After an afternoon exploring space shuttles, deep-sea ecosystems, and interactive science exhibits, the last thing you want is a bad cup of coffee or a stale pastry. The California Science Center, located in the heart of Exposition Park, is surrounded by a dynamic culinary scene that often gets overlooked by tourists rushing to their next attraction. Whether you are a local member visiting for the tenth time or a family on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, finding the right spot to refuel is essential to maintaining your energy for the exhibits.
The neighborhoods bordering the museum—including University Park, Historic South Central, and the edges of Downtown LA—offer a surprising diversity of coffee culture. From third-wave roasters obsessed with bean origins to cozy neighborhood nooks that serve as remote offices for USC students, the area has evolved significantly over the last decade. You do not need to settle for the standard museum cafeteria fare when there are artisan lattes and fresh-baked goods just a short walk or drive away.
This guide focuses on the best cafes that balance quality, convenience, and atmosphere. We have considered proximity to the Science Center, the reliability of their Wi-Fi (for those who need to check emails before entering the museum), and the quality of their espresso. While Los Angeles is a sprawling city, all of the recommendations here are within a reasonable distance, ensuring you spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying your day.
Because the Science Center sits adjacent to the University of Southern California (USC) and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the cafe culture here is heavily influenced by student life. This means you can expect competitive pricing, hearty portions, and a vibrant, bustling atmosphere during the school year. Conversely, if you are visiting during a university holiday or a summer weekend, you may find these spots quieter and easier to navigate with a stroller or large group.
Parking in Exposition Park can be expensive, so planning your coffee stop strategically is wise. Many of the cafes listed below offer easy access to the Metro E Line (Expo Line), allowing you to park once and walk to multiple destinations. If you are driving, check the specific cafe’s location for street parking availability versus dedicated lots to avoid frustration before you even get your caffeine fix.
To help you make the best choice for your specific craving, we have compiled a list of the top spots to visit. Whether you need a quick grab-and-go espresso, a sit-down brunch, or a quiet place to decompress after sensory overload, this curated selection has you covered.
Cafe Dulce (USC Village)
| Address | 3096 McClintock Ave Ste 1420, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 536-5609 |
Pastries are AWESOME. So far been having 1/week as a student and the price for the quality is incredible.
Mango donut was fresh w mango custard filling and awesome texture.
Sweet potato Roti was actually insane, the worker was super kind and offered to heat it up -- literally tasted like Chinese 奶黄包 but sweet potato flavored. Def gonna keep coming back to try more!!
If you're looking for a spot that opens early in the morning at USC Village, this is pretty much the only place to go, and thank goodness it’s amazing! It’s insanely popular with students, and it's easy to see why.
I grabbed a latte, an iced tea for my wife and some croissants, and everything was hit out of the park. They seriously have the best pastries around, and the coffee is always spot on. Even though there's usually a line because of how popular it is, the service is incredible and lightning-fast.
Once you get your order, there is plenty of seating right outside around the fountain. It's the perfect setup to enjoy a relaxing morning. Plus, parking is a breeze since you can just use the Village garage and get the first 2 hours free. Hands down my favorite morning routine spot!
I’ve been going to cafe dulce for years and most locations in LA (USC village, little Tokyo, and my favorite Vernon!). I always order their regular sized drinks but for some reason my matcha was served barely filled. I had asked the barista why my drink wasn’t filled to the full amount and was told it would be an extra charge yet I got my coffee in the same size filled to the brim?! Weird. The excuse that was given was that that was the actual serving size to my drink they just didn’t fill it with ice which is an even weirder thing to admit. I though you pay for the given size?! They could’ve just prepared my drink properly like everyone else’s.
Cafe Dulce sandwiches and salads just hit different!!! I ordered the Spicy Chicken sandwich, which had herb-roasted chicken breast, tomatoes, house slaw, provolone & sweet chili sauce, and the Peanut Kale salad, which had fresh herbs, serrano, roasted peanut vinaigrette & grated reggiano. Everything was so fresh and delicious, especially the bread on the sandwich!!!! I appreciated that they had plenty of vegan options for my vegan friend, and can’t wait to come back and try other ones.
The line was worth the wait, and it wasn’t terribly bad. Went fairly quickly for a weekend crowd and food came out fast. The music inside was too loud for conversation, but there is a patio area and the food and service were excellent!
