A charming and quirky little coffee shop. Complete with a functional, yet decorative stoplight, a piano, and Buldak ramen for sale- A lot of character! I ordered the raspberry latte which was both sweet and strong. The barista was super friendly. Overall, a nice place to hang out and enjoy the space. read more

See all

Arrived at this coffee shop a little before 8am and there was no one there... interesting because usually coffee shops are super busy in the mornings. The coffee barista promptly took our orders! Vanilla latte with soy for J (hot) and lavender latte with almond milk for me (iced). Went to use their restroom and it was clean. When I came out, there was a line! We just beat the morning traffic. Feels cozy inside and has an interesting menu. We have family down the street so we'll probably be back to try again!! Lastly, coffee was solid, i liked mine, not too sweet! Only ask is that the hot coffee wasn't that hot but maybe we should've asked for that? read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Iced Flavored Latte - lavender - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

See all

Finally stopped inside for the first time. I always drive by and I'm glad I did! This place is so cute. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor tables even had these wind chimes which were so calming. My barista turned out to be the owner Kelly. She was so sweet. I came in on a sunny afternoon so got some ice cream. My friend got a matcha that was so rich! I will definitely be back to this neighborhood gem and try out more of their drink & pastry menu. read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Pastry - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

See all

Was greeted upon arrival! Quiet inside, a few individuals working on their computers. Ordered a matcha latte w ice. However, the quality of the matcha was not the best. I also do not like how the prices are not listed. Overall, would not return. read more

See all

Crappy cup of coffee. Tasted bitter and burnt. Threw it away. Service was ok but not friendly. Two stars because their baked goods are from Homeboy Bakery which is cool abs supports a good cause. read more

I work in the service industry and rarely leave reviews because I understand how much they can affect a small business. However, I felt the owners should be aware of this experience. The male barista with long hair, glasses, and a Wu-Tang hat was extremely rude and visibly annoyed that I came in to order coffee. I stood at the counter for about five minutes without acknowledgment while he worked on his laptop. When he finally took my order, his attitude made me feel like I was inconveniencing him by simply asking for coffee. After making my drinks, he handed them to me and then made dismissive hand gestures, clearly signaling for me to leave. That behavior is completely unacceptable in the service industry. This experience alone was enough for me to write this review. read more

Such a cute neighborhood coffee shop, and its perfect for studying or getting work done. I tried their matcha protein smoothie and it was good. You can definitely taste the banana, protein powder and a hint of matcha. They have pastries for purchase too. read more

See all

It's a local coffee shop with so much potential. Since it's close to my place, I come here occasionally when there's a power outage and such. The coffee tastes over roasted and the pastries are mediocre. I recently went there and got coffee and a bagel. The bagel took a while, but they were busy so it's understandable. After finishing my bagel, I decided to get a coffee cake. By this time the crowd had left. I stood there about 5 minutes or so waiting for the one guy who looks like a young Joe Buscemi to acknowledge me (say hello and tell me just a minute). Nothing. I finally asked him if I can get a coffee cake. I get this is not your dream job, but while you're working there at least pretend. read more

Great place to have a chai tea, relax and chill. Very friendly staff. Quiet area and ample parking space.

Stopped in on a Sunday around noon and there was just one other person in the shop. Got an iced vanilla latte, which was solid. Love the seating inside and out. I can imagine it gets packed during peak hours, but the vibe was on point and super unique! They had breakfast tacos available, but wish there were more breakfast/sandwich options. Parking was super easy in the adjoining lot. Will definitely be back! read more

I pass by this place all the time and was so confused about why a coffee house with ample seating and ample free parking with their own lot is always empty. After 6 visits/chances I know why. I want to like this place so bad. It's adorable, local, long standing but my god is every single drink terrible. Even the regular drip coffee is awful. Truly blown back at how bad everything I've ever gotten from here is. The staff is also like warm they don't go above and beyond with service. Atmosphere saves this from a one star but Jeeze they need to invest in a better machine or bring in a legit barista to teach the staff how to brew basic coffee. Maybe it's there beans? I truly think about what it could be that makes every drink so bad and can't put my finger on it. Great place to study but stick to packaged drinks and food. read more

