LA Coffee Tour
13 Amazing Coffee Shops
Los Angeles is home to some of the best coffee shops in the world, and whether you’re a third-wave coffee aficionado or just looking for an aesthetic spot to sip on a latte, we’ve got you covered. From hidden gems to Insta-famous hotspots, here’s a fun guide to my top 13 incredible coffee shops across the city.
1. Café Dulce – The Sweetest Spot
Café Dulce first opened in Little Tokyo, quickly earning a reputation for its bold espresso drinks and Asian-inspired pastries. The USC Village location brings that same flavor to students and locals, offering a welcoming space for studying, socializing, or grabbing a quick pick-me-up. Their Little Tokyo location is the original, but the USC Village shop brings the same great flavors with a convenient, laid-back setting.
The Vibe: A go-to coffee spot for USC students…cough….(Fight On!) Café Dulce serves my favorite cup of coffee in LA. Combined with a killer breakfast burrito or sandwich and unique pastries. Café Dulce is my #1 coffee shop.
2. Urth Caffé – “The” LA Coffee Experience
Founded in the 1980s, Urth Caffé was one of the first coffeehouses in LA to serve exclusively organic, heirloom coffee beans. Over the years, it has expanded into multiple locations, maintaining its reputation for high-quality coffee and European-inspired dining.
The Vibe: A staple for organic coffee lovers, Urth Caffé is known for its European-style ambiance, Spanish lattes, and hearty brunch options. Expect a mix of locals and tourists soaking in the warm atmosphere. When I want to go to a coffee shop and exclusively focus on my cup of coffee, this is where I go! The craft, the latte art, the surroundings… It truly is one of the best coffee experiences LA can offer.
3. Coffee MCO – K-Town’s Hidden Gem
Coffee MCO is a sleek, minimalist café in Koreatown, catering to a mix of creatives, students, and professionals. Its name, MCO, is after the owners dogs Mason & Cohen. Both lattes are specialties of the shop!
The Vibe: A modern café perfect for getting work done or having a quiet coffee moment. Coffee MCO is known for its smooth, well-balanced espresso drinks and relaxed environment. The two-story setup with and outdoor rooftop plus parking lot really make this shop a great option for people looking to work. . . and the coffee is CRAZY!
4. Lala Land – The Kind Café
Lala Land Kind Café started in Texas with a mission to employ and mentor foster youth. Their Glendale location at the Americana at Brand brings that same mission-driven spirit to LA, serving specialty coffee in an uplifting, welcoming space.
The Vibe: A bright, cheerful space combined with Lala Land’s fun specialty drinks and friendly baristas make it a standout. Whenever I step into the shop I feel a extra fancy at the Glendale Location.
5. Black Elephant Coffee – Atwater Village’s Cozy Hideaway
Black Elephant Coffee is a neighborhood favorite in Atwater Village, sourcing high-quality, locally roasted beans. The shop is known for its friendly service and commitment to sustainability.
The Vibe: A small but welcoming neighborhood café with expertly made coffee and a warm, community-focused feel. I love taking my laptop here when I want to feel like a hipster and surrounded by creative people.
6. Verve Coffee Roasters – Craft Coffee Meets Culture
Verve was founded in Santa Cruz in 2007 and quickly became a leader in the third-wave coffee movement. The brand is dedicated to ethical sourcing and direct trade relationships, ensuring high-quality beans in every cup.
The Vibe: A haven for serious coffee drinkers, Verve is known for its direct-trade beans, sleek interiors, and smooth, flavorful brews. Great for those who appreciate high-quality, expertly roasted coffee.
7. Blue Bottle Café – Precision Brewing & Iconic Espresso
Blue Bottle was founded in Oakland in the early 2000s, quickly growing into an international brand known for its precision brewing and high-quality single-origin beans.
The Vibe: A coffee purist’s dream, Blue Bottle is all about meticulous brewing methods and consistently excellent espresso. Their New Orleans-style iced coffee is a fan favorite.
8. Go Get Em Tiger – Coffee Powerhouse
What started as a small coffee cart in LA has grown into a full-scale coffee brand with multiple locations. Go Get Em Tiger is known for its innovation, including its signature almond macadamia milk.
The Vibe: A fast-paced, vibrant coffee shop with a loyal following. Known for their unique almond macadamia milk and some of the best espresso drinks in the city.
9. Alfred Coffee – “But First, Coffee”
Alfred Coffee put LA’s coffee scene on the map with its stylish branding and influencer-friendly vibe. Since opening in 2013, it has expanded across the city and beyond. You can catch Alfred coffee on the big screen because the coffee has often been sighted in Hollywoods Movies and TV Shows
The Vibe: Trendy, stylish, and Instagram-ready, Alfred Coffee serves up solid lattes and matcha alongside its well-known branding and aesthetic interiors.
10. Hi-Fi Espresso – Low-Key, High-Quality
A small but beloved café, Hi-Fi Espresso has built a reputation on strong coffee and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals who appreciate well-crafted espresso without the hype.
The Vibe: A hidden gem with strong coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for those looking for a no-frills, well-made espresso.
11. Alchemist Coffee Project – Magic in Every Cup
Alchemist Coffee Project started as a small shop focused on creative, experimental brewing methods. It has since grown into a local favorite known for its specialty cold brews and artistic drinks.
The Vibe: A cozy and modern space where baristas take their craft seriously. Known for its Kyoto-style cold brew and experimental coffee blends.
12. 10 Speed Coffee – Cycling & Caffeine
Originally founded in Oregon, 10 Speed Coffee has a strong cycling culture, making it a go-to spot for cyclists and beachgoers in LA.
The Vibe: I love the bike theme and how the shope is nestled into the canyon, 10 Speed Coffee is the perfect pre- or post-ride stop for a cup of coffee.
13. Carrera Cafe – The Insta Coffee Spot
Carrera Cafe made its name with custom latte art technology, allowing customers to print photos and designs on their drinks. The café’s sleek interior and prime location make it a favorite for influencers and coffee lovers alike.
The Vibe: A West Hollywood hotspot known for its stylish interiors and customizable latte art, making it a favorite for coffee lovers who appreciate aesthetics.
Which one’s your favorite?
Try them all to find out…….
