50 Best Cafes near South Pasadena

“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 Kaldi Coffee on our interview date. Ever wondered where they shot the coffee scenes for films like Lady Bird, Prom Night, The Ugly Truth (AKA my favorite rom-com ever in the entire world) and tv shows like Brothers & Sisters, Parenthood, and most recently Splitting Up Together? Who knew that it was right underneath our noses tucked away in beautiful Pasadena, CA! Kaldi Coffee & Tea certainly has the appeal of the go-to coffeeshop with its weathered brick walls, worn wooden seating arrangements, maintained hardwood flooring, and classic oldies tracks playing in the background. Even with its somewhat infamous reputation in the film and television realm, the food and drink options are reasonably priced. An array of classic coffee and tea options with a seasonal signatures, like the deliciously refreshing honey vanilla latte that I couldn’t help but choose, showcase that they try to cater to every type of customer that rolls in. From the minute you step through the shop’s forest green framed doors, you can just tell that generations of coffee lover have come through here. Plus there is a strong sense of community with local artwork on display, and a bulletin board with notes of local events, offers, listings, etc. tacked to them. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to spend the day reading, playing music (on their front seating area of course), or are a movie and tv buff looking to visit a place with some history, Kaldi Coffee & Tea is the hidden gem you’ve been looking for.“

“Delicious coffee all around and talented / professional baristas! So glad South Pas has this gem of a coffee spot ✌️

My go-to is a hot red eye or a double shot. the espresso here is always on point and consistent. My wife and mom both love their house-made almond milk (which i agree is very delicious - i make my own almond milk at home but can never get it to taste like two kids), so an iced almond milk latte is their usual pick.

The baristas here have solid pacing and know their craft. Even when the line gets long, they take their time to get each order right and never rush the process, which shows. The espresso is consistently smooth / flavorful and never bitter, which is why i keep coming back!

two kids has a nice family friendly neighborhood vibe. you can for sure hang here for a bit, but it’s definitely more of a “grab and go” coffee shop, as seating is limited and it’s a “laptop free zone”. there’s no restroom inside.

i definitely enjoy bringing a book and reading with my espresso every once in a while, as it’s a bright space, they play good jams, and it has a nice modern aesthetic.

highly recommend this spot“

“First time going with my daughter. I love it. Fresh bread and the food absolutely fresh I got in love this place ❤️❤️❤️❤️“

“Great sandwiches. I especially enjoyed the atmosphere and the great service from the owner. A+ for customer service. The gentleman was exceptional. Don’t get quality service like that anymore. Would definitely recommend supporting this sandwich shop. We’ll be back! 🙌🏼“

“Such Wonderful atmosphere, food and coffee! 💖🎉🥳 They also have a super sweet display of gourmet treats!!! 🤩“

“get the Hash! and some pie“

“Breakfast goals achieved! Generous portions, delicious homemade biscuits, and an omelette that could serve two. Friendly staff made it even better. My favorite meal done right 💕☕“

“The Harvest Dinner was a wonderful experience. Lemon Poppy is a durable, local favorite, a fun & friendly place to get predictably good food. Having the opportunity to attend a more intimate, curated & personal dining experience was such a treat! The relaxed pace, the unique multi-course meal, & the delightful food surprised that just kept coming ... delightful! Everything was so good! And so much food - we left with multiple leftover containers, that I was able to enjoy for several meals afterward. Definitely a highlight ❤️“

“I am excited to share the heavenly news that Doubting Thomas has been fully endorsed by the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ, King of Wings! Congrats Chef Naomi!“

“Going local-origin for my next batch of pumpernickel bagels. Choco-latte and Nicaraguan chocolate down here are legit crazy awesome!“

“one of the best places in los Angeles California“

“Maru has really Nice green tea latte. I usually leaning toward coffee and Maru’ coffee is super nice. But, their iced green tea latte is something else.“

“Excelente servicio. Comida exquisita y saludable. 💯%Recomendable. Gracias.“

“From the time we parked the car to the time we left we were treated with a kindness and respect rarely seen nowadays. My wife had there famous chiliquiles and I had the carnitas omelette. The food was amazing and the service was great. It was my first time here and won't be the last. Try it out not just for the great cause but for the great food.“

“Their signature soufflé pancakes“

“THE CRUMB CAKE WAS THE MOST DELICIOUS, MOIST, MAGICAL, PERFECTION.

Everything they make here is made with love. And I always think I can’t be more impressed, but lo and behold, today they wowed me again.

I cannot say enough good things about this bakery/cafe/team of creative brilliant artists who make magic in the heart of Frogtown.