The food: Green Tea Roti is what my friend and I came here for. It was pretty good, although it did not have that matcha flavor, which, for me, was a good thing, as I don't like matcha-flavored anything but my friend was a bit disappointed, lol.
The service: The line runs out the door and they explicitly ask people to line outside so as to avoid the inside to get too crowded, I think that's a fantastic ideas as the outside has near limitless space (this Cafe Dulce is nested inside the USC Village, so there's PLENTY of room to make a line even almost half a mile long, lol.
The atmosphere: it was ok, I did like that one column that's full of stickers, it's very hipster and fits the criteria of being part of a vibrant and active college campus such as USC.
South LA Cafe
| Address | 2401 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Phone | (323) 207-6027 |
I just tried South LA Cafe, and it was really good! ☕✨ The ladies working there were super friendly and provided excellent customer service, which made the experience even better.
I tried one of their popular drinks, and it was delicious. I also had the vegan brownie, and it was surprisingly good too!
I love that it's a Black-owned business, so let's continue to support local Black businesses and Black entrepreneurs in our communities.
I definitely recommend checking them out. Go watch my review on Taste & Tease With Tonie, and don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and leave a comment down below. If you've tried South LA Cafe, let me know what you think!
Passing by the venue multiple times and finally stopped by as I was craving for some caffeine kick. Love that I could pre-order online so I literally could just swing by and grab my coffee without the wait. Especially parking could be tricky at particular time.
I got their Caramel Macchiato (which they had their own name for but I couldn't recall) which tasted decent enough especially if you're into sweet latte. I could see myself come back another time for sit and chill or just did my WFC. The venue looked cozy and love that it had plenty of space!
This is my favorite cafe right near my house. My favorite latte is the brown sugar cinnamon with oat milk. I spend many mornings here reading my book or doing a bit of work, sometimes I just people watch through the large windows that give a corner side view of the street adjacent to Jefferson. The staff is so welcoming, they all know my name now 🙂 nice modern decor with beautiful art and a comfy couch / seating for longer stays, or your regular table / chair setup. Check them out, you'll love it.
This café was a pretty cool spot with a really nice atmosphere. We had a good vibe the whole time and felt comfortable just hanging out there. The space felt welcoming and relaxed, which made it easy to enjoy our time. The coffees were great and clearly made with care. Each drink had a smooth, balanced flavor that wasn’t overpowering. The croissant could’ve been a bit more flavorful, but it was still fresh and enjoyable. Overall, it was a good experience and definitely a place I’d come back to.
Very pricey for a local community + cause cafe. I’ve been here a few times and genuinely enjoy the ambiance. It’s a great place to work, meet people, and spend a few hours in the community. The space itself is welcoming, which is why I’ve continued coming back.
That said, I’m increasingly frustrated by what feels like constant upcharges for nearly every part of a drink order. When I ordered a matcha, I was asked what type of milk I wanted. I asked which milk came standard because I didn’t want to keep adding charges, and was told there was an upcharge for the alternatives. Then I asked about sweetener and whether I could get honey on the side, which was another charge. When I asked how the matcha is normally sweetened, I was told that adding any sweetener would cost extra as well.
By the end of the conversation, what started as a $6 matcha was approaching $10 after milk and sweetener. That just felt excessive.
What makes this especially disappointing is the mission behind the café and the organization. The focus on supporting the South LA community and addressing economic and social inequalities is something I deeply respect. As someone who volunteers and believes in giving back, I want to support businesses that serve the community. However, the pricing structure feels out of alignment with that mission and can come across as unwelcoming to the very people the organization aims to support.
I still enjoy the atmosphere and appreciate the work being done, but I hope there can be more transparency around pricing and perhaps a more accessible approach to basic drink customizations.
Archives Of Us
| Address | 555 N Spring St A201, Los Angeles, CA 90012 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
I stopped by Archives of Us and decided to branch out from my usual order and try a good variety of their menu. I ordered the Orange Mint Latte, Matcha Sparkling Lemonade, Einspanner White, Hibiscus Mint Sparkling Lemonade, and of course, a cortado. I also tried their Wagyu Sliders.
Every drink was fantastic. What I really enjoyed was how different each one was from the next. It didn’t feel like I was ordering variations of the same drink — each had its own flavor profile, presentation, and unique touch. The Orange Mint Latte was especially interesting, and both sparkling lemonades were refreshing and completely different from what I would normally order. The Einspanner White was another standout. Overall, it was a really fun variety to try at once.
