The Most Unique Coffee Shops in LA

Los Angeles is a city of diversity and innovation, and its coffee culture perfectly reflects this spirit. From botanical havens to vinyl-inspired lounges, hidden gems and literary escapes, we've rounded up LA's most unique coffee shops, spanning the Eastside to West LA. Whether you're a coffee aficionado, art enthusiast, bookworm, or simply looking for a special place to unwind, these cafes promise an unforgettable experience that goes beyond just a cup of joe. Sip and savor your way through this eclectic mix of coffee shops for a truly unique and memorable caffeine journey.

Located at Sunset Plaza, The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (8653 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood 90069) is a one of a kind cafe with chic Mediterranean decor and a patio that's perfect for people-watching. It’s home to the signature ColorBurst Latte, a vivid rainbow in a cup, which can only be made with whole milk to preserve its stunning hues. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a freshly brewed cappuccino, or a sweet treat, this cafe has it all.

It's hard to miss this bright blue café located in Koreatown. Cafe De Mama (1102 S Western Ave, Los Angeles 90006) is a charming coffee shop that offers a minimalistic ambiance serving as the perfect backdrop for their artisanal, hand-crafted beverages. Among their signature drinks, the Black Sesame Cream Latte is a standout on their rotating seasonal menu. For those seeking plant-based options, some drinks can be customized with plant-based milk. Café De Mama also introduces the unique 'Croffle,' a delectable fusion of croissant and waffle, filled with red bean and cream cheese. While the decor remains minimal, the explosion of flavors in your mouth is anything but.

Located in the lobby of the Freehand Hotel in Downtown LA, Café Integral (416 W 8th St, Los Angeles 90014) brings a taste of Nicaragua to the bustling streets of Los Angeles. With a focus on sustainability and ethically-sourced coffee, this cafe offers a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Central America while never boarding a plane. It's a place where coffee lovers can explore the rich history and culture behind their cup of joe.

Carrera Cafe (8251 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90046) elevates your coffee experience to an art form. What truly distinguishes this cafe is its incredible seasonal latte art, a masterpiece that evolves with the seasons. Skilled baristas here craft intricate designs and images on your latte, transforming your coffee into a canvas of flavors and aesthetics. It’s world famous, so don’t be surprised if you’re standing in line, waiting for creators to get the perfect pic. Carrera Cafe seamlessly marries taste and artistry, ensuring each visit is a delightful experience, especially as pumpkin season approaches.

Proudly Black and Latino-owned, Coffee del Mundo (7414 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles 90044) is a plant-based coffee and retail shop that celebrates non-European coffee traditions such as Ethiopia, Colombia and Guatemala. Travel the world one cup at a time with ethically sourced beans from across Africa and Latin America that are roasted in South LA.

Originally from Berlin, this is Concierge Coffee's first American location (821 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, 90013). Hipster is spoken here: the stark interior paired with the no-nonsense espresso menu is a force, best known for its trendy flat whites. Of recent note, the beautiful Hojicha latte is a nice diversion.

Harun Coffee (4336 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles 90008) is a POC-owned hidden oasis located on the main strip of Leimert Park. It offers great coffee while hosting rotating artists' work and merchandise connected to the coffee shop by a shared wall. It's perfect for those seeking solace amidst the chaos of urban life and makes for a great place to work with your laptop if you're looking to escape the work-from-home life. Come for the coffee and stay for their playlist!

For a delightful twist on your traditional coffee experience, Hey Hey in Echo Park (1555 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles 90026) combines two beloved beverages: coffee and boba. This fusion creates a unique flavor profile that's a hit among coffee enthusiasts and boba lovers alike. Better known for being a tea house, it fosters a vibrant atmosphere where patrons can gather to engage in board games from the shelves while perhaps enjoying live tunes from local artists. If you're in search of a truly unique coffee community experience, with doors that stay open late, Hey Hey is an absolute must!

As we approach Halloween season, let's delve into Horror Vibes Coffee (5251 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood 91601) a haven tailored for lovers of all things macabre. This coffee shop ensures a spine-tingling coffee experience throughout the year. From outside to in, the decor pays a chilling homage to horror movies and the Halloween spirit, creating an ambiance that's both eerie and invitingly cozy. What truly sets them apart is their uniquely spooky menu, boasting signatures like the Scissorhands Latte (Chocolate Hazelnut Mocha), Frankenstein's Latte (Pistachio Latte), Nightmare on Maple Street and Slasher Cola (Coca-Cola & Espresso); and seasonal drinks Son of Frankenstein (Pistachio Affogato) and the Work of Art (Maple Espresso Cold Brew), all garnished with tempting candy toppings. For those who seek adventure and thrive on supernatural thrills, this is the place to go, and don't forget to explore their eerie merchandise! Be forewarned, as prime scare season approaches, you might find yourself in a line out the door.