Walk, don’t run to Just What I Kneaded!“

“Great spot! My mom is celiac and it’s rare (like never happens!) that she can find a gf donut. This spot is dedicated gluten free and she was soooo stoked to visit Hello Yr Welcome twice during her recent visit to LA. We got 3 donuts her first time in and 1/2 dozen the second (bc she loved them so much). They were all very flavorful and delicious!

Staff is super friendly and we enjoyed talking with them. Oh and the coffee is great. I got some delicious espresso / good flavor and not bitter - they know how to pull a shot ☕

Also worth noting that all the breakfast sandos and other items look delicious as well! But we were just focused on my moms rare opportunity to enjoy a donut

Worth getting here early as they do tend to sell out of some flavors by afternoon. We found there’s plenty of street parking in the surrounding area, even on the weekends.

Thanks for an awesome dedicated gf bakery, hello yr welcome team 🙏“

“What an absolute gem of a find! I visited for the first time today—and to my absolute delight, just five minutes from my home, I found a real maritozzo con panna that transported me straight back to Rome! You have no idea how happy this made me.
If I could, I’d give it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars! If I may humbly offer one tiny, respectful suggestion from a passionate Roman heart: try making the cream (la panna) completely unsweetened. In Rome, we keep the whipped cream unsweetened because the light dusting of powdered sugar on top and the soft, sweet brioche bun already provide the perfect amount of sweetness.
At first glance, unsweetened cream might feel like it's missing something, but I promise you, it creates such a delicious balance that people will end up ordering two! Back home, I can easily polish off two in one sitting, whereas here I was full after one just from the extra sugar rush. (And you will save money on the sugar saved !)
Thank you for making such a wonderful place and bringing a taste of Italy so close to home. I can't wait to come back!“

“Love how I can go for a walk before/after the coffee since it’s attached to the walkway. There are plenty of sitting area outdoor.

My personal downsides are that (1) their indoor tables/chairs are so short so I cannot properly get any work done. (2) they dont have a charging station. They have one plug by the entrance but that doesnt work. So inconvenient.“

“I am visiting from Massachusetts and THIS place is THE BEST for quality, portions, price and friendliness of staff!!! and also the nice location, seating options (inside or balcony outdoors!) sunny!..geat mountain view!..casual and super clean and organized! A+++++++ my 2nd day here in a row for breakfast and the coffee is EXCELLENT & large cups too! ❤️“

“Awesome healthy food! A ton of vegan options. And the price is great too. You'll meet alot of grassroots artists and cultural creatives here,as well as spiritual people. All tribes are welcome here!“

“We had the breakfast burrito and California omelette. Both were extremely delicious and high-quality ingredients. The atmosphere was excellent. The place was clean. The service was above and beyond. They were so kind. I would highly recommend the food and location.“

“I’m not sure how this place hasn’t received 5 stars in every review?! I had the goats cheese baguette with fig butter and prosciutto and my hubby had the roast chicken. We arrived 30 minutes ahead of closing on a Thursday and despite the fact they looked to be clearing up we were welcomed warmly and enjoyed the BEST sandwiches we’ve had! Do yourself a favour and go see for yourself!“

“The people at the Kawada Hotel recommended this wonderful diner. I walked in and fell in love with the place. I'm not a fancy person,but I may as well have been eating at a Michellin Stared restaurant. The gentleman behind the counter was friendly. I love ❤️ a good diner for breakfast. If I were to recommend something, it would be to have something other than plastic silverware. Bring the kids...“

“Love to start my day with fresh orange juice and bagels here. Staff is welcoming and cheerful“

“This place was hands down, the best breakfast spot you could ever choose. We tried a variety of options: avocado toast, Nutella & banana croissant, banana and pb toast, and a bagel sandwich. Every single thing was 10/10. The coffee was somehow EVEN better. Best coffee I have ever had!!! Cannot recommend this place enough!“

“From the first interaction with staff till the very last, loved every part of my visit. They were very busy that day but the guy was so sweet and attentive. He was the only one serving the tables but remained super kind. I ordered the red chilaquiles with carnitas and asked for the spicy salsa to pour on top and wow - amazing flavor. Truly recommend these chilaquiles. I want to go back!“

“Stopped by on my way to work for my first visit, and I’m officially hooked! Found easy street parking right out front and ordered using the kiosk inside. It has a small interior and there were a few customers inside, however the worker was very quick with all our orders! I got a tiramisu iced latte, a matcha pastry, and a ham & cheese croissant sandwich, all three for just $8! You can’t beat that price point, especially given the quality. The coffee had a distinct tiramisu flavor, the pastry was perfectly balanced, and the sandwich was warm and crispy. Definitely going back!“

