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Local picks

Espresso and latte spots in Downtown LA

Made for those who oscillate between the sharp bite of a straight espresso and the balanced comfort of a steamed latte.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dalian's Café image 1
Dalian's Café image 2
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Coffee shop

Small café with European style ambiance offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating featuring real orchids on tables and lilac decor. Warm, welcoming vibe combines with freshly baked pastries and good music to create a relaxing spot amid city noise. Outdoor area serves as a quiet oasis despite surrounding urban bustle.

Silky smooth extraction defines the espresso here, delivering a great cup every time. This spot serves excellent coffee with consistent quality.

Strong chai flavors stand out in the iced latte with a double shot of espresso. The 16oz macadamia nut latte costs $7 and soy milk is available as a substitute for lactose intolerance.

People are saying

"The pastries here are delicious and fresh."

"I loved the vanilla latte; it was perfect."

"I enjoyed the great espresso here."

Good to know

1

There is almost no seating inside, so expect to sit outside on the sidewalk.

2

Finding a street parking spot is challenging; parking is about 1 3/4 blocks away.

3

Dalian's Cafe offers a wide selection of milk substitutes for your coffee.

02
Aquarela Coffee - DTLA image 1

Historic building with art deco architecture creates a stunning interior and royal vibe. Atmosphere is cool and relaxing, suitable for work or meetings with plenty of space and plug outlets. Noise levels vary, but the setting remains visually captivating and professional.

Espresso here has a special Brazilian menu with drinks like cortado and Gibraltar. The shots have a hint of sweetness and come in real coffee cups for a grownup feel.

Creamy texture and flavorful taste stand out in the latte here. Specialty lattes like the saúde latte offer unique flavors that can grow on you.

People are saying

"The latte here is in a truly beautiful building."

"I thought the espresso here was amazing and top-notch."

"The pastry here is top notch, just like the friendly service."

Good to know

1

Parking around The CalEdison building is difficult and expensive, costing $40 for more than a couple of hours.

2

Metered parking across the street is rare and has a 2-hour maximum.

3

Seating and outlets are limited, making it less ideal for long work sessions.

03
Eightfold Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with airy, open space and blue monochrome decor creates a quiet, relaxed vibe. Seating includes indoor and small outdoor areas, often calm with friendly energy and good music. It stands out as a low-key, unassuming spot with natural light and a peaceful atmosphere.

Espresso comes out delicious and fantastic with a smooth taste. It pairs well with a Spanish latte, though it is served without sparkling water.

Rich, creamy lattes stand out here with options like the chocolate hojicha latte and vanilla matcha latte hitting perfectly. The Spanish latte and pumpkin spice latte offer warm, fresh flavors that complement the espresso base well.

People are saying

"The baristas here really know what they're doing with the Coffee."

"I found the lattes here to be rich and creamy."

"The espresso here is served by a very friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is easy, with spots available mid-morning.

2

They don't accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

3

Pricing is reasonable for coffee and snacks.

04
Civil Coffee DTLA image 1

Open space with big windows and plenty of natural light creates an airy, spacious atmosphere. Music plays at a balanced volume, supporting a relaxed vibe ideal for working or reading. Friendly faces and fast WiFi contribute to a welcoming, productive environment.

Espresso here stands out for its excellent quality and perfect balance. Shots come consistently well-made, pairing nicely with breakfast options.

Baristas craft perfect iced vanilla lattes and incredible foam art tops each drink. Options include a ceremonial grade matcha oat latte, a light iced almond milk latte, and a rich ganache mocha latte with bold flavor.

People are saying

"Their creative coffee has balanced flavors and sweet notes."

"The baristas here are so friendly and make the perfect latte."

"I enjoyed one of the best espressos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Civil Coffee DTLA does not allow customers to sit at the bar seating.

2

Civil Coffee DTLA did not have a bathroom available for patrons.

3

Civil Coffee serves pastries from Sugar No Bloom Bakery.

05
Kumquat Coffee DTLA image 1

Minimalist interior blends with leafy outdoor seating to create a clean, sophisticated vibe. Coffee aroma fills the space, reflecting a serious focus on high-quality coffee. Seating varies from spacious and comfortable to more casual, supporting both study and conversation.

Espresso here features multiple single origin options with a full third-wave setup including an EG-1 and EK43. Drinks use organic Clover whole milk and include creative choices like a Cloudy espresso with peanut butter cold foam and chocolate flakes.

Peanut butter foam adds a unique twist to some lattes, while the Hojicha latte offers a mildly smoky, creamy roast flavor. Vanilla and iced lattes come out perfectly poured and ready to enjoy immediately.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and seriously good."

"You have to try the peanut butter foam latte."

"I found the espresso here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Free valet parking is available.

2

Parking is limited to street or paid garage.

3

Kumquat Coffee DTLA offers multiple single origin options for espresso, pour over, and cold brew.

06
ilcaffè image 1

Stylish café with comfortable seating and authentic European outdoor vibes on a lively street. Balanced soft music and lighting create a chill, relaxed atmosphere where fashionable crowds gather. The space feels community-focused and personable, ideal for enjoying quality coffee and wine.

Espresso comes with a rich flavor and smooth finish. Options include extra shots and almond milk lattes.

Brown sugar and honey iced latte stands out with perfect flavor and quick preparation under a minute. Options include almond milk and extra espresso shots, with hot lattes served at varying temperatures.

People are saying

"I loved sitting outside and people-watching across from the Orpheum."

