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Croissants and coffee in Santa Monica

A warm croissant paired with a strong cup of coffee is the only way to properly wake up.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Little Bean Coffee image 1
Little Bean Coffee image 2
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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.

Chocolate croissant offers a great taste. The ham and cheese croissant and banana loaf also stand out as must-try items.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the croissants to be the best part of my breakfast."

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
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.

Egg and cheese on a croissant stands out as a perfect breakfast choice. The croissant itself is a delightful treat with a flaky, buttery texture.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The egg and cheese croissant was just perfect."

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.

03
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.

Croissants have a flaky, crispy exterior and a fluffy, buttery interior made with real European-style butter. The chocolate croissants contain a substantial amount of chocolate and the walnut croissants stand out for their rich flavor.

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.

04
Donut King image 1

Tiny, cozy bakery with wheelchair accessible seating and a no-frills, local vibe. Busy during mornings and lunch with early opening hours catering to locals and students. Donuts are fresh, soft, and flavorful, with a wide selection and reasonable prices.

Bacon, egg, and cheese croissant stands out with a rich, savory flavor. Ham and cheese croissants offer a solid, classic taste. Croissants come recommended alongside amazing doughnuts.

Iced coffee stands out as a favorite, described as delicious and even the best ever by some. The cappuccino also earns praise, paired well with donuts and apple fritters during busy morning hours.

People are saying

"I found the donuts here to be soft, warm, and fluffy."

"I loved the delicious breakfast sandwich and coffee."

"I thought their iced coffee was delicious."

Good to know

1

Donut King opens super early, perfect for early birds.

2

A dozen donuts costs $9, making it affordable.

3

Prices for breakfast sandwiches are under $10.

05
Petitgrain Boulangerie image 1

Small artisan bakery with an open kitchen showcases authentic French pastries and rustic decor. Warm, cozy atmosphere fills the space with intoxicating smells and a joyous, welcoming vibe. Lines form quickly for exceptional croissants that rival those in Paris.

Croissants here have a perfect flakiness that rivals those in Paris and Japan. The almond and ham & cheese varieties come fresh and flaky, with a crisp texture that leaves no mess behind.

Great coffee pairs well with a new tea and coffee menu. Soft, flaky blueberry scones complement lattes nicely.

People are saying

"I thought the pastries here were outstanding and not overly sweet."

"I found the best croissant I've ever tasted here."

"The pastries here are outstanding, especially the croissants."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially during weekends and mornings.

2

The croissants sell out quickly, so arrive early.

3

There are no tables available; it's primarily a grab-and-go bakery.

06
Caffe Luxxe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop features heated patio and both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a busy atmosphere with loud music that energizes the space. It attracts a crowd that appreciates high-quality coffee and a variety of options, often resulting in lines extending out the door during peak times.

Almond banana and turkey Gruyere croissants stand out with their unique fillings. Butter and chocolate croissants taste good but are more standard.

Coffee here stands out for its rich taste and consistent quality. Drinks like the dry cappuccino and oat milk latte come with skilled latte art and deliver excellent flavor.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the coffee here to be perfect and delicious."

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.

07
Amai coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Minimalistic coffee shop with cozy, chill atmosphere and warm, inviting interior. Space is small with limited seating, often crowded, attracting mainly college students. Offers free Wi-Fi and a creative menu focused on sweet treats rather than specialty coffee.

Almond croissants stand out with their rich flavor and pair well with items like banana matcha. Croissants here have a notable quality that complements hojicha offerings.

Coffee here has a rich, robust taste with standout options like the Turon Banana latte and Manila Vanilla Latte. Vietnamese style coffee and matcha also feature, all served with friendly customer service.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the almond croissant tasted 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.

08
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with a family-run feel and casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes two small tables, one suitable for dogs. Loud juice machine and blenders near dining area affect the otherwise relaxed vibe.

Egg and bacon croissants stand out with rich flavor and perfectly cooked eggs. Chocolate croissants come warmed but can be less appealing when microwaved.