Cool spot-nice people-very low quality coffee. Honestly you could get a better coffee anywhere else. Just like other reviews guess it's known for having a burnt taste. Now if they would run with that and named the place Smoked or Burned I could see It getting better reviews lol read more

Not friendly service and the coffee taste burnt. Save your money and go across the street or drive a little more to highland Park or downtown south pass read more

Coffee is good but, can we please get caps that don't leak every time I take a sip? Half my cup is on my shirt read more

What's the point of ordering a bagel and charging extra for cream cheese if you're not even gonna put the cream cheese on

I pass by Charlie's Coffee House often but never stopped in. One day I was craving a scone, so I decided to give Charlie's a try. I parked in the lot (there is also free street parking) and when I walked in I noticed how bright and spacious it was. I could smell the freshly ground coffee and it was delightful. (They also have tea and smoothies.) All the pastries in the display case looked delicious and I was about to order my scone when I looked up and saw a New York Style Crumb Coffee Cake in a glass cake holder on top of the case. I absolutely love a good crumb coffee cake but they are hard to find in L.A. so I ordered that instead. The Barista was very polite and thanked me for my business before I left. I couldn't wait to get home to try the coffee cake. It was exactly what I had hoped for. The cake was moist and buttery. The crumb topping was soft and melts in your mouth. The powdered sugar topping added the right amount of sweetness. It reminded of the one I used to get from Entenmann's years ago but better. I am so glad I finally stopped here. I'm looking forward to trying their other baked goods and coffee. Tip: You can order online for pick-up. read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Delicious Crumb Coffee Cake. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

See all

Great local coffee spot. Sometimes not consistent with the making of the drinks, but I'd say knocks it out of the park 90% of the time.

This place forces you to fork over your private info (phone number/email) in order to get a receipt now. I repeatedly asked for my receipt and told them I did not want to give out my personal info in order to get it. I was told that is how the owner has it set up and there is nothing they can do about it. Tough cookies. You cannot use the excuse about saving the environment and saving trees/paper, because this place uses plastic cups,forks,knives, straws, everything was plastic. Well, it is crystal clear *WHY*. Lol she wants to capture our email and phone number to send her ads and marketing spam and sell out contact info to third parties for $$. Seems to me that there is a penny-pinching business culture, but also one of intrusiveness towards customers. Every other establishment gives you a choice in the financial transaction, except for this place. Speaks volumes, ethically speaking. PS. To be fair,I am glad that god awful light in the bathroom that always went out after 10 seconds has been removed and replaced with lights that stay on, so we arent left in pitch black dark in the middle of going to the bathroom. The lights would stay on just long enough for you to start to go and them BAM its pitch black and you better hope and pray you dont soil yourself, cause you cant see! I am surprised that she has them stay on as the owner is super power conscious with the power/electricity outlets that are taped over, letting you know they dont want you to use their power outlets, unlike other coffee shops that have them freely available and actually want you to use them. Other than that the coffee, matcha tea and waffles were ok. The matcha comes without sugar and lots and lots of foamy froth, about half the cup is foam froth,so if you are diet conscious or want to control how sweet you want it, this can work for you. I love the art and piano and the decor. Coffee tastes ok like standard coffee PPS This place has a good playlist, found myself shazaming 3 songs there today. read more

A welcoming coffee/not coffee cafe.. friendly atmosphere - delicious almond croissant, and had a "Monkey shake" almond milk, peanut butter, banana, chocolate protein.. a boost of espresso extra - Yummie treat! read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

