Echo Park is home to a vibrant mix of unique cafes that go beyond serving coffee - they're community hubs with creative vibes. Here’s a quick list of 12 must-visit spots for coffee lovers:
- Eightfold Coffee: Minimalist space with Heart Roasters beans and a secret espresso-matcha-sparkling water blend.
- Supersweet Tattoos & Coffee: Combines a tattoo studio with playful drinks like the Ashtray Latte.
- Stories Books and Cafe: A cozy bookstore cafe perfect for coffee and literature lovers.
- Masa of Echo Park: Known for its Chicago Deep Dish Pizza and scratch-made pastries.
- Bar Henry: Transitions from a cafe by day to a cocktail bar by night.
- LA MILL Coffee: Parisian-inspired spot with advanced brewing methods and inventive drinks.
- Go Get Em Tiger (GGET): Famous for its iced almond-macadamia latte and house-roasted beans.
- Intelligentsia: Ethical sourcing with expertly crafted espresso and pour-over coffee.
- Kumquat: Offers bold drinks like the Kumquat Sour and Hojicha Latte.
- Bloom and Plume: A colorful cafe with artistic design and Red Bay Coffee.
- Dayglow: Multi-roaster cafe featuring experimental drinks inspired by filmmakers.
- Thank You Coffee: Asian-inspired coffee creations like Grass Jelly Cold Brew.
These cafes reflect Echo Park's artistic energy, offering everything from inventive drinks to welcoming atmospheres. Whether you're after a quiet reading nook, a creative vibe, or just an exceptional cup of coffee, this guide has you covered.
Echo Park Coffee Shop Vlog: Exploring some of Los Angeles's best and tastiest cafes
1. Eightfold Coffee
Sitting on Sunset Boulevard, Eightfold Coffee blends sleek design, natural light, and a peaceful vibe. The cafe's name is inspired by Buddhist principles, echoing their thoughtful approach to serving coffee.
Their baristas, skilled in their craft, prepare drinks using Heart Roasters beans from Portland, Oregon. The menu includes classic espresso drinks and cold brew, but the real surprise is their secret espresso-matcha-sparkling water blend. Tea enthusiasts can savor high-quality Ippodo teas from Japan, while the food options range from fresh pastries to organic bento boxes.
"I wanted to create a gathering space with good coffee and good conversation." - Soo Kim, co-owner of Eightfold Coffee
Beyond the coffee, Eightfold doubles as a creative space. Art books, zines, and rotating exhibits fill the open layout, inviting visitors to stay longer - whether for work, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in Echo Park’s lively neighborhood. With its mix of quality drinks and artistic charm, Eightfold Coffee stands out in Echo Park’s cafe scene.
Next up, we’ll explore a spot that pairs coffee with an unexpected twist.
2. Supersweet Tattoos & Coffee
Supersweet Tattoos & Coffee, located at 1345 Glendale Blvd, is LA's first spot to combine a tattoo studio with a coffee shop. This unique space merges expertly brewed coffee with artistic body ink in a welcoming, sunlit environment designed by Erin Raeman.
"We wanted to make this a less intimidating shop for people to not feel judged." - Travis DeWind, Co-owner
The coffee menu features Sightglass Coffee and playful drinks like the Ashtray Latte (served with candy smokes) and the Super Special, topped with cotton candy. For those in the know, there's a secret menu item: the Butter Beer Cold Brew. Prices start at $4, making it both creative and accessible.
"When you're getting a tattoo, it should feel like a treat for yourself, and so everything we put together is to cater to that type of thing. It's bright, it's happy and it lures people in." - Erin Raeman, Co-owner
Open every day from morning to evening, Supersweet offers more than just coffee and tattoos. Their apprentice program gives aspiring tattoo artists the chance to learn while earning, challenging old-school industry norms. Parking is available on the street, but don’t forget to bring quarters for the meters. Stay updated on their latest tattoo designs and coffee creations by following them on Instagram @supersweettattoo.
Supersweet captures the creative vibe of Echo Park, offering a space where artistry shines - whether it’s in the form of a latte or a tattoo. Ready for the next stop? We're heading to a cafe that combines coffee with a love for books.
3. Stories Books and Cafe
Located at 1716 Sunset Blvd, Stories Books and Cafe is where coffee meets literature. This cozy spot serves as both a cafe and an independent bookstore, making it a favorite for Echo Park locals. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it’s an inviting space for readers, writers, and coffee lovers alike.
