Exploring Coffee Shops in Los Angeles Close to Public Transit
Los Angeles is a bustling city with countless coffee shops tucked into its diverse neighborhoods. It’s a paradise for coffee lovers, offering everything from simple drip coffee to elaborate lattes topped with Instagram-worthy foam art. For those who prefer to skip traffic and use public transportation to get around, Los Angeles has some great coffee shops located conveniently near train stations and bus stops. In this blog, we’ll explore several fantastic coffee spots that are easy to reach using LA’s Metro and other public transit options.
1. Groundwork Coffee (Union Station)
If you’re taking the Metro red line or catching a train from Union Station, Groundwork Coffee is a must-visit. Union Station is the city’s central transportation hub, so there’s no excuse to skip this spot. Located just outside the station, Groundwork Coffee serves its signature organic blends and sustainable drinks. Their cold brew is refreshing, especially on sunny LA days. Pair your coffee with a pastry or sandwich if you’re craving a snack before hopping on your next bus or train.
2. Civil Coffee (Highland Park – Gold Line)
Civil Coffee is a popular spot in Highland Park, located a short walk from the Highland Park Metro station on the Gold Line. This artsy neighborhood is known for its creative vibe, and Civil Coffee fits right in. The café offers unique drinks like their Honey Lavender Latte, which is both sweet and aromatic. Their spacious seating makes it a perfect stop if you want to relax, work on your laptop, or meet up with friends. It’s a perfect starting or ending point for exploring Highland Park’s lively streets.
3. Blue Bottle Coffee (Downtown LA – 7th Street/Metro Center)
Blue Bottle Coffee, a well-known brand among coffee enthusiasts, has a location near the 7th Street/Metro Center station. This shop is ideal for commuters heading through Downtown Los Angeles. Known for its minimalist design and focus on freshly brewed coffee, Blue Bottle is perfect for anyone seeking quality and simplicity. The pour-over coffee here is exceptional and truly highlights the flavor of their beans. It’s just a short walk from the train stop, and there’s plenty of seating to enjoy your brew.
4. Cognoscenti Coffee (Culver City – Expo Line)
Located near Culver City Station on the Expo Line, Cognoscenti Coffee is another gem in LA’s coffee scene. Their coffee menu is straightforward, with an emphasis on high-quality brews and skilled baristas. The shop feels warm and inviting, making it a great destination for coffee lovers who want to try something new. Culver City has a lot to offer, so you can grab a coffee here before exploring local art galleries or taking a stroll through the neighborhood.
5. Lavender & Honey (Pasadena – Gold Line)
If you’re traveling on the Gold Line, make a stop in Pasadena to visit Lavender & Honey. This café is a short walk from the Lake Station and is beloved by locals for its cozy atmosphere and creative menu. Two must-try items are their “L&H Toast,” topped with a mix of honey and lavender, and their signature lavender latte. Both options offer a unique twist to traditional coffee shop fare. Pasadena is a charming area to explore, so grab your drink and enjoy the nearby shopping and sights.
6. Woodcat Coffee Bar (Echo Park – Sunset/Bronson Bus Stop)
Echo Park’s Woodcat Coffee Bar is within easy reach of the Sunset/Bronson bus stop, making it a great choice for bus riders. This small, welcoming shop offers high-quality coffee with options for everyone, whether you love espresso-based drinks or prefer drip coffee. Their rich cappuccino stands out and pairs perfectly with their baked goods. The vibe here is friendly and low-key, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends or reading a book.
7. Coffee Colossus (Koreatown – Wilshire/Normandie Purple Line)
Koreatown is one of LA’s liveliest neighborhoods, and it boasts plenty of excellent cafés. Coffee Colossus, located near the Wilshire/Normandie Metro station on the Purple Line, is one of the standout spots. The shop serves delicious craft coffee and teas in a trendy, comfortable space. The matcha latte here is particularly popular and pairs nicely with their homemade cookies. From Koreatown, you’re well-connected to other parts of LA, making it a great place to stop for coffee during your Metro travels.
8. Go Get Em Tiger (Los Feliz – Vermont/Sunset Red Line)
If you’re exploring Los Feliz or hopping off the Vermont/Sunset station on the Red Line, Go Get Em Tiger is an excellent café to visit. Their bright and modern shop is known for its high-quality coffee and innovative menu. Try their iced almond macadamia latte – it’s a local favorite. The café also offers various breakfast items, making it a great spot for an early morning coffee run before heading out for the day. Los Feliz has many quirky shops and attractions, so plan to stick around and explore.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles might be a car-centric city, but public transportation is a good option for exploring its many neighborhoods—and coffee shops. The next time you find yourself near one of LA’s Metro stations or bus stops, take a moment to visit one of the coffee shops mentioned above. Whether you prefer a classic cup of coffee or a unique specialty drink, these spots offer convenience and quality for coffee lovers on the go. So, grab your Metro card and start sipping your way through LA’s coffee scene!
