After a morning spent marveling at dinosaur fossils in the Natural History Museum or exploring the space shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center, you are likely to work up a serious appetite. Fortunately, Exposition Park is not just a hub for culture and education; it is surrounded by a vibrant culinary scene waiting to be explored. While the immediate park grounds offer quick snacks, the surrounding neighborhoods are brimming with independent coffee shops and cozy eateries.
Whether you are a local looking for a new remote work spot or a tourist needing a caffeine boost between exhibits, the area has something for everyone. From artisan espresso bars to hearty breakfast joints, the options are diverse and delicious. We have curated a guide to the best cafes within a short driving distance or a manageable walk from the museum campus.
This list focuses on quality, atmosphere, and proximity to ensure you spend less time traveling and more time enjoying your day. We have prioritized establishments that offer a genuine taste of Los Angeles culture, steering clear of generic chains you can find anywhere. You will find spots perfect for a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or simply a perfectly pulled shot of espresso.
Since parking at Exposition Park can be competitive, many of these cafes are located just outside the main congestion zones, making them easy to access. We have also considered the need for comfortable seating, especially if you have been on your feet all day. Keep reading to discover your next favorite coffee spot near the museums.
Before you head out, it is worth noting that hours can vary seasonally and on holidays. While we strive for accuracy, checking a cafe’s social media or website before walking over is always a smart move. With that in mind, let’s dive into the top picks that combine convenience with incredible flavor.
THE HISTORY COFFEE
| Address | 3501 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019 |
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| 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 – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (323) 641-7123 |
This café actually had strong WiFi, which I really appreciated since a lot of K-town cafés don’t. It’s a good spot for working on a laptop, and the environment is generally quiet and focused. I also saw the owner ask a couple of customers to keep their volume down, which I respected.
I ordered a sandwich and an unsweetened green matcha with light ice, and everything tasted good. I paid during the earlier shift and stayed to work.
When the later shift came in, I needed to use the restroom, which requires a code. I asked two staff members for it, and they looked at me up and down and asked if I had bought anything. I had already made a purchase, just not during their shift. The way it was asked felt unnecessary and came across as dismissive and rude.
In their response below, they referenced people like delivery drivers, rideshare drivers, or others coming in only to use the restroom. That does not apply to this situation.
I had already ordered, was seated inside, and was clearly using the space as intended. Second shift staff had seen me sitting down prior to this interaction, so there was already direct awareness that I was a paying customer.
There is also a clearly posted policy that seating is for customers only, which means anyone sitting and working inside has already made a purchase.
Despite that, paying customers are still put in a position where they are unnecessarily questioned just to use the restroom, which comes across as insulting and makes the experience feel unwelcoming.
This could have been handled more professionally.
Overall, the WiFi and work-environment are strong positives, but the inconsistency in customer service and how this was handled left a negative impression.
Trying to find coffee shop in the area to make a stop and spend some time on my laptop, then finding History Coffee on Yelp with pretty high rating and great reviews. Parking was kinda tricky as expected around this area, but managed to find one of the last spots available. The couples serving that time were extremely friendly and helpful and I loved how their menu offered some peculiar options like their signature Banana Latte I went for, which seemed to be the most favorite one.
Plenty of seats with power outlets and I could see not few of the guests did come to work, so you could expect the ambiance was pretty focus time friendly.
They did offer some pastries and Chia Puddings but not heavier meals. My drink, which was only available in iced, turned out awesome. They even had small banana chunks on top. It was refreshing, not overly sweet, and the banana flavor surely didn't overpower the pretty bold coffee and even complemented it very well. Would recommend!
Bright airy coffee shop with good lattes and plenty of seating. This is a great place to hunker down and do some work for the afternoon. The barista who took my order was very kind and helpful which is always a plus. I got the gluten-free banana bread and chocolate coconut latte both of which were very tasty. I will definitely be back here!
Great coffee shop with a spacious interior and lots of seating. Simple seating, seems good for studying or getting work done. The street-side, outdoor seating also looks very nice. Vanilla Cream Cold Brew was delicious!