Inside, you’ll find comfortable seating surrounded by curated bookshelves, creating the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a good read or a relaxing coffee break. Their menu includes all the classics - espresso drinks, lattes, cappuccinos - along with a variety of teas and light pastries to satisfy your cravings.
More than just a cafe, Stories is a community hub. They host events that bring neighbors together, from book readings to local meetups. With natural light streaming through the windows, it’s easy to lose yourself in a book or strike up a conversation. Whether you’re wandering the aisles in search of a hidden gem or settling in for a solo reading session, the space feels welcoming and inspiring.
Stories also champions local artists and authors, often showcasing their work. Whether you need a quiet spot to work, a new book to dive into, or just a fantastic cup of coffee, Stories Books and Cafe offers an experience that reflects the creative energy of Echo Park.
Next, we’ll explore a cafe that pairs delicious food with a cozy coffee vibe.
4. Masa of Echo Park
Located at 1800 W. Sunset Blvd, Masa of Echo Park combines the charm of a neighborhood café with the hearty appeal of Italian-inspired comfort food. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 10 PM, this spot feels more like a welcoming community dining room than your average coffee shop.
Masa is famous for its Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, often considered one of the best in Los Angeles. Beyond the pizza, they serve scratch-made pastries and an extensive menu that caters to both vegans and those who prefer classic options. From freshly brewed coffee to carefully prepared meals, every item reflects their dedication to quality.
The cozy, inviting atmosphere has earned Masa a consistent 4.5-star rating on Yelp. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, the space makes everyone feel at home, mirroring Echo Park's diverse and creative vibe. It’s a place where artisanal coffee meets hearty, satisfying dishes.
For those exploring Echo Park’s café offerings, Masa stands out as a unique blend of café culture and Italian eatery. It’s a refreshing change from the usual coffee shop experience, offering a taste of the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Now, let’s head to a spot that seamlessly transitions from a café by day to a cocktail bar by night.
5. Bar Henry
Located at 1228 Sunset Blvd, Bar Henry doubles as a café and cocktail bar, seamlessly blending coffee culture with a love for drinks. During the day, they serve expertly crafted coffee, while the evenings are all about their standout cocktail menu, making it a beloved neighborhood spot.
The ambiance is cozy and nostalgic, thanks to a curated vinyl collection, live music, vintage-style décor, and warm lighting. Whether you're stopping by for a morning meeting or catching up with friends in the evening, it’s an ideal setting.
Their drink menu is a highlight. The Thai-tea infused gin gimlet, for example, showcases their knack for crafting creative and reasonably priced cocktails that appeal to both coffee lovers and cocktail fans alike.
Bar Henry opens at 5 PM and stays buzzing late into the night, catering to those who enjoy a relaxed yet stylish vibe. With regular vinyl set nights and live music events, it’s become a gathering spot for Echo Park’s creative community.
Next, we’ll check out a café that’s putting its own spin on Echo Park’s coffee scene.
6. LA MILL Coffee
Located at 1636 Silver Lake Blvd, LA MILL Coffee combines Parisian sophistication with Echo Park's artistic vibe. This family-run spot, in operation since 1997, offers a refined yet approachable coffee experience that perfectly mirrors the neighborhood's creative energy.
The interior feels like a sleek Parisian tea salon, complete with both indoor and outdoor seating. Whether you're looking to get some work done or enjoy a leisurely brunch, this is the place to be. They use advanced brewing methods like siphon brewing and the Clover machine, showcasing their commitment to top-tier coffee. A must-try item? Their "Coffee and a Jelly Donut" ($5), an inventive mix of espresso, strawberry jelly, and donut-infused milk.
"In its attention to detail, LA Mill feels more like a chic Paris tea salon than the usual coffee cafe", says Jonathan Gold, Restaurant Critic.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, LA MILL's menu goes beyond coffee. Breakfast dishes range from $8-$12, and pastries start at $3, reflecting their high-quality ingredients. They’ve also added beer, wine, and fun drinks like the Black & Black, a mix of iced coffee and stout.
For the best experience, visit mid-morning to fully enjoy their coffee-making expertise. Parking on the street is your best bet since their lot fills up quickly. While LA MILL offers a polished coffee experience, the next stop on our list brings a more laid-back, community-driven vibe to Echo Park.
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7. Go Get Em Tiger (GGET)
Go Get Em Tiger, or GGET, has become a staple in LA's coffee scene since opening in 2012. Located at 230 N Larchmont Blvd, this café started as a single shop and has grown into a cherished local favorite, thanks to its award-winning baristas and strong sense of community. The space itself is inviting, with a sleek, minimalist design, a long counter for a more personal coffee-making experience, and a peaceful patio perfect for soaking up the Los Angeles sun.
