Food is OK. I'm a bit underwhelmed from all of the hype that this place got. Plates are very pricey for what you get. They do have a nice outdoor seating area with more limited indoor space. read more

This place has everything I want in a cafe. Homemade rich hot chocolate. Fresh churros. Perfectly seasoned beef empanadas. Huge salads with fresh ingredients. Sweet guava and cheese pastries. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Quick service. Easy parking garage attached. I travel just to come here. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Churros - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Fantastic breakfast and mocha! Highly recommend. Authentic and delicious. Clean. Very friendly.

I had been a loyal customer of Amara Cafe for quite a while and usually loved their food, which was why I wanted to treat my mom to it while she was visiting for Christmas. Unfortunately, our takeout experience on Christmas Eve during an extremely rainy day left me really disappointed. It was pouring outside and I drove about 20 minutes to pick up our order. When I got home, I realized we had been given the wrong food. I called back to explain the situation and asked if they could do anything to make it right, especially since I had driven in the storm. At first, the staff member I spoke with, a young gentleman dressed in all black and wearing glasses, said there was nothing they could do other than have me drive all the way back to swap the food. I found that extremely frustrating considering the inconvenience, the weather conditions, and the fact that the order was fairly expensive. Eventually, after pushing back multiple times and being put on hold while he spoke with upper management, they offered some pastries as a gesture. While I appreciated the offer, the entire interaction felt like the inconvenience they caused was not truly being taken seriously. This was the first negative experience I had ever had here, and I was genuinely bummed by it. I really hoped they would improve how they handled mix ups like this in the future because I would still love to continue supporting them. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - The wrong order I was given - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

I enjoy the sound of the city waking up. The calm streets and sounds of footsteps on pavement with a pitter patter of their fur baby in tow. Taking it all in just before the bustle of the day went into fifth gear. As I walked in I was warmly welcomed. The sound of espresso beans being extracted into a magical transformation with the smell of something delicious baking filled my senses. Finally able to stop in and try these famous Madrid churros! Comes with a shot of warm chocolate dipping sauce & cool whipped cream. The combination is decedent! This quaint shop has the perfect mix of sweet and savory items to enjoy but you gotta try at least one style of their churros. Ham & cheese croissant was a perfect breakfast with that tomato & aioli addition. Service was outstanding! You feel at home here with a sense of community. Other regulars stopped in to order and share the latest updates of family and friends with the staff. Metered street parking & tap to pay available. A must try! Can't wait to go back and enjoy more of their menu. read more

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Amara's Venezuelan-inspired menu is full of amazing options. I always go for the arepas and one of their specialty chocolate drinks. The authentic, rich, thick, drinking chocolate is such a treat. The service is friendly and I always feel welcomed and appreciated. It's a bit popular and can get pretty packed. But with public parking right next door it's easy to come and go. Make sure to try the churros! I used to enjoy them regularly but I went gluten free, I wish they'd whip up a gluten free option. (Please Amara's, take the hint!) read more

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Coffee is incredible, but I recommend ordering it less sweet. Their plantains are the best I've ever had, and all of their food has been delicious! My favorite is the Chorizo, egg, and cheese arepa. read more

Wow! I had a such a great experience here. The food felt so authentic like if I was eating at someone's house. I got their breakfast plate the Galipan Cachapa which was so delicious and fresh. I also ordered their mocha latte but the spiced Aztec version which I really enjoyed. I didn't know what to expect with the spice but it worked out. My friend ordered the churros which I have to say they were a little dry but the chocolate and caramel made it taste good. I was so impressed with how quick the service was considering how crowded it was. We thought we were gonna wait a while to get our food but we waited in line, ordered and waited about 15 min. We also found a spot really fast and the restaurant is pretty small. There's a parking garage right next door so that's convenient. I would love to come back. I had a great time! read more

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I came here for my late afternoon caffeine fix and ordered a large iced mocha and also tried the hot chili flavored chocolate, churros, and some plantains. Everything I tasted was very good and I was highly satisfied with my iced mocha which wasn't overly sweetened. There are tables both inside and along the sidewalk to sit and enjoy your drink and food. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Plantains and coffee JUN2025 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

A must visit when in Pasadena! Park in the schoolhouse parking structure (Same building). We tried the drinking chocolate, chicken and beef empanadas, and churros with dulce de leche and dark chocolate dipping sauces. SO yummy! This restaurant was on the Melting Pot walking food tour and we visited afterwards as well. read more

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Service and food was excellent! Coffee, lemonade, empanadas and the protein plate all very good! read more

Cute small place with indoor and outdoor seating. Great food and service. The cachapas were delicious

One of my favorite brunch places in Pasadena and I love how she remembers me every time. The owners are so kind and so nice. My favorite is the coffee with condensed milk and their churros. Yum! read more

