Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - The City of Caffeine Dreams

Los Angeles is a city that runs on caffeine. With its bustling entertainment industry and car culture, Angelenos are always on the go and in need of their daily caffeine fix. For a lot of LA locals, coffee shops are like a second home - places to get work done, meet up with friends, or simply watch the city go by.

The coffee culture boom in recent years has transformed LA into a caffeine lover's paradise. Specialty coffee shops are popping up all over the city, each with their own unique vibe and approach to the perfect cup of joe. Whether it's single origin pour overs, frothy cappuccinos, or a simple drip coffee, LA has something to satisfy every coffee craving.
Many locals start their day with a trip to Go Get Em Tiger on Larchmont Blvd, which serves up creative coffee drinks and pastries in a lively, rustic space. Just down the street is Caffe Luxxe, known for its meticulously crafted espressos and creamy lattes made with house-roasted beans. Further east in Silver Lake, you'll find intelligentsia, an acclaimed specialty roaster with a sleek, modern cafe perfect for getting work done.

For those looking to enjoy their coffee with a view, Café Gratitude in Venice Beach offers organic coffees and fresh juices along with scenic views of the ocean. And in artsy Echo Park, Cafecito Organico serves up delicious Nicaraguan coffee sourced through fair trade practices in a cozy, colorful setting.

What else is in this post?

1. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - The City of Caffeine Dreams
2. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Java Joints for Every Coffee Craving
3. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Tea Time Treasures for Tranquil Sipping
4. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Toasting to Vino at LA's Wine Bars
5. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Savoring Sake at Stylish Spots
6. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Mezcal Mania Hits LA's Bar Scene
7. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Cafes for People Watching and Pastry Eating
8. Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Alfresco Options for Sunny Sipping

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Java Joints for Every Coffee Craving

LA is home to an array of distinctive coffee shops to satisfy every type of coffee craving. From cozy neighborhood spots to expansive warehouse cafes, caffeine fiends can find their perfect match.

For those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, try Trejo's Coffee & Donuts in the Arts District. This compact shop features exposed brick walls, retro touches, and delicious coffee sourced from family farms. Pair your morning brew with one of their freshly-made donuts - the maple bacon is a customer favorite. As one Yelp reviewer shares, "The coffee here is smooth and flavorful. I love the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff."

On the other end of the spectrum is Blue Bottle Coffee. With numerous locations across LA, these industrial-chic cafes are spacious and modern. The minimalist decor lets the coffee take center stage. Meticulous attention goes into every cup, whether it's their trademark New Orleans-style iced coffee or a single origin espresso. As a first-time visitor describes, "The coffee here is exceptional. They really know their beans and brewing methods. It's a great spot to get work done or meet up with friends."

For coffee connoisseurs, try Menotti's Coffee Stop. Their expert baristas can prepare coffee via a range of methods like AeroPress, Chemex, and cold brew. With an ever-rotating selection of micro-lot coffees, there's always something new to try. Yelpers rave about the passionate staff and top-notch drinks. As one reviewer puts it, "Menotti's takes coffee to the next level. Their baristas are so knowledgeable and really take the time to make each cup with care."

Those with a sweet tooth will love Salt & Straw's coffee collaborations. This beloved ice cream shop partners with local roasters to create unique coffee-infused flavors. Creations like Coffee & Cigarettes (with smoked sea salt) and Coffee & Donuts showcase coffee's versatility. As one customer says, "These coffee ice creams are so creative! They capture the flavors perfectly while giving my caffeine addiction a delicious new twist."

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Tea Time Treasures for Tranquil Sipping

In a bustling city like Los Angeles, finding a moment of tranquility can seem like an impossible task. Yet dotted across the city are havens serving up the perfect remedy for the stresses of urban life - a soothing cup of tea.

While coffee may dominate LA's café culture, the city's tea options are just as plentiful and diverse. From historic Chinatown teahouses to trendy tea bars, Angelenos have an array of spots to stop and steep their senses.
For an authentic tea experience, head to Phoenix Bakery in Chinatown. This beloved shop has been serving up Chinese teas and pastries since 1938. Sip on classic teas like oolong, jasmine and pu-erh as you soak in the old-world charm. Yelpers recommend trying their baked goods like egg tarts and wife cakes to complement the tea. As one reviewer shares, "The teas here are fantastic. I love the cozy, retro atmosphere. It's a great escape from the city outside."

