42 Best Coffee Shops in Santa Monica

“Best bagels in LA. Always hit the spot. I love the plain bagels with cream cheese but they also have so many cool specialty bagels I feel like you can't get anywhere else in LA. It's usually somewhat busy but I preorder most of the time which makes the whole process much easier so I recommend doing that. The staff is always super friendly and helpful. I recommend Layla for anyone who wants a delicious bagel that keeps you full!“

“Almost too hip of an atmosphere. Looks futuristic and like a hipster puked all over it but it’s still cute. I miss the old schnackenbergs! This place looks odd in old cute charming uptown Hoboken. It’s very Portland-esque. Good salad tho.“

“Phil and Lily are so sweet, and the smoothies here are 10/10 amazing 💯!! Their recipes are inventive, delicious, and picture perfect 😋 lots of menu options to choose from, and their smoothies literally make my day brighter and give me a pep in my step 🌈 Main Squeeze smoothies taste better than Erewhon in my opinion (and I’m a die hard Erewhon fan/member!!)“

“What an amazing breakfast! Frank our server was amazing! Split a huge breakfast burrito with my daughter and we had the OG and banana nut pancakes! Perfection! Everything so fresh and locally sourced… this will be our breakfast place every time we visit LA“

“This fresh made, warm and healthy donut is phenomenal. Seriously, you can have one and without guilt or regret. Healthy meets most delicious. Do not forget the matcha latte...prob the most incredible invention in history. I love this place ❤️ is a major pit stop when I visit Santa Monica“

“I write for a music and coffee blog called Crooners In Coffeeshops, in which I interview local musicians at local coffeeshops. My writeup reflects the positive experience that I encountered at Caffe Luxxe on our interview date. L.A. based small batch coffee roaster Caffe Luxxe is wonderful example of what can grow from the powerful bond of friendship, specifically one that spans decades like that of owners Mark Wain and Gary Chau. Taking the chance to quit their corporate jobs in 2006, they’ve been able to fuel their business from their personal relationship and their love for European luxury caffe culture. A fun fact, Caffe Luxxe is the first of its kind in L.A. for artisan coffee preparation, and boy golly, it is not one to miss at any of its So Cal locations. The coffee world is your oyster when picking your beverage of choice from their delectable menu of drips, pour overs, and a unique variety of Bevande Di Caffe (including a chocolate-y shaken Caffe Shakerato, a sparkling espresso Caffe Frizzante, and a spiced citrus Caffe Nico). If seasonal specials are your thing, have no fear, because they’ve got those covered too! What more could you ask for?“

“excellent salad. thank you ben“

“Got the breakfast burrito with the hot sauce on the side and a brown sugar latte. The burrito is so good. A thoughtful amount of avocado, cheese, bacon, hash browns, and pico. I should have had it with the hot sauce inside. The hot sauce is like a smokey, vinegar base sauce, just enough spice to taste everything and not too overwhelming at all. For those with heartburn, get it inside the burrito, you can thank me later. They didn't open right up at 8 but it was such a nice morning, I didn't mind a leisurely start to the day. Very friendly staff, other customers waiting were kind as well. Once the workout classes in the gym get started, you get to jam out. Dog friendly picnic area just watch out for the exercise class cuz they do run through their shared entrance. Overall great spot, highly recommend!“

“Home of my favorite orange pancakes!“

“Bodega Wine Bar has truly become my third place since moving here. Whether it’s daytime coffee or wine bar evenings, the staff consistently go out of their way to make it a welcoming, comfortable spot. Kelsey and Zack in particular stand out — they bring not just professionalism and great service, but a genuine warmth that makes every visit feel personal.