The cortado was also very good. It had a nice flavor, smooth texture, and was easy to drink. Their approach is a little different from a traditional cortado presentation because the espresso and milk are fully integrated together rather than finished with latte art. I actually appreciate that style when it’s executed well because the focus is more on getting the espresso and milk completely incorporated into one cohesive drink.
The presentation across the entire order was also really well done. You can tell there’s thought behind how everything is served and put together, which adds to the overall experience.
The Wagyu Sliders were great as well. I think the food side of Archives of Us deserves more attention because they have some genuinely good food options to go along with the drinks rather than the food feeling like an afterthought.
The space itself is beautifully designed with plenty of seating inside as well as an outdoor seating area. I love the overall atmosphere and aesthetic — there are certain details about the design, presentation, and experience that remind me of coffee shops I’ve visited in Japan.
The staff made the experience even better. Everyone was extremely friendly, kind, and welcoming.
Overall, Archives of Us has a lot going for it. A beautiful space, great service, thoughtful presentation, a strong variety of drinks, solid coffee, and food worth trying as well. It’s especially nice to find a coffee shop where I actually want to explore the menu beyond my usual cortado. Definitely the type of place I could see myself coming back to once a week.
I’m going to dive right into this! If you’re a true Matcha or coffee lover this place is a must! If you enjoy a chill and smooth playlist while you enjoy your caffeine then this place checks off the box in my opinion. The vibe has a gallery type feel as well as chic. The decor has some modern upscale to it but cozy at the same time and that’s the best I can describe it. Ok, so we got one of the popular matcha drinks that was really good and made the start of this drink adventure a positive one. We also ordered the Sea Salt Mocha and this drink was definitely a fire starter. Both of the drinks were on point with flavor. The last drink we ordered was the Coffee Einspanner and the drink was amazing as I thought it would be. The service was great and you can tell they really enjoy what they do and that leads to positive experiences. They also have a gorgeous outside patio that’s a must for the view. So if you’re ever in the DTLA area and looking for a legit coffee spot then this place is a must as it is for me.
I tell everyone to come check this place out. Their drinks are outstanding, their pastries are top quality, and there’s tons of seating with the best vibes. All the baristas are so kind and deliver consistently delicious drinks. I personally love their cream top matcha, but their coffee is amazing too! They even have their own elevator which is so unique and fun! Btw Earl grey cannelle is a MUST
There seems to be a small abundance of coffee shops speckled around Chinatown but I really enjoy the low key quietness but with an undertone of energy provided by the students and drinkers here in this slightly hidden space on the second floor. I don't really drink a lot of coffee but I really did enjoy their orange mint matcha - so good. The service and friendliness was sincere and I appreciate them remembering I was there the previous day. They have both indoor and outdoor seating with soft college music playing overhead. Be good to this place.
It was my first time visiting AOU and it won't be the last! As soon as I exited from the elevator, I was greeted and the employees are super friendly. My husband and I ordered a dirty matcha, strawberry matcha tonic, and wagyu sliders. Everything was amazing and the tonic was surprisingly good. The vibes and aesthetic were great.
Cow Cafe
| Address | 342 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 536-5255 |
This was my first time in the coffee shop and I was pleasantly surprised! I ordered an iced Americano with some soy milk and it was $.95 cents cheaper than the Starbucks across the street! The espresso was really good it had a good taste and wasn't bitter nor was it thin. It was full bodied and paired well with the soy milk. The food I ordered was the almond butter toast that came with sliced bananas and honey drizzled on top. The bread used was so good! It was toasted to perfection and had a great taste. I should have asked what bread they used. Whenever I'm in the area again I will gladly visit them and support
Very yummy food and excellent service. Plenty of metered street parking nearby. I'd recommend going early because they did run out of potatoes and croissants by the time I got there at 10:30am. The breakfast burrito and the breakfast wrap both were excellent and unparalleled in terms of flavor 🤤
I came around 11 am in hopes to make a quick stop before meeting a beloved friend. Catching up on life errands as life goes on.
The location is located at the corner of streets. Street parking is conveniently available. I ordered a decaf latte and have been struck by the busy ebs and flows of people. It’s a wonderful area to get into deep conversation with friends.
