Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Highlight Coffee

    4.6 (225 reviews)
    ModerateCoffee & Tea
    Open 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
    Updated 1 month ago

    Highlight Coffee Photos

    Highlight Coffee - Feliz Navidad Pour Over - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Pineapple Espresso Tonic - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Apple pie danish - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Cinnamon roll and Fredo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Cinnamon roll - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - French Onion soup bun - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Freddo cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Fredo Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Freddo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California
    Highlight Coffee - Freddo Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

    +367

    Highlight Coffee - Customers and Baristas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

    Business Info

    HIGHLIGHT COFFEE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like Highlight Coffee

    Recommended Reviews - Highlight Coffee

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Cindy D.

    Came here after a hike and it was delicious!!! Got the iced latte and love that they do not charge extra for a change of milk... thats so rare for a coffee shop

    Orange vanilla latte
    Alexis M.

    Stopped by this cute little coffee shop after running a 5K in the area. It's really cute and has a nice affordable menu. The baristas were really welcoming and friendly and encouraged me to try their orange vanilla latte. I decided to try it and it was so good! I definitely recommend it!

    columbia pourover
    Emily S.

    coffee was good but the service was not. i got there a few minutes before they opened and decided to line up outside. the barista who was setting up the outdoor furniture didn't seem like she was very welcoming. the barista who took my order was also in a mood and seemed very annoyed to have to do his job. no greeting or a smile :(

    Orange Vanilla Latte
    Amy K.

    First time trying Highlight Coffee and I am already a fan. Please open in NorCal! The lattes were unique and delicious. The cafe was clean and spacious, and the pastry went perfectly with the two lattes I ordered. Everything tasted really balanced and satisfying.

    Ana M.

    Great spot! The coffee is fantastic and the staff is very friendly - what really hit home run for me was the presentation of the drinks (to stay/ not-to-go). It elevated the entire experience as unique to this spot. Very cute and homey vibe. Loved the matcha donut.

    Fredo cappuccino! Yum
    Maleerat P.

    This small independently owned coffee shop in Altadena is still one of the best coffee shops in Los Angeles. They have amazing attention to detail with great espresso drinks and great original drinks like their pineapple espresso tonic, and their butterscotch latte which is handmade from scratch not a syrup. They also have amazing pastries. One of the best cinnamon rolls I've ever eaten and excellent croissants and donuts. They have milk alternatives, like Oatmilk and almond milk and they also have great tea. The interior is really clean and cute with beautiful photography on the walls and nice ambience lighting. Service is always top notch here they're very quick and very professional. Very nice and friendly, but most importantly the drinks they make are consistent.

    Iced Butterscotch Oat Milk Latte & Cortado with almond milk.
    Nikki B.

    I met up with the beautiful, sweet Sam here for coffee. It's one of her go-to spots so I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. This family owned, neighborhood friendly shop has a modern aesthetic and a welcoming vibe. There is ample seating inside and a few tables outside. It's also a suitable place to bring your laptop if you need a change of scenery. The menu has some creative options, such as pineapple-lime espresso tonic. The coffee beans are sourced from Nordic roasters, the milk is organic (almond & oat are available at no extra charge), and their pastries are delivered fresh daily from Sugarbloom Bakery. The beautiful murals on the side of the building that pay tribute to Pasadena & Altadena add to the charm. My darling coffee aficionado ordered an Iced Butterscotch Oat Milk Latte (her favorite), and I had a Cortado with almond milk. We found a cozy little table to enjoy our beverages and had an good conversation. My Cortado was smooth, semi-bold, and aromatic. It didn't have a bitter or sharp aftertaste, which will make me want to come back. On our way out, Sam insisted on treating me to a pasty, so I selected the White Miso Kouign-Amann. (One of her favorites.) I've never had a Kouign-Amann before. WOW! This was amazing! It had crispy layers outside, a buttery, fluffy interior, and a crunchy, caramelized brown sugar bottom that was next level. I can't wait to go back for some high-quality coffee and the amazing pastries. *Small parking lot or street parking. *Dog friendly

    Orange vanilla latte and blueberry muffin
    April K.

