I'm giving this establishment 1 star (but if I could've given 0 stars I would!) because last Wednesday I went to get some work done and needed to use the bathroom. I went to this girl at the counter and asked if I could use their bathrooms in which she replied with "we don't have bathrooms but the 'Levery' does." I frequent this area a lot and did not recognize that name. She kept pointing at the window, but all I saw was the park and school district building. After a lot of confusion, a boy next to her soon stepped in and I could tell the vibes weren't nice. I soon left, still confused btw, and heard the boy say "at least you know what a corner is!" to the girl. It was very loud because my seat was all the way across the cafe. Still needing to use the bathroom badly, I checked my maps again to figure out what she was talking about and decided to go back and have them point it out on my maps. The boy walked out from the counter and pointed to the library. I thought she said "levery" not "library" but instead of taking the time to smooth out the misunderstanding, they were incredibly rude and gross about the interaction. It was raining so instead of going to the library, I went to JONES COFFEE. There, I said I would buy croissant if I could use their restroom. They said yes and gave me the code- no problem! Once I was ready to buy their ham and cheese crossiant, they realized they didn't have any, but offered me a FREE PASTRY along with the one I settled for! It was a complete 180 from the customer facing mess I endured at Kaldi coffee. Moral of the story If you're in a customer facing business, make sure to be POLITE TO YOUR CUSTOMERS. If there's a misunderstanding with a customer, take the time to smooth it out. There could've been a number of reasons as to why I couldn't understand her. Any customer could've had: 1. A hearing issue 2. A disability 3. Issues with the machines being too loud 4. Anything really I would think this establishment wouldn't want to discriminate people of any kind, but who knows if they have these types of workers representing them. Also, go to Jones Coffee instead! read more

This coffee shop in the best location for a coffee shop. Just needs a different coffee shop. Came there after the Pasadena bike ride event. It was so nice out. We got a table outside, then took turns getting our drinks, so someone is watching the bikes. I go in and theres an older angry lady berating the barista, asking her if she washed her hands. I'm just trying to get my coffee, but this lady just keeps on going. She's getting her tea made and the barista is actually touching the tea leaves with her bare hands. The lady gets her drink and mumbles something on her way out. I come up, order my iced coffee. And jokingly say "don't forget to wash your hands" and get a smile back. I was going to pay with card, but as a test I decided to give the girl $5 paper money, sweaty and filthy from being near my ass on the bike ride. The girl accepts the cash, gives me the change in paper and coin. I gesture the tip jar. All good. But now this barista proceeds to make my drink. Grabs the ice scooper out of ice machine fills my cup, fills the cup with coffee. Then proceeds to put the lid on and makes sure the lid is secure. All with her bare hands, not washed, no hand sanitizer. Gross! read more

Gets a B for effort. My god, I have never witnessed someone steam milk to pour into an iced latte.... I asked for a short latte because I wanted less milk. I got a full size latte and witnessed this poor girl steam my milk and pour into a very watery, over pulled double shot of espresso that looked like drip coffee... read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

90's style coffee shop I've been coming to for a long time. Great atmosphere/location. Costco' muffins for 4.75. They probably bought 20 for 9.99 or something. 16oz coffee for 3.25 which you can't dress yourself. No sugar/milk/napkin bar. Seems to be what everyone is doing today, and is sadly becoming normalized. Who thought we would be spending a half hour's (min) wage on a medium coffee and a crappy muffin? read more

Great calm and cozy place. Good prices and service and most importantly great coffee!!!

Does a great job with great coffee. And it so convenient when I go to the South Pasadena Public Library.

Amazing! Loved the coffee and the service. Super nice and chill place to get some work done or hanging out. This place will become my usual spot. read more

I took a small break from working at home to pickup breakfast and support a local business but was extremely disappointed with the reception at this place. A young lady, Sierra, is clearly not equipped to be interfacing with customers. She was rude from the start of my experience there. Acknowledging customers when they say Good Morning or at least greeting with a smile is what we are accustomed to as business are all struggling to retain loyal customers. Sierra not only did not make me feel welcomed, she also impolitely told me to step outside when I returned, as requested, 20 minutes after placing my sandwich order. There's absolutely no sense of proper customer service. If the owner cares about this business, he should seriously re-consider his staff. read more

Their mexican hot chocolate is good. I asked for less sweetener, and it was perfect.

We stopped in late in the afternoon on a warm Sunday late in the afternoon. Had the dog with me, and he had just stomped around Urban Pet on Fair Oaks. Decided to give him a little walk in what shade we could find and he practically brought us to Kaldi. This is a very nice little coffee shop across the street from a public library and nice little park. The sandwich board outside of the cafe was advertising an iced Mexican latte, which sounded pretty good on a warm Sunday afternoon. Once inside I was faced with several drink options, including a honey vanilla latte, and lots of really good sounding drinks. I was drawn by the Mexican latte, though, so it seemed like a destined decision. Their desert case was empty and in the process of being cleaned for the evening, so I didn't get a chance to browse any of their sweets, but it's nice to know they have pastries and several sandwiches to choose from. My drinks were made fast, came out excellent and they literally locked the door behind me as I left, so we were there right at close, but I never felt rushed or put out. The drink was nice. Hints of chocolate and warm cinnamon, creamy, but not too sweet. Perfect end of the afternoon. I'm definitely interested in trying more of their menu. They're right up the street from my favorite pizza place, Mamas Brick Oven, in South Pas, so we'll try and make a point of stopping by and getting a few more items off the menu in the future. Oh, and not sure if they're dog friendly. I didn't ask if my guy could come in, and he waited patiently outside, but there was a glass filled with dog treats right as you come in the door, so they're at least looking out for the pups in the neighborhood. Always a plus. read more