There are a few outlets here and there if you need a place to study.
The menu features brunch options that I hope to try another time!
The space is cozy.
I can tell the place built up a supportive community of regulars.
I’m grateful for this
Some inventive twists on standard fare. All fresh. Friendly service. Great prices. Exactly the model of small neighborhood cafes we need more of. Highly recommend.
Food was delicious. They got my customized milk correct. They were super nice and it was really calm.
Basil & Cheese Cafe
| Address | 757 Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 278-0800 |
Was excited to try this place. Then got a ton of eggshell in my omelet. I told the server and he said "I dont know what you want me to do about that." Uh. Remake it without eggshell? At least offer something? I paid $40 at this place for some avocado toast and an omelet how are you going to leave eggshells in it then tell me you don't know what to do? Then he just walked away. Would give 0 stars if I could. 👎🏻 At least my wife enjoyed her avocado toast.
OMG the bagel was so good!! It was fresh and **SO soft** — YUM. Everything bagel sandwich… thank me later 🤤
Also, a quick note to the owner: please consider getting your employees a more secure tip box or bar. While I was standing in line, a homeless person ran in, pushed past me, and took cash from the plastic tip container sitting on the counter. Your team deserves better protection than that. I replaced what was taken, but this feels like an easy upgrade that could really improve their day-to-day experience and peace of mind. Thank you.
Nice spot for a quick breakfast at Basil & Cheese Cafe ☀️
We stopped by looking for something fast and easy in the morning. We had a hot matcha with oat milk, which was good but a bit on the sweet side for our taste. We also ordered the avocado smoked turkey & egg everything bagel sandwich and the power omelette. The omelette was tasty and satisfying. The bagel sandwich felt fresh and healthy, though we personally would have preferred it to be a bit more flavorful. Overall, a convenient and solid breakfast option in downtown LA. 🥚🥯
I was craving an everything bagel and decided to try this place. But sadly my bagel was everything but good. All the reviews say they are soft but I don't know ow what happened. I felt as if I was chewing on something defrosted from biblical times. I spent 8 dollars to chew Styrofoam. So disappointed. The only plus is that the inside is very cute and clean. And enough cream cheese was provide.
Basil & Cheese Cafe was excellent all around! I met a friend for a brunch date and we had such a nice time. The atmosphere was perfect for us to relax and catch up and the food was not only beautiful to look at but tasted just as good too. So glad I found this spot and will definitely visit again soon!
Mad Lab Coffee
| Address | 5508 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 244-2577 |
It was alright
Americano was diluted and lacked espresso. That and the cup wasn’t filled all the way up.
Also ordered a matcha with honey. Matcha flavor was also weak and tasted only like milk. I believe the honey flavor I had requested was neglected because even that flavor wasn’t present.
Great coffee. Love this neighborhood coffee shop. Just a bench on the inside and some chairs to sit while waiting for your drink. My favorite is the orange vanilla latte - I forget their name for it - and I’m not really a fan of orange flavored coffee but it is done so well here. Meringue topping is an option.
The staff was friendly and helped a lot by describing the drinks available and giving honest recommendations. I got the azuki with almond milk, which was a red bean coffee drink. I didn’t taste much red bean but it was nutty in flavor.
I also got the kouign amann which was delicious. I would go back for the pastry alone. They also had good music playing.
Definitely more of a take out coffee shop. They have a few small tables in front but this isn’t a work friendly cafe. Walked here around 8:30 am on a Tuesday and there was no line. Definitely try this spot out!
Not so much weird science as it is great coffee, I was really happy to find Mad Lab close to where I’m staying in LA! This is some of the tastiest coffee I’ve tried and the staff are super nice. There’s a small selection of pastries with a vegan option, a carrot cake doughnut thingy; it was delish. I left with some of their in house beans, roasted in LA and touting an elderberry, Blenheim apricot and lilac finish, which made for a wonderful at home coffee. Also lovely were the folks hanging around drinking their morning brews, along with a few pups, it’s a really pleasant vibe. Welcome to the Lab!
Excellent place to grab a coffee or one of their specialty drinks. The staff are very friendly. Just happened to be working in the neighborhood and found this place. I would definitely stop by again if I am in the area.
Ministry of Coffee - USC
| Address | 844 W 32nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Phone | (424) 622-7425 |
Lots of students come here to study, but I wish the area was exclusive to customers because sometimes there’s not even a table to sit at despite ordering. I guess it goes to show how nice the cafe is.
