Best Coffee Shops in Los Angeles for Coffee Pairing Experiences
Los Angeles is a city teeming with culture, creativity, and innovation—and coffee is no exception. While there are countless spots where you can grab a quick latte or cappuccino, some coffee shops take things to the next level by offering unique coffee pairing experiences. These pairings combine coffee with food to highlight flavors and aromas, creating a memorable tasting journey for coffee lovers.
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee enthusiast or a casual drinker looking to try something new, Los Angeles has coffee shops that offer unforgettable pairing experiences. Here’s a list of some of the best spots to explore:
1. Go Get Em Tiger
Go Get Em Tiger (often abbreviated as GGET) has grown into an LA favorite among coffee lovers. With multiple locations across the city, GGET creates bold coffee blends paired with delicious baked goods. Their almond macadamia latte is a fan favorite, complimented perfectly by buttery biscuits or hearty granola.
Pairing suggestion: Try their sweet almond macadamia latte alongside their housemade shortbread cookies. The nutty latte enhances the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a warm and comforting pairing.
2. Café Dulce
Nestled in the hustle and bustle of Little Tokyo, Café Dulce is known for its creative coffee drinks and Asian-inspired pastries. They feature unique donuts, including their famous “green tea donut,” and an assortment of freshly baked treats that make pairing your coffee a delight.
Pairing suggestion: Order their Vietnamese iced coffee alongside the green tea donut. The bold flavors of the coffee balance beautifully with the milky sweetness and earthy notes of the donut. It’s a match made in flavor heaven.
3. Philz Coffee
Philz Coffee is a San Francisco-born coffee shop that has gained a loyal following in Los Angeles. Unlike most coffee shops, Philz doesn’t serve espresso-based drinks; instead, they focus entirely on customized brewed coffee. Their personalized approach means you can tailor your drink to suit your taste preferences perfectly.
Pairing suggestion: Go for their “Mint Mojito Iced Coffee,” which features refreshing mint and a creamy texture. Pair it with a buttery croissant or a slice of fruit tart to highlight the unique flavors in the drink.
4. Menotti’s Coffee Stop
Located in Venice Beach, Menotti’s Coffee Stop brings a vintage vibe to the modern coffee scene. With friendly baristas and high-quality brews, Menotti’s creates an unforgettable experience for coffee lovers. Their expertly crafted beverages also pair wonderfully with the locally sourced pastries.
Pairing suggestion: Try their signature Spanish latte with a chocolate croissant. The latte’s rich, sweet flavors perfectly complement the flaky, cocoa-filled pastry.
5. Endorffeine
Endorffeine, located in LA’s Chinatown, is a minimalist coffee shop focused on the science of brewing. They pride themselves on precision and creative flavor combinations. The shop’s modern style and focus on detail make it a great stop for those who love gourmet coffee paired with handcrafted sweets.
Pairing suggestion: Their pandan-coconut latte is a must-try alongside a matcha brownie or mochi. The tropical flavors of the latte and the earthy sweetness of the dessert create an exciting flavor combination.
6. Alfred Coffee
Alfred Coffee has become synonymous with LA coffee culture thanks to its Instagram-worthy branding and cozy vibes. While Alfred may be best-known for its “But First, Coffee” slogan, it also offers a great coffee pairing experience. Their drinks include everything from classic cappuccinos to unique matcha lattes, complementing their wide variety of snacks.
Pairing suggestion: Sip on their iced vanilla latte alongside an acai bowl. The creamy vanilla combined with the refreshing tang of the acai creates a balanced pairing that works well for a light breakfast or midday refreshment.
7. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee is a pioneer in LA’s coffee scene, known for its emphasis on high-quality beans and expert brewing. They curate their coffees carefully to ensure you taste every subtle flavor note. Their locations, like the one in Silver Lake, are perfect for those who enjoy thoughtful coffee pairings.
Pairing suggestion: Pair their single-origin pour-over coffee with a fruit tart or muffin. The delicate flavor notes in the coffee complement fruit-based desserts, bringing out floral and fruity undertones found in the beans.
8. Dinosaur Coffee
With its quirky name and relaxed vibe, Dinosaur Coffee in Silver Lake has become a favorite in the neighborhood. Their playful approach and attention to detail in coffee-making make it a perfect spot to experiment with unique pairings.
Pairing suggestion: Order their cold brew and pair it with a slice of banana bread. The bold and smooth cold brew balances the sweetness and texture of the bread, creating a pairing that feels nostalgic and satisfying.
9. Verve Coffee Roasters
Known for its sunny interiors and expertly roasted coffee, Verve Coffee Roasters offers a welcoming atmosphere for coffee lovers. Verve carefully selects top-notch beans, and their baked goods are equally impressive.
Pairing suggestion: Pair their honey lavender latte with an almond croissant. The floral and sweet flavors of the latte enhance the nutty richness of the croissant, making for a delightful pairing experience.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles isn’t just a city of celebrities and sunshine—it’s also home to vibrant coffee culture that embraces creativity and bold flavors. Coffee pairing experiences are a fun way to explore the nuances of coffee while enjoying a treat that complements your drink.
From Asian-inspired donuts to buttery croissants, LA’s coffee shops offer pairings that elevate your daily brew to a gourmet journey. The next time you’re in the city, take a moment to visit one of these spots and try a coffee pairing for yourself. Who knows? You might discover a new favorite drink-and-dessert combination!