Here’s a little secret: underneath the excellent customer service, they’re just genuinely kind and caring people. That says a lot about a place, and it’s why Bodega isn’t just another bar or café — it’s a community. On top of that, it’s hands down the best coworking space I’ve ever had. I can’t recommend it enough.“

“The best! Worth every penny.“

“Great new neighborhood spot! The food is healthy and delicious. Lots of variety on the menu so everyone should have a few excellent choices!“

“Coffee is incredible! We came almost everyday of our vacation in Santa Monica because of the amazing lattes and the wonderful owners, who explained the art that goes into making all of their products. The blueberry latte was my particular favorite but they were all delicious!!“

“Lovely family business. Great food & drinks, easy parking, inside & outside seating, affordable prices & totally relaxed & comfy athmosfere!“

“Best food spot I’ve ever been too. I have traveled internationally and nationally NOTHING beats Kafe K, best quality cappuccino perfect consistentsy for only $5?! I wish I had a lifetime supply! Don’t get me started on the açaí bowls, my jaw hit the floor? Even my child asked if we can make them at home, most definitely would come and support!“

“Excellent High Tea on Montana Avenue. Great owner and staff. Relaxing atmosphere. Delicious teas and food. A jewel on our neighborhood! Highly recommended.“

“Enjoyed the croissant and a muffin with a mocha coffee“

“The attendant was friendly ! Turkey sandwich and the hot chocolate were amazing ! Definitely recommend !“

“Had the Thai bowl... YUM!“

“Oh my gosh, is this my favorite place to get coffee in SM? Yes! So cute, great coffee and smoothies, great avacado and egg salad toasts. Great dog watching and people watching too. Easy to park, but pay the meter, the meter people make a sweep in the morning. Lovely place to sit, lots of shaded places.“

“Absolutely brilliant. Great Guinness“

“Place is nice but needs a major update with sitting, the tables are for dwarf people and are extremely uncomfortable if there were chairs for average people there would be better sales and there should be more bakery options this place is boring“

“I would give this place 10 stars if I could!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beautiful ambiance, blocks from the beach, delicious coffee, great vegan options, and the best service! They treat you like family 🤗 Emily is AWESOME and treats all the customers like kings and queens 🙏🙏🙏 Always love coming here and instantly puts me in a better mood 🤪“

“One of the best coffee place with good taste and fresh pastries and good attitude ✅“

“I feel so lucky to live so close to my favorite cafe!! I sometimes have to talk myself out of coming here multiple times in one day. Everything here is so delicious, the coffee, the tea, the pastries!! The entire staff is so friendly and kind!! And the plants are absolutely gorgeous as well :)“

“I’m always on the look out for the locally roasted coffee, I’m often disappointed. But THIS spot I have to say I’m absolutely IMPRESSED!!! Not too acidic, not bitter at all and a fantastic taste. Staff was sincere and I will be back again tomorrow!!“

“Had a very relaxing experience. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere was pleasantly calm. Would highly recommend.“

“Always amazing service and highest quality products!“

““And when love speaks, the voice of all the gods makes heaven drowsy with the harmony.” That said let’s begin thy lovely review.

Love Coffee Bar is a small charming locally owned coffee shop in Ocean Park, Santa Monica. They primarily serve Counter Culture as their coffee roaster. And on their menu they have modest selection of coffee, tea and specialty drinks. Similarly, they have mugs, tote
bags and merch for sale.

This coffee shop has spacious interior layout and minimalist artful design. And have dog-friendly policy which was definitely a plus. In addition, they have free wifi and abundant of natural light which makes this shop a good spot to hangout. They have rear outdoor patio for customers that crave fresh air and sun.

I perused their menu and ordered a hot Flat White and Iced Coffee. Both drinks were splendid! Smooth and rich in coffee bean aroma.Staff were affable and highly competent. Prices were slightly higher to similar drinks. Street parking only.

Collectively, this is a good coffee shop. Overall, I highly recommend LCB if you’re in the area.“

“Delicious coffee and sustainably focused!“

“I met Hana on another social network and ordered the product. She’s a hard worker and did a great job showing me how to prepare, and enjoy Kava. Kava is an acquired taste but I’ve created some great recipes that allows me to enjoy Kava in a variety of ways.“

“So good! Any time I am in Santa Monica for work, I make sure to stop here at least once as we don't have Blue Bottle in Las Vegas. The menu is pretty simple and not too extensive. I love lattes, and they have 2 different kinds, I go for the iced sweet latte. It's really simple and very tasty. I'm not a fan of strong tasting coffees, and this one is perfect. They also have some good food options if you are hungry.

It can get pretty busy in here as it gets later in the morning. I ended up here both times around 8:45 or so with a line up to the door. The staff is very nice and tries to get through the line as quickly as they can while also making drinks and food. They handle it very well! Great coffee and very nice service. I love it here and wish I could get this all the time back home!“

“Super friendly staff and great coffee!!! Highly recommend:)“

“New Orleans Cold Brew is Where it’s at!“

“If you’re ever in the mood for something sweet, this place, totally hits the spot. My favorite things are the Portuguese egg tarts and the salt chocolate chip cookie. The cookie is huge and can easily be shared. I’ve not tried their coffee yet, but my boyfriend loves their coffees.“

“Love the staff -- humor and positive energy galore. Also, matcha latte.“

“The bagels and cream cheese are excellent! Coffee is the best!!!“

“I write for a music and coffee blog called Crooners In Coffeeshops, in which I interview local musicians at local coffeeshops. My writeup reflects the positive experience that I encountered at UnUrban Coffee House on our interview date. In a congested city like Los Angeles, it’s sometimes easier to go to the closest coffee chain just purely out of convenience and time. However, we end up losing the experience of stepping into a kooky hole-in-the-wall place that has clearly made customers happy for many years. UnUrban Coffee in Santa Monica is one of those hidden gems that can be the home for many fun experiences. Whether you’re stopping by to pick up your morning brew, reuniting with a long-time friend, or happen to be there to witness some type of cool live performance in their stage area, you’re sure to feel perfectly at home. The first thing that you’ll notice about UnUrban is that it’s heavily influenced by art, which is clearly showcased from its building artwork, outdoor furniture, and even its logo. Luckily, you get that same amount of quirkiness reflected when you step through its retro screen covered wooden doors as you are welcomed by bright colors infused everywhere you can possibly imagine, and the displaying of unique local artwork lining its walls for patrons to enjoy. And the more art-focused the shop is, at least for me, the more options there are for food and drink that meets everyone’s dietary restrictions or preferences. I took advantage of their specialty drink menu and went with an Earl Gray Tea Latte which specific name escapes me. Overall, art lovers and caffeine lovers alike will enjoy their time here.“

“This place really is sweet. I love the open space, the variety of drinks and homemade tropical syrups, and the food menu that is different enough from the food you can find at other farm-to-table cafes in Santa Monica that this one is worth the visit. The avo toast and breakfast sando are delicious.“

“This is such a cute place. instantly brightens your day. 10/10 recommend. Hazelnut toast amazing Truffle Burrata toast YUMMMYYY“

“I didn’t expect much since the overall ratings are average, but this place is right across the street from the Tesla chargers, so it was very convenient when I needed to charge the car and get my toddler out to walk around for a bit. I was happy to see that they had lavender lattes on the menu cuz those are my favorite. I was even happier with how it tasted—not overly sweet, and perfect velvety foam. I was also very pleased that they had a savory pastry option. The caramelized onion scone looked suspiciously dry, but it wasn’t. It was quite moist and delicious, which was another wonderful surprise. But the best part for me (which is very parent-specific, so probably not relevant to most people), was the fact that the kids steamed milk I got for my 1.5yr old was actually perfect temperature, with a nice amount of foam. As a parent, it’s rare that a barista has the awareness or experience to recognize a good temperature for younger babies. Most of the time at other cafes, the milk is still too hot for kids younger than 5. But this barista was pretty awesome and skilled, and I soooooo appreciate that attention to such a seemingly benign detail. I didn’t get their name, but I was overall very impressed.“

“Love NYBD!! Every time I come to Santa Monica I want to visit this place. Great service, yhe freshest bagels, cream cheese, lox, etc. I wish we had one in Austin, TX!!“