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I have been on the hunt for a family run arepa shop because anyone knows it's difficult to find here in LA. The staff is so kind and warm, and the menu is extensive. You can tell everything tastes like it's from home. The coffee by the way, is absolutely wonderful! Please do not skip on this gem when in Pasadena! read more

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Stumbled upon this cute Venezuelan cafe! The service was super friendly. We were able to ask question about the menu, considering it was our first time having Venezuelan food :) I was recommended the chicken "catira" arepa as well as their seasonal coconut dulce de leche latte. Both items were 10/10! I would definitely love to come back & dine here once again! They have both indoor & outdoor seating which is great. read more

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I stopped by Amara Café and everything I tried really hit the spot. The hot chocolate was smooth and rich, probably the fanciest I've ever had. I ordered the Pal Pana arepa with Spanish chorizo, black beans, and Gouda cheese. The flavors worked so well together. I also tried the spinach and mozzarella empanada. The crust was super flavorful, which isn't something you always get with restaurant empanadas. But the highlight for me was the tequeños with guava dipping sauce. Warm, cheesy, and that sweet dip took it to another level. I ended the meal with churros and Nutella. So good. The vibes were great, the staff was friendly, and the food made me want to come back again. read more

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I haven't been here in years and did not know they are now a brunch restaurant. We were hungry after a 5K at the Rose Bowl and needed to refuel. Churros for breakfast? Why not?! I got the Pasadena set which is 2 churros, dulce de leche dip, and a small cappuccino. Since hubby was hungry I let him order the rest. We shared: 2 empanadas - 1 spinach and 1 chicken Spanish burrito - which has cheese, eggs, chorizo, and I love the roasted veggies. This burrito felt really light, it was not heavy at all considering all the ingredients. Queso y Nata arepa - which has gouda cheese and tomato and we added turkey and avocados. I thought we couldn't finish but it was so delicious and all the plates were cleaned. Thanks so much to the kind waiter who seated us at an outdoor table, brought us our food, and refilled our water. He was the most kind and happy worker and we will definitely visit again soon. read more

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My wife heard about this place from a friend. I thought I check it out first before bringing her for breakfast or lunch here. I ordered a croissant and Americano. There was a hair in the croissant. Also, they have a large menu for a very small place. I was not impressed. read more

Best cafe in town! Been going here for years to get my coffee and churro fix. They have the sweetest staff!

Stopped at a park and was hanging out watching homeless people get fed by a church and I had a hankering for some coffee iced starting to get hot out here in Cali so this place popped up on the maps and I walked over. Smelled delicious coffee. Went inside and got a coconut dolce de Leche iced latte it hit the spot was very smooth. Creamy had a delicious coconut flavor and the lady behind the counter is beautiful and kind probably won't be back since I'm leaving LA soon but had a great time there and I would go back as they have a ton of food. They all looks delicious pastries their own blends of hot chocolate coffee. I'm sure you should try it out if you're in Pasadena. read more

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My partner and I love it here! Amazing service from the friendliest staff behind the counter & delivering food + drinks to our table every time, delicious and unique lattes, and great pastries and sandwiches. It can get a bit busy, try to come in on a weekday morning and the vibes are perfect. Cute interior too. I'm so sad I'm moving away just because I can't come here as often. Check it out!! PS get the mocha if you like a bittersweet drink -- it's amazing. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Iced Mocha Latte "Cacao or Aztec" & Iced Dulce D Leche Latte "Amara" - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Amazing Café in Pasadena! Amara Chocolate & Coffee is my new fave coffee spot in Pasadena. I had the beef empanada with olives, the avocado sauce, and a latte with condensed milk, everything was delicious! They also gave me churros to try, and honestly they were some of the best I've ever had (even compared to churros in Mexico City!). Perfectly crispy outside, soft inside, and so flavorful. The service was super friendly and welcoming. I'll definitely be coming back! read more

Wonderful amazing place for a delicious Venezuelan brunch. This causal sit-down spot (with lots of outdoor and indoor seating!) was bustling on a weekend morning, but staff was still so attentive and friendly. We started with a beef and olive empanada that was sooo flavorful and crispy.. as a wise man once said, "I could eat a hundred of these." I also had their 65% dark chocolate mocha latte, which was so rich and chocolately--absolutely delicious for a dark chocolate lover! The Chicken Pesto sandwich is a generous size and super delicious, exactly as I expected. The Pulled Pork "Orinoco" arepa was unlike anything we've had before. With a delicate balance from the sweet plantains and spiced pork, we couldn't put it down. Whether you're dropping in for a warm cup of coffee or for a hearty meal, this place is an absolute gem to check out! read more

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We've come here A LOT. The hot chocolate is insanely rich and the churros and arepas are to die for. The people who work here are very friendly and overall its always a hit. :) read more

