Did you know that downtown Los Angeles has a Coffee Trail? DTLA Alliance has created a map where you can discover all of the coffee shops in the Downtown Center. Follow the trail and uncover everything from gorgeous cafes to hidden spots with the best oat milk, matcha lattes, iced concoctions, and cold brews that you’ve ever had. Many coffee bars also serve delectable pastries, along with an eclectic selection of breakfast, lunch and even dinner dishes. So grab some friends for a coffee klatch, or try the trail as a solo adventure. Here are some of our favorites, many not far from Circa.
Cognoscenti Coffee Roasters 868 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90014
Conveniently located in South Park, Cognoscenti Coffee Roasters specializes in single origin coffee and coffee supplies. Founded in 2009, Cognoscenti’s goal is to provide an enjoyable and approachable experience. They source primarily washed coffees, placing the priority in cup clarity and sustainability. You can also purchase brewing supplies for home use, as well as branded merch including water bottles, T-shirts, and totes.
Cafe Balzac 700 W 7th St. Ste 310, Los Angeles, CA 90017
A little slice of France in the heart of DTLA, Café Balzac is inspired by Honoré de Balzac, a French writer who was known to have 46 espressos a day. Located in The BLOC, Café Balzac offers fresh gourmet coffee and espresso drinks, sweet and savory crêpes, and curated pastries.
Colburn Café 200 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012
Situated at the Colburn School, Colburn Café is open throughout the year, serving delicious daily specials such as sushi, Mexican, classic American dishes, and more. Grab a drink from the coffee bar, serving small batch high-quality teas from Steven Smith. Dine-in at the ample indoor seating area or beautiful patio, or get your order to go with online ordering. Your purchase at the Colburn Café helps Colburn educate the next generation of artists.
Amandine Patisserie Café 650 S Hill Street, Plaza 1 K-10, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Since 2002, Amandine Patisserie Cafe has been combining the finest baking traditions from France and Japan to create unforgettable gourmet experiences. Their delicious French Japanese style pastries and breads are all made in-house from scratch and baked fresh daily. Beverages include hot and cold brews, iced, chai, and a variety of lattes.
Bottega Louie 700 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017
Bottega Louie is a Restaurant, Gourmet Market, Patisserie and Café all rolled in one, along with full bar service. The Gourmet Market and Patisserie offer an extensive selection of sweet and savory products for your enjoyment, including their iconic macarons, eclairs, tarts, and tiramisu. They also offer a lavish weekend brunch, serving everything from waffles to egg dishes, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Café Dulce ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. #150, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Café Dulce serves the finest specialty coffees & teas, along with fresh salads, sandwiches and baked goods delivered daily from its original kitchen in Little Tokyo, Downtown LA. Dulce is widely known for its signature hand-crafted beverages, including Vietnamese iced coffee, single origin pourovers, and blueberry matcha lattes, along with green tea donuts. Stop by to enjoy a little break in your morning or afternoon routine.
G&B Coffee Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, C19, Los Angeles, CA, 90013
From champion baristas Kyle Glanville and Charles Babinski, collectively G&B Coffee, this popular spot services up coffees, espresso drinks, and teas selected from the world’s top roasters and farms. Highlights include G&B’s coffee milkshake and hop-infused carbonated ice tea as instant Market classics. Take advantage of the free five minute parking in the drop-off lane in front of the G&B stall on Hill Street.
Velo Coffee 735 S Figueroa St. Unit 113, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Velo Coffee is owned and operated by Austin, a barista who has worked in the coffee industry for years, along with his partner Michael. Velo originated as an environmentally friendly mobile cafe, which was literally a coffee bike. Velo, which means cycle in French, was a fitting name for a bike cafe committed to minimizing its carbon footprint. Now located in its first physical shop, Velo continues its passion for coffee, developing high quality drinks and supporting barista culture. Signature drinks include Nitro Horchata Cold Brew, Blood Orange Sparkling Espresso, and Matcha Lemonade.
Hilltop Coffee 718 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90014
Hilltop is a place for creators of all walks. They represent the climb – the goals each and every one of us creates and the obstacles we must overcome. Hilltop is driven to bring quality ingredients & good vibes to the communities they serve in an environment conducive to creativity. Offerings include food that is simple and nourishing for breakfast and lunch, along with coffee, juices, and pastries.
Photo credits:
Photo #1: Café Balzac
Photo #2: Cognoscenti Coffee Roasters
Photo #3: Café Balzac
Photo #4: Colburn Café
Photo #5: Amandine Patisserie Café
Photo #6: Bottega Louie
Photo #7: Café Dulce
Photo #8: G&B Coffee
Photo #9: Velo Coffee
Photo #10: Hilltop Coffee
