Looking to explore Los Angeles’ vibrant coffee scene? Here are seven standout coffee drinks you need to try, each offering unique flavors and techniques:
- Pistachio Rose Latte (Café Demitasse): A blend of pistachio syrup, rose essence, and espresso.
- Turkish Sand Coffee (Yala Coffee): Traditional Turkish coffee brewed in hot sand for a rich, authentic taste.
- Sparkling Espresso (Maru Coffee): Espresso meets sparkling water for a fizzy, refreshing twist.
- Black Sesame Latte (Café De Mama): Espresso with black sesame paste, steamed milk, and a nutty, layered flavor.
- Sea Salt Cold Coffee (Dogtown Coffee): Cold brew with a hint of sea salt for balance.
- Movie-Themed Latte (Horror Vibes Coffee): Lattes featuring horror-inspired latte art and edible details.
- Mexican Spiced Latte (Picaresca Barre de Cafe): Espresso infused with Mexican spices and creamy steamed milk.
These drinks showcase LA’s cultural diversity and creative approach to coffee. Whether you’re into bold flavors or artistic presentations, this list has something for everyone.
rating EVERY COFFEE shop in LA (super trendy edition)
1. Pistachio Rose Latte at Café Demitasse
Café Demitasse offers a Pistachio Rose Latte that blends house-made pistachio syrup with a hint of rose essence, paired with expertly brewed espresso. This drink brings together bold Middle Eastern-inspired flavors with the artistry of a classic latte, reflecting the diverse and creative coffee culture of Los Angeles.
2. Turkish Sand Coffee at Yala Coffee
Yala Coffee brings a piece of tradition to Los Angeles with its Turkish coffee made using the centuries-old hot sand brewing technique. Prepared in a cezve - a small, long-handled pot - the coffee is heated in hot sand to ensure even and consistent brewing. Served unfiltered in small cups, the fine grounds are left to settle naturally, creating a rich and authentic experience.
3. Sparkling Espresso at Maru Coffee
Maru Coffee brings a twist to traditional espresso with their Sparkling Espresso. This unique drink blends a freshly pulled espresso shot with sparkling mineral water, creating a fizzy, refreshing experience. It's a standout example of the bold and creative coffee culture in Los Angeles. Up next, another drink that takes flavor exploration to the next level.
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4. Black Sesame Latte at Café De Mama
Café De Mama in Little Tokyo brings together Asian-inspired flavors and expertly crafted espresso with its Black Sesame Latte. This drink combines freshly ground black sesame paste, a double shot of house-roasted espresso, and steamed whole milk for a unique and flavorful experience.
Visually, the latte is striking. It starts with a dark charcoal base that fades into a creamy gray top layer, finished with delicate white foam art. Baristas mix the sesame paste with hot espresso first, ensuring a smooth blend before adding the steamed milk.
The flavor profile is rich and layered. The nutty, slightly sweet taste of black sesame complements the bold espresso, while the steamed milk adds a velvety texture. Served at a precise 155°F (68°C), the latte maintains a perfect balance of flavors.
Topped with a light sprinkle of ground black sesame seeds, each cup is paired with a small, house-made black sesame cookie. Priced at $6.75, it offers a creative twist on classic espresso drinks. Stop by between 7 AM and 11 AM to watch master barista Kenji craft these beautiful lattes.
5. Sea Salt Cold Coffee at Dogtown Coffee
Dogtown Coffee, celebrated for its laid-back surfer-skater atmosphere, offers a standout drink: the Sea Salt Cold Coffee. This unique cold brew combines locally sourced coffee with a touch of sea salt for a perfectly balanced flavor. You can also choose from vegan milk options and gluten-free add-ons, making it a versatile pick for any preference. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just curious, this drink deserves a spot on your list.
6. Movie-Themed Latte at Horror Vibes Coffee
Horror Vibes Coffee in Silver Lake offers a latte that celebrates classic horror films in a creative way. The drink features silky microfoam as a base for spooky, horror-inspired latte art. Baristas skillfully craft designs that nod to iconic imagery, often finished with edible 'blood drip' details. It's a fun blend of coffee culture and horror nostalgia, perfect for fans of both.
7. Mexican Spiced Latte at Picaresca Barre de Cafe
The Mexican Spiced Latte at Picaresca Barre de Cafe brings a taste of Mexican coffee culture to life. This drink starts with a bold double-shot espresso, paired with a carefully crafted mix of Mexican spices. Steamed milk, frothed to a creamy texture, is slowly combined with the espresso and spices to create a perfectly balanced flavor. The result is a warm, aromatic latte that stands out in Los Angeles' buzzing coffee scene.
Where to Find These Drinks
Discover seven standout coffee spots in Los Angeles, each offering something special in its neighborhood.
Downtown & Arts District
Café Demitasse in the Arts District is known for its Pistachio Rose Latte. Swing by mid-morning to enjoy the best service. Afterward, make your way to Koreatown for more inventive drinks.
Koreatown Gems
Stop by Maru Coffee or Café De Mama between 2 PM and 4 PM for a laid-back visit. Once you're ready for a change of scenery, head toward the coast for refreshing coastal options.
Coastal Vibes
Dogtown Coffee in Santa Monica serves up Sea Salt Cold Coffee in a laid-back, surfer-inspired space. Weekday mornings are the perfect time to soak in the relaxed atmosphere. Looking for more unique spots? Keep exploring.
Hidden Treasures
In Highland Park, Horror Vibes Coffee offers Movie-Themed Lattes in a quirky, atmospheric setting. Over in Beverly Grove, Yala Coffee specializes in Turkish Sand Coffee, best enjoyed in the mid-afternoon. Finish your coffee adventure in Echo Park.
Cultural Corner
Picaresca Barre de Cafe adds to LA’s rich coffee culture with its Mexican Spiced Latte. The cozy, intimate vibe makes it a great choice for a weekday afternoon visit.
For detailed information on hours, parking, and amenities, check out the listings on Best Coffee Shops in Los Angeles.
