffee, tea, and pastries, making them a convenient choice for a quick caffeine boost.
Unique & Thematic Coffee Shops in Los Angeles
These coffee shops stand out with their unique concepts and atmospheres.
9. Slayer Espresso
This is less of a typical coffee shop and more a showcase of incredibly high-end espresso machines (Slayer Espresso machines, of course!). Expect extremely high-quality coffee, pulled by experts. It's an experience for true coffee enthusiasts.
10. Dinosaur Coffee
Dinosaur Coffee's vintage vibe and commitment to locally roasted beans create a unique and charming atmosphere. Their coffee is expertly crafted, and the location itself is a delightful escape.
11. Little Dom's
While primarily an Italian restaurant, Little Dom's has a great little coffee bar serving delicious espresso and other coffee creations in a relaxed environment.
Coffee Shops with a View in Los Angeles
These cafes offer stunning city views alongside your caffeine fix.
12. Urth Caffé
With multiple locations across Los Angeles, Urth Caffé offers organic coffee, tea, and food in a vibrant setting. Their outdoor seating areas often provide beautiful views, making them a great place to enjoy a coffee break with a view.
13. The Grove
While more of a shopping center than a coffee shop, The Grove boasts several coffee options within its complex, with outdoor seating providing lovely views of the area.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites in Los Angeles
These coffee shops might be off the beaten path, but they're well worth the search.
14. Copa Vida
This coffee shop focuses on fair trade and organic practices, offering high-quality coffee in a laid-back atmosphere. They are often involved in community projects, making it a great choice for ethically-minded coffee drinkers.
15. Republique
A French-inspired bakery and cafe, Republique offers exceptional coffee alongside its delicious pastries and other food items. The atmosphere is upscale yet approachable, providing a sophisticated coffee experience.
16. Aroma Cafe
A long-standing local favorite known for its quality coffee and comfortable atmosphere. This is a great spot to relax and enjoy a quiet coffee.
Coffee Shops with a Focus on Specialty Drinks
These cafes specialize in unique and creative coffee drinks.
17. Verve Coffee Roasters
Verve Coffee Roasters is known for its creative coffee drinks and commitment to sustainable sourcing. Expect high quality beans and expertly crafted lattes and other specialty coffee offerings.
18. The Coffee Gallery
This long-standing coffee shop, also a performance venue, is a great option if you're looking for live music alongside your coffee.
Conclusion: Your LA Coffee Journey Awaits!
Los Angeles offers an incredible array of coffee shops, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a trendy spot to Instagram your latte, a cozy cafe to curl up with a book, or a unique experience, this list provides a starting point for your coffee adventures in the City of Angels. Remember to check individual shop hours and locations before visiting! Happy caffeinating!
