50 Best Cafes near Lake Balboa

“Today I got the corn matcha at 75% sweet and the mango sticky rice ube mochi and both were divine, great strong flavor of corn, creamy matcha, ube mochi was soft and not too sticky, mango was very sweet. Service was quick but not the most welcoming, girl at the register seemed like she was ready to leave.

I have been to this location half a dozen times and my only gripe is the weak welcomes and condition of their space. It seems like there is not a lot of attention to detail or care for their space, especially their plants, which makes it feel unclean and careless. There are some plants that are basically just poor little root balls. Top off your plants with soil, give them food and water, wipe down the leaves, chop off what is dead, and give the space life again!“

“If you add protein powder to a bowl, you will be raw dogging it. Thought it would be mixed in… if you let it melt a bit you can mix it in yourself. I was, however, impressed w the amount of fruit they give you. The front worker was sweet. Shaded outdoor seating available. It’s a cute vibe.“

“Cool place to get Argentinean goodies... Gaby, the owner, is the best! My family loves her 🥰🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷“

“I have been going to Porto's since the 1980's..the one in Glendale. How elated I was with having them being in Northridge where I live. The food is terrific and the lines go fast due to a tremendous quick system they have. The catering for parties has never let us down and people you have invited that never have experienced Portos are thrilled. The cakes are delicious. What I do miss is not having the individual cake slices for purchase so you can experience the taste. They only have the neapolitan, Parisian, and carrot for slices. I've seen the menu change over time and do miss some of the items.“

“This isn't a coffee shop. It's a communal space. The coffee is basically free if you think of your donation as more of a rental fee to be in this lovely communal space and have access to all that it offers. This place is ideal for making plans with business partners, writing scripts with friends, or just getting together for some time away from screens and computers. This place is tailored toward bringing diverse people together into one place to sharing ideas and stories with each other. As for the coffee and baristas both are fantastic. Cappuccino rocked me off my behind all day cuz I'm used to watered down crappuccinos from Starbucks. I love this place. This is where I bring friends that love good coffee and a peaceful conversation.“

“A community staple. A beautiful, charming spot with incredible food and caring, warm service.

Whether you’re here for a sit down meal to catch up with friends, or need a quick to go pastry or dessert, Aroma will never disappoint.

This can be a very popular spot, so prepare for a small line and wait for an open table.

Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options as well. Many of the pastries and desserts are vegan and/or gluten free.

I can’t recommend this place enough.“

“Good breakfast. Hamburgers are great.“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆
Cha Cha Matcha is such a fun spot — really bright, aesthetic, and just a whole vibe.

The matcha is the highlight, really good quality and super smooth. I tried one of their drinks and it was refreshing without being too sweet.

The WeHo location has such a nice sitting area, and the decor feels really elevated — lots of plants, beautiful old cane chairs, and just a really well-designed space.

Perfect for a casual catch-up or just sitting and enjoying the space.

Definitely a cute spot if you’re into matcha and want something light and easy“

“Love bringing my son here to play new games. Good menu and nice atmosphere. For solo or group work.“

“WoW , the food , the view, Supernice Crew . Worth everything ! We come back . / Swedish Guests“

“Love it me gusta mucho la amabilidad y tienen los chilaquiles mas deliciosos que e probado 👌😋😋“

“Stumbled on this place by myself! The owners were so sweet and attentive. Feels very cozy and clean. A great place to post up for work.
The coffee was delicious and the food was right up there with it. I got an off menu salmon tartine that she recommended and then treated myself to the pancakes. Delicious and will come back!!“

“This Bakery is Beyond amazing 👏 😍 They make fresh fruit smoothies :^) they have multiple milk options 😋 They offer fresh juices that are healthy, yet delicious. They have delicious sandwiches. Their homemade cookies are amazing 👏 They go above and beyond to make you feel at home 🏡 they have AC and it's comfortable. The bathroom was very clean and provides a sound blocking experience. I will definitely be coming back. 😌 Thank you all for providing us a healthy energizing breakfast!“

“It was so beautiful walking in, so pretty! The barista's are both so kind and incredibly helpful as well, they answer questions in a detailed response! Prices were good and not absurd, absolutely worth the price. The coffee tastes so rich, would highly recommend and come back for sure!!“

“Delicious food and drinks. Perfect place to stop in for a snack on break, in between classes or just because.