GGET is known for its house-roasted beans, focusing on washed coffees from regions like Ethiopia and Colombia. Their iced almond-macadamia latte ($6.75) has even been called "the best iced latte in America" by The New York Times - definitely worth a try. If coffee isn’t your thing, the iced honey matcha latte ($8) is a refreshing option.
"The burger is no different from a cappuccino. We know the recipe. If you try and do wacky [stuff] with burgers or cappuccinos, well ... what I like about this business is getting all the details right, making something that adds up to an experience that's recognizably the same as what's already out there, but better." - Kyle Glanville, Co-founder and Chief Executive
The café’s food menu is just as impressive, offering breakfast burritos with house-made salsas and a selection of fresh pastries that pair perfectly with their drinks. GGET operates Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM and on weekends from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For added convenience, you can place orders ahead through their website.
With its standout coffee, thoughtful food options, and welcoming atmosphere, GGET sets the bar high. Next, we explore a café that brings its own creative twist to the local coffee culture.
8. Intelligentsia
Nestled in Echo Park, Intelligentsia blends sleek design with expertly crafted coffee. The airy, light-filled interior creates an inviting space, whether you're working or catching up with friends. They focus on direct trade, sourcing top-tier beans for their espresso and pour-over options, offering a taste of flavors from around the world.
Espresso drinks range from $4 to $6, while pour-overs, priced between $5 and $7, highlight the unique qualities of their ethically sourced beans. They also host regular cuppings and demonstrations, giving visitors a hands-on look at coffee brewing and flavor exploration - perfect for both newcomers and seasoned coffee lovers.
To complement their coffee, Intelligentsia partners with local bakeries to offer a selection of pastries, further connecting them to the Echo Park community. Their commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability resonates with eco-conscious patrons, who also appreciate the café's warm vibe and knowledgeable staff.
For those who want to enjoy their coffee at home, they offer signature beans and subscription services, bringing the Intelligentsia experience right to your kitchen. Whether you're a dedicated coffee aficionado or just in search of a great cup, this café delivers on quality and community.
Up next, a spot that adds a playful spin to Echo Park's coffee scene. Stay tuned!
9. Kumquat
Nestled at 4936 York Boulevard, Kumquat Coffee has been a beloved spot in Echo Park since it opened in 2018. Known for its cozy, minimalist vibe and tranquil outdoor seating, this café delivers a welcoming space to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted drink menu.
Kumquat's offerings include both classic drinks and bold creations. Standouts include the citrusy Kumquat Sour, the smooth Hojicha Latte ($5.50), and the New England Latte ($6), featuring vanilla bean-infused maple syrup. With a rotating lineup of specials and inventive staples, the café demonstrates its dedication to creating one-of-a-kind beverages.
"Kumquat is a beautiful coffee shop where you'll find some quality coffee and tea-based drinks as well as a solid inventory of bagged coffee, teas, and brewing equipment from both the US and outside like Japan", says one loyal customer.
The café sources its beans from international roasters and offers premium garden-direct teas. Operating hours are 7 AM–5 PM on weekdays and 8 AM–2 PM on weekends. Their menu includes unique options like the Minty Mochaccino and Hong Kong mylk tea, catering to both coffee and tea lovers alike.
"The first location is getting pounded with long lines. We want to repay customers with more drink options and another location", explains co-founder AJ Kim.
Kumquat’s emphasis on high-quality ingredients and inventive drinks reflects the creative energy of Echo Park. Its intimate setting and focus on growth have made it a neighborhood favorite, drawing in regulars and newcomers alike.
For anyone looking to experience a fresh twist on Echo Park’s coffee culture, Kumquat is a must-visit. Next, we’ll check out a café that combines coffee with stunning floral designs.
10. Bloom and Plume
Tucked away in Historic Filipinotown, Bloom and Plume Coffee is more than just a café - it's a lively, artistic haven brought to life by founder Maurice Harris. The space bursts with personality, featuring violet walls, green accents, and salmon pink chairs. This bold design mirrors Harris's creative flair, blending fashion, florals, and a welcoming energy that captures the artistic soul of Echo Park.
"I wanted to create a space that was literally filled with color, that was from a person of color's perspective, that centered people of color, that had beauty all around it, and was at a price point that was more approachable than our luxurious arrangements", says Maurice Harris.
