Long Beach, known for its vibrant community and diverse culinary scene, is home to numerous cafés offering unique atmospheres that are sure to delight both locals and visitors. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 coffee shops in Long Beach CA that surely are must visits for anyone looking for a coffee treat and a cool place to hang.
How we found the top 10 coffee shops in Long Beach
We based our top 10 on rankings and reviews from reputable sources like TripAdvisor, Yelp, Google and various coffee enthusiasts blogs. Surely there are numerous exciting coffee places with unique features to offer our diverse tastes. These top 10 lists, however, are the ones that appear the most frequently in different rankings and currently in business.. Now that we’ve done the research it just may be time for us to find out for ourselves. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of coffee and the ambiance of these highly ranked coffee shops in this beautiful coastal city of Long Beach.
1. Recreational Coffee
Located at 237 Long Beach Blvd. Suite A in Long Beach, CA, Recreational Coffee is a beautiful and charming cafe that offers a unique and thoughtfully-sourced coffee menu. One standout item is the iced basilfruit coffee, which balances the flavors of basil and coffee perfectly, creating a wonderfully refreshing beverage. The cafe is known for its exceptional coffee, as they roast their own beans and offer a perfect pour-over. The vegan donuts and English muffin sausage breakfast sandwich are also highly recommended. With friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere, Recreational Coffee provides a cozy and comfortable place to enjoy fair-trade coffee and indulge in delicious treats. It has garnered recognition as one of Long Beach’s best coffee shops and is a favorite among locals, college students, and coffee enthusiasts alike.
2. Steelhead Coffee
Steelhead Coffee, a renowned coffee shop chain in Long Beach, boasts three branches across the area. While the Broadway location tends to be bustling with activity, the two branches in northern Long Beach offer a more serene and tranquil setting. With a focus on quality and flavor, Steelhead Coffee offers an impressive selection of artisan coffees, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore different types of beans and indulge in unique taste experiences. One of their standout creations is the lavender latte, which is highly recommended for those seeking a delightful and adventurous flavor combination. Apart from their exceptional coffee offerings, Steelhead Coffee’s branches also feature a visually appealing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for capturing aesthetically pleasing Instagram photos. Whether you’re looking for a productive work environment or a peaceful coffee break, Steelhead Coffee’s branches provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy a range of delightful coffee delights.
3. The Library
Located on East Broadway in Long Beach, The Library is a cozy and laid-back coffee shop that captivates visitors with its inviting ambiance and comfortable seating. With a charming atmosphere reminiscent of a used bookstore, complete with plush sofas and bookshelves, it’s the perfect spot to relax, study, or enjoy a good book. They offer a diverse selection of coffee beverages, teas, and a mix of breakfast and lunch options. The Library’s creative drink menu, featuring unique names like Leprechaun Lipsmacker and Hazelnut Hipster, adds a touch of fun to the experience. Open until midnight, it’s an ideal destination for a study session or a casual get-together with friends.
4. Rosepark Roasters
Rosepark Roasters is a hidden gem with three convenient locations in Long Beach: E Ocean Blvd, E 4th St, and 800 Pine Ave. This minimalist coffee shop offers a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts. Known for their great coffee and delicious pastries, Rosepark Roasters takes pride in roasting their own beans, ensuring a high-quality brew that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. With a focus on solidly good coffee without the extravagant drinks, they offer a nice selection of lattes and teas to suit every preference. One drink that stands out is their maple lavender latte, which combines the perfect blend of flavors enhanced by a hint of orange zest. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, work, or simply chill out, this coffee shop offers ample seating and natural light, creating an inviting ambiance. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur seeking top-notch brews or simply in search of a cozy spot to enjoy a warm drink, Rosepark Roasters is definitely worth a visit.
