It’ll be worth the $5 black coffee and an extra 75 cents for a splash of almond milk.
Photo: Blair SiegelIf you know anything about Australia (other than kangaroos and koalas), you’ll know Aussies are really into their coffee. Whether it’s a long black, flat white, or double espresso shot, you definitely won’t be finding a Starbucks at every busy intersection, or see drip coffee anywhere in sight, if you know what’s good for you.
As much as I hate to admit it, I have turned into a coffee snob. Prior to visiting the land down under, I didn’t know a single thing about coffee. I just ordered whatever was easiest to pronounce at my local Starbucks or Coffee Bean. A few years and a bit more brew knowledge later, I try my best to support local cafes as often as I can.
I’ve finally separated from corporate coffee companies and have come to terms with spending a few extra bucks to ensure I can taste the quality in my caffeinated beverage. Do I sound like a hipster yet? Here are my top 3 coffee spots that I visit weekly. I promise it’ll be worth the $5 black coffee and an extra 75 cents for a splash of almond milk. You’ll thank me in the long run.
1. ALFRED’S
P, 8428 Melrose Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map, website)
Photo: Blair SiegelYou’re probably thinking, “Alfred’s is such a scene. Did she really pick that place?” You’re totally right. If you’re looking to enjoy a nice cup of Joe, along with large groups of people who come out of the woodworks and think they’re following some weird trend by meeting at Alfred’s, this is your place to be. Despite the groups of tourists and wannabe actors, Alfred’s really does have great coffee.
Trust me when I say it’s worth listening to the inevitable vocal fry while waiting in line. Alfred’s cold brew is on point and they aren’t greedy with sizes. In fact, they just expanded their menu with new lemonades, kombucha, and yes, a $10 latte, which is literally $10. I’ll be waiting for my next paycheck to let you know the verdict on that.
2. CARRERA CAFÉ
8251 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 (map, website)
Photo: Blair SiegelJust a few blocks down the street from Alfred’s, Carrera Café is a super chic Italian- inspired corner cafe. With it’s all-white interior, high ceilings, and Italian music playing in the background, it’s hard for me to resist this place. They’re most famous for their eccentric latte designs, which you can even customize yourself. Show the cashier a picture you want, let the baristas work their brewing magic, and within a few minutes your image is consumable. I love coming here on my days off and people watching. The Americanos are on point; strong enough to keep me awake during the day, but doesn’t keep me wired at night.
3. VERVE
833 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 (map, website)
Photo: Blair SiegelLet’s just clear the air, what decent café in LA (or anywhere for that matter) isn’t filled with hipster vibes? Not many. If I feel like taking a drive and sitting in some LA traffic, Verve is the place that makes the road rage somewhat worthwhile. With its Third Street location in a quaint compound, you can grab a healthy salad two stores down at SweetGreen, or a hearty sandwich next door at Belcampo. Its ambiance is straight to the point: minimal, sleek, and filled with identical Mac users and latte sippers. I love coming here to enjoy an almond milk cappuccino while observing hipsters in action.
Whether you’re in Australia starting your day with Vegemite toast and a flat white, in Italy enjoying an authentic cappuccino, or somewhere in LA amongst the smog and French Bulldogs, trust me when I say you’ll taste the difference between a fresh, locally brewed coffee, and burnt drip coffee from Corporate Companies.
Happy coffee drinking, jetsetters.