The smoothie was great and the croissant with ham a cheese was delicious . The outdoor sitting is fabulous 👌🏼. But they need to empty the trash cans. All 4 were full and it was gross.
The atmosphere and environment is nice for studying but the food and beverages really needs some work. Overpriced, stale, subpar. Great for pictures, but not so great for your tastebuds and wallet
Their drink sizes are not small and my coffee didn’t feel strong enough, but I enjoyed the pistachio croissant.
Good place for small talk and short break near USC
Tee's Cafe
| Address | 623 E 12th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (213) 677-1700 |
Was working an event close by and found this hole in the wall Cafe. The food is SO good! They're a small staff, really friendly, served to food out to me
Got the burrito w/ carnea asada and a Horchata on the side. The burrito is filling, had guacamole, beans, rice inside with onions, pepper and beets served on the side
The Horchata is so sweet , it's a huge drink too. Definitely a solid find
I came to LA not knowing where to eat, and I’m really big on reviews so I pay close attention to all the five-star details. Let me just say, this place walks the talk. The food delivered exactly what people were raving about.
The beef tacos were my absolute favorite flavorful, tender, and honestly some of the best I’ve had. I definitely highly recommend this spot. If you’re in LA, don’t miss out. This is one of those places that deserves every great review it gets.
Victor and his team gave WONDERFUL customers service. HTG their food is 10/10. It's full of flavors and options. 10/10
Tacos are legit, got the asada tacos, they were delicious. 100% would recommend.
The best queso birria taco of my life! Super friendly staff. Can’t wait to go back.
Mad Lab Coffee
| Address | 755 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 218-3880 |
The barista was exceptional. He was very intentional and caring for the customers. Probably one of the more intentional baristas that I’ve met in a while. The pour over was pretty good. I enjoyed some of the tasting notes. Nice little shop. Good service. Decent amount of space to have a meeting if you need to but not to big.
I had an order and they made me wait and extra 10 min which is ok because the girl was by herself . She’s nice but then comes the big Spanish dude ( I’m Mexican btw)who acted rude when I asked him for a bag. I stayed quiet and walked away surprised at the response. “You want a bag for one drink?” Which was a delivery, sometimes some coffee shops provide a holder. I mean, starting my morning being treated rude in a place of business after supporting your business is crazy to me. Do better and be better .
Good coffee, good pastries, friendly staff, inviting and comfortable seating. Great spot downtown to sit with a coffee and read a book for a bit. Big bonus for cyclists: bike racks are directly outside the front door so you can easily keep an eye on your bicycle the whole time (and easy access to the Spring St protected lanes).
Kind barista overheard me wanting to buy water and offered to fill my water bottle with ice water for free and genuinely made my weekend as it was my first sip of water in days. Thank you kind souls giving five stars now
Best coffee in DTLA. Friendly staff and great vibes.
South LA Cafe Western
| Address | 1700 Browning Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90062 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 207-6027 |
Great location with ample street parking. Welcoming and friendly staff. The food is really good too, and the coffee was so delicious. I love their mission and what they stand for!
It was my first time here and the young ladies were super friendly and recommended their signature drinks. I ordered The King, the coffee is really good and so was their coffee cake. If I'm in the area I'll definitely stop by again.
Bought two Vanilla Cappuccinos large size, both taste decent, one of them is 3/4 full. To be my first time here I'd rather not come back for the price that it was. Too expensive for what I got.
First time here and they definitely gained a customer! That coffee cake reminds you of the good old days growing up. The vanilla latte is great too!
I had been looking forward to coming to support this place and I'm so glad that I finally did (and it surely won't be my last time!). The service was top notch. Everyone was so professional and friendly, you can really tell that they take pride in their work. As a vegan, I made some modifications to my bagel to add guac and vegan cheese. It was so yummy! And my coffee was non-dairy milk was also prefection.
The space isn't super huge but that's ok because the ambiance is cozy and they really mazimize the seating. The music playlist was great too! I was able to get some reading in and some work done. Such a great cafe in the community.
I wish them much success and I look forward to my next visit.
Nature's Brew by Bacari
| Address | 2316 S Union Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 741-9393 |
Wondering why this is by Bacari.
I thought it was related to Bacari so I ordered and thought it probably was another breakfast that Bacari opened.