One of the best places for coffee and to work and/or study in ktown. Great cool vibey music, accessible wifi, nice and bright space. Their dalgona latte is my go to. Parking is mainly street.
Jurassic Magic Coffee
| Address | 1865 S Mansfield Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019 |
|---|---|
| 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 | (424) 835-0598 |
Cute little coffee shop in mid-city. The offer was a little pricey and the menu e was a little confusing, but it was good. The cookie was ok. I might return, but I will probably keep searching for my new coffee shop. There was a woman on her laptop talking very loudly on her phone on the back patio, and i wanted to sit back there, but she was pretty annoying, so i went the the front sidewalk to have my coffee.
This is my favorite coffee shop in the neighborhood. Coffee is pretty good. I always get drip here and it’s consistently good. Im a bit of a snob for coffee who makes aeropress every morning, so trust me when I say the drip is pretty good. Also, everyone is so nice and personable. The owner Carlos is talented in design and the unique midcentury interior inside the coffee shop brings out the zen in me for some reason. Im a local in the neighborhood and Jurassic really brightens up the corner of Midcity, so I always appreciate their presence beyond just serving great coffee. They just launched the kitchen so I have yet to try their foods but Im always cheering as a customer for their growth :).
Stopped by Jurassic Magic for a cortado. The drink looked Solid at first, but it didn’t quite come together the way I hoped. The flavor was decent and enjoyable enough, but the biggest issue was the texture. It had a chalky, almost powdery mouthfeel that made it feel muddy and took away from the overall experience.
Presentation was okay, though there were some visible bubbles in the milk that kept it from having that smooth, glossy finish you’d expect from a really well-executed cortado. The latte art was decent enough, but nothing particularly memorable.
The texture never really improved from the first sip to the last. The body broke apart a little more than halfway. Not a bad cortado by any means, and the taste itself was decent, and service was pretty straight forward and solid. The place itself is nice and somewhere I would hang out but I’m not sure if I’d return for the cortado.
Wanted to visit this coffee shop I’ve been hearing about. It’s a charming gentrifying neighborhood cafe by Mansfield and Washington Blvd. Cute, but it’s hard to justify prices - the small specialty latte I ordered set me back $8 plus tip, has baked goods but probably not made in premises, next door Convi has the hot food. has nice seating mingling area at the back as well as some seating on the curb. Narrow Street parking only which is difficult specially on cleaning days. Staff are friendly.
The place is super aesthetic but the coffee felt low-average. Maybe it was my selection (I had a Magic Latter).
It has plenty of tables and chairs to seat on, both inside and outside so it’s perfect if you want to do some work in there. Though I have to say that after a while, the seats can get a bit uncomfortable.
Archives Of Us
| Address | 555 N Spring St A201, Los Angeles, CA 90012 |
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| 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.
Cafe Calle
| Address | 3310 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90011 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 432-2645 |
If you blink you'll miss it!
Great ambiance, the avocado toast with an egg only $10. The warm chocolate muffin is a chocoholic's wild dream.
The seasonal ginger bread coffee is delicious and the pour over is rich and full of flavor.
The staff takes their time and prepares the food and beverages with a touch of pride.
They even make their own flavor syrups in house.
Our order was $28 for a generous fare.
I ordered the Spanish latte and it was delicious! My husband ordered a cold brew with horchata cream and it was so yummy! We had the chicken pita wrap and honestly it was delicious. I will be coming back.
I haven't tried the food but the drinks were great. This a small spot in South Los Angeles were local community meets, is a quiet, cozy and friendly place
Great coffee ☕ shop! Very cozy and full of warmth, just what you need during the winter ❄️ ☃️ season.
I ordered a Gingerbread latte hot, it was freakin delicious!
And the customer service was also great. Thanks to everyone working there 🤌👏
Café Calle can be easy to miss, driving by, but once you find it you won't regret it.
DEFINITELY recommend! 👍🫰
I was in the area and needed to stop somewhere to crank out a couple emails. Great little cafe. Very welcoming staff and clean and nice atmosphere, with good music and plenty of seating options. Prices aren’t too bad either - i got a cappuccino for $5 (sub oat milk).