See all

I've always liked this place, but late the service is very very slow each time I've been there, but then again every time I walk into a place it immediately gets busy. The breakfast burrito was always really good and I used to get a few, then they changed them, so now every time I get one it's a different size, I guess they just have small and extra small, it's too bad because I like them, but if they keep getting smaller and the price higher, it doesn't make sense....wait longer, get less and pay more...makes no sense....not saying I won't go back, I just know I won't go back soon or as often as I did. read more

Charlie's Coffee House - The smallest breakfast burrito ever made... - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

They have a website where you can place your order online for pick up. DO NOT USE IT. I ordered in advance and when I arrived, they said "I had no idea we had online ordering." But guess what, it charged my credit card anyway and I received an order confirmation. The baristas asked what I ordered. One of the drinks was a Thai iced coffee and they said they didn't have the ingredients for it so I had to choose something else. They didn't offer any recommendations of what would be the same price since they already charged me for that drinks. They seemed so flustered by the online order thing that I had to repeat the substitute drink 3 times. I just ordered an iced vanilla latte. Is that not simple and comparable? The second drink I placed online was a hot chai latte but it was served lukewarm. I don't think they steam the milk. Disappointing since online order didn't work, I ended up paying a different price than the order I received, I had to wait instead of being able to pick up and go, and the drinks weren't good. They have free parking in the lot but almost all the spots were taken due to what looked like a spin class happening right outside. Luckily we did find a spot since another car left. I will say the baristas were not rude at all but offered no proactive solution or compensation (how about an upsize or no charge for alternative milk for all the trouble?) for the issue. No accountability taken as they blamed it on the owner and I felt I needed to apologize for the confusion.... read more

The place was cute, the barista was friendly and helpful. I would have liked to buy a mug, but had to settle for a magnet for my friend, Charlie. read more

Charlie's is a great vibe. The space is class and a good workshops. Lots of outlets, fast WiFi and pretty chill space. The issue with Charlie's is the coffee. It tastes burnt every time. Something is off with my drink every time. It always tastes...wrong. Would come back to work here but not coming here for a cup of coffee. Oh and service.. it is a hit or miss. read more

First and last time coming here: the girl there spent her time chit chatting and flirting with the guy customers. I waited so long for hot water and a tea bag. Everyone's drinks were taking forever. She then forgot my bagel and tried to say someone took it when I was watching for it the entire time. Then a male coworker showed up to take over the shift and he was so rude to an older customer who was trying to ask if they charged extra for milk making sarcastic remarks like "we charge for the entire order". Horrible place only nice thing is the aesthetic read more

The ambiance at Charlie's is exceptionally serene (except for the train that passes by every 15 minutes). No matter, it's a quiet local place with a shaded patio where you can get some damn good coffee. The service and the interior reminds me of a college coffeehouse and I like that. You can really get some work done if you need to. Great sandwiches and pastries, too. Charlie's is a peaceful escape from the bustling city. read more

A+++++!! Just left this amazing cafe. It was my second visit and I must say that the second time around has made me a regular when in the area. The barista was so nice and attentive with an upbeat pleasant vibe. He was super cool. He makes a mean matcha vanilla protein shake and strong espresso almond milk latte that will instantly brighten you day! Great place to chit chat and enjoy some coffee and snacks! read more

See all

I used to go to Charlie's often when they first opened, but I moved and didn't get there as often. I moved back to the area recently and was excited to try it again. I was extremely disappointed. I ordered two beverages. I asked for both to be made with soy and unsweetened. One came extremely sweet it wasn't drinkable. The second one had regular milk. I consumed half until I realized something was wrong. It tasted different but I wasn't sure until I got an upset stomach. I checked the writing on my cup and it didn't say "soy" like the other drink did. My stomach issues lasted a week. I emailed the manager via their email to let them know and warn them that they should be more careful. It could have been more serious if I had a more severe allergy to dairy. I got no response. Needless to say, I won't be back. read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Not soy and very sweet. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

Best chai latte that I have ever experienced. Service is always friendly and always seating available read more