    Was in the neighborhood on a Saturday morning and found Highlight Coffee. They have a small parking lot but I was able to find parking on the street in front. Such a nice relaxed and modern coffee shop that feels comfortable right when you walk up. I enjoyed that they have all the staples of any good cafe, with any modifications you want, without an overly complicated menu. The guys working were friendly and welcoming and offered help on what to order since I wasn't sure when I walked in. I went with their house made orange vanilla latte with oat milk. It's a really delicious latte, without overpowering flavor or sweetness. I also appreciate that milk substitutes are no extra charge That have a nice variety of delicious looking pastries to choose from, but my son went with a blueberry muffin which he said was very good. Definitely will come back when I'm in the neighborhood again.

    Megan C.

    Came here earlier today to stop by for a coffee before I went to the Rose Bowl with my pup for a long walk and some fun. Let's get to it! Parking, they do have a little small area. It was full around the time came which was around 11ish am so I ended up parking on residential street parking on Vermont St. They have indoor & outdoor seating and are dog friendly. My brought my dog in and my dog was just eating up all the attention he was getting. I ordered the Iced Butterscotch Oat milk Latte, and was able to also get my Pasadena Coffee Passport stamped as well. :) The coffee was so delicious! I plan to come back to try their Orange Vanilla Latte and see what food options they have there. The staff here were really nice! Oh, and outside they have a beautiful Pasadena & Altadena mural. Had to take pictures of my dog before I left.

    Butterscotch coffee (hot)
    Karen P.

    First time trying Highlight and it did not disappoint. Got the butterscotch coffee (ordered this first try since most reviews are raving about it) and paired with the ham and cheese croissant, so gooood! Will come back to try their matcha (matcha lover here)

    Iced butterscotch latte
    Rachel R.

    One of my absolute favorite coffee stops in Altadena! Highlight Coffee never misses. I always get their iced butterscotch latte and it is perfection every single time -- smooth, not overly sweet, and just insanely delicious. The pricing is super reasonable for the quality, and the service is consistently warm, friendly, and fast. They have almond milk and oat milk options and they don't charge you extra. Even when I'm not in the neighborhood, I'll happily drive out of my way just to come here. It's that good. If you're looking for a spot with great vibes, great coffee, and genuinely kind people, Highlight Coffee is a must.

    Leonard A.

    Some beer drinkers have the Miller High Life and Us coffee consumers have the Highlight! This little coffee spot hits all the check marks you would want in a coffee adventure but let's get down to the Brass Tacks. I started off with their seasonal pour over coffee which was the Feliz Navidad as a dine in set up. Believe it or not this is the best pour over coffee I've ever had and I only say that because the caramel and blackberry flavors came together with a soft touch of red apple chasing every sip. Now this is my personal experience and you'll most likely have a different one but it's all good. The next drink I ordered was their pineapple lime espresso tonic and it was legit with flavor and served in glassware to make it more enjoyable. The service was real and the recommendation was spot on to my tastebuds. Parking is tight so hit the streets. That's my take on it, Peace...

    Ally U.

    My first time here and the menu seemed kind of dull but the orange vanilla espresso latte caught my eye. I was informed that it was their most popular drink. Ordered this iced and with oat milk and had high expectations. Coffee was honestly super weak, maybe it was overpowered by the amount of milk, but I could not taste the beans or espresso. I was looking forward to the orange and vanilla flavors but you could barely taste any hints of each, really just taste like im drinking cold milk and leaves a really weird aftertaste and left unsatisfied with my drink. I dont think Id be back soon but if I came here again maybe I'll try the butterscotch as they also said this drink was popular. Service was just okay, the two guys were paying attention to each other more than the customers. Not an aesthetic shop to be in. Limited parking but I didnt have a problem on a weekday morning.

    Freddo cappuccino w/ whole milk

    See all

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jane G.
    221
    14
    3

    7 years ago

    Love their Glendale location but this location is amazing! Larger and tons of seating and the menu is the same :)

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Just had a fantastic coffee. Macchiato was perfect. Nice and short. Best coffee around. And nice little outdoor seating area.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Irene A.
    727
    102
    8

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Really good coffee in North Pasadena/Altadena! I tried the orange vanilla latte and loved it!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Stopped in last weekend for the first time. Excellent coffee. Super friendly staff. Can't wait to go back!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Our favorite place to get coffee! We're so happy that you survived the shut down! Friendly people & the best coffee in town.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Great new coffee shop in this area! finally! great place to work! and free lactose free milk options!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kit C.
    0
    31
    0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 6 of 6

    Highlight Coffee Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Highlight Coffee

    I can't find anywhere in Yelp or the website: Do they have outdoor seating and if so, is it in the front or back?