The owners are the sweetest people on this planet. They do their very best to give you the best service and food/drinks. I’ve been coming here for years and will continue to do so.“

“This place is pretty amazing !!! They know all there products very good willing to help you find just what you are looking for very good service“

“Ordered my wife the 36 piece box for the birth of our son. Truly, every piece she has said has just been incredible! AND to ship with such care from Beverly Hills to Columbus, Ohio in the MIDDLE of a July heatwave.... not a single crack in ANY piece. Just true care and quality. This will be a special occasion staple! Shot out to H3 for keeping &sons in our line of sight for so long!“

“Overall 5 stars, the coffees and breakfast sliders were wonderful. Absolutely worth the wait, but I do have to give 4/5 stars for service and atmosphere simply because I feel as though if they put slightly more effort into the customer experience side of things, this place could be a chain with a cult following. Everything else that they're doing is right, but the line to get it (although justified) could be made a more pleasant experience just by hiring a simple greeter to stand outside, talk to guests, and keep the line moving along steadily.“

“Tastes great, not expensive, good service“

“Excellent food and service! Absolutely perfect breakfast. Hot, delicious, HUGE portions. The best chai tea latte I've ever had it - it puts Starbucks to shame. The meal was esthetically a work of art (see photo). The menu said two eggs, but it looked like five. Great French toast - better than I can make myself. Needless to say, I highly recommend Joey's Cafe!“

“Double edge coin. Hippies then conservatives in the same area. But you get a certain vibe from the area.“

“My family and I have been going to the Good Neighbor for over 20+ years, and always great food and excellent service!“

“A wonderful establishment with the best, most authentic Bosnian bureks I’ve had as someone from the burek lands! The soups are also amazing, and reminded me of my mom’s food. Rumors is very cozy, really nice and comfortable for breakfast and lunch. Very enthusiastically recommended!“

“I recently visited Cosmodrome LA and had a great overall experience. As someone who is often on the road for work, I really appreciate finding a spot that delivers both quality and efficiency. The atmosphere of the establishment is modern and clean, which makes for a pleasant environment while you wait for

your order.

I ordered their shawarma, and it was excellent. The meat was well-seasoned and juicy, paired with fresh, crisp vegetables. One of the highlights for me was the sauce-it was flavorful without being overpowering. The wrap itself was perfectly toasted, holding everything together until the last bite without getting soggy or falling apart. The portion size is quite generous and definitely satisfies a hearty appetite.

The service was also a standout factor. The staff was professional, polite, and handled the order quickly. It is clear that they pay attention to detail and care about the customer experience.

If you are looking for high-quality shawarma with fresh ingredients and great service in a clean setting, I highly recommend checking out Cosmodrome LA. It's a solid choice for a reliable and delicious meal. I will certainly be coming back“

“Great coffee and great service.“

“Yummy! I had the Impossible Burrito with avocado. I was afraid it would be too spicy or greasy..sooo not the case. It was so delicious 💕 The flavor was multi-layered, surprisingly outstanding and it had some crunchiness. I will definitely be returning soon. The bonus is the staff that was welcoming and most helpful.“

“Been here twice with my daughter - Got my husband the chai tea latte and I got the day dream, both delish. Great service everyone’s been super friendly. I even left my phone the second time and the girl came outside to give it back to me before I walked too far. Will be back!“

“ube ,mango and guava roll is good“

“Great place to have a good boba and they also have some good food in their menu. Good service too and friendly staff.“

“I’ve only visited twice, but the food is beyond amazingly good! The dishes are well prepared, fresh, and just the right amount of seasoning. Best hummus ever. I’m someone that has a hard time finding food I like, so I always look forward to coming here. Service is always warm and friendly.“

“Enjoyed our breakfast, very friendly staff, large portions, homemade bread and excellent service!“

“This place is GREAT. Never found such a great quality of ingredients in the food in the US. These guys also make their own bread and buns for the burgers. The vegetables too taste as they are supposed to taste and the waiters are just the most kind people you could ever want. I had an avocado toast and egg this morning and it was so good. With egg actually tasting incredible. Then came back for a burger and it was just great: the meat was delicious and so the toppings. Amazing place.“

“A place like Goncho Bistro makes me wish I lived in the neighborhood, the menu, the prices, the casual atmosphere were all so appealing on paper and once I went, it all delivered. I was staying at a friends nearby and wandered in on a Tuesday evening when the fish joint a couple doors down was closed.

I was greeted by whom I believe was one of the owners as he was assembling some furniture and beckoned in warmly to order. A family of three was about to order as well and I insisted not to worry about getting mine out first as I was not in a hurry and going to sit outside. I ordered the Goncho burger combo, a kiwi chicken salad, and a San Pellegrino soda. He had asked if it was my first time in and as a result didn't charge me for the beverage which was a kind gesture.