However, the food I received was disgusting.
Somewhat sweet sauces on the scrambled eggs with tomatoes called tofu salad? And super salty sausages. Scrambled eggs are so small.
WTH? I had the worst ever morning sickness.
Not worth any dollar.
How does one describe one of the best, Horchata ice latte? Let’s just say I’m coming back for another one! You know when your mom makes you a regular horchata? Just picture that flavor profile but with a hint of sweetness. To die for. 👌I ordered mine with 2% milk. I also got a chocolate chip cookie and a lemon cookie. Yea, now hats off to the baker! Both of them were absolutely delicious. Lots of chocolate chips and you can taste the lemony flavor! Both baked just right! I didn’t try any of the food. So I’ll have to go back again. Parking, however, was another story, but it’s not their fault. It’s really tricky parking situation in the back. All of the surrounding businesses use the same lot. Overall, I highly recommend this place!
I have ordered from here before and it was okay - seemed fine the first time. I ordered here a second time today for lunch and unfortunately I found a worm in my salad 😭 I don’t recommend ordering a salad or anything with lettuce as I don’t know that it’s washed properly. Natures brew, this is a food safety issue! You need to wash salad thoroughly before serving it to guests, even if through a delivery service. I’m disappointed and also a bit disgusted.
I've been here a handful of times when I'm visiting- the food is always flavorful! There's a great display of baked goods ready to pick from, as well as a menu of sandwiches, salads and smoothies! Obviously, always a coffee #oakmilkvanillahoneyicedlattegoodness!
Always clean and comfortable, not overwhelming like some places and I'm able to get some work done while I grab some food! Also #greengoddessw/chia&ginger!
Thanos was such a kind host. He joked around with us and always was courteous and understanding. When one of our plates was made wrong he made sure that we had everything we needed that was in his power to better our experience. 10/10
Bird’s Nest Cafe
| Address | 2106 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 2:30 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 587-8324 |
To start off, customer service sucks in this place. We waited a few minutes for someone to come to the counter after walking in. They asked us to have a seat anywhere and they will come to us for the order. After waiting 13 minutes and hearing them goofing around in the back, a different person came to the counter and told us to come to the counter to place the order. The employee was so dull and you can tell she hated her job, no smile, no greating, just dull look in her face.
Next the food was plain as paper, no FLAVOR!. I ordered steak and eggs with a medium steak, but I received a well done extra chewy ribeye. The breakfast potatoes are the most basic flavorless potatoes you can find and jetro. You can atleast make an effort and add some seasoning to them. They bring you these 2 salsas in plastic containers, that do not pair well with what I was eating. One tasted like canes sauce (good for chicken fingers) and the other one tasted like water down ketchup. I can see why we were the only two people there.
I've visited both locations for breakfast and lunch. The service was phenomenal and the staff friendly. Next time I will be sure to take a picture of my delicious food. Told several friends about it and they enjoyed as well. Repeat satisfied customer!
Loved our breakfast at Bird Nest Restaurant in Los Angeles! The staff was incredibly patient, friendly, and welcoming, which made the experience even better. The breakfast was delicious, and the pancakes were especially yummy! Great food and wonderful service. Can’t to return
Such a good spot to grab a quick bite after class, or sit and relax, or even study. They have free wifi and plenty of tables, both indoor and outside seating. Been here a couple times and decided to recommend to a couple classmates and they also loved it !
The food is always good, they’re consistent with both to go and dine in orders. Also, greatly appreciate that they give students a discount.
Great food and kind staff! Got a breakfast sandwich and while it was a little pricey, it was delicious and the serving was HUGE. Took most of my fries home. Also music in here was solid.
Jalsah Yemeni Coffee
| Address | 1001 S Broadway C, Los Angeles, CA 90015 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 801-7531 |
Excellent ambiance! The decoration is elegant, the seating is comfortable, and the drinks/foods are phenomenal! Prices have gone up from when it first opened but I can safely justify the price. There's also more variety and selection than ever before yet the quality and taste has remained superb.
Important thing to note, the times I've been here, there is only one person working at a time so it may take a few minutes to get helped. However, they take their time making your drinks and you can definitely taste it!!
Jalsah coffee opened up in front of my apartment building several months ago, and what a blessing it has been. I start everyday with an iced americano with oat milk. They have fully replaced my Starbucks addiction.