    There is no outdoor seating

    Hi, what brand oat milk do you use?

    Oat-ly

    What are the hours of the business?

    I think 7am-6pm M-F and 8am-6pm sat & sun. But Saturday may be earlier open.

    View All 4 Questions

    You might also consider

    Danbi Coffee

    Danbi Coffee

    4.3
    (386 reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$

    Danbi Coffee is easily one of the best cafés I've visited in Pasadena. As a matcha lover, I was…read moreimpressed by the quality and flavor of their matcha drinks--smooth, balanced, and not overly sweet. Their dessert selection is just as impressive. The mango mousse and raspberry mousse were light, fresh, and full of flavor. One standout was their Ferrero-inspired chocolate dessert, which featured a rich hazelnut mousse filling and was beautifully presented. The freshly baked croissants were warm, flaky, buttery, and definitely worth trying. The café is clean, welcoming, and offers a great variety of coffee, matcha, pastries, and desserts. Staff is very friendly and helpful and are on top of everything.They get the orders out , really quick. Overall, a 10/10 experience, and I highly recommend stopping by if you're in Pasadena.

    Heard about this place on tiktok but it was very underwhelming. Came here on a Sunday around 12 pm…read moreand stood in a short line. We got the mango matcha rain, banana cream matcha, and banana latte. For $7-8 per drink, you get a very SMALL sized cup, I believe it's a 12 oz. Although oat milk is the standard for the matcha drinks, the price for such a small cup was not worth it. For the drinks itself, not sure what kind of matcha powder they are using but it doesn't seem to be grade quality. The banana latte also tasted like milk. Interior wise, plenty of tables & seating. Great for a study spot with ample street parking. Overall, for the price, quality, and sizes, I unfortunately will not be returning.

    Photos
    Interior
    Interior
    Einspanner ( Vienna Cream Coffee )
    Einspanner ( Vienna Cream Coffee )
    Espresso tiramisu

    See all

    Espresso tiramisu
    Dash Coffee Bar

    Dash Coffee Bar

    4.3
    (682 reviews)
    2.8 mi
    $$
    Grab-and-go
    Outdoor seating

    I tried the matcha einspanner here and I was originally worried it'd be overly sweet, but the cream…read morewas lightly sweetened and provided a really nice silky mouthfeel to the drink. I also tried a sip of my friend's strawberry matcha and that was also pretty good. Nothing against the business, but the parking situation can be really awful. I lucked out with a spot in the corner but also had to wait for a trash truck to back out. Due to the parking situation, I'm not sure if I'd want to come here to study or anything, but I'd happily come back if someone else drove lol

    Consistently delicious pandan lattes and matcha concoctions! Dash has been a favorite now for…read moreyears. I'm not local, but anytime I return to Pasadena, I always visit at least once or twice! The staff is always so gracious and knowledgeable about their current offerings. They continue to experiment with flavors (a new favorite is the Matcha Jasmine latte) Perennial favorites: Pandan Latte (they somehow make the best flavored one here, even though there are now several coffee shops in the area that make this drink. I believe they might be the OG). Matcha latte (they make theirs unsweetened, and for purists, this is perfect!) I need to talk about their Ube foam here. You can add it to any drink (I like topping my pandan lattes with it--it's a perfect flavor blend!) It is decadent, sweet, and creamy, and yes, makes your drink a dessert! While other shops also make Ube cream tops, Dash's Ube foam is the best one by a large margin when it comes to taste and texture. The shop space is cozy and clean, with indoor and outdoor seating. There is customer turnover, but sometimes it's not fast, so a few times, I've had to take my drinks to go even though I had planned to stay a while if seating allowed--obviously others enjoy the vibe here as well!