Charlie's Coffee House - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

I've been gifted drinks here and each time I have been here the service was good but the drinks are just ok. I ordered a matcha latte recently and it was the worst I've ever had. Somehow the male barista made it taste burnt. I'm not sure how that's possible. I like that it's a neighborhood coffee house that attracts vintage car owners as well as AA member meetings on the regular. Just wish I've had better tasting experiences here. I try to frequent small businesses but if I had a choice I'd make my own espresso drinks at home over their coffee or head over to Jone's Coffee close by. read more

Perfect spot for a lil morning coffee date or a study session. They have plenty of spacious tables with plugs and free wifi. There's also plenty of parking available and a public restroom. The baristas are friendly as well. I'd say I've had better coffee though. Coffee is pretty decent. I would def come back because of how convenient everything else is. read more

I think I just found my new fav work spot! Coffee frap was friggin amazing, and the chocolate croissant- just perfect!! Love this place, coming back for sure!!! read more

Really positive first experience here today. The owner was friendly and I liked that she seemed to have a good rapport with the regulars. I enjoyed my Golden Milk latte. read more

Coffee can cost anywhere from 3-8$ per cup. Can you please list your prices? It might influence what I will order, without having to ask the barista to list the price of every item. And maybe then she can drop her attitude just a little bit and stop embarrassing me for actually wanting to know how much my cup of coffee is going to cost. I'm giving it 3 stars, because the coffee actually tasted really good and wasn't obnoxiously pricey in the end. :) read more

The seating is a little high, environment is good but pricing is no where to be found. Ordered a mocha and it was came out to be $6.45 which is little pricey than other places read more

I live around here never had a chance to check it out til recently. Really enjoyed the vibe, the server was super friendly and my coffee was good. Chill place! read more

This is our go-to spot for morning coffees when we stay up the road at the Arroyo Vista Inn on account of their walkability and decent coffees. Dog friendly which is also a plus. The thing this coffee shop is lacking, however, is consistency. I feel like I'm starting to learn the various strong suits of their different baristas (who adds too much syrup, who oversteams their milk, etc), but also I feel like ordering coffee shouldn't require that level strategizing. Small assortment of pastries and Cos & Pi breakfast burritos. Small shared parking lot. read more

Cute little place with fun art. But man that was the worst matcha latte I've ever had and I'm easy to please but couldn't stomach it. I continued on my walk before tasting it so I didn't have a chance to ask if they could redo it. read more

I used to love this place. However, after three consecutive visits where the drinks were disappointing and the WiFi did not work, I'm not sure if I'll be back, especially considering there are many great alternatives nearby. The menu has changed and has been reduced, and they no longer post the prices, which have increased. It seems like there may be new management, but not for the better? read more

Been there twice this week for breakfast burritos and white mocha. I went around 8-9am during the weekdays and it wasn't busy at all, just a couple people actually inside and using their computers. I found parking easily in the parking lot. I couldn't find the menu prices but I still wanted food so I gave it a try. Service was straightforward and I was able to use cash and get change (instead of being asked to use coins for the cents). Their burritos ended up being pretty good, especially with the green sauce they give, but it veered on the smaller side. I assumed it was like $8 which some people may feel that it's too overpriced for its size. (My total, with the chorizo egg cheese burrito and small white mocha came out to about $13.) The second time I got my drink, it didn't taste as good as the first one but it was different workers for both times so that's probably why. Overall, despite the lack of prices (and possibly overpriced items), it's not a bad place. It has good vibes, one of those local spots with local artists' works on the walls so you can view and buy. read more

I've been here a couple times now. It is a really cool spot to gather for study session or to grab a quick bite or drink. Definitely recommend to anyone who is looking for a decent cafe with wifi to get some work done or to meet classmates. Only downside, they close earlier than usual cafe places. So get there with time to get a good charging spot or to at least enjoy the cafe. read more