I’m not a coffee snob or aficionado by any means, and it’s not hyperbole when I say they genuinely have the best espresso I’ve ever had. It has a rich and deep flavor but never burnt or acidic. Absolutely lovely.
I wish I had more of an appetite when I first wake up because I would be getting their pastries and cakes everyday, which are also fantastic.
I’m not usually one to leave reviews, but this place has made a true impact on my day to day life and the world needs to know! 5 stars all around
One of the best coffee shops I've been to, and I go to A LOT of them. The vibe was super chill and very comfy. The coffee menu offered an array of unique Yemeni options but also had all your standard coffees. Do yourself a favor and make sure to treat yourself to one of their cakes. I had the pistachio cake, it was like a pistachio tres leches, soooo good. This place is definitely a vibe, if you're near DTLA be sure to check them out!
Jalsah had become my go to spot of coffee and drinks! They are super consistent with their quality and the staff is very kind and respectful. I come in almost everyday and try different drinks. I recommend getting the Iced Pistachio or the Iced Spanish Latè. The space is always clean and perfect atmosphere for catching up with a friend or getting some work done. Highly recommend you check them out!!
This is what downtown LA should be! Our first time having Yemeni coffee in a beautiful setting and trying foods we have never tried before. The staff were so patient with our one million questions and helped us find the perfect drink for my picky husband and me since I am vegan and needed non-dairy alternatives. A nice place to gather, truly living up to their name. We are already planning what drinks we will get next time.
MEMORYLOOK
| Address | 2881 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
the einspanner matcha was delicious. i don’t usually like matcha, but this was nice and creamy, and sweet enough for my liking. the portion size is definitely worth the price too, it was pretty big. the dubai chewy cookie was good, just too pricey for its size. the atmosphere was really nice, great parking too. service was good.
Great space in Koreatown for hanging out and drinking drinks
The matcha einspanner is rich and not too sweet with a good matcha flavor and amount. Ask for light ice! It’s perfect
The donut is okay, I think them keeping it in the refrigeration for so long kinda dries it out but it would be better if they sit out at room temp before eating. The strawberry donut is light but kinda plain not much flavor
Staff is super friendly. Not much indoor seating but there’s a big outdoor patio
Kinda pricey, my drink and donut came to $17
Pork Bulgogi Burrito, Creme Brulee Donut, Stumptown cappuccino w oat milk. All delicious. Food enough to share. Cappuccino pulled beautifully, good flavor, steamed oatmeal milk was nice and hot. Donut had a light and creamy center w a thick bruleed crust. The perfect Donut. Burrito had decent amount of pork, not spicy, not giant but big enough to split. Would definitely repeat the combo. Nice airy, shared courtyard. Tall hedge separates street noise and exhaust from courtyard.
I came here because my friend recommended this place to me! There is plenty of free outside parking available. The matcha einspanner here is pretty aesthetic looking and tastes good (it's a bit on the expensive side though). The creme brulee donut is okay but probably wouldn't get it again since it wasn't anything mindblowing. It's has a hard sugar glaze on the outside with a filling in it. I think might just not like donuts that much. There is a good amount of indoor and outdoor seating available. They also provide wifi which is nice for studying. There is a photo booth and it seems they also sell eyewear. A bathroom is also available and overall clean. Overall, decent cafe. Just a bit pricey...
I’ve visited MEMORYLOOK multiple times but my most recent visit honestly left me baffled. I typically get the Vienna einspanner which is great but decided to try something new. I got the strawberry matcha this time and the matcha was very grainy and tasted powdery. To top it off it’s much smaller than their other drinks. I assumed they made all their drinks smaller but after seeing multiple other orders I realized only the strawberry matcha is significantly smaller. Considering it was 9.33 (nearly $10!!!!) for the drink I expected much more. I’m not sure if there is an extra charge for oat milk as well but I honestly can’t justify their pricing especially considering that drink size is not at all uniform throughout their menu. I enjoy their outdoor seating which is nice but their WiFi is spotty and doesn’t work well. I won’t be coming back since there are plenty of other cafes I can go to that are cheaper/better in offering.
Alchemist Coffee Project
| Address | 698 S Vermont Ave Ste 103, Los Angeles, CA 90005 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 388-8767 |
Parking is convenient, and the coffee is pretty decent. The place has a nice, relaxed vibe and isn’t too crowded, which makes it a good spot to come with a group.