"I found the lattes delicious and perfectly flavored."

"I enjoyed the good espresso."

Good to know

1

Pizza is only available on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Prices are on the higher side, with $30 for two coffees and snacks.

3

Parking is limited to street parking or local paid garage parking.

07
Tilt Coffee Bar image 1
Coffee shop

Kiosk sits in a hidden courtyard with spacious outdoor seating under a giant neon flower. Atmosphere blends minimalist futurism with a relaxing, tucked-away vibe despite downtown surroundings. Space attracts those seeking calm, trendy spots for work or socializing.

Strong espressos deliver a rich flavor without being too bold. Drinks like the Cloud Mocha and Cloud Latte mix bright espresso with sweet cream, while the ETC espresso tonic adds a citrus twist.

Cloud lattes feature a creamy texture with nutty and chocolaty flavors and a signature cloud cream topping. Matcha lattes come with perfect sweetness and temperature, made by knowledgeable staff.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was delicious and smooth."

"I loved the Cloud Latte; it's very tasty with bright espresso."

"The espresso here is rich with unique, fruity flavors."

Good to know

1

There was a very long line on weekends, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking is difficult; metered street parking is available nearby.

3

The outdoor area is suitable for kids and provides a nice place to relax.

08
Boxx Coffee Roasters Co. image 1

Modern Turkish cafe with bright spacious design and open view of roasting process creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options with plentiful outlets, supporting laptop use and casual hangouts. The vibe blends industrial elements from roasting with cozy, intimate community energy.

Espresso comes with a small glass of water. Shots have a velvety texture and smooth, complex flavor. Three single origin espressos offer unique profiles.

Smooth texture and lid-free serving highlight the cafe latte, showcasing detailed latte art. Oat latte offers a delicious alternative with rich flavor.

People are saying

"I found their coffee to be full of flavor and fresh."

"I loved the smooth and flavorful latte."

"The espresso here is smooth, complex, and velvety."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be challenging during peak hours.

2

The coffee shop does not accept cash payments.

3

You can get a free coffee drink for every bag of beans purchased.

09
Bohemian House of Espresso + Chai image 1

Boutique coffee shop with bohemian-style decor, vintage furniture, and warm, dim lighting creates a charming, relaxing atmosphere. Slow jazz music plays softly while local art and house plants fill the small space. Dogs are welcome and an artist corner adds a creative touch.

Skilled baristas serve superb espresso and oatmilk lattes with precision. Options include a red eye with Ethiopian coffee that delivers strong, rich flavor.

Chai lattes come made from scratch with unique blends like ginger and cardamom. Matcha lattes often feature mint and cinnamon for added flavor, while the date seed latte stands out as an unexpected favorite.

People are saying

"I thought the chai latte was the best I had ever had."

"I found the cardamom date latte to be delicious."

"I found the espresso here to be the best coffee in DTLA."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available at the cafe.

2

The cafe is pet friendly and allows dogs inside.

3

They run out of most food options mid-day on a weekday.

10
Maru Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalist design with natural lighting creates a calming, modern vibe. The space feels open yet crowded, attracting those who appreciate quality coffee and stylish surroundings. Comfortable seating and good music add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Espresso here delivers a smooth and fruity profile with tropical notes like pineapple. Signature drinks include a cream top iced espresso blending acidity, creaminess, and spices, plus a cold, foamy espresso option.

Iced Vanilla Latte stands out with a superior taste for espresso lovers. The cream top latte is popular and described well by the staff. Options like the natural latte and cloud top latte offer unique, flavorful experiences.

People are saying

"I loved the smooth and fruity espresso here."

"I thought the cloud top latte was quite good."

"The espresso here is amazing and addictive."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; there is no free parking nearby.

2

Expect long lines on weekends, especially Saturday afternoons.

3

Maru Coffee has a cashless policy, so bring a card.

11
Go Get Em Tiger image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop inside a bustling market offers a cozy atmosphere with warm decor and a purple La Marzocco espresso machine that stands out. The vibe balances calm, relaxing mornings with lively market energy, making it ideal for people-watching and enjoying quality coffee.

Espresso offers a rich, nuanced flavor with smooth texture and well-textured milk. Signature drinks include espresso served with tonic water, though acidity levels vary.

Creamy and smooth lattes stand out here, especially the iced almond macadamia latte which is nutty and richer than typical alternative milk drinks. The turmeric latte with added espresso offers a delicious twist, and the team prepares each latte with care, shaking them to order.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great, especially the lattes."

"The almond macadamia latte is nutty and creamy."

"The espresso here is smooth, rich, and amazing."

Good to know

1

There is a parking garage attached to the building, making parking very convenient.

2

The coffee shop does not take payment until after you finish, which I found to be a nice feature.

3

Go Get Em Tiger is run by former barista champions.

12
Saero Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with minimalist Japanese cafe vibe and thoughtful design creates a peaceful, clean atmosphere. Limited seating encourages enjoying drinks or socializing rather than working. Custom cups and harmonious music add to the carefully curated experience.

Espresso here is solid with a notable espresso tonic with yuzu that tastes delicious and refreshing.

Signature lattes balance flavor without too much sweetness. Earl Grey and cream top lattes stand out as distinctive options.

People are saying

"The coffee here is truly delicious and high-quality craft."

"The layered matcha here is creamy and seriously delicious."

"This latte is creamy and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging around this place, so be patient to find street parking nearby.

2

Planning for a wait is advisable if you go at peak times.

3

The price for drinks can hit double digits with tip included.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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