Jurassic Magic Coffee
| Address | 2502 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057 |
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| 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) 263-9741 |
I know living in Ktown means you are surrounded by coffee shops, but this one is UNIQUE!! Not emphasizing on foams, syrups, or even most of the drinks are not too sweet which I appreciate. Not cheesy, not watery, not too much milk.
This shop puts focus on quality rather than the add-ons. The coffee always came right on point, the beans are fresh. If you want a true coffee or a good cold brew, check it out!
My personal fav is the Magic Latte and Golden Album cold brew. Highly recommend
I ended up at this coffee shop by accident since the dog with long hair picture that they have at the window catch my eye and it didn’t disappoint, it’s such a vibe here and it has personality, I love trying out new coffee places, the service was greats, the cashier had good recommendations and he was really friendly. I loved the coffee, strong and not too sweet.
Honestly, I was disappointed. Their website was deceiving. Their cafe is nothing like is shown on the website. Yes the barista was very welcoming. The place was empty.
He mentioned his boss had asked if any "Mexican" customers had arrived. I would say Hispanic since we Hispanics are from different Latin American backgrounds.
I hope everyone else has a better experience.
The add they did on Instagram claimed the owner was A Honduras owner.
I just felt lied too.
2 coffees 2 breads 32.00
I expected to see Art or books from Honduras. I expected the owner to be proud of his culture but I saw nothing of that. I saw the same normal coffees and Lattes younl would get at a Starbucks.
I expected to see some coffee drinks from Honduras or dinosaurs related. I guess it was just me expecting too much.
Not my first time to Jurassic Magic as I have been a fan of its Mid City's one. So knowing they're having another outlet surely excited me especially this one carried just different ambience. To my surprise it wasn't that busy on Sunday, making it easy to find a seat and the service was also speedy.
I got their signature cold brew with vanilla syrup and almond milk. I loved how their cold brew tasted bold yet had smooth finishing and their house vanilla syrup also tasted outstanding.
Weird vibes. The barista had a line of people while chatting with the customer ahead of me. He was making drinks simultaneously so I chalked it up to them managing the line. When it got to me, he quickly took my order and then the two orders after me before making my drink. The charm for the previous customer was absolutely gone and he seemed pretty uninterested in any small talk with me. I love the midcity location and since this one is closer to my place, I figured I’d check it out . I was going to stay and read but the energy was so oddly tense. I just left, despite paying for parking. To top it off, my cappuccino was sour. I saw another posters comment about subtle racism and while I can’t attest to that, as the only black person in line, it did feel like general dismissiveness. My take on this is its proximity to MacArthur park potentially makes the space a little hostile to people who don’t look like the baristas. There’s a psychology study in there somewhere.
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.
Palm Grove Social
| Address | 4660 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016 |
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| 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: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Such a cute spot. The iced coffee was delicious. Staff super friendly. There is one table if you are looking to work on your computer. The other seating has cute little round stand, big enough for a coffee and pastry.
Wednesday is street cleaning so had to drive around a bit to find parking 🙃
Very yummy coffee.
Palm Grove Social is so much more than a coffee shop. It’s one of those spaces you walk into and immediately want to stay awhile. Part café, part gallery, part community hub, it somehow manages to feel both thoughtfully curated and completely relaxed.
The drinks were fabulous, the barista warm and welcoming, and the whole space just inspires. Inside, art lines the walls and a long communal table makes you want to sit down and settle in. And then there’s the garden patio: lush, quiet, and tucked away like a little hidden oasis.
It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, look around, and maybe even stay longer than you planned. So very cool. Will absolutely be back.
This place is consistently the most welcoming shop in LA that I’ve been to. Everyone on the team is friendly and have a vested relationship with all of their regulars. All of their drink recipes are house-made and delicious. If you can’t decide, the baristas always have a great rec handy.
There is no pretension. The space is clean, well lit, and hip. The outdoor patio is a wonderful space to work from, or catch up with friends. Their community events are lively and fun. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys good coffee and a place that celebrates collaborative community relationships.
Some construction work were on going so it’s loud and prolly not the most enjoyable space to sit and chill over your cup of joe. If it’s not because of that, the space was actually cool, featuring some artworks around several corners, nice greenery, and some seats for brief chilling moments.
The menu went beyond just basic ones and even featured seasonal specials. I got intrigued by the Miso Butterscotch Latte , which I would 1000% recommend, being not overly sweet, letting the bold coffee stood out, and perfected with the creamy caramel-ly butterscotch with a salty savory hint from the miso.
My favorite local coffee shop. The quality is unmatched, the vibes are always great and inspiring, and most importantly, the crew is so attentive and nice. Their backyard seating area is the real hidden gem!
House Coffee Co
| Address | 5162 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016 |
|---|---|
| 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 | (833) 363-7438 |
House Coffee Co was one of the best coffee experiences I’ve had in Los Angeles. The baristas were amazing, and they made me a washed Ethiopian pour-over that was incredibly enjoyable and full of flavor. Great coffee, great people, and a welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!
It feels like the cafe name perfectly represents the ambiance. The petite shop does feel super homey that it gives the vibe of having coffee at your friend's living room. One simple long communal table at the center complemented with plugs for the guests to use. I really love how the background music is slow and chill - not being too loud, and all the guests also mostly focus on their own thing, making it perfect 'quiet' space regardless you're working or just seeking some peaceful space to relax.
Being a first timer doesn't make me feel alienated as the barista's super welcoming. Asking for her reco, I end up with their house signature's Maple Walnut Latte. Interestingly the Maple Walnut was actually the dairy-free milk and the default sweetener is house-made brown sugar cinnamon syrup. She does call out that they make all their syrups in house so I'm pretty impressed by how many selections they carry. They do have a handful of non-coffee options if coffee isn't your cup of tea. I see plenty of guests go for their Strawberry Matcha, which indeed is their top one from non-coffee selections. I love my cup of joe, coming just at the right sweetness level, and the flavor's peculiar yet amiable. I request mine to be served extra hot, and it does come like a warm hug amidst the all-day-long pouring rain.
What a cute little store right on the corner . Parking is slim , but that doesn’t stop customers from flocking here . There was already a little line early In the morning and I can see why . Warm and friendly baristas , great ambiance , plenty of seating outdoors and a large table indoors , house made delicious syrups and delicious coffee !! I loved both of my drinks - excellent flat white ( and I don’t say often ) , also we loved the brown sugar cinnamon latte ( house made syrup ) not too sweet . Great espresso flavor - Will definitely come back and try more coffees !
Coffee was delicious and not too sweet (which I appreciate), a bit on the pricey side for specialty drinks compared to nearby shops. Cute interior but barista could’ve been more inviting/friendly.
Atmosphere is lit. Service is cold and judgmental. And I said I didn't want my croissant warmed up but it was handed to me hot. Soooo..... if you find yourself in this pocket of town it's good in a pinch but not a destination like cafecito organico or even your run of the mill Blue Bottle.
kyucafe
| Address | 2100 W Washington Blvd #1, Los Angeles, CA 90018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (323) 402-0390 |
If I lived in LA I would definitely be a regular at this cafe. They have fresh juices and delicious matcha and coffee drinks. I got the strawberry matcha and it was soooo delicious!!
They also have a variety of food options to choose from. All the food looked really fresh and yummy. But go early because they sell out. There is also a bunch of different Korean ramen to choose from and they have a really cool set up where you can make it there!
Also there is a huge parking lot in the back so it’s really easy to park. You must check out this cafe!
A well-hidden gem. A great place to study or meet up with friends.
The drinks are five-star; they have a great selection of non-caffeinated drinks.
The food is good but limited. They have onogiri (Japanese), breakfast burritos (California), and bulgogi bowls with rice and kimchi (Korean), but they are out in a "serve yourself" area. They also have a good selection of Korean ramyun with stations to add hot water.
we went around 9 am today (saturday!), and there was plenty of space inside and in the parking lot in the back! me and bf got strawberry matchas, they were perfectly sweet and the strawberry matched great. service was quick and friendly, the seating areas were clean! there’s a really cute center piece on one of their tables that has felted animals in a little garden, adorable!
