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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Cafes

A cafe that provides a place to settle in for a while instead of making you feel like you are overstaying your welcome.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
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Coffee shop

Small space with eclectic decor offers a cozy, authentic vibe like a family kitchen. Coffee is authentic and cultured, paired with unique Turkish-inspired dishes made from high-quality ingredients. Quiet, inviting atmosphere suits relaxing or catching up with friends.

Menu features high-quality ingredients and unique elements in each dish. Coffee stands out as authentic and cultured compared to many other cafes.

People are saying

"It's a small, cozy place with a warm and inviting atmosphere."

"I loved the rich, distinct flavor of the Turkish coffee."

"The coffee at this cafe is truly excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered and only allows 20 minutes on the same side of the coffee shop.

2

They serve breakfast and drinks only, with an expanded menu on weekends.

3

Seating is limited, so expect a small space if visiting during busy hours.

02
Endless Noise Coffee + Vinyl image 1

Coffee shop blends artisanal furniture with a vinyl collection for a cozy, hip vibe. Quality coffee draws regulars every morning. Continuous soulful music creates a laidback atmosphere perfect for relaxing or browsing records.

Independent coffee shop vibe with a strong focus on quality. Frequented every morning, it offers a consistent and enjoyable coffee experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great, and the baristas are super friendly."

"I enjoyed the Turkish coffee; it was the real deal."

"I loved the strong, real Turkish coffee at this cafe."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee if you buy a record.

2

You can play any unsealed record before buying.

3

They have a stamp card for coffee purchases that leads to a free record.

03
One Cedar image 1
Coffee shop

Neighborhood coffeehouse offers a welcoming vibe with proper house music setting a chill tone. Outdoor seating with bike locks supports a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Unique blend of coffee and bartending skills creates a distinct cafe experience.

Neighborhood coffeehouse offers a welcoming vibe and feels like a portal to another dimension. Experience blends coffee, food service, and bartending skills for a unique cafe atmosphere.

People are saying

"The coffee here is superb, made with a lot of love."

"The owner's welcoming attitude made the latte experience better."

"The cafe's drinks are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

One Cedar offers unique coffee options that you won't find elsewhere.

2

The coffee is reasonably priced, making it accessible for everyone.

3

The shop is dog friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend.

04
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Oaxacan flavors in a big, flavorful latte and tasty breakfast. Family-run vibe feels warm and kind. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly table, though loud blenders can disrupt the calm.

Authentic Oaxacan flavors shine in a big, flavorful latte with just the right spice. Warm, kind service and delicious breakfast make it a welcoming spot to start the day.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are phenomenal and delicious."

"This Mexican food is so fresh and has amazing flavors."

"The Oaxacan latte at this cafe is rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

05
Kafe K image 1
Restaurant

Cozy cafe near the pier offers a warm Eastern European vibe and a spacious sunny patio perfect for relaxing or working. Friendly staff and a dog-friendly setup create a welcoming atmosphere. Calm background music suits quiet moments or casual chats.

Cozy atmosphere with friendly staff creates a welcoming vibe. The cafe features a beautiful setting near the pier, making it a charming spot to relax.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and awesome."

"I found the coffee here to be rich and flavorful."

"This cafe's staff are so friendly, they make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak brunch hours.

2

Payment is made at the counter; no servers for outdoor seating.

3

They offer gluten-free options, but vegan choices are limited.

06
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art offers a calm, work-friendly vibe with soft jazz music. Enjoy quality espresso and matcha alongside reliable lunch options in a welcoming atmosphere blending Midwest and East Coast class.

Offers delicious coffee and pastries with a cozy, welcoming vibe that blends Midwest and East Coast big city class. Serves quality espresso, lattes, and matcha alongside reliable lunch options in a friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"The staff here are so welcoming, it makes you feel appreciated."

"The coffee and breakfast at this cafe are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait during weekend brunch hours, especially after 10am.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

07
Little Bean Coffee image 1

Small coffee shop shines with roasted beans and strong cold brew. Cozy, family photos create a warm vibe. Quiet space invites board games and friendly chats.

Roasts own beans and focuses on cold brew with solid quality. Offers a unique coffee shop vibe without the usual watered-down drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the cold brew was awesome and perfectly balanced."

"I loved chatting with Chris, he really knows his tea."

"This cafe's cold brew is perfectly balanced and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the side alley.

2

They don't charge extra for vegan milk.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

08
Dr. T House image 1
Bubble tea store

Cozy bubble tea shop offers a calm atmosphere with cute plants and cat merchandise. Bright, clean space features a notable cafe caramel drink. Seating inside and outside with WiFi and outlets makes it perfect for work or study.