Those seeking a contemporary ambience will love the Living Room at the W Los Angeles. This chic, yet comfortable bar offers an extensive tea menu alongside upscale small plates. Savor premium teas from around the globe, like rare Japanese matcha and silky Indian Darjeelings. Pair your tea with one of their creative cocktails for an elevated experience. As a visitor describes, "The Living Room is such a gorgeous space to unwind in. The tea selection is phenomenal and the bartenders really know their stuff."

For a zen retreat, visit the Tsubaki Café in Sawtelle Japantown. Their minimalist space and carefully curated tea menu promote a meditative drinking experience. Sip handcrafted teas as you enjoy traditional sweets like mochi and dorayaki. A Yelper shares, "Tsubaki has a very serene vibe. It's a wonderful spot to practice mindfulness while enjoying expertly prepared teas."

Those seeking a modern tea experience will find their bliss at The Republic of Tea in West Hollywood. Their airy, plant-filled space exudes California vibes. Try one of their signature blends, like the White Ginger Peach teapuccino, or design your own custom tea latte. As one reviewer raves, "This place takes tea to a whole new level. The tea lattes are incredible and the ambience is so relaxing."

For a neighborhood spot with charm, there's Steep, a husband-and-wife-owned café in Atwater Village. Their cozy patio and friendly service make it easy to unwind for an afternoon. Peruse their globally inspired tea menu or try one of their creative tea cocktails. As a customer shares, "Steep has a great laid-back vibe with excellent tea options. It's my new favorite neighborhood gem!"

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Toasting to Vino at LA's Wine Bars

Los Angeles may be better known for its Hollywood glamour and beaches, but the city also boasts a thriving wine culture. From cozy wine bars to stylish tasting rooms, LA offers plenty of excellent options for oenophiles to sip and savor. With its year-round sunshine and proximity to California wine country, LA has become an ideal spot for appreciating the pleasures of wine.

For those seeking a lively ambience, head to Son of a Gun in West Hollywood. This hip restaurant offers an extensive by-the-glass wine menu alongside its seasonal New American fare. With options like orange wines, grower Champagnes, and natural wines from small producers, it’s a wine lover’s paradise. As local writer Sam S. shared on his blog, “With its vintage touches and buzzing energy, Son of a Gun makes wine feel fun and approachable. It’s my go-to for catching up with friends over fantastic wines.”

If you prefer a more intimate experience, visit Bar Covell in Los Feliz. This cozy, candlelit bar focuses on small production wines, with a frequently changing by-the-glass selection. Their passionate sommeliers will guide you through unique bottles you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. As Yelper Amanda R. described, “You really feel like you’re being taken care of at Bar Covell. The staff is so knowledgeable and clearly loves connecting customers with special wines.”

For a taste of history, check out the wine program at Musso & Frank Grill. Open since 1919, this Hollywood institution offers a robust wine list with vintage selections going back decades. Pair your wine with their legendary martinis and steak dinners for a quintessential old Hollywood evening. As customer Michael S. shared on Yelp, “Musso & Frank is classic LA. The wine list here is incredible, especially if you want to experience older California wines from past decades.”

If great views are a must, head to Bacari W. 3rd for sunset on their patio. Their wine list focuses on small family-run wineries in Italy and France. Sip a glass of Sicilian red as you watch the sun dip below the LA skyline for a quintessential California experience. As diner Samantha R. wrote in her review, “The patio at Bacari is so charming, especially at golden hour. With a glass of wine and the view, it makes you fall in love with LA all over again.”

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Savoring Sake at Stylish Spots

While wine bars may dominate LA’s drinking scene, sake bars and restaurants are on the rise for those seeking new and unique imbibing experiences. As the Japanese rice wine grows in popularity stateside, LA is quickly becoming a hotspot for premium sake. From edgy underground spots to swanky rooftop venues, angelenos can discover top-notch sake in stylish settings across the city.

For those eager to dive into the world of sake, head to Decibel, an underground sake lounge in Little Tokyo. With over 100 varieties of sake, you’re sure to find one that suits your palate. Their selection showcases sakes from all over Japan, featuring everything from rich, earthy types like Yamahai to light, fruity ones like Ginjo. Their knowledgeable staff can provide guidance and suggestions for those new to sake. As first-timer Sandra N. shared on Yelp, “I knew nothing about sake before coming to Decibel, but the bartenders were so helpful and patient. I tried several different kinds and learned so much about how diverse sake can be.”

