One of my main misconceptions about LA was that it was rife with coffee snobs. As a barista, I cringed inwardly at the thought of an impatient valley girl ordering a split-shot, coconut milk, extra dry cappuccino at 125.3 degrees, or of standing in a hectic cafe full of impatient people on their way to yoga or an audition or a cutthroat corporate takeover. But that didn’t happen. People were chill and made really good coffee.
BUT: if I were going to get all high and mighty about bean juice, these three cafes would be a good place to start.
1. Revolution Roasters
The first stop wasn’t in LA at all, but two hours south in the city of Oceanside.
Everybody seemed content at Revolution Roasters, busily working away on their laptops or savoring a flaky almond croissant. Quiet conversation mingled with the ocean air breezing through the open doorway. I could taste the quality in my lavender honey latte; even with two flavors there was just a hint of sweetness, the coffee was the true star.
2. Blue Bottle
A Californian institution, I had never seen the beacon of Blue Bottle in my coffee exploits of the PNW.
Opting for something I wouldn’t get at home (travel is all about trying new things, right?), I went for a cold brew and was not disappointed. The drink was creamy and complex, and perfectly refreshing for the balmy afternoon.
3. Go Get Em Tiger
My last stop was at what my friend, Meredith, billed as LA’s best coffee. We texted in our order to Go Get Em Tiger on our way to church and found it waiting for us when we arrived (as displayed in this candid-not-really pic with a friendly barista below). Even though we were in a rush, I lingered on my way out in front of a counter lined with special blends and independently published books on the art of coffee making. They take the bean very seriously around here.
By the end of my crash course in LA cafes, I left with two conclusions: Californian coffee culture is chill. And Californians definitely have a reason to be snobbish about their coffee.
Leave a Comment