Best Coffee Shops in Los Angeles for Coffee and Gourmet Pairings
Los Angeles is a paradise for coffee lovers. Whether you’re into artisanal blends or fun, creative pairings, the city has plenty of coffee shops to impress your taste buds. What makes LA special is how many cafes offer gourmet treats to pair perfectly with your coffee – a true experience for food enthusiasts. We’ve rounded up the best coffee shops in LA where you can enjoy high-quality coffee and delicious bites. Keep reading to discover your new favorite spot!
1. Gjusta
If you’re looking for an upscale bakery and café experience, Gjusta in Venice is a must-visit. Known for its incredible homemade pastries and bread, this spot pairs perfectly with your coffee. They serve strong espresso and expertly brewed coffee made from fresh, premium beans. Try pairing their cappuccino with a kouign-amann (a buttery pastry) or a slice of their sourdough bread topped with smoked salmon. The café has a rustic, laid-back vibe, and their attention to food quality stands out.
2. Go Get Em Tiger
Go Get Em Tiger is a trendy LA coffee shop with locations all over the city, including Highland Park and Downtown LA. Their coffee is roasted in-house, ensuring every cup has rich flavor and depth. Aside from coffee, they’re known for creative food options. A favorite pairing is their iced almond macadamia latte with a hearty breakfast biscuit sandwich. If you love something sweet, try their espresso paired with a freshly baked oatmeal cookie.
3. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee is practically a legend in Los Angeles for its dedication to high-quality coffee. With locations in Silver Lake, Venice, and Pasadena, this cafe specializes in brewing coffee with the utmost precision. Their espresso drinks, pour-over coffees, and cold brews are popular choices. Pair their smooth, full-bodied latte with an almond croissant for a perfect balance of flavors. The Silver Lake location has a distinctive artistic vibe, perfect for chilling with friends or working on your laptop.
4. Groundwork Coffee
Groundwork Coffee is all about organic beans and eco-friendly practices. This local favorite has locations across LA and provides vegan and gluten-free treat options. Their cold brew is a standout – rich and smooth with a hint of chocolate flavor. Pair it with their gluten-free lemon poppy seed muffin for a refreshing combo. Groundwork’s mission to support sustainable coffee makes it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious coffee lovers.
5. LaLaLand Kind Café
If bright, Instagram-worthy vibes are your thing, head to LaLaLand Kind Café in Santa Monica. The café’s cheerful decor is matched by its kindness-driven mission – they hire foster youth and focus on promoting good vibes. Aside from their stunning drinks, like colorful matchas and creamy lattes, their gourmet pairings are a treat. Try their matcha latte paired with avocado toast topped with microgreens. It’s healthy, vibrant, and delicious!
6. Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee has established a loyal following across the country, and their LA locations (like the Arts District or Beverly Grove) are no exception. They serve expertly brewed coffee with a focus on freshness – coffee beans are roasted within 48 hours of serving. A great pairing at Blue Bottle is their New Orleans-style iced coffee with a Belgian waffle. The iced coffee’s creamy sweetness complements the waffle’s light and crunchy texture.
7. Verve Coffee Roasters
Verve Coffee Roasters, located in West Hollywood and Downtown LA, prides itself on ethically-sourced coffee roasted to perfection. Their skillfully crafted drinks include both traditional espressos and unique creations, like their honey lavender latte. Pair this aromatic latte with their signature avocado toast – topped with chili flakes and lemon zest for a lively, mouthwatering combination.
8. Sightglass Coffee
Sightglass Coffee, originally from San Francisco, has made a splash in LA’s coffee scene at its Hollywood location. Their clean, minimalist design is matched by their straightforward approach to coffee brewing – focusing on flavor and simplicity. Pair their smooth pour-over coffee with a cardamom bun for a spiced, aromatic pairing. It’s the perfect spot for quiet coffee breaks or catching up with friends.
9. République Café
République is much more than a coffee shop – it’s one of LA’s most iconic restaurants. The café portion of République serves rich espresso drinks and incredible French-inspired baked goods. Pair their Café au Lait with a slice of their buttery, flaky croissant or indulgent chocolate tart. The elegant ambiance makes every visit feel special, combining sophistication with divine taste.
10. Maru Coffee
Maru Coffee is a minimalist gem offering a Zen-like atmosphere in the Arts District and Los Feliz. Their coffee menu features simple, well-crafted beverages like the Americano, Cortado, or Matcha Latte. Pair a Cortado with their mochi donut – chewy, slightly sweet, and perfect for dipping into your coffee. Maru is ideal for those seeking tranquility and quality in their coffee experience.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles offers a diverse coffee scene full of creative pairings and gourmet options. Whether you love decadent pastries, healthy bites, or unique flavors, the city has a coffee shop that will suit your taste perfectly. Grab a friend, explore these spots, and treat yourself to an unforgettable coffee pairing journey!