    Photos
    Sweet Cream Cold brew
    Sweet Cream Cold brew
    Einspanner Thai Iced Tea
    Einspanner Thai Iced Tea
    Dirty Thai Tea Latte Iced, Pandan Sweet Cream Cold Brew

    See all

    Dirty Thai Tea Latte Iced, Pandan Sweet Cream Cold Brew
    Republik Coffee

    Republik Coffee

    4.4
    (1.6k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$
    Free parking
    Pet friendly

    Cute but very busy place! Came here after I found out the…read moreoriginal coffee shop I wanted to try near the area is closed on Sundays. Republik is pretty big inside, with lots of outdoor space and seating as well. It was very busy when we arrived, and there was a line, but it moved pretty quickly and I got my order in a decent amount of time. I saw they had an Ube latte, so of course that is what I ordered, and it did not disappoint. Very flavorful and delicious. Service was good, and the baristas were all busy but took the time to greet everyone and thank them as we all picked up our orders. There is lots of free street parking in this area of Pasadena, so that was a breeze.

    The ambiance and store decoration is really nice and cozy. Staffs were friendly. And they have many…read moregreat specialty espresso that are unique but also is the price, which tend to be on the higher side especially consider the portions and quantity that you are getting of the price that you pay. I saw the sign that said bakes good happy hour 50% off after 3 pm. Well that was misleading. So everything that I ordered, the cookies and cake are not part of the sale. I wish they were more clear about that. I thought it was 1/2 off which is why I ordered so many to start out with. The taste of the bake good, however, are good and not too sweet which is great. The chocolate chip cookie was meh, there are better ones in Pasadena. The pistachio cooking was good. And the green tea cake was amazing. I just wish there sign for the discount was more clear and things were so pricy.

    Photos
    "Black Vanilla Latte" One of the popular signature drink.
    "Black Vanilla Latte" One of the popular signature drink.
    Sea Salt Hazelnut latter and Black Vanilla Latte
    Sea Salt Hazelnut latter and Black Vanilla Latte
    Breakfast Plate Turkey Sausage and Brisket Egg Benedict

    See all

    Breakfast Plate Turkey Sausage and Brisket Egg Benedict
    Mandarin Coffee Stand

    Mandarin Coffee Stand

    4.2
    (696 reviews)
    3.3 mi
    $$

    I love this business. I've tried everything and loved everything. Their December seasonal Mandarin…read moreLatte is the best! The gui hua latte is always perfect.The temperature is always perfect and ready to drink, but if you're a freak like me order it extra hot and they will accommodate! I don't care for matcha but I've tasted my daughter's order and their matcha latte and matcha tonic are so smooth and delicious! The hojicha latte is perfect, the pineapple tonic, refreshing and tasty, the Vienna latte is decadent, the ayr black tea latte is so comforting! Pair it with one of thei super delicious Sugar bloom pastries, brought in fresh daily...my favorite is the vegan pretzle, croissant and you are set! Everything is delicious and made with artistry and love! Everyone is super nice. They always have lovely flowers from Crankys, very unique! Come with patience and time because you will encounter a line, delicious perfection takes time and you will not regret it. Enjoy!

    I've been to Mandarin Coffee Stand a few times now and always leave satisfied! Every time I've gone…read moreon weekdays there has been a line, so I'd imagine it's even longer on weekends. If you own a Tesla, there is a supercharger location right in the parking lot so it makes for a good caffeination stop while charging your electric car. I've had the Toasty, Vienna Latte, Gui Hua Latte and Matcha Tonic with the Toasty being my favorite of the bunch that I keep coming back for. They have a bunch of pastry options that I want to try but they seem to sell out quite early! I have had the Sesame Pretzel croissant though and it was so fire - highly recommended! Mandarin Coffee Stand is such a great little shop in the cutest little area! I will absolutely be back!

    Photos
    One & One (2 of them) SO Espressos in the background
    One & One (2 of them) SO Espressos in the background
    Cappuccino
    Cappuccino
    Vienna latte and matcha latte with cream top

    See all

    Vienna latte and matcha latte with cream top
    Artisanal Goods by CAR

    Artisanal Goods by CAR

    4.6
    (806 reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $
    Locally owned & operated
    Free parking

    Whenever I see this place online or watch someone's video making the rounds, I always wonder: *Is…read moreit really that good, or is it just trending on my FYP?* Y'all, this place is actually that good. Their pastries are legitimate Paris-level quality. The one that looks like a pain au raisin (but isn't) is incredible--those glazed, crunchy parts are what's up! I came here to get some work done on my laptop, and the vibe was perfect. People actually rotate out instead of camping at tables all day, so indoor and outdoor seating opens up organically. That is exactly my type of place.

