California is known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and laid-back lifestyle. But there is another aspect of California that many people overlook – its amazing coffee culture. From small, independent cafes to trendy chains, California is home to some of the best coffee shops in the world. In this article, we will explore the top cafes in California that every coffee lover should visit.
1. Blue Bottle Coffee
Founded in Oakland, California in 2002, Blue Bottle Coffee has become a beloved staple of the California coffee scene. With locations throughout the state, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Palo Alto, Blue Bottle is known for its high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee and minimalist, modern design. Their signature drinks, like the New Orleans-style iced coffee and the Gibraltar, have become cult favorites.
2. Philz Coffee
Philz Coffee is a family-owned business that was founded in San Francisco in 2003. The cafe is known for its unique blend of coffee that is made to order and customized to each customer’s taste. With locations throughout the state, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, Philz Coffee is a popular spot for coffee lovers who are looking for a personalized experience.
3. Verve Coffee Roasters
Verve Coffee Roasters was founded in Santa Cruz, California in 2007, and has since become a popular destination for coffee lovers in California and beyond. With locations throughout the state, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Santa Cruz, Verve is known for its artisanal coffee blends and beautiful, Instagram-worthy cafes. Their flagship location in Santa Cruz even features a roastery and coffee lab, where visitors can learn about the coffee-making process.
4. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia Coffee was founded in Chicago in 1995 but has since expanded to include locations in California, including Los Angeles and Pasadena. The cafe is known for its high-quality, single-origin coffee and its commitment to sustainability and fair trade practices. The cafes themselves are beautiful, with minimalist, industrial design and a welcoming atmosphere.
5. G&B Coffee
G&B Coffee was founded in Los Angeles in 2013 by two baristas who wanted to create a cafe that focused on quality coffee and personalized service. With locations in Los Angeles and Glendale, G&B Coffee is known for its unique drinks, like the almond macadamia latte and the iced horchata latte. The cafe also features a rotating selection of guest roasters, so there is always something new to try.
6. Sightglass Coffee
Sightglass Coffee was founded in San Francisco in 2009 and has since expanded to include locations in Los Angeles and Hollywood. The cafe is known for its beautiful, industrial-chic design and its commitment to sustainable and ethical coffee sourcing. The menu features a variety of espresso-based drinks and pour-overs, as well as a selection of pastries and snacks.
7. Ritual Coffee Roasters
Ritual Coffee Roasters was founded in San Francisco in 2005 and has since expanded to include locations in Los Angeles and Napa Valley. The cafe is known for its high-quality coffee, which is sourced from sustainable and ethical suppliers. The cafes themselves are minimalist and modern, with a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for coffee lovers.
8. Four Barrel Coffee
Four Barrel Coffee was founded in San Francisco in 2008 and has since become a favorite of the California coffee scene. The cafe is known for its high-quality, artisanal coffee and its commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. The cafes themselves are beautiful, with a focus on natural materials and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
In conclusion, California is home to some of the best cafes in the world, and these eight cafes are just the tip of the iceberg.