This rating is only for their pastries, as it's the only thing I tried here. Amara is a full service restaurant, but my friend and I stopped in because I walked by and saw their pastry case through the window. I was in the mood for some baked goods and their croissants looked good. This is a Venezuelan restaurant and their menu looked amazing. Too bad my friend and I already had lunch, because there are a lot of things here that I want to try! They even offer churros! I did chat with a couple of patrons in the restaurant who were proud to tell me they were Venezuelan and that everything in the restaurant is good. I asked one table what they were eating and they said cheese sticks, and that Venezuelan cheese sticks are the best I will ever try. I didn't see it on their menu, but perhaps it's called something that I didn't recognize on the board. If their pastries are an indication of their food, then it's 5 stars, because the pastries I got were delish! The croissants & the guava & cheese pastelito were flaky and buttery (the almond croissant had a yummy sweet cream filling inside), and the morning roll is basically a sticky bun and the employee suggested I get it with cheese on top (there's an extra charge for the cheese), which made it sweet and savory. The chicken empanada was also delicious! Can't wait to come back to try their entrees and churros!! read more

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One-of-a-kind experience. Yes, it's that good! In addition to the amazing food and drink, the exceptional customer service sets it apart from bigger, more corporate cafes. I recommend showing up early as the line can be long. Give yourself time to savor the unique Venezuelan approach to breakfast. Then go back the next day! read more

Best coffee, chocolate churros! Lovely to sit outside and enjoy cafe mocha.. expresso also good and churros with decadent chocolate... yum! Highly recommend read more

It was my first time visiting, and the place is really pretty! I didn't realize it was quite this upscale, though. I was a little too nervous to ask for oat milk instead of regular, and honestly, almost $10 for a medium coffee felt like a lot. The workers were super nice and welcoming, though they all had great energy and smiles. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Iced Pumpkin Coco Glow Foamed Latte 16 oz SEASONAL - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Unassuming Venezuelan cafe. Highly recommend On "treat yourself to a carb" day. Crispy buttery, melt in your mouth croissant, flavourful avocado egg white arepas, delicately spiced cold brew confection, completed by hot, sugary, crunch fresh churros! Yum S of Colorado on Raymond. (I mention this as I confidenly marched northward for ten minutes before realizing I was headed in the wrong direction ! read more

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I'm here just for the venezuelan iced chocolate, so this probably not a full review of everything they have. The place is a small cafe so seats are limited. They have outside seating as well. Service was pretty fast, and if you order takeout you don't have to crowd the room waiting for your order as they will come out and yell for your name. Iced chocolate though, is amazing. It felt like if you jab a straw on a quality chocolate bar: tastes fully chocolatey, like drinking a literal chocolate bar. Usually when you ordered an iced chocolate, you'd push your straw deep to the bottom to taste the chocolate BEFORE the ice diluted it. This one's the opposite. I actually had to pull the straw towards the top to acclimate myself through the slightly ice-diluted part then, while stirring a bit, work my way down. First world problem, indeed. But it was an absolute delight. An iced chocolate drink that you can literally chew (this is an exaggeration, there's nothing to chew here. It's all just thick, creamy, rich chocolate goodness). And all at the price of normal boba! Yeah I know i've seen bobas cost more than this. I need to come again for some croissant and hot chocolate. read more

Good food, service is ok, Ambience fair. Had a great time talking with Amara, a very nice person. Thank you so much. Definitely I'll be coming back read more

Amara has always been one of our favorite breakfast spots in Pasadena, but the way I was treated today was unacceptable. Most people send one person to order while the other finds a table, that's always been the norm. It was crowded, but my husband was already next in line to order when I was told I couldn't sit down and forced to move. I explained we were about to order, but they didn't care at all. What makes this even more frustrating is that plenty of other tables around me were filled with people just sitting and hanging out long after eating, yet they weren't asked to move. Maybe if staff addressed that, seating would open up instead of forcing paying customers out right before ordering. After years of being loyal customers, I'm not sure I want to return after being treated this way. read more

Amara chocolate and coffee has to be my new favorite coffee shop in the old town Pasadena area now! The food is really amazing authentic Venezuelan food and the place is a small, woman owned business. Not only can you walk in and take your coffee to go but you can also order a whole brunch here! The seating is very limited so if you plan to sit in, I'd come earlier. ( we came around 10am on a week day and it was packed with a line out the door) Our waiter was really friendly and the food was also amazing! Even if if don't come back for a full sit down meal, I'll be back to pop in and get a coffee! read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

