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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Cool coffee spots

Coffee that manages to be genuinely cool without the gatekeeping attitude that makes you feel like an outsider for ordering a basic drink.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated April 2026
01
Little Bean Coffee image 1
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Small coffee shop with cozy, welcoming decor featuring family photos and a maximalist style. Atmosphere stays quiet and pleasant, inviting conversation and relaxation with board games and chess available. Friendly, owner-operated spot known for passionate coffee craft and a family-friendly vibe.

Cold brew stands out with options like the blue bean, bright and fruity, and the sapphire, thick and malty. A great selection of single and mixed roasts complements the fantastic coffee offerings.

Offers a unique cold brew experience with plain good coffee. The shop has a really cool vibe that stands out.

People are saying

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

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

"This place is a really cool, unique coffee shop."

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.

02
Endless Noise Coffee + Vinyl image 1

Coffee shop combines handcrafted artisanal furniture with a well-curated vinyl collection from a private owner. Music plays continuously, creating a laidback, soulful atmosphere that feels cozy and hip. Visitors can listen to or buy records, blending coffee culture with vinyl browsing in a unique way.

Coffee here stands out for its incredible quality and strong Turkish coffee options. Cappuccinos and Turkish lattes come highly praised, with a unique offer of free coffee when buying a record.

A very cool vibe fills the space with people who are genuinely super cool. The spot offers Turkish coffee and a collection of vinyl records that add to its unique atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"The vibe here is so cool and chill."

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
Kavahana image 1
Coffee shop

Indoor bar counter and large outdoor patio create distinct seating options. Atmosphere stays relaxing and wholesome with a chill vibe, though seating comfort varies. Extensive board game collection encourages socializing and casual hangouts.

Coffee features Hawaiian Kona beans and blends with housemade caramel syrup and black lava salt for a sweet and salty flavor. Drinks often mix coffee or matcha with kava nectar for a unique twist.

A cool vibe sets the tone with friendly and professional employees. Drinks offer a unique experience that tingles the tongue and invites trying something different with friends.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers a peaceful, grounding vibe perfect for unwinding."

"The kava nectar is smooth, earthy, and has a unique tongue-tingling sensation."

"I found this spot to have a really cool vibe."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Open mic night is every Tuesday, showcasing local talent.

04
LOKL HAUS image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with eclectic decor creates a cozy, authentic vibe that feels like a family kitchen. Quiet and inviting atmosphere suits relaxing or catching up with friends. Known for excellent specialty coffee and unique Turkish-inspired dishes.

Coffee here is amazing and specialty quality with options like Turkish coffee and a standout vanilla latte. The coffee pairs well with simple dishes like smashed egg toast and coffee cake.

Quiet atmosphere pairs with cool art and thought-out decor. The interior feels calm and the coffee stands out as excellent.

People are saying

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

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

"The coffee here is fantastic and 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.

05
Rustic Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Outdoor seating centers around a vintage Airstream trailer tucked away from street view, creating a hidden gem vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, with plenty of shaded areas and a dog-friendly environment. Small and intimate, the space invites people watching and relaxed moments near the ocean.

Coffee here is rich and flavorful with a huge selection including cappuccinos, smoothies, and Spanish lattes. The atmosphere is beautiful and dog friendly, with a cool hidden vibe and outdoor seating.

Airstream coffee spot adds a hidden vibe that feels rustic and reasonable.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be rich, flavorful, and amazing."

"I enjoyed the pleasant outdoor seating area."

"I found the Airstream coffee spot to have a really cool vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is metered, so be prepared to pay.

2

They offer oat and almond milk for non-dairy options.

3

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

06
Dr. T House image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea shop offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with cute decor featuring plants, stickers, and cat merchandise. Seating is available both inside and outside, with WiFi and outlets supporting study or work. The vibe is welcoming and peaceful, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy drinks and snacks.

Coffee here is rich and robust, brewed with care and precision. Staff share deep knowledge about bean origins and brewing methods, making each cup a crafted experience.

Visitors come from unique spots worldwide. The store features cute Japanese cards and mysterboxes that catch the eye while sipping tea. Browsing reveals very cool items beyond drinks.

People are saying

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

"The Vietnamese coffee here is amazing and always reliable."

"I thought the items for sale around the store were cool to look at."

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.

07
Bread + Butter | Main Street image 1

Small bakery with open kitchen and light, airy design featuring white walls and marble counters. Cozy vibe with patio seating under trees invites relaxed enjoyment of freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee. Popular spot often sells out early, drawing a steady crowd seeking top-quality croissants and baked goods.

Drip coffee stands out as excellent and carefully prepared. The espresso also delivers strong flavor, with baristas focused on quality. Ordering coffee online while waiting in line adds convenience.

People are saying

"I considered these the best croissants I had found in LA."

"It's a great outdoor space with plenty of seating for drinks and food."

"You have to try the croissants; they're insane."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines and ensure popular pastries are available.

2

Most pastries sell out before 10am, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking on Melrose Place is tough; metered spots fill quickly.

08
Snug Harbor image 1

1940s-style diner with vintage decor and original bar stools creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Cozy indoor booths and a dog-friendly patio with private dividers offer varied seating. Intimate space fills with lively energy, blending classic charm with relaxed outdoor vibes.