I had an extremely pleasant experience. I tried their sweet potato latte. It was very light and refreshing. I also tried their premium lobster ramen. It was very delicious. The service was amazing. The people that work here are very kind and welcoming to their customers ❤️.
The staff here are so kind and attentive. We ordered an iced matcha latte with honey — it tasted clean and bright (and not too sweet) — and a smoked salmon onigiri that hit the spot, for a late lunch. We will make sure to come earlier next time since most of the onigiri had already sold out by the afternoon. Extra special shout out to kyucafe for being family-friendly. Can’t wait to come back to try out one of the many ramen options to make in the café when the weather gets cooler.
South LA Cafe
| Address | 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| 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) 207-6027 |
Coffee and Dinos! The service was fast and friendly. We only ordered drinks, so I can't speak to the food. It was a little pricey but pocket change compared the Museum's official cafe. There are decent number of 2-4 seat tables with a park right outside. South LA Cafe has great coffee, great values, and is right next to Gnatalie the diplodocus, which is infinitely cool.
So if you've been to different museums, you know there are little grab-and-go cafes that are sometimes incredibly fresh and tasty. This is NOT one of those. The avocado toast was definitely pre-made, so the avocado layer was dark when the toast came. We had to throw it away after one bite. Other items were the same quality. Sad.
I ordered a hot Americano and a hot mocha because the weather was cold, but I was very disappointed. The hot mocha wasn’t hot at all—it was only lukewarm, so there was really no point in ordering a hot drink. Even worse, the hot Americano tasted like hot water with just a hint of coffee. It was so weak that I could barely taste any coffee. At least the Americano was hot enough to warm me up, but that’s something I would expect from any hot drink, not something that deserves praise.
I stopped by here with my family since we came to visit the national history museum & let me say it wasn't very pleasant. The cashier acted like I was wasting her time with questions & annoyed. No greeting or smile- still I place my order so my children can snack on something. I got a blended mocha, not very tasty or flavorful; too bitter. I got a banana nut muffin which was delicious. My daughters got chocolate chip cookies also good. My son got a sprinkle cup cake, he liked also. Got our orders pretty fast. The prices were decent. Not sure I would want to be back though, didn't feel welcome what so ever & not a lot of sitting space. My son had to sit a table away and husband had to stand. That's something that should be look into. Not just one person but families also should feel welcome.
Nice spot to visit after the museum. Great coffee and a pleasant atmosphere.
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.
Izal Caffe
| Address | 3160 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90005 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 6:45 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 6:45 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 6:45 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 843-0156 |
This is one of the few cafés that are open early in the morning. I recommend the coffee and the breakfast options. The coziness makes the experience a relaxing and enjoyable.
Hidden charm inside Koreatown. We lived in a hotel nearby and looked for a breakfast place, walked in with no high expectation and surprised. Can't be happier with what we had. Highly recommend their drinks and dine-in to have the latte art on the cup. Matcha lavender latte is my #1.
Great caffe matcha latte was amazing! Love to support a family business that is not skimping on quality for quantity.
Very good cafe, horchata latte was awesome and so was the izal smoothie! They ran out of an item and very kindly substituted it for us. Hello kitty pancakes were very light and airy but still had a crunch on the outside. Exceded my expectations 👍🏼
Cute little spot with the best panini! I had fuego panini and it had that nice habanero kick to it and I loved it! I would literally come back to this place just for their panini !! Latte was good and the fresh squeezed juice was really good too
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.
Motiq
| Address | 2789 W Olympic Blvd Ste 201, Los Angeles, CA 90006 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 460-2588 |
They have delicious strong matchas here, and their food is super yummy. I had the turkey sandwich and the kimchi carbonara here: the sandwich was light and satiating, and the pasta was creamy, savory, and filling. The koi matcha is my favorite thing here, but their fruity matcha and Matcha x Matcha are also super tasty. Sometimes the service is crazy busy, and a few times the servers didn’t make my drink right or forgot to make my drink. But it’s a good vibe overall
Saw this place from instagram. It’s very spacious and great for nice weather seating! There’s also heaters during colder weather and many seating areas! Theres even a 3rd floor to this place.