A new fav!! The restaurant we were originally going to eat at was closed and as a result we found this gem. My husband and I both enjoy Venezuelan cuisine, but were excited to try some new dishes. I read an article in the Los Angeles Times that sold me on trying Cachapa (Venezuelan corn pancake with cheese inside). I paired it with a side of plantains, eggs and tall glass of Iced Venezuelan Chocolate, which was deliciously rich and like nothing I have ever had! The staff is friendly and the food comes out quickly. There are not a lot of tables, but we found the seating comfortable and the restaurant was decorated with plants. On the way out I spotted the huge tubs of Nutella in the window and I can't wait to go back and try their Nutella filled croissants. This is THE hot spot for breakfast in Pasadena. Try their Iced Venezuelan Chocolate, for sure. There is nothing like it. Perfect! read more

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Such a cute spot for coffee and lunch. They have good sandwiches, croissant, and coffee. Indoor and outdoor seatings available. I ordered: 1. Matcha latte with oatmilk 2. Chicken pesto sandwich 3. El doe sotelo - egg whites, roasted and fresh tomatoes, fresh cilantro, avocado and olive oil. Black beans on the side. This is arepas for breakfast with the choice of scramble egg Paid street parking is available for this Pasadena downtown area. read more

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Every time I pass by Amara there is a line out the door. As luck would have it, I was meeting my darling friend Brooke here in the afternoon and we were fortunate enough to find seating inside. (Outdoor seating also available.) Amara is named after the owner Amara B. Brooke had the pleasure of meeting her and said she was lovely and very passionate about her business and customers. During our visit Chef Maggie came out to talk to us. She was also darling. In fact, all the staff here were very friendly and take pride in their work. Amara features authentic Venezuelan cuisine. The menu is extensive - offering a little something for everyone (even vegans) and they proudly serve Jones Coffee. Their most popular items are the Venezuelan Hot Chocolate & Churros and they also have some delicious lattes. I ordered an Americano, and we shared the Venezuelan Hot Chocolate. It was velvety smooth, creamy, thick & rich. This beverage is meant to be sipped slowly and savored because it was quite decadent. The churros came with two dipping sauces - dark chocolate & guava (both vegan). The churros, which are also vegan, had a different texture than the ones you'd get at a Mexican restaurant. These were crispy outside, soft inside, and dusted with granulated sugar. It was delicious. You can purchase their famous Venezuelan Hot Chocolate to take home in addition to a variety of other specialty items including frozen empanadas & cachitos to bake at home. I'm looking forward to a return visit. read more

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We were just in time before the crazy rain to enjoy some home made Venezuelan cuisine. Like it's from your mamas kitchen this little cafe is full of surprises! From chocolate to plantains, burritos to churros the menu here is extensive and delightful! Luckily there is a parking lot right beside the restaurant because the rain came down hard! Such an incredible service and love from the entire staff. Amara is so kind and proud of her beautiful cafe and she emanates love to all her customers and the chef Maggie was amazing, so talented! Will definitely come back soon! The food is absolutely delicious!! read more

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Amara is a Pasadena gem. Personalized and family oriented, the service was wonderful. The owner came and asked us what we thought of the food which was a nice touch. The food was delicious , flavorful and fresh. I had the Spanish Chorizo, Eggs and Cheese Arepa and it was so good. The cappuccino was typical Venezuelan with great coffee but blended nicely with the milk, like in Europe. And a must are the churros ! Highly recommend this lovely restaurant. read more

I recently went around the Christmas holiday and wow I was very impressed with the customer service. I had one bad experience but I really like their cachapas. I'm happy I gave them a second chance. The food was delicious. read more

So my wife saw some Tik Toks with their churros, Cups of hot chocolate more churros and more cups of chocolate so of course she wanted to try both especially since we are freshly back from Paris and she misses the Chaud de Chocolat. Our order 2 cups of Hot Chocolate rich with milk, 1 Iced Chocolate Edgar style with milk, 1 Churros with Chocolate and 1 Churros with Ice Cream. Quick note: 2 people can share 1 cup of Hot or Iced Chocolate it was good but so rich and sweet that we didn't finish 1 order between us all nor did the other 2 tables next to us. Definitely not cheap we paid about $68.00 for our initial order, I did add a guave bread and a cup for my niece since they share the same name (Amara) added another $35.00 for a total of $103.00 The Chocolate was good but we didn't finish one of our drinks if that tells you anything. I think that they should have someone there to assist you with choosing the right Hot or Iced Chocolate only because when I tried they seemed more open to the order not really explaining the types they offer. Customer service was a 2 as some people received numbers for there tables we didn't, the wait staff bringing food weren't sure where to go so keep your receipt so you can prove what you ordered. Chocolate drinking experience 2 could have been a 5 but kind of lost ordering with no one really to help with questions or recommendations again there were plenty of people behind the counter but know one that wanted to help on recommendations. The Chocolate itself was a 5 but that's because I couldn't give less than what it was... Overall they probably could have been a 5 but with no one really to step up and assist especially when your paying higher than most places.... We would like to try it again only if we could get someone that could assist with making the visit more of a pleasant experience. read more

Amara Chocolate & Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California