Bright and clean space creates a nice atmosphere. The cafe caramel stands out as a notable offering.

People are saying

"I found the Thai tea here to be really good."

"I loved the strawberry banana and avocado smoothies."

"I found the cafe drinks here to be always delicious."

Good to know

1

You can order ahead and have it ready for pickup.

2

There is free parking in the small strip mall.

3

There are tables inside for seating and a bathroom with a keypad lock.

09
Caffe Luxxe - Santa Monica image 1

Spacious seating creates a communal atmosphere perfect for relaxed chats. Coffee shines with premiere roasting and the Cafe Nico drink impresses. Pastries, especially the croissant, bring authentic Parisian flavors that elevate the cafe experience.

Offers an exquisite cafe experience with premiere coffee roasting. The Cafe Nico drink delivers a perfect mix of flavors, and the croissant stands out as much better than typical coffee shop fare.

People are saying

"I found the coffee drinks here to be very good."

"I thought the croissant was much better than I'd expect."

"The coffee here is exceptional, with a perfect mix of flavors."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; street meter parking is available nearby.

2

The cafe can get busy during lunch time, expect a line.

3

There is plenty of seating available both inside and outside.

10
Elabrew Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Big outdoor area offers positive vibes and a cute shop behind an office building. Coffee features local roasts brewed with care using V60. Metered street parking includes free garage validation for three hours, making it easy to visit for work breaks.

Strong focus on coffee quality makes this cafe a reliable spot for work breaks. Consistently serves as a go-to coffee shop for daily visits.

People are saying

"I loved their latte; the art was shaped like my favorite stuffed animals."

"The coffee here is great, especially the cold brew."

"I considered this cafe my favorite coffee shop."

Good to know

1

Parking on the street is metered, but they offer 3 hours of free validation if you park in the garage.

2

The coffee selection rotates and is well-curated, typically sourced from Lightwave Coffee.

3

The fridge at Elabrew is stocked with tasty to-go meals for lunch or breakfast.

11
UnUrban Coffee House image 1

Old fashioned coffee shop offers cozy indoor seating and a small stage for live music. Local community gathers for open mics and clubs, creating a strong sense of connection. Easy parking adds to the welcoming, neighborhood vibe.

A strong sense of community fills the cafe, with a small stage and piano hosting local performances on Sunday afternoons. Easy parking on the side street adds to the welcoming, neighborhood vibe.

People are saying

"This coffee shop feels like a gem with a vibrant community atmosphere."

"The owner Pam made this cafe feel like home."

"They have a stage set up for live music and open mics."

Good to know

1

Open mic nights occur every Friday, showcasing local musicians and talents.

2

No cover charge is required to perform at the open mic events.

3

Parking is available on the side street in front of the cafe.

12
MUD\WTR :gather image 1

Massive interior with high wooden ceilings offers a calming space for work and relaxation. Vegan cafe options and a member-only section create a trendy, health-focused vibe. Dedicated rooms for meditation and sauna support focus and peace.

Offers great vegan options and caters to health-focused choices. Features a member-only section and private rooms, creating a hip, trendy vibe ideal for relaxing or working.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, quiet spot perfect for getting work done."

"I felt a calm, sustained boost without the jitters."

"This cafe has a tranquil vibe, perfect for relaxing."

Good to know

1

Public parking is available just a 2-minute walk away.

2

Credit cards are accepted at the cafe.

3

The cafe offers great options for vegans and health-focused individuals.

13
Gnarwhal Coffee Co. image 1

Cozy spot with highly rated coffee and a beach vibe offers outdoor seating near the shore. Loud music creates an energetic atmosphere perfect for casual hangouts or light work. Dog-friendly space adds to the welcoming feel.

Cozy corner cafe with outdoor seating near the beach offers a comfortable and welcoming vibe. It serves as a joyful neighborhood spot with highly rated coffee.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, truly art in a cup."

"The cafe staff are so friendly and helpful."

"I found the pastries here to be flaky and delicious."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop is often busy, so expect a line out the door.

2

Non-dairy milks incur an extra charge of $1.

3

Dogs are allowed to sit in the human chairs.

14
Le Cafe de la Plage Malibu image 1

Outdoor patio with spacious seating and pink-hued decor creates a chic, relaxed vibe. Friendly team serves delectable French treats and Cafe Americano in a sunny, inviting setting. Live music on weekends adds warmth to the casual atmosphere.

Offers delectable French treats and a friendly, welcoming team that creates a warm vibe. The ambiance pairs well with exceptional service and carefully brewed coffee like Cafe Americano.

People are saying

"The cafe staff are so friendly and warm, it's like they trained at a secret boot camp."

"The staff here is so friendly, making outdoor seating a joy."