I ordered a Spanish latte, but it came out lukewarm, so I asked if they could make it hotter and they kindly remade it. The coffee leans a bit on the acidic side. Overall, not a bad coffee shop to stop by.
Found this super cool, modern cafe in K-Town called Alchemist Coffee Project. The coffee is really good, and they have a great selection of biscuits and pastries. I tried the matcha biscuits and they were delicious. The decor is a mix of interesting and slightly 'weird', and they have some unique merch for sale too.
Great spot to study and work. Nice ambiance. The music is not obnoxiously loud. I had a hot matcha. It was excellent. I got it sweetened but it was modestly sweet, as it should be. I was able to find street parking for free because I came on a Sunday but the parking situation looks sketchy. A very small strip mall lot with lots of businesses. It seems like it’s valet parking.
I’ve been to Alchemist Coffee Project many times as their Matcha is spot on, and the environment is great to study if you need things happening around you. This was the first time I ordered some food off of the menu. I got a Chicken Pesto Panini, and what came out WAS NOT a Chicken anything. There was barely any provolone and maybe an ounce of chicken breast with the most massive amount of arugula on a sandwich I’ve ever seen. The chicken didn’t even cover the whole sandwich. As someone who is counting calories, this was a HUGE let down. The pesto and warm focaccia were yummy but I felt like I spent $15 on two pieces of pesto toast, not a sandwich. This was so disappointing that I don’t think I will be coming back again. Unfortunately I was so hungry and the staff were so busy that I decided not to make a fuss of this but I DO NOT RECOMMEND GETTING ANY FOOD THERE. Matcha and Coffee are great, so if you only stick to that you’ll be good.
Alchemist Coffee Project @ LA
Great coffee spot with impressive attention to detail. Even the to-go cups have latte art, which was a nice surprise.
I ordered the Spanish Latte & the Signature Misugaru Latte — both were good.
The shop itself is small, but parking is easy since it’s located in a plaza, which makes stopping by very convenient.
Definitely worth a visit if you enjoy specialty coffee and something a little different.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cafe Near the Science Center
Choosing the right cafe can make or break your museum visit. The area around Exposition Park has a high density of options, but they vary wildly in terms of speed, seating, and menu offerings. Here are a few practical tips to ensure you pick the right spot for your specific needs and avoid common tourist pitfalls.
Check the distance relative to your parking spot. Exposition Park is large, and walking from one end to the other takes time. A cafe might look close on a map, but if you are parked in the Structure on Figueroa Street, walking to a spot near Vermont Avenue could add 20 minutes to your trip. Determine where your car is or which Metro station you are exiting before selecting a cafe.
Consider the "Peak" times. Many of the best cafes near USC are flooded with students during the weekday morning rush (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) and the lunch hour. If you are trying to get a quick coffee before the Science Center opens at 10:00 AM, you may be competing with a long line of laptops and textbooks. Aim for mid-morning or mid-afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
Prioritize cafes with outdoor seating if you have kids. The California Science Center is a family-friendly destination, but not every coffee shop is. Some trendy spots have limited seating, high tables, or a strict "laptop culture" that is not welcoming to a family with a stroller. Look for cafes that mention patios or sidewalk seating to give your children a little more breathing room.
Look for "grab-and-go" options if you are short on time. If you have timed tickets for an IMAX movie or a special exhibit, you do not have time to wait 15 minutes for a pour-over. Several cafes in the area specialize in fast service and pre-made pastries. Knowing which spots offer online ordering or quick counters can save your schedule.
Don’t ignore the food menus. While the focus is often on coffee, the food quality varies significantly. If you are planning to spend four hours walking through the Ecosystems exhibit, you need real sustenance, not just sugar. Look for cafes that offer substantial sandwiches, protein-rich bowls, or savory pastries to keep your energy levels stable.
The area surrounding the California Science Center is a microcosm of what makes Los Angeles food culture great. It is unpretentious, diverse, and driven by a community of people who care about quality. Taking the time to step just a few blocks away from the museum grounds will reward you with a much richer and more authentic experience than staying inside the park boundaries.
Ultimately, the best cafe is the one that fits your pace. Whether you need a quick espresso to wake up before the doors open or a long, lingering lunch to discuss the wonders of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the perfect spot is waiting for you just around the corner.