If you prefer to pair your sake with cutting-edge cuisine, make a reservation at n/naka in Palms. This inventive kaiseki restaurant offers a sake sommelier table where guests can sample rare bottles from around Japan. As you indulge in Chef Niki Nakayama’s edgy interpretations of traditional kaiseki, your personal sake sommelier will guide you through unique pairings. Local food critic Amanda G. raved in the LA Times, “The sake pairing at n/naka is an experience unlike any other. You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for how well sake complements the flavors and textures of this exceptional Japanese cuisine.”

For a trendy night out, check out ROKU Sunset, a slick sake lounge and robata grill in West Hollywood. Their extensive sake menu features exclusive bottles you won't find elsewhere in LA. Complement your sake with their yakitori skewers and Japanese-inspired cocktails on the chic open-air patio. As Thrillist writer Sam S. described it, “ROKU Sunset is just a super cool spot for a night out. The sake list will make any connoisseur happy, while the scene is lively enough for a fun night with friends.”

If you prefer your sake with a side of whimsy, visit the Far Bar at the Roger Room in West Hollywood. This playful underground tiki bar offers an array of sake cocktails that add tropical twists to the rice wine. Try their signature Toki Highball, made with gin, sake, cucumber and lime, or take a walk on the wild side with their sake-based Zombie cocktail. As regular patron Zoe K. wrote in a Yelp review, “The sake cocktails at Far Bar are so creative and delicious! It’s my favorite spot for a fun and one-of-a-kind sake experience.”

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Mezcal Mania Hits LA's Bar Scene

With tequila's popularity at an all-time high, its smoky, complex cousin mezcal is poised to captivate cocktail lovers across LA. Made from the agave plant like tequila, mezcal offers incredible depth and nuance that has bar-goers mesmerized. As mezcal makes inroads onto menus at hip bars and restaurants, LA drinkers now have the perfect opportunity to become enchanted by Mexico's mystical spirit.

At Las Perlas in downtown LA, their mezcal program showcases exciting small-batch producers alongside centuries-old distilleries. With over 150 mezcals to explore, it's a treasure trove for agave aficionados. Their welcoming bartenders are eager to guide newbies through flights and suggest clever cocktails like the refreshing Mezcal 75 with hibiscus and sparkling wine. As first-timer Sandra N. shared on Yelp, "The mezcal selection completely blew me away. The bartenders really took the time to explain the different types and help me find one I loved."

Creativity abounds at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood, where the plant-based Mexican restaurant crafts vegan cocktails starring smoky mezcal. Their signature Nopalito Margarita swaps tequila for mezcal and adds prickly pear, lime and agave. For a tropical twist, try the vibrant Oaxacan Summer with mezcal, pineapple, chili and lime. "The mezcal cocktails here are so unique and pack a flavor punch," wrote customer Amanda G. on Yelp. "It's a really cool way to experience mezcal in a fresh, exciting way."

Those eager to geek out on mezcal need look no further than Las Perlas downtown. With a collection of over 150 mezcals, it's a true treasure trove for agave lovers. Their bar team delights in guiding guests through flights and making spot-on suggestions, like cocktailing newbies. Regular customer Zoe K. raved on Yelp, "The mezcal selection completely blew me away. The bartenders really took the time to explain the different types and help me find one I loved."

At B.S. Taqueria in West LA, the vibrant taco shop offers a mezcal cart so diners can seamlessly pair Mexico's smoky spirit with tacos and snacks. With tasting flights and by-the-glass pours, it's an accessible way to get acquainted with mezcal's range of flavors. Yelper Sam S. shared, "I loved being able to try a few different mezcals with my food at B.S. Taqueria. It really enhanced the whole dining experience."

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Cafes for People Watching and Pastry Eating

Los Angeles offers no shortage of glitz, glamour and celebrity sightings, making it one of America's best cities for people watching. Luckily, LA is also home to a wealth of cafes and bakeries where you can spot stars and soak up local color while indulging in delectable pastries. Whether you're looking to ogle Hollywood A-listers or simply observe LA's diverse communities, these cafes offer prime perches for satisfying your sweet tooth and your inner voyeur.