"I found the pastries here to be delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ is very popular on weekends, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

They offer gluten-free options for baked goods and sandwiches.

3

Card payments are accepted, but refills on coffee are charged as new cups.

15
Primo Passo Coffee Co image 1

Minimalist design and natural light create a calm, trendy vibe. Coffee offers a raw sweet taste that stands out. Intimate space with outdoor seating attracts laptop users and neighborhood dogs, adding a strong sense of community.

Coffee here has a raw sweet taste that stands out from other shops. The space feels small, intimate, and warm with lighting that blends natural and artificial light nicely.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was excellent, not too acidic or bitter."

"The outdoor seating here is beautiful and available."

"This cafe's coffee has a robust, bold flavor."

Good to know

1

Primo Passo Coffee Co does not provide wifi for customers.

2

The line can be long, often out the door, taking 20 to 30 minutes for drinks.

3

There are fewer than 10 parking spaces in the back; street parking is common.

16
Caffe Luxxe image 1
Coffee shop

Busy coffee shop buzzes with heated patio and loud music. Specialty drinks like Nico latte shine in a cute atmosphere. Parking is tough but the high-quality coffee draws steady lines.

Cute atmosphere and positive vibes make the cafe inviting. The specialty coffees like Nico latte and Nikko brews stand out, though parking can be tricky due to the busy location.

People are saying

"The croissants here looked small batch with slight variations."

"My dry cappuccino was perfect, with just the right amount of foam."

"The cafe's lattes are delicious, especially with oat milk."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with validation, but it fills up quickly on weekends.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

17
Cafe Bolivar image 1

Bright cafe shines with natural sunlight and authentic arepas. Enjoy high quality coffee like pour-over and mocha in a calm, spacious setting. Artwork and cozy seating create a warm, creative vibe perfect for dining or work.

Offers high quality coffee including pour-over and mocha, alongside delicious arepas and homemade pastries. The vibe is clean, calm, and spacious, with an inviting atmosphere that encourages sitting and staying.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong, rich, and exceptionally good."

"I found the arepas here to be tasty and packed with flavor."

"You've got to try the arepas at this cafe; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Cafe Bolivar has indoor, outdoor, and counter seating options available.

2

There is 20-minute parking available in front of Cafe Bolivar.

3

The parking meter accepts both card and coins for payment.

18
blossom and friends image 1

Cafe shines with community art and a record player setting a calm mood. Spacious indoor and outdoor seating invites both work and relaxation. Friendly vibe blends with an artsy decor for a truly open, inviting space.

Bright and art-vibey with community art and a record player for music. Offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating and has a friendly, upbeat atmosphere.

People are saying

"The baristas here are super friendly and make great coffee."

"The cafe staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"I loved the layered flavors and textures of this Banh Mi."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a limited selection of food items, especially later in the day.

2

Adding avocado to your meal costs $2.50.

3

The cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

19
Cafe Ruisseau image 1
Coffee shop

Modern coffee shop shines with meticulously crafted coffee and a bright, inviting space filled with plants. Cozy vibe blends with R&B music perfect for work or chill. Indoor and outdoor seating plus free WiFi make it ideal for remote work or casual visits.

Meticulously crafted coffee designs add a special touch to the drinks. The atmosphere feels beautiful and inviting, with great people making amazing coffee.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"The cafe staff always greets you with a warm smile."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with a relaxed, cozy atmosphere."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom on-site at Cafe Ruisseau.

2

You can walk a little bit to find a bathroom nearby.

3

There is street parking nearby, including a 3-hour meter across the street.

20
DOG PPL image 1

Sprawling green space offers leash-free areas and shaded seating for dogs and humans. Cafe serves excellent drinks enhancing the chill vibe. Strict dog policies keep turf clean and safe, making it a well-managed and welcoming spot.

Excellent drinks stand out at the bar and coffee shop. The cafe adds a nice touch to the overall experience.

People are saying

"This dog park is the best place for your dogs to play."

"It's so dog friendly, my dogs never got tired of coming here."

"I felt so proud to be a member of this cafe."

Good to know

1

Dogs must provide updated vaccine records and pass a temperament test to enter.

2

Tickets are required for special events, in addition to the monthly membership fee.

3

Dog PPL hosts themed events every weekend, including fitness classes for dogs and owners.

21
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Minimalist design and cozy atmosphere make it a great spot for casual coffee. Vibrant corner location adds to its friendly vibe. Pricing is on the higher side but fits the third wave coffee culture well.

Vibrant corner spot with a clean, artsy vibe and friendly atmosphere. Offers good coffee but lacks plug points for devices.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be awesome and truly delicious."

"This cafe's coffee is excellent and made perfectly."