Coffee here offers a big cup full of flavor with a cinnamon blend that stands out. The Oaxacan latte is comforting and spicy, making it a distinctive choice.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are phenomenal and delicious."

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

"I had a tasty breakfast croissant here."

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.

09
Caffe Luxxe - Santa Monica image 1

Spacious indoor and outdoor seating supports a communal atmosphere that encourages conversation among a trendy crowd. The vibe stays relaxed and modern with minimal noise and great music. Pastries and coffee offer authentic Parisian flavors with a focus on quality and variety.

Chocolate croissants stand out with rich flavor and are often preferred over plain ones. Croissants come warm sometimes, but not always, and almond croissants may be unavailable at times.

Coffee here features exceptional espresso with a great balance of acidity and bitterness. Staff focus on pulling authentic Italian espresso and offer fresh coffee beans weekly.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the ginger mint tea blend."

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
blossom and friends image 1

Cafe offers an artsy decor with community art and vinyl records playing quiet tunes. Atmosphere stays calm and peaceful, ideal for working or relaxing. Seating spreads across indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an open, inviting vibe.

Pastries feature really nice croissants with a strawberry almond variety standing out. Croissants pair well with other items like banh mis and deliver delicious flavors.

Vietnamese coffee stands out with its rich flavor and egg foam topping. Other options like hojicha and lattes also deliver great taste to start the day.

People are saying

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

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

"I found their croissants to be amazing."

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.

11
Le Cafe de la Plage Malibu image 1

Outdoor patio with spacious seating and pink-hued decor creates a chic, relaxed vibe. Live music on weekends adds to the friendly, warm atmosphere. The place draws a crowd looking for a casual spot to enjoy coffee and pastries in a sunny, inviting setting.

Warm croissants come in chocolate, almond, and raspberry flavors. They taste just like in Europe and pair well with coffee outside.

Coffee here stands out for its amazing flavor and quality. Options include a delicious cold brew and fresh pastries that pair well with the drinks.

People are saying

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

"I loved their warm, buttery croissants; they tasted just like Europe."

"The coffee here is 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.

12
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art creates an inviting atmosphere. Soft jazz music plays quietly, supporting a calm, work-friendly vibe. The environment blends Midwest/East Coast big city classiness with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Egg and cheese croissants come with fresh greens and are well prepared. The breakfast croissant stands out for its incredible taste while the croissant sandwich is more average.

Strong, smooth espresso makes for a rich, flavorful cappuccino. Coffee here is rich, smooth, and served hot, pairing well with lattes and cold brew.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the coffee here to be great in a cozy, welcoming spot."

"The breakfast croissant here is incredible."

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.

13
La Monarca Bakery & Cafe image 1

Small bakery with cozy atmosphere and lovely decor featuring Mexican-style treats. Music plays loudly in the morning, creating a lively vibe. Offers fresh pastries and Mexican coffee, attracting those seeking authentic flavors.

Ham & cheese stands out with its rich, savory filling. Butter, chocolate, and coffee croissants offer flaky layers and balanced flavors.

Coffee here stands out with its Mexican style and well balanced spiced flavors. Options like Oaxaca coffee with oat milk and a tasty iced latte offer unique choices beyond typical black coffee.

People are saying

"I thought their coffee was terrific and better than Starbucks."

"The pastries here have a unique Mexican flavor."

"You have to try the ham & cheese croissant."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find near the bakery.

2

The bakery accepts credit cards but does not accept cash.

3

They offer a rewards program for frequent purchases.

14
Jyan Isaac Bread image 1

Outdoor seating dominates with a cute private garden and plenty of tables creating a calm, cozy atmosphere. Friendly service complements a rustic vibe where bakers work behind a wall of sourdoughs and bagels. Music ranges from Italian jazz to classic rock, enhancing a relaxed, hipster feel.

Croissants show fantastic lamination and lovely pockets, reflecting skilled baking. Chocolate and almond varieties stand out as phenomenal, with a croissant loaf also available.

Coffee here is smooth and flavorful, making it a great match for their pastries. The black coffee stands out as surprisingly good and pairs well with a morning bagel sandwich.