Perhaps the most iconic spot for celebrity sightings is the Beverly Hills Hotel's famous Polo Lounge. This lavish, pink-hued haunt has been drawing Hollywood's elite since its 1912 opening. Sit beneath the high, hand-painted ceiling or among the tropical palms and keep your eyes peeled for today's stars. As blogger Alicia D. described, "I kept doing double takes while enjoying my macarons - was that really Jennifer Aniston's table? The Polo Lounge is legendary for star sightings along with their delicious teas and cocktails."

For an authentic LA experience, grab a table at Porto's Bakery & Cafe in Burbank. This wildly popular Cuban bakery draws hordes of hungry Angelenos craving their decadent cheese rolls, guava pastries and creamy cakes. As you wait in the inevitably long line, chat with fellow patrons and take in the electric energy. As customer Michael S. shared on Yelp, "The line at Porto's is almost as fun as the pastries. You really get a slice of life listening to the different languages and accents all waiting for their bakery fix."

The Original Farmers Market next to The Grove offers casual community vibes and loads of people watching potential. Post up on the patio with a pastry from Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts or a cone from Bennett's Ice Cream to watch locals and tourists alike browsing the market's shops and restaurants. Local writer Tori T. described it in her blog: "Sitting on the Farmers Market patio with my matcha doughnut, I loved seeing such a diverse mix of people - multi-generational families, college students, couples on dates. It's such a snapshot of LA life."

For a peaceful yet lively scene, visit Urth Caffé in artsy Silver Lake. Their rambling outdoor patio is a prime spot to spy an eclectic mix of bohemian regulars chatting over macchiatos or catching up on laptops. Take a break from people watching to peruse Urth's pastry case brimming with wholesome, homemade treats like flaky croissants, berry tarts and vegan coconut cake. A Yelp review from Sandra N. raves, "You really get a feel for the local community and culture while relaxing on Urth's patio. And their pastries are just heavenly!"

Sip and Savor: Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, Wine, Sake, and Mezcal in Los Angeles - Alfresco Options for Sunny Sipping

Soaking up the California sunshine with a refreshing drink in hand is one of life's simple pleasures in Los Angeles. Luckily, this city offers endless alfresco options for leisurely sipping your favorite coffee, tea, wine or cocktail as the golden rays beam down. With its endless summers and mild winters, LA is ideal for indulging in open-air cafes, patios, rooftops and gardens that let you bask in the glow while you sip.

For Angelenos, alfresco drinking spots provide welcome respite from being cooped up inside. As local blogger Alicia D. described, "I just love being outside in the sunshine here in LA. After spending all week in an office, sipping an iced latte at an outdoor cafe feels like this exhilarating freedom." Resident Michael S. echoed this sentiment in his Yelp review: "Sitting outside for happy hour after work is how I unwind and get my much-needed vitamin D." When the weather cooperates, residents flock to LA's plethora of patios and rooftops to blissfully sip in the golden hour glow.
These sun-soaked venues also provide a sense of community unique to LA's laidback lifestyle. As Tori T. wrote in Discover LA magazine, "Hanging out at an alfresco spot lets you really connect with the chilled-out local vibe." The relaxed atmosphere fosters social interaction, whether it's chit-chatting with your café neighbor or people-watching on a buzzing sidewalk patio. "I've met some of my best LA friends while sipping drinks outside at Urth Caffe," shared Yelper Sandra N. "There's just such a social energy you don't find indoors."

Sipping in the sunshine also unveils LA's vibrant culture and creativity. Writer Sam S. described in Thrillist, "Outdoor bars and cafes are a window into LA's diverse communities." A seat on the right patio lets you soak up the sights, sounds, and energy of the city around you. "People-watching over margaritas on a bustling Silver Lake patio, I feel immersed in the artsy soul of the neighborhood," explained resident Zoe K. As the sun shines down, a tableau unfolds offering glimpses into LA's many subcultures.

Alfresco venues also provide a sense of California dreaming with their lush greenery, flowers and views. "Sipping my morning latte surrounded by plants and palms at Urth Caffe, I feel like I'm in a tropical paradise," shared customer Amanda G. Rooftop bars like The Standard in downtown LA take alfresco imbibing to new heights, with panoramic vistas of the skyline and mountains. The ultimate California fantasy can be found at the Beverly Hills Hotel's Polo Lounge. Under the high, hand-painted ceiling and swaying palms with a cocktail in hand, you can bask in the essence of LA glamour.