I set up outside at slightly wobbly wicker table and enjoyed the warm evening and lovely sunset in a chair that I thought was going to be a lot less comfortable than it was for my big butt. The food was ready about 20 minutes later and I tucked in. The kiwi chicken salad was extraordinary, at least to my tastes, and don't let the photos fool you there were 6 or 7 big pieces of strongly seasoned chicken in it, not just 3 on top. There was also easily a whole kiwi and maybe even a whole medium avocado in it too. The spinach taste fresh and the minty vinaigrette was refreshing and really tied together a unique salad at a borderline bargain price. The burger combo continued that trend. At 18 dollars it was piled with perfectly roasted little potatoes and a really hearty burger for its size. The beef was juicy, rich, and cooked at a perfect medium by default. The beefy flavor was in harmony with the strong sweetness of the carmalized onion and mozzarella making for sweet savory bites reminiscent of some of my favorite burgers that use fig or bacon jams. The mustardy-mayo sauce was perfect for the little potatoes and the cheese on top was nice, but could totally be omitted in my uninformed opinion.

Paying about $30 for all of this at a bistro in Sherman Oaks felt like great deal and really contributed to the joy of such good food. I don't think I would've been disappointed or upset if it was closer to $40, but it wouldn't have felt as hospitable or special as money gets tighter these days. I will be back again and again as the entire menu is so appealing and offers some uncommon flavors and dishes. I'm confident they will all be executed perfectly and priced more than fairly based on this experience. Go here please!“

“Great espresso nice vibes“

“it was exactly what we were looking for and definitely will be back! Delicious fresh thoughtful food, something for everyone. As a vegetarian I was delighted at the options. I had the roasted cauliflower and yam salad and it was scrumptious. Not to mention they have outdoor seating in the shade which is lovely and they welcomed my doggies with a bowl of water and chunks of chicken! thanks!“

“Even though I’ve only had gf toast and coffee here, I’ve been telling everyone about this place. Thought and care are the key vibes I feel. The mild, full-flavored coffee is worth the trip for me.“

“amazing cool fun and exciting experience“

“1st time there and food was amazing specially the churro 3 leches French toast.“

“Great place. Breakfast burrito is notably great!
Photo attached.
Latte was nice also.
Had the Sugar free vanilla latte .
Staff was friendly and they have a cool selection of snacks and ice creams/ drinks inside also.
Features mostly covered patio and a few tables for indoor seating also .

Thanks guys see you all again!“

“I stumbled upon this location completely by chance and I am so grateful I did! The overall standards here are exceptionally high, boasting a remarkably flawless presentation and a truly comforting ambiance. It is an absolutely phenomenal destination that undoubtedly deserves top marks from me.“

“The building itself is a work of art. The outdoor landscape is also carefully designed. There are so many exhibits that you need to have enough time to explore. You can also start from the West Pavilion, where you can see more familiar works. This is an art museum worth visiting many times.“

“Absolutely delicious Portuguese food!“

“I come here literally every day! Great food, clean place and very kind people. They greet their regular customers by name and already know my order. Prices are great and low compared to everything else in the area. Wish I could give 6 stars :)“

“The best matcha I tried outside of my house. Great packaging and fun pink vibes. Will come there again.

I enjoy getting my dose of matcha from this cut spot. I especially love to observe baristas make matcha in front of me.“

“The food is exquisite. A bit pricey but well worth it! If you're "a foodie" you'll appreciate it all! Eat Here ASAP! DELICIOUS! 5 star“

“I haven’t felt this good in a long time. Ferrarini Beverly Hills truly feels like a little corner of Italy — it even reminded me of Venice. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, the food is delicious, and the drinks are crafted with real skill and professionalism. A perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Italian spirit right in Beverly Hills“

“Great food and experience, almost as good as eating this fluffy pancake breakfast in Tokyo!

Doumo arigatou gozaimashita to everyone who works here and made it all happen!

Very clean inside, nicely lit, friendly and helpful staff, and the food was fresh and perfectly prepared.

Downside was parking because it is a busy area, and the $$ cost, because of the area, state, and current economy situation.

Would definitely come again if we were in the area.“

“Coffee Commissary - welcome to Beverly Center!! So glad to finally have you near Cedars Sinai!!“

“Excellent service and enjoyed the St. Patrick’s Day Menu! Thank you for a great experience.“