The café serves coffee sourced from Red Bay Coffee, along with fresh juices and pastries from Friends & Family. Their menu stands out with options like sweet and savory toasts made on Bub and Grandma's bread, offering something for both coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
"All their coffees are great, but what I really love about Bloom is the atmosphere, the service and their waffles. Yes, they have waffles and they are heavenly", says Mary C, a local contributor from Los Angeles.
Community is at the heart of Bloom and Plume. General Manager Andru Jones highlights their inclusive ethos: "We learn from each other every day, creating a warm, welcoming space for all." The café also hosts regular art exhibitions and events, cementing its role as a cultural hub where creativity and coffee come together.
Next up, we’ll dive into another Echo Park gem that blends caffeine with creativity in its own unique way.
11. Dayglow
Located at 3206 Sunset Blvd, Dayglow is a coffee shop that combines sleek, minimalist design with a focus on high-quality coffee. As a multi-roaster café, it brings some of the best coffees from around the globe to Echo Park, perfectly complementing the neighborhood’s creative vibe.
What makes Dayglow stand out is founder Tohm Ifergan’s imaginative vision. The café’s menu is divided into ten categories, ranging from classic espresso drinks to more experimental options under the "funk" section. Their signature drinks, inspired by legendary filmmakers, highlight their artistic approach. Dayglow also features a rotating selection of beans from top roasters worldwide, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
"Stepping into Dayglow delights with a rejuvenating positivity. More than simply selling drinks, the shop beams with an open-minded appreciation of who or what passes through their doors", says Nikita Ephanov, Culture, Travel & Tech Writer.
Dayglow is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. While the seating is limited, the cozy space fosters conversation and offers an opportunity to learn from baristas who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of coffee origins and flavor profiles.
For those wanting to bring the Dayglow experience home, the café offers four subscription options. These range from a single-bag plan to rare and exclusive selections for dedicated coffee lovers. Their signature drinks, priced between $9 and $11, include creative offerings like the "Hotel Chevalier" - a refreshing mix of distilled coffee, lime, and coconut cream, topped with mint and grated nutmeg. All beans used are roasted within 30 days for peak freshness.
With its inventive drinks and carefully curated coffee selections, Dayglow has carved out a special place in Echo Park’s coffee scene. It’s more than just a café - it’s a celebration of coffee and community.
12. Thank You Coffee
Located in Chinatown at 938 N Hill St, Thank You Coffee brings together the world of specialty coffee and Asian heritage. While it's not in Echo Park, the café shares its creative vibe and dedication to high-quality coffee. Opened by Jonathan Yang in early 2020, the space is shared with Paper Please, a stationery store, creating a cozy and inviting environment.
The menu features standout drinks like the You're Welcome Latte, Hojicha Latte, and Grass Jelly Cold Brew. They take pride in roasting their own hojicha and making house-made syrups for their signature drinks, all priced at $6. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the café also runs a loyalty program where customers can earn a free drink after ten purchases.
"At the heart of Thank You Coffee is an attitude of thankfulness that we hope shows in what we do, what we make and how we treat our guests", says Jonathan Yang, explaining the café's philosophy.
During the pandemic, Thank You Coffee showed its commitment to the community by distributing hundreds of bottled drinks to frontline workers. Rooted in their Cantonese and Taiwanese heritage, the café combines thoughtful hospitality with creative coffee offerings.
"I think that our love for community, and our care and intention in both the drinks that we serve and the service we provide has helped to set us apart", Yang adds, highlighting their unique approach.
With its blend of Asian influences and specialty coffee, Thank You Coffee adds an exciting dimension to the café scene near Echo Park, making it a must-visit spot for coffee lovers venturing outside the neighborhood.
Conclusion
Echo Park's coffee scene is a lively mix of cafes, each bringing its own character to the neighborhood. These spots go beyond the typical coffee experience, offering everything from peaceful Japanese-inspired settings to creative Asian-fusion concepts. They’ve become much more than places to grab a drink - they’re community spaces where art, culture, and fantastic beverages come together.
These cafes showcase their passion for quality and connection through thoughtfully chosen beans, skilled brewing techniques, and strong ties to the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to work, a lively place to catch up with friends, or just want to enjoy a standout cup of coffee, Echo Park’s local cafes offer experiences that chains simply can’t replicate.
Each cafe adds its own flair to the area, with inventive drink options and unique vibes that capture Echo Park’s creative spirit. Many also host events like coffee tastings and art shows, giving visitors a chance to dive deeper into both coffee culture and the local community.