“Super riko selos recomiendo“

“Very healthy and delicious breakfast/lunch sandwiches (organic produce), salads and Coffee ☕️...and pastries...LAUSD Coffee cake the BEST 😋😋“

“I came at 5:30pm on a Sunday and it wasn't very crowded which allowed me to easily get a seat. The atmosphere is the typical cafe vibe with k-r&b and lofi in the background and natural lighting, and the decor theme is cozy pastel blue + chrome. I tried this place because of the ATEEZ drink collab event and ordered the Mushroom Cream Baguette Sandwich, Spinach and Feta Pocket, and the Sweet Mamacita drink. They were all delicious, especially the Spinach and Feta Pocket which was very crispy! I wish I could buy more of these if the prices weren't as steep, but I understand that these may be typical L.A. prices. They were also filling, considering the decently small portion sizes, as I managed to get through the Spinach and Feta Pocket and my drink before I was full. I would recommend all of these items and dining in besides doing takeout like I did. It's overall a nice study spot with great snacks, and I'd come all the way out here just to try more items or just get the same ones I ordered!“

“I'm a retired chef from Louisiana but living in Nashville nowadays. I know about eating healthy and I would give this place 2 thumbs up.“

“Highlight Coffee Shop in Glendale, CA is a true gem for coffee lovers. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the perfect tone for a cozy coffee experience.“

“A little over 3 years ago, Fleur Cafe opened, and has been a fine success as a small, one-of family restaurant with excellent service and great food at reasonable prices. Now they have expanded their kitchen, and finally introduced an expanded menu with wonderful new dishes added to the popular favorites! I personally enjoy the outdoor dining option, but they have also got a nice little dining room. Prices have gone up a bit, but it is still a very reasonable breakfast, brnch and lunch choice.“

“Tried the crepe rolls at Roll Cafe today and they were absolutely delicious! You can tell a lot of care goes into the food, and everything tasted fresh and flavorful. Maria and Isabel were both so friendly and welcoming — they made the whole experience even better. Excited to have this new spot around and I’ll definitely be coming back!“

“Love their sandwiches! Delicious!!“

“Great place for Pastries.“

“Good coffee first time visiting this place. Will definitely go back.“

“Awesome environment everyone is really chill! Plus they are Lakers Fans which makes it really feel like L.A.! Awesome drinks and great food!“

“Immediately after I walked in I was greeted in a real way and asked what I was feeling like. They made me the special they have currently which was delicious. I also bought their Everything Bagel Croissant which was also delicious and unique. Geeky vibe with cozy energy. Excited to return.“

“This is a fun coffee place, particularly for music photographers like me. The owner is the guitar player of System of a Down, and the place is packed with photography. Expect excellent coffee, a limited range of delicious food and don't forget to check out the patio in the back. As I would prefer this place over any Starbucks, I give this place "only" four to of five - and not for quality/ service/ ambiance reasons: it is mandatory in my ranking scheme that I must be willing to do a 30+ min detour just to go here - and even though I really liked the place: this would be too much to ask for as I simply, at my age, prefer places where they serve me.“

“tummy good with a panini 😁“

“First time here. Shared the breakfast sandwich and the breakfast burrito. Both were good 👍 but the burrito was the favorite 🌯🫶 the green salsa it comes with yum! 🤤 the young ladies who work here are very sweet.
Clean even the bathroom.
Only negative parking 🫤“

“The crab cake Benedict was amazing!! Rewarding for seafood and crispy food lovers. Coffee was also nice, served in these massive cups :) The courtyard was nice and chill in a hot summer day“

“es el mejor lugar los mejores cafes y postres ynoseles olvide llevar su rikisimo pastel selos recomiendo. está rikisimo todo“

“The Neighborhood Cafe is such a wonderful spot! The food was fresh, delicious, and full of flavor, and everything was prepared with great care. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the service was friendly and attentive. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy a great meal. I had a fantastic experience and would definitely come back. Five stars!“

“Delicious food and wonderful staff“

“Located at the City National Plaza, about 2 blocks away from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel.

Long line, expensive, and not so great service, but they make some amazing coffee. $6.00 for a vegan donut, $4.25 for an iced americano, and $2.50 to add cloud foam.

Parking is difficult around this area.“

“got lucky and the line was short & went by fast. the cashier was kind &overall pleasant experience once inside

just sad the Spanish Latte was very average(would not order again)
Next time I'll try the Vienna it looked much tastier.“

“👌👌👌👌👌👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍“