Myths, Buddha & Gentrification: LA Coffee Houses In April

Each coffee shop one really surprised me by either its location, décor, menus, or combination of these attributes. I hope this post inspires you to visit at least one new coffee shop in Los Angeles.


Most Relaxed

Urartu

119 N Maryland Ave.
Glendale, CA 91206
I really enjoyed the calming music, golden couch, tuxedo Frappuccino and wall painting depicting a scene from Armenian  mythology. A nice place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of Brand Blvd. and the Americana. Urartu is surrounded by great restaurants on Maryland and there is free 90-minute parking in the structure at the end of the cul de sac.

Most Interesting Mix of Food & Drink
Fresh Roast

308 S. San Gabriel Blvd.
San Gabriel, CA 91776
This coffeehouse transports you to a different time and place.  Unlike its gleaming steel, pine wood, and white-walled  brethren, Fresh Roast has a distinct Asian influence. From its dark wood décor, Buddha painting, items in its lighted curio cabinet, and its interesting menu, you know you're not on the Westside anymore. Fresh Roast has the typical sandwiches and coffee drinks, but they also have egg waffle sandwiches, coffee with a fried egg on top, and other interesting foods and drinks. I really enjoyed my egg waffle pastrami sandwich and coconut coffee. Definitely a place to take you out of your regular coffee zone. But not too far out. As I walked out, a young guy walked in sporting beard and boots with his girlfriend dressed in a flannel.

 

Nicest Patio
Go Get Em Tiger

4630 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Go Get Em Tiger has a nice tree-shaded outdoor patio that they share with McConnell's Fine Ice Cream. They also have a delicious breakfast/brunch menu and are very popular so finding a chair may be a challenge. I was surprised that I didn't see a stand for sugar and creamer. When I asked for sugar, they gave me an organic syrup sweetener. Very WeHo. When you see the long line for Home State you know you're in the right area.

Largest Contrast Old vs. New
Civil Coffee

5629 N Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Civil coffee is the epitome of the gentrification that is happening in Highland Park. It's three neighbors are a brand-new bowling alley, high-end organic minimarket, and a Home State. Yes, somehow I unwittingly visited two coffee shops this month that are next to a chain of one of the busiest taco shops in Los Angeles. Outside of these neighbors are the older establishments of Highland Park from dollar stores to salons and even the Highland Park Theater across the street. The contrast is stunning. That being said, Civil Coffee makes a great cup of coffee, has plenty of seating, food options and a great tagline "It's a good day to be civil."