Parking is valet but if you give the valet your receipt it’s free parking. Otherwise there’s street parking.
Decently priced and good quality food in my opinion. Lots of people study here or just doing busy work. Great study spot for free WiFi. They heavily emphasize no outside food or drinks here. They give you a buzzer number for when your food and drink is ready
Okkk new #1 for me out of the many in LA 😍😍😍 all elements of the matcha latte were mixed so well for me. It felt silky. I ordered a second drink right after my first one. I loved their variety of food options too and the fact that they have lots of indoor and outdoor seats but it still felt cozy. Extension cords to wfh inside. Free parking garage. Their dishes and matcha variants look so so good. I also ordered more lattes for delivery the next day lul
Not even exaggerating when I say this is the best cafe in all aspects: matcha, coffee, food, outlets, tables, and FREE VALET PARKING!
This place is always packed, their matcha is some of the highest quality I've had in the US, and their coffee is strong as well.
The kimchi carbonara pasta is the perfect fusion dish and their coffee burrito is actually better than Wake LA's.
Love that they have covered outdoor seatings with fans and mists for the summer and heatwave!
Omg such a cute spot! So many tables and chairs to work at. There were a lot of people working quietly at the tables. Very chill and productive vibe. The chestnut hojicha is out of this world. I need to come back to try the mango matcha. Very nice staff too!
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
Tips for Your Cafe Visit
Navigating the area around a major attraction like the Natural History Museum can be tricky, especially on weekends or during special exhibitions. To ensure your coffee run is as smooth as your museum visit, a little local knowledge goes a long way. The following tips are designed to help you maximize your time, save money, and avoid common tourist pitfalls when grabbing a bite near Exposition Park.
1. Walk a Few Blocks for Better Value
The cafes located directly on the perimeter of the park often deal with high foot traffic and tourist demand, which can sometimes lead to higher prices or longer lines. If you are willing to walk ten to fifteen minutes north into the West Adams district or west toward Vermont Avenue, you will often find more authentic local hangouts with better seating availability and slightly lower prices.
2. Check University Schedules
The University of Southern California (USC) is directly adjacent to Exposition Park. During the academic year, cafes in the nearby University Park area can become incredibly crowded between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM and again in the early afternoon. If you are looking for a quiet place to relax, try to time your coffee break outside of these student rush hours.
3. Parking Strategy
If you are driving to a cafe after parking at the museum, it is usually best to leave your car in the official Exposition Park structure and walk or take a short rideshare to the cafe. Street parking in the residential areas near the best cafes often requires a local permit, and metered spots can be difficult to find. Walking ensures you do not lose your coveted museum parking spot.
4. Look for "Museum Discounts"
While not always advertised online, several local cafes and bakeries near Exposition Park offer small discounts to museum members or visitors showing a same-day ticket stub. It is always worth asking the barista if they have a "local" or "museum" special, as this can save you a dollar or two on a pastry or drip coffee.
5. Embrace the Outdoor Seating
Los Angeles is famous for its weather, and many of the best cafes in this area feature charming patios or sidewalk seating. Given that you have likely been indoors looking at exhibits, opting for a cafe with outdoor space allows you to enjoy the California sun and fresh air while you recharge your batteries.
The area surrounding Exposition Park is a true reflection of Los Angeles’s diverse culinary identity, offering far more than just standard museum fare. Whether you are in the mood for a delicate lavender latte, a hearty breakfast burrito, or a vegan pastry, the neighborhoods flanking the museums have you covered. Taking the time to step just outside the park boundaries often leads to discovering hidden gems that enhance your overall experience.
Exploring these local cafes supports the small businesses that give the neighborhood its unique character. So, the next time you find yourself standing beneath the iconic rotunda of the Natural History Museum, know that a fantastic cup of coffee is just a short stroll away.