Coffee comes in thick ceramic mugs that get refilled with black coffee. Service includes attentive refills, and the coffee tastes good alongside proper food portions.

A 1940s style diner vibe fills the small space with original bar stools, pictures, and booths. The menu shares the restaurant's history, adding to the mom and pop shop feel.

People are saying

"The food here felt like a home-cooked meal in an untouched-by-time diner."

"The coffee here is served in thick ceramic mugs, refilled constantly."

"It's a cool retro diner with a 1940s style."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually easy to find in the neighborhood behind the restaurant.

2

The menu features a diverse selection of traditional American diner dishes.

3

Daily specials and fresh juices are offered regularly.

09
UnUrban Coffee House image 1

Old fashioned coffee shop with cozy indoor seating and a small stage for live music creates a relaxed and cool vibe. Local community gathers for open mics and clubs, fostering a strong sense of connection. The atmosphere feels quaint and low-key, offering a unique alternative to chain cafes.

Coffee here is really good with excellent lattes and fresh brews. The shop offers a friendly vibe and supports local music, making it a cozy spot for community gatherings.

Relaxed and cool vibe fills the space. Pam adds a really cool touch to the atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"Pam, the owner, was really cool and an awesome human."

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.

10
MUD\WTR :gather image 1

Massive interior with high wooden ceilings and an open floor plan creates a spacious, calming environment. Dedicated rooms for meditation, sauna, and cold plunge support relaxation and focus. The vibe suits co-working and quiet gatherings, with a peaceful atmosphere that encourages long stays.

Mushroom coffee lattes stand out with their rich flavor and lack of jitters. Friendly baristas recommend adding cashew milk to lattes, which are consistently well-made and delicious.

Calm ambiance sets the tone inside, paired with a very cool owner and artist. The overall vibe feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

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

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

"This coffee spot 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.

11
Gnarwhal Coffee Co. image 1

Cozy coffee shop with beach vibe and modern design offers outdoor seating near the shore. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic atmosphere suited for casual hangouts or light work. Unique features include a disposable camera project and a dog-friendly environment.

Coffee here stands out for its reasonably priced drip coffee that tastes superb. The chai oatmilk latte and cardamom latte offer unique, cozy flavors, while the Baja Brew serves as a real highlight.

A chill vibe fills the space with cool music setting the tone. The idea of printing weekly photos into a book adds a fun, creative touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The coffee here is art, truly a caffeinated miracle."

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.

12
Rae's Restaurant image 1

Tiny diner from the 1950s offers an authentic old-fashioned atmosphere with classic decor and neon sign. Calm vibe features quiet chatter and classic tunes with employees singing along. Outdoor seating includes a gazebo-covered patio and bar seats for solo diners.

Unlimited coffee flows freely with cups and water always topped up. The cozy atmosphere blends well with the rich coffee and red sofas.

Old-school diner vibe stands out with a cool, retro atmosphere. The setting feels authentic and laid-back, making it a favorite spot for casual dinners.

People are saying

"I loved the classic diner experience and ambiance here."

"This place is a cool, old-school diner that feels like time travel."

"The coffee here is always hot and tastes great."

Good to know

1

They now accept card and Google Pay for payments.

2

On Sunday at 10:30 am, the wait for two was not bad.

3

The pricing is very reasonable with good serving sizes.

13
Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach image 1

Hotel offers luxurious rooms with spectacular ocean views and a rooftop restaurant featuring a lively atmosphere. Amenities include complimentary electric bikes and a small heated pool nearby. The space balances quiet comfort in rooms with a vibrant social scene in dining areas.

Coffee shop offers a solid selection alongside snacks. Housekeeping provides free coffee and waters consistently.

Panoramic king room on the 14th floor features cool light switches and a great view. The hotel layout feels cool and the restaurant has a great vibe.

People are saying

"The Hotel beds were so comfortable, I had the best sleep."

"I loved the spectacular ocean views from the rooftop restaurant."

"I enjoyed the coffee shop and restaurant during my stay."

Good to know

1

Parking at the hotel costs $58 overnight.

2

Valet parking rates are $68 per night without any special rate for guests.

3

Check-in time is guaranteed at 3PM, but actual availability may vary.

14
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

Outdoor dining area offers a spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeping the space warm and comfortable. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with the scent of wood smoke, creating an elevated backyard bar feel. Guests enjoy relaxed, leisurely meals in a mellow DIY setting that encourages conversation.

Coffee comes from a dedicated shop upstairs where drinks are grabbed separately after ordering food at the front desk. Both the coffee and lemonade taste delicious and complement the meal well.

A buzzy, trendy vibe fills the space, blending casual and fancy elements effortlessly. The atmosphere stays low key and fun, fitting for dates or groups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The coffee here is delicious and homemade."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a huge free parking lot available for guests.

2

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates various dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

15
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Complimentary coffee starts early at 5:30 AM, catering well to early risers. The coffee service complements the luxury hotel experience with an on-site restaurant.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The vibe here is modern, relaxed, and effortlessly cool."

"The coffee here is thoughtfully designed with impressive architecture."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

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Santa Monica, California

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