ULTIMATE LA COFFEE SHOP GUIDE + CAFES

I’m sure it’s evident on Insta by now that I have an insatiable obsession with coffee – so much that rifling through LA for the best cafes has become a weekend ritual. I’m happy to announce that having been LA born and bred, I’ve watched the coffee brewing scene go from basic and bland to artisanal and considered. It’s far easier to find a delectable cappuccino or latte now than it was years ago. That’s not to say you won’t run into one that disappoints. But to avoid that, I’ve put together an ultimate LA coffee shop guide which includes my very own favorites!

Go Get Em Tiger

This spot is def up there in terms of high coffee quality. I love the idea of walking up to a “coffee bar” and having any available barista take your order – like a real bar. It can be a little hectic and confusing at your first visit but it’s a novel concept. They have a selection of foods you can order and a patio to enjoy (see the last photo) so it makes a perfect brunch or lunch spot with friends. The espresso drinks and iced coffees are all delicious.

Bardonna

Bardonna is a great place for brunch especially in the back patio area. If you’re an avocado toast aficionado, they don’t disappoint here. I love the vibe, strong flavors, and wide range of drink options (more than any other on this list). You can order Vietnamese iced coffee, kombucha, and basically everything in between.

Maru Coffee

I love that Maru Coffee has adopted no plastic straws, so kudos to them (photo above). The drinks are so on point from espresso to matcha and cold brew. The drinks I’ve had are smooth, silky, and clean. Mix that taste with the airy, fresh atmosphere and this place gets addicting quick.

Scout

A new but mention-worthy spot is Scout. They deserve a shout out because they serve wine, coffee, smoothies, bagels, salads and more. This place is tiny but packs a punch! It’s very curated, cute, and amiable. If you know your coffee, you’ll find Heart Roasters here.

Roo Coffee

If there’s anything I learned over the years of drinking coffee, it’s that Australians do it well. And not in the sense that Aussies are known for coffee, but they get it right when they serve it. The coffee is fantastic with one of the best cappuccinos and the bread is to die for! Grab a bite if you can!

Alfred Coffee

If you’re looking for something boujee and instagrammable, Aflred’s Coffee is for you! The interior is hipster and moody, which means they’re typically packed. If you’ve had Stumptown, then that’s what they brew, but there are also tons of other drink options. You’ll love their cold brew, latte, and selection of pastries.

Eightfold Coffee

This spot is 100% my vibe – minimalistic, clean, open, and just a little industrial. I love the Japanese influenced selections, so if you’re not in the mood for coffee, you can do tea. If you’re in need of a snack, you’ll love the delicious bites. Unlike most of the other places, it’s a great place to chill, work, and sit.

Any cool coffee shops I missed in LA? Drop them below!