Car enthusiasts, rejoice! West LA's Motoring Coffee (11728 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles 90064) caters to your love for automobiles and caffeine. With a decor that pays homage to classic cars and motorcycles, it's a haven for gearheads and coffee aficionados alike. Enjoy your coffee and browse their apparel and accessories, all while surrounded by the nostalgia of the golden age of motor vehicles. The 20,000 square-foot warehouse space has a lot of room for lounging or working.

With its bespoke white brick façade and fashionable salmon-pink walls, Neighborhood Coffee (133 S. La Brea Ave, Los Angeles 90036) provides a calming respite from the buzzy La Brea Avenue area. Meet the locals while sipping classic espresso drinks and maybe snap a selfie. The lighting is perfect.

Nestled in the heart of historic Leimert Park, ORA Urban Café (4331 Degnan Blvd, Los Angeles 90008) is a hidden gem that feels like home. The food is fresh, flavorful and thoughtfully prepared. Their coffee is a standout too, sourced directly from African farmers by owner Tony Jolly. ORA's staff is warm and welcoming, reflecting this elder community space. Make time to stroll the nearby shops and the Art + Practice gallery.

Pam’s Coffy, a fixture to the east of the Vista Theatre’s entrance is a must for every Quentin Tarantino fan. Like the adjoining cinema, it’s owned by the Oscar-winning director himself - you may even find him working there when he’s in town. Named for actress Pam Grier and the 1973 blaxploitation film Coffy, you can watch VHS movies and eat a bowl of your favorite breakfast cereal, chosen from behind the counter. No fancy espresso here, only drip coffees with custom blend beans by Pasadena’s Jones Coffee Roasters. The signature orange coffee mugs make a fantastic souvenir.

Pantheon Coffee is a Greek-themed hideout at the apex of the Fairfax shopping district and West Hollywood. Duck in for an out-of-the-ordinary pick me up and don’t miss the gothic Black Vanilla Latte made with activated charcoal and vanilla bean paste.

Coffee culture meets bike culture at Rapha (1347 4th St, Santa Monica 90401), which is celebrated by cycling enthusiasts at "Clubhouses" around the world. Their Santa Monica location not only serves coffee but also offers a haven for cyclists. You can refuel, connect with fellow riders, and explore a range of biking gear and merchandise along with your espresso. Whether you're preparing for a long ride or just in need of a quick coffee, Rapha is a one-stop bike + coffee shop!

Saffy’s Coffee + Tea (4845 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, 90029), is the breakfast and lunch sibling to Saffy’s Restaurant next door, open for dinner. Stop by to marvel at the Art Deco building and the lux-retro 70s style of the interior. You’d hard pressed to find a better breakfast in the neighborhood, a quiet street out of the hustle and bustle of Hollywood proper. Don’t miss the Arabic Iced Chai-- the spice mix is proprietary and compliments the freshly baked loaves of bread.

SomeMore LA (2717 W Olympic Blvd #106, Los Angeles 90006) is an adorable teddy bear paradise in K-town, where the theme seamlessly weaves through every aspect of the menu. As you approach, giant teddy bears greet you from the window display; inside, a charming wall display invites you to sit beside a friendly bear for a perfect photo op. Their hot lattes arrive with teddy bear-shaped whipped cream atop, and even their desserts carry the teddy bear theme. Here, you'll find teddy bears at every turn, creating a whimsical and delightful experience.

If you’re looking for a mom and pop coffee shop that roasts its own beans and is known for its house made Korean and Filipino-inspired menu of syrups, sauces, and food, SPL Coffee (4059 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, 90020), is your dream destination.  Get there early and fuel up on delicious pastries and a toasty Bori Caramel Latte or a insta-ready Ube iced.

Stories Books & Cafe (1716 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles 90026) is a literary haven that beautifully marries the pleasures of reading and sipping well-brewed coffee. This charming, independent bookstore and cafe offer a unique space where you can immerse yourself in a good book while indulging in quality coffee. With extended operating hours and a menu that goes beyond traditional coffee shops - including food, beer and wine - it's a place where you'll often spot patrons with laptops, perhaps crafting their next masterpiece. It's a true oasis for both bookworms and coffee connoisseurs.

Tucked into a storefront in Downtown LA's historic Chinatown, Thank You Coffee (938 N. Hill St., Los Angeles 90012), offers a unique cafe-retail experience. Not to be missed are their seasonal concoctions as well as the exclusive merch drops. Fun, catty apparel and cute stationery for far away friends. Drop a handwritten note while sipping your latte and snacking on yuzu-ricotta toast dusted with furikake.