    I've had this place bookmarked for some time and this morning all the stars aligned. I got there…read moreabout 15-20 minutes before they opened and was third in line. By the time I was done ordering and had everything there was probably 20 people in line. So getting there a little early makes sense. I ordered 4 chocolate croissants, 3 Monkey Breads, 2 Kouign Amanns, and a partridge....sorry. Wrong song. 1 chocolate bar and a cappuccino. So far I've had a Kouign Amann and the cappuccino. The cappuccino may be the best I've ever had. I don't know what kind of coffee they use, but it was very smooth. That alone is worth the trip. AND, my barista did a cute milk art on top. The Kouign Amann was AMAZING. Layered and flaky I confess I ate the whole thing! I can't wait until I can try the other 2 things I've purchased. After all, the chocolate croissant was the primary reason for going. Now for the negatives: Management should figure out a way for more than one person to take orders and box them up. Even Mom & Pop donut shops often have multiple people taking orders. And Porto's has it down to a science. It would go a long way toward clearing the line faster. My second issue was the price. Quality is expensive. I get it. And I'm fortunate enough to be able to splurge for a treat like this. But with a small tip added to my total I spent just shy of $100! Not something I can do every week. But I would encourage you to save your nickels and check them out!

    Photos
    Berry, Chocolate (left), Almond Maple, Almond (right)
    Berry, Chocolate (left), Almond Maple, Almond (right)
    Artisanal Goods by CAR
    Chocolate Croissant

    See all

    Chocolate Croissant
    Philz Coffee

    Philz Coffee

    4.3
    (941 reviews)
    3.1 mi
    $

    I am absolutely obsessed with the Mint Mojito Extra Creamy Regular Sweet -- it's hands down my…read morefavorite coffee of all time! I come here all the time just for it, and it never disappoints. The perfect balance of minty freshness and creamy sweetness makes every sip amazing. The staff at Philz are always super sweet and welcoming, which keeps me coming back just as much as the coffee itself. Such a cozy, friendly spot -- I can't recommend it enough! The Pasadena location especially is one of my all time favorites!

    Ordered Doordash and my order arrived less than half an hour surprisingly!…read more The carrier that my drinks came in was very sturdy and I really enjoyed the paper packaging. Drinks were a little pricey so expect to pay $7+! I enjoyed that there were ice and sugar adjustments available and milk substitutions at no extra charge! Got the Honey Haze ($7.45) and it was just cold brew with honey and oat milk. I ordered a small with creamy oat milk and medium honey. However, it still seemed a bit too sweet for my preference. The coffee tasted like regular coffee I would get at a convenience store and nothing special. The Iced Coffee Rose ($7.45) was cold brew with a rose cream top. I requested it with light rose oat milk and light sugar. However, it still seemed too sweet. The rose cream top didn't taste floral at all. The coffee was nothing special so I definitely won't recommend. Overall, I was extremely disappointed with my drinks and I felt like the drinks were overpriced so I won't recommend or return unfortunately.

    Photos
    Liking the vibe, and the interiors...
    Liking the vibe, and the interiors...
    Mint Mojito Iced Coffee
    Mint Mojito Iced Coffee
    Large Tiramisu + Large Mint Mojito  BOGO for your birthday if you download the app! Love!  https://app.philz.us/pb2O/gum1fdq5

    See all

    Large Tiramisu + Large Mint Mojito BOGO for your birthday if you download the app! Love! https://app.philz.us/pb2O/gum1fdq5
    Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters

    Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters

    4.5
    (1.4k reviews)
    3.4 mi
    $$

    I love Jameson coffee!…read more At most coffee shops, I usually order cold brew, but here I always go for an Americano. If you like fruity coffee or coffee with a strong bright acidity, I definitely recommend this place. That said, I can see how the flavor profile might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer a more traditional dark-roasted style coffee. The only downside is the parking. It's mostly street parking, and this place always seems to be busy, so finding a spot can be a bit difficult. Because of that, it's not always the easiest place for a quick coffee pickup. Still, the coffee itself is great, and this is one of the places I'd happily come back to.

    Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters is located at 260 North Allen Avenue Pasadena, California 91106. It…read morehas been a mainstay for exceptional coffee for over 20 years. Considering the quality that they have maintained, this is an exceptional achievement. This location has undergone a number of different physical and structural modifications over the years. What has stayed the same is the knowledgeable, friendly service of the staff. Their knowledge helps make this an incredible place to have a cup of great coffee or purchase fresh roasted coffee beans. I have tried many different combinations of coffees and roasting techniques.... Light medium or dark roast. Rose City blend ground for a drip coffee maker (cone filter) is my favorite. It's nice that they have bites that you can pair with your cup of coffee as you wait. The customers are often drinking coffee, on a laptop, or working on their phone. Great background music plays throughout the main area of the room. There are many customers that come in to pick up their order that they have placed over the phone. The staff here is always busy cleaning, preparing coffee, or helping customers. Depending upon the time that you are there you may have to wait for other customers to complete their order. I love that they have a selection of tables, and counter space. I've never had a long wait to find a place to sit. They also have a few tables located outside with umbrellas. Depending upon the time of day parking can be a problem. There is off street parking along Allen and other side streets. I highly recommend this Pasadena Gem!

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Pistachio raspberry muffin (yum!)
    Pistachio raspberry muffin (yum!)
    Lavender breve

    See all

    Lavender breve
    Mandarin 2

    Mandarin 2

    4.5
    (73 reviews)
    5.6 mi

    TL;DR Mandarin 2 is the only place for the serious spro…read moreenthusiast! Over the years, I've been incredibly honored, blessed and humbled to experience coffee in deeper way than most, locally having the experienced Thee Coffee GOATs/Royalty & LA Coffee Pioneers (Glanville & Babinski and the OG crew that includes but not limited to Jaymie Lao, Percy Ramirez, Brent Glanville, M'lissa, Sumi Ali, etc...and including so many more like Mike Phillips, Tyler Wells, Yeekai Lim, Leon Li, Frank La...I can go on and on), to which I am eternally grateful. Regrettably over the last 10 or so years, it has been my perception that much of the specialty coffee industry has: 1) capitulated to the taste buds of the casual coffee drinker (or the masses) and have abandoned their desire to change hearts and minds with education about a new wave of coffee drinking experience; 2) are shops owned and operated by people who are non coffee professionals (you know who you are!) and lack pedigree & experience. I get it. It's tiring and frustrating trying to help customers understand that what they are drinking is not "weak" coffee just because they "can't taste coffee." The masses & self-proclaimed coffee enthusiasts want "strong/bold" coffee but they themselves don't even understand what that means! Youngsters want to drink their iced lattes all the while pretending to be grown ups and/or be part of some trendy shop. they take 100s of pictures of the same latte and finally post one to their intriguing Instagram story. Why? Because trendy, duh! Thank God for Sherry Gao and the undeniably talented team at Mandarin & Mandarin 2. THESE KIDS ARE BONAFIDE COFFEE PROFESSIONALS!!!! They have phenomenal coffee pedigree! If you are familiar with my senseless ramblings, or so-called "reviews", you will notice that this one lacks my customary per item ratings and elaboration. This is intentional. Considering the subject matter of coffee, I simply cannot and will not write about "how good this latte is", etc. With all due respect, I drink spro, and almost always only spros at shops that actually know what they are doing (with an occasional deviation of a spro & some milk or something else interesting to my palate at the moment). So yeah, if you must know, Mandarin 2 is THEE PLACE for coffee. And to all the iced latte experts, please do spare us your expert opinion on coffee.

    This place is for someone who wants to try something new and interesting…read more I'm not Chinese or Asian so these flavors were new to me. I got the seasonal coconut latte and I liked the espresso it was smooth and creamy. My mother got their latte with the milk tea and I personally liked it but she wasn't very happy with it. The baristas weren't accommodating about substitutions or offering to make a new drink. Each business has a right to run it the way they want but be warned that you kind of have to commit to trying something you may not like. This place gives an either you like our drinks or just don't come back type of vibe. They don't really seem to care about appeasing you. Do with that information what you will.

    Photos
    The One on One by the Window
    The One on One by the Window
    The Pour Over Set Up
    The Pour Over Set Up
    Interior

    See all

    Interior

    Highlight Coffee - coffee - Updated June 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...