50 Best Coffee Shops in Santa Monica

“Love this place, staff is friendly and owners too. coffee is great and I'm very picky about coffee! free Wi-Fi is nice too!“

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

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

“Kafe K was absolutely incredible! The level of service they provided clearly reflects that everyone I met genuinely loves their work. I had a few hours to spare, and they ensured I was completely taken care of, even offering me a sample of their delicious smoothie (thank you!). I also observed that each customer who walked in was greeted with big smiles. The atmosphere was warm and inviting every single time. This truly demonstrates the love and patience each team member has for their role. Coming from out of town, I found the friendliness here to be a refreshing change. Without a doubt, it’s the best cafe I’ve been too in a very long time. They also offer vegan options like the yummy avocado toast, which was perfect for me. Overall, it’s a solid 10 across the board. Thank you to everyone at Kafe K! I’ll definitely stop by again the next time I’m in town. Plus, they're dog-friendly and even provide water and food for your furry friends. I loved my experience here! Thank you for allowing me to stay as long as I needed. You are all amazing!“

“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.“

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

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

“excellent salad. thank you ben“

“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.“

“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?“

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

“Home of my favorite orange pancakes!“

“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 🤪“

“Really unique donuts made from taro root. They are smaller but made fresh to order. One is enough for a sweet treat but if you’re hungry get 2. They have unique flavors like black sesame banana brûlée. Also some cool merch and Hawaiian goods.“

“Matcha review: I am YET to try a bagel which is embarrassing for obvious reasons, but Layla has an excellent matcha. Their cream top slaps, if you do dairy. Otherwise they have a solid regular matcha latte, hot or iced. The atmosphere is so bright and uplifting, and there is literally always a crowd/line (in a good way). I think it speaks for itself. Even weekdays are popping, but the line is totally doable. I come for matcha from time to time, but can’t wait to be back for a bagel because they look bomb.“

““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.“

“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.“

“The best! Worth every penny.“

“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!“

“Always amazing service and highest quality products!“

“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.“

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

“The self care breakfast was perfect if you enjoy the Mediterranean style breakfast. What makes a big difference is just the quality of the ingredients. The feta, olives, eggs, the olive oil. So good. It was taking a little while to get our food, and they so kindly just brought us a piece of cake which also was delicious! Would definitely be a regular customer here.“

“This is a fantastic café with very high-quality matcha. The drinks are authentic and taste just like what you would find in Japan. The desserts are also excellent and beautifully prepared. The ambience is calm, elegant, and very inviting, and the customer service is wonderful. It truly feels like you are enjoying a café experience in Japan with the same level of quality and attention to detail. I highly recommend this place for anyone who loves authentic Japanese matcha and desserts.“

“Finally got to try this coffee shop and it did not disappoint! When I walked in, I immediately felt at ease when I heard R&B playing in the background and I was greeted by all the friendly baristas. I tried the seasonal cookie butter cold brew and it was *chef’s kiss!!* I loved having this option so I could have a cream top drink without it being too milky/sweet like lattes can be. THANK YOU for being a BIPOC owned/friendly establishment in a predominantly unseasoned area of LA (iykyk lol).“

“Absolutely brilliant. Great Guinness“

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

“Delicious coffee and sustainably focused!“

“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!!“

“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!!“

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

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

“Had the Thai bowl... YUM!“

“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.“

“Fabulous hyper-farm-to-table food by a creative chef, on Main St in Santa Monica. I’ve tried the Gazpacho, the many Danish Rye toasts with what is fresh that day: eggs, salmon roe, avocado or ....? They also have baristas that make all type of drinks. My fab place to indulge healthy and fresh“

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

“الله يبارك 🙋🏻 يعطيكم الصحة 🙋🏻 برافووووو 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻“

“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.“

“Such a great smoothie shop located on Santa Monicas main street! You can taste their fresh ingredients in every sip. They have a range of different smoothie options and clearly fill them up to the very very top!

What we ordered:
-strawberry fields forever: 10/10, so freshy, icey and creamy. the date and vanilla make it extra sweet and tasty
-strawberry banana: 10/10, very creamy & fresh

Strawberry Fields Forever has : coconut milk, strawberry, banana, almond butter or peanut butter, dates, sea salt & vanilla

Strawberry Banana has : coconut milk, strawberry, banana & agave“

“Cute little spot inside a medical building, small treats available, clean, friendly staff, good variety of drinks. A little pricey but you’re in LA and comparable to other coffee places. Great flavor in the iced Vietnamese coffee, highly recommend and would return if I were in this building again.“

“Great coffee!!! Great atmosphere!! Love the neighborhood/ community feel to it.“

“Great coffee. Friendly staff. I have only been to the location on S Shepherd in Houston TX. wish they had more parking. love the pink top and straw for February. Wish they would open a location on the east side Baytown/Mont Belvieu area“

“Ordered a hot chocolate to drink there, it had a beautiful design on top of my drink of a flower or leaf, thank you to the super friendly Barista. I remember it was a young man but did not get his name. Felt speacial. This staff actually smiles at you and makes you feel welcome. Thank you!“

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

“One of my favorites in LA. Try the business and pleasure to get a well rounded sampler of their different offerings.“

“This is my go-to coffee shop for many years. What I like about this shop is that I can stay longer as much as I would like to and internet speed is so fast. This place became our hideout with my boyfriend. This place is my second home. The staff is all friendly, accommodating, and very welcoming. The prices are also affordable. Thank you!“

“Visited multiple times during our stay in Santa Monica. The donuts are delicious. It’s no frills, definitely not one of these new fancy donut shops. But the donuts are simple, tasty and reasonably priced ($10 for a half dozen). The folks working behind the counter were very friendly and helpful.“

“I walked in and was immediately greeted with a smile! Susie took my order and went above and beyond! She asked how my day was and followed up to see if there was anything else I needed. Her attention to detail and charisma with myself and the other customers make me want to come back only to this location.“

“I got their matcha and it was exactly what I’d hope for in a matcha - well blended and tasty. They have almond and oat milk, and also give you options for how sweet it can be in percentages (I think they use a simple syrup to sweeten the drinks and will default to making it sweet if you don’t request it to be completely unsweetened). The shop is set up like a stand, with a mixed indoor/outdoor feel that is mostly outside with a rain cover, but with additional seating outside outside. It is located in an area that gets a lot of foot traffic and would probably be great for people watching at sunnier/busier times, plus the cup size is quite large for the price.“