People are saying

"Their sourdough bread is consistently exceptional and tasty."

"The outdoor space here is beautiful and has plenty of tables."

"Their bagels are amazing, especially the everything bagel with cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Finding parking can be a huge challenge, especially on weekends.

2

I suggest going early and on a weekday to avoid long lines.

3

The bakery offers vegan cream cheese, accommodating dietary restrictions.

15
The Place To Be image 1

Small cafe with authentic French bakery style and Parisian vibe inside and out offers a cozy atmosphere with fresh croissants and baguette sandwiches. Quiet compared to nearby spots, it attracts those seeking genuine French flavors and a relaxed setting.

Fresh croissants come in several varieties including vegan, chocolate, and lemon curd. Prices reach around six dollars for vegan options. Ham and cheese croissants resemble those found across Europe.

Coffee here ranges from extraordinary to average, with options like hot lattes and cappuccinos with oat milk. Freshness stands out, and the coffee pairs well with pastries and breakfast sandwiches.

People are saying

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

"I found the coffee here to be extraordinary."

"I found the croissant here to be the best I had."

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.

16
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.

Pistachio croissants stand out as a rare find here, offered alongside vegan and chocolate options. They warm croissants on request, enhancing the freshness and flavor.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I usually only get pistachio croissants at the farmers market."

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.

17
Cafe Berlina image 1
Coffee shop

European charm fills the space with classical music and metal chairs alongside cozy couches. The atmosphere stays relaxing and peaceful, inviting quiet socializing rather than work. Pastries and coffee offer a varied, affordable selection in a quaint, clean setting.

European-style pastries include almond croissants that pair well with coffee. Some croissants are less memorable and vary in quality.

Coffee here is rich, smooth, and full of flavor, crafted with care in drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and pour-overs. Unique options like the cardamom latte and a standout cold brew add variety to the high-quality coffee offerings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best I had in a while."

"The pastries here are delicious and pair perfectly with coffee."

"I couldn't get online because there was no Wi-Fi available."

Good to know

1

Restrooms are available for customers only.

2

Cafe Berlina does not allow laptops in the coffeeshop.

3

There is a discrepancy between online hours and the hours on the door sign.

18
Paderia Bakehouse image 1

Small bakery with simple minimalistic design and modern clean ambiance caters mainly to takeout with no indoor seating. Portuguese-style egg tarts and large cookies stand out as signature items, drawing a young, trendy crowd. Free parking and an outdoor seating area add convenience for quick visits.

Croissants here are mostly well-made and flaky. The almond croissant stands out as dry and crusty, not matching typical croissant texture or flavor.

Bold, smooth Vietnamese coffee stands out with a creamy, lightly salted foam on top. The ube coconut latte and iced Vietnamese coffee offer unique, sweet flavors, crafted by a super barista who welcomes questions.

People are saying

"The cookies here are soft, chewy, and delicious."

"This Vietnamese coffee is bold, smooth, and packed a kick."

"I thought the croissants here were perfected."

Good to know

1

Paderia Bakehouse is strictly takeout with no indoor seating available.

2

A single cookie costs $7, making them relatively expensive.

3

Paderia Bakehouse does not accept cash; only card payments are allowed.

19
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Modern space with natural light and upholstered seating offers a relaxing atmosphere despite some noise and echo. Shared tables accommodate groups, but uncomfortable chairs limit long stays. Coffee quality is high, paired with fresh pastries like buttery croissants.

Buttery and fresh croissants stand out here, especially the almond croissant which comes beautifully presented. Some locations often run out of pastry, making availability inconsistent.

Coffee here stands out for its high quality and exceptional taste. Baristas serve drinks like perfect cappuccinos and iced lattes with care, often accompanied by sparkling water to show professionalism.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the coffee; it tasted amazing."

"The almond croissant here is divine and beautifully presented."

"The coffee and food quality for breakfast was average."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-25 minutes for orders during peak hours.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The cafรฉ only accepts card payments; cash is not accepted.

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