"I enjoyed a great cappuccino here."

Good to know

1

Prices for drinks start at $7 for a cappuccino.

2

The cafe has a small but solid menu of coffee and breakfast items.

3

The seating is comfortable and suitable for working or relaxing.

22
goodboybob coffee roasters image 1

Cozy cafe offers great coffee flavor and a stylish space perfect for laptop work. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds to the welcoming vibe. Creative energy fills the air alongside a diverse crowd and beautiful cars outside.

Coffee here stands out with great flavor and consistent quality. The space offers a comfortable atmosphere where working on laptops for long stretches feels welcome.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really delicious."

"It's a cute spot with a nice outdoor space and tables."

"The cafe's coffee and espresso drinks are delicious and well-crafted."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; expect to pay $7 for street parking.

2

The coffee shop has limited indoor seating and some outdoor seating.

3

It takes about 20 minutes to get a cup of coffee.

23
Amai coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalistic coffee shop offers a cozy interior with a chill atmosphere popular among college students. Vietnamese style coffee and matcha are distinctive drinks here. Free Wi-Fi and a creative menu focus on sweet treats over specialty coffee.

Cozy interior creates a welcoming vibe. Vietnamese style coffee and matcha stand out as distinctive drinks. The cafe stays clean and well-kept.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese coffee here is amazing and very good."

"Their Asian fusion drinks are amazing and truly unique."

"This cafe's unique matcha and coffee drinks are amazing."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the strip mall lot.

2

The place is small and doesn't have much seating.

3

The pastries are sold out pretty fast, especially by noon.

24
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market offers fresh seafood displays and a lively oyster bar, blending a bustling market with a casual dining space. Service is topnotch, perfect for quick lunches or relaxed meals with friends. Atmosphere feels like a community hub, balancing energy and quiet conversation.

Great seafood variety makes this cafe a solid choice for a quick or casual lunch. Service stays topnotch, and it suits both solo meals and dining with friends.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The market has an excellent selection of fresh seafood."

"The Cafe's seafood is always fresh and of high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

25
Perry's Cafรฉ & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1

Outdoor seating on sand with ocean views creates a relaxed, beachside vibe. Umbrella-covered tables and live music add to the laid-back atmosphere. Tables set right in the sand offer a unique beachfront cafe experience perfect for people watching.

Tables set right in the sand create a beachfront cafe vibe. The spot offers a unique beachside experience with views perfect for people watching and ocean overlooking.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"I enjoyed a cold beer while watching the sunset."

"This beach cafe has tables right in the sand."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The cafรฉ closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

26
Lazy Daisy - Santa Monica image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small bistro with a covered outdoor patio offers a calm, cozy vibe perfect for families and students. Quiet street location suits quick breakfast or lunch with an all-day menu featuring omelets, pancakes, and espresso. Varied seating sizes fit groups well.

Quiet street location suits grabbing a quick breakfast or lunch. Offers an all-day menu with breakfast omelets, french toast, pancakes, sandwiches, salads, and espresso.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The breakfast staff here is so nice and attentive."

"The Cafe staff were attentive and kind."

Good to know

1

Patrons often waited over an hour for their food during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited in the small lot, but street parking is available nearby.

3

The website states they open at 7:30 AM, but they actually open at 8:00 AM.

27
The Place To Be image 1

Small cafe offers a Parisian vibe with authentic French bakery style. Enjoy fresh croissants and baguette sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere. Quiet spot perfect for those seeking genuine French flavors and a relaxed setting.

Small authentic French bakery offers a Parisian vibe inside and out. Croissants and cafe drinks suit a French breakfast setting, though non-French speakers may feel less welcome.

People are saying

"I found the French pastries and baked goods here to be delicious."

"This French bakery feels like a little trip to Paris."

"I loved the authentic French pastries and cafe here."

Good to know

1

Prices for breakfast items are reasonable, with most under $15.

2

The bakery offers a variety of pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee drinks.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

28
Bluestone Lane Santa Monica Coffee Shop image 1

Small coffee shop offers quick service with touchscreen ordering and cozy atmosphere near the beach. Outdoor seating features an oversized wooden table perfect for relaxing. Known for great customer service and a cool vibe, itโ€™s a reliable everyday spot with treats for dogs.

Offers great customer service and a cool vibe in an area lacking quality local coffee shops. Serves as a reliable everyday coffee spot with consistently positive experiences.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the most delicious I had ever tasted."

"The Cafe staff here is super friendly and welcoming."

"It's so cozy and welcoming here."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free in the back lot shared with nearby restaurants.

2

The cafรฉ offers non-dairy milk options for coffee drinks.

3

Expect the place to get busy early in the morning.

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