5. Viento Y Agua
This cafe with a funky vibe, can be found at the vibrant intersection of 4th Street in Long Beach, offering entertainment, espresso, and light fare in an artful space. Viento Y Agua is known for its flavorful Mexican coffee and friendly service. It’s a great place to visit on open mic nights, where you can enjoy both the music and drinks. The atmosphere is laid-back, with couches, loveseats, tables, and chairs creating a cozy coffeehouse vibe. One of their popular drinks is the Mexican mocha, which is blended with just the right mix of flavors. They also offer oat milk as an option, which adds a delightful twist to the drink. The food menu is worth exploring as well, with tasty bagel sandwiches being a highlight. The decor is eclectic and adorned with artwork, giving the cafe a unique and artistic ambience. Viento Y Agua is a great spot for hanging out, getting work done, or simply sipping and savoring their delicious offerings. With its welcoming co-op atmosphere and regular live performances, this coffeehouse provides a great place to relax and enjoy the vibrant local culture.
6. Wolf’s Brew
Nestled in the heart of Long Beach, Wolf’s Brew awaits you at 4145 Norse Way. This charming coffee shop exudes a retro-chic ambiance. It is a family-owned establishment beloved by locals and remote workers seeking a tranquil space to enjoy a cup of joe. With their own signature coffee blends and a rotating selection of high-quality brews from renowned west coast roasters, Wolf’s Brew caters to diverse palates. Indulge in their scrumptious vegan donuts while savoring the friendly atmosphere created by their welcoming staff. Whether you’re seeking a productive work environment or a relaxing spot to unwind, Wolf’s Brew is the perfect haven for coffee aficionados.
7. Good Time
Experience the essence of Good Time, formerly known as Commodity. Located at Coronado Avenue in Long Beach, this coffee shop offers a spacious and stylish loft setting adorned with lush greenery and abundant natural light. Savor a variety of meticulously crafted drinks, ranging from classic espresso favorites to unique signature creations. Treat yourself to a delightful selection of breakfast items and vegan baked goods while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. With ample seating, curated merchandise, and an eclectic charm, Good Time invites you to savor the moments and enjoy exceptional coffee in a welcoming environment.
8. Wide Eyes Open Palms
Wide Eyes Open Palms is a specialty coffee and seasonal food cafe tucked away on Cherry Avenue in Long Beach. This highly rated coffee shop is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional coffee experience. They rotate between renowned roasters like Heart, Ritual, Tectonic, and Augie’s, serving up a variety of premium blends. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their composting practices and use of eco-friendly products. From fresh, locally sourced ingredients to delightful pastries, Wide Eyes Open Palms delivers a memorable culinary journey. Visit them at 1322 Coronado Avenue and discover the magic of this cozy cafe.
9. The Merchant
The Merchant is a charming coffee shop that combines old-world charm with wholesome service. Situated on Long Beach Blvd, it offers a cozy indoor space and a well-maintained patio area to enjoy Southern California’s beautiful weather. Indulge in seasonal concoctions like Peppermint Mocha Latte and Eggnog Steamer, or try the delightful Chaider—a spiced winter alternative to coffee. Their freshly baked Gingersnap cookies are a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. With great pastries, a variety of teas and coffees, and a friendly staff, The Merchant is a local gem worth visiting.
10. Aroma Di Roma
Located on a bustling street in Long Beach, Aroma di Roma Cafe is a vibrant coffee shop that offers a lively atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of foot traffic. Step inside and explore their unique specialty drinks, including Turmeric and Activated Charcoal Lattes, which push the boundaries of flavor. Situated on Long Beach’s 2nd Street, this cozy coffee shop provides a delightful escape amidst a thriving hub of shops, serving premium coffee blends alongside tasty breakfast and lunch options. Don’t miss their Activated Charcoal Latte and turmeric drink for a touch of novelty. With great service and a long-standing reputation in the community, Aroma di Roma is a local gem worth discovering. Customers rave about their espresso, delicious food options like the breakfast pizza and bagels, and the welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a unique coffee experience, a satisfying meal, or a refreshing break while exploring Belmont Shore, Aroma di Roma promises an unforgettable visit.
Long Beach boasts a wide array of coffee shops that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur seeking exceptional brews or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax and unwind, these top 10 coffee shops are sure to impress. So grab a cup of joe, explore the local culture, and enjoy the delightful world of coffee in this beautiful coastal city.
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