Wifi password: elcentro Situated on the corner of the street across from the public library, Kaldi is one of many local coffee shops in Pasadena. This one has a spacious interior with a large open space and decently friendly staff. They sell sandwiches here too, but I noticed their pastry display was somewhat lacking (around 1:30). The Mint Iced Coffee was good and I'd say it's comparable to Philz, if not better. I liked how they didn't leave the giant mint leaf in there, taking up my coffee space ;). The Pomegranate Iced Green Tea was super bland and essentially slightly-flavored water. It's an okay place to study, but the table was a bit low so I had to hunch over a bit to work. There's some outside seating as well if you want to bring your doge. The neighborhood is pretty awesome, very reminiscent of San Francisco or Seattle. read more

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Wednesday, July 3, 2019 11 AM Quaint little coffee house in a very old and historic building in South Pasadena. Been here a few times over the years but never wrote a review. Not really much to say other than I love the environment and vibe of the building itself. Inside feels like your in an old farmhouse out on the ranch. I love it. Today I had a chocolate muffin. Delicious like they possibly made it themselves. My photos below... read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - July 3, 2019 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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I have been coming to Kaldi for 28 years. My wife and I used to take our infant daughter there once she was born. We have loved the location and the pleasant, laid back staff. It became a second home to us as a landmark location and place to relax. Since COVID, the hours have shortened and it's no longer open in the evenings due to staffing issues. However, this morning I was accosted by the new, sole employee after I sat down and was having a discussion with my wife. Kaldi was completely empty, inside and out. Usually I go in and grab something to eat once settled. This employee interrupted my conversation, asked if I were waiting for someone, and then immediately demanded I leave or he'd call the cops because I hadn't ordered anything yet. He was belligerent, arrogant, rude, abusive, and ruined any chance Kaldi had of me buying anything today, nor will I ever go there again as long as they have someone so unsuited to the job. I'll speak to the owner, but I have to encourage you to go to either La Monarca or Jones Coffee Roasters, both a block away. In 28 years of our family going to Kaldi, I have NEVER been verbally attacked by an employee like that. In fact, nowhere in any store have I ever been treated like this. I'm still in shock, and I'm sad. I cannot give them my business anymore, and I ask that you don't either. Here's the employee in question, sitting where I left. He seemed eager to pick a fight, and just as eager to show off he had my seat! read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Abusive aggressive employee gloating outside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

Not sure what's up with the negative reviews. People need to chill out. This place is great. Consistently good chai lattes. A laid-back vibe outside with tables and chairs on a tree-lined street. Usually an acoustic guitar or two. No complaints here. Fellow Yelpers, we need good spots like this to remain in South Pas and your petty whining about minor things isn't helping. read more

Love this place. I accidentally grabbed the wrong drink and the ladies were so nice to help me get my order. They did not get mad or frustrated which really made me feel supported and like a person. With COVID-19, some are very condescending and mean, not this place. Love the environment and will be coming back :-)! read more

Very cool little coffee shop in South Pasadena! There's ample street parking. Met a friend here at around 2:30. There were people going in and out pretty consistently. I ordered a non fat chai latte and it was really good! Staff is nice and has a very cool atmosphere. read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

Stopped in here to grab a cup of coffee before my photo shoot up street (mortyvision.com) and I have to say that this place makes a great cup of coffee. I got the regular Morabe drip coffee with some oat milk and it's quite satisfying. Also the barista was super nice and the vibe of the inside was spot on. I'll be back. read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee and outdoor seating at Kaldi coffee. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

I've been coming here for awhile to support local and never understood why they got such bad reviews. I mean, the coffee isn't mind-blowing, but it's also not terrible. And the service, while not tip-deserving, is also not a deal breaker. Today I finally understand why it's rated so low....No public restrooms. They send you to the public library which wouldn't be too bad (just across the street) except if it's closed, you're outta luck. They told us to try La Monarca (a bakery/cafe) on Mission (8 min walk) but you'll have to buy something from them in order to use the restroom....so you're better off just going to La Monarca in the first place. This is the first cafe I've been to that doesn't offer a restroom. They obviously must have a restroom for their employees and it's disappointing that they didn't think to make an exception for when the library is closed. read more

Stop here for lattes after my morning bike rides - why do I love their lattes when there are so many other choices... * They have 3 sizes * They don't rip you off for alternative milks * The staff is really great * They taste good Get ya some morning joe at Kaldi! Looking forward to trying some of their food too. :))))) read more

I really like kAldi's! I go here a lot-their Mexican mocha is the best drink. I'd go here more often but their tip system is cash only. I don't want to shop somewhere without tipping so when I don't have cash on me I go to La Monarca. I don't like them as much, but they take tips on credit card. I'd upgrade my review from a 4 to a 5 if the tip situation were better. read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee outside Kaldi's! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

I love the neighborhood vibe of this cute cafe. Love love that they have doggy snacks for your dogs...I was sold just by that! But the cappuccino I got was the best I've had in south pasadena so far. The barista was friendly and knew how to make a great cup of coffee. They have sandwiches and baked goods and the prices are very reasonable. I'll definitely be coming back again! read more

Kaldi is a lovely little cafe in a pleasant part of South Pasadena. I love the windows. There are many large windows facing north and east, some looking over the great trees of the public library. The entrance is through two brick archs and half the walls of the cafe are the same brick walls. The coffee's decent at Kaldi and their blended iced drinks are made very well. There are a few tables outside on both the side walks, but it could get uncomfortably hot under the sun. I really like the atmosphere inside. It is pretty suitable for studying, catching up with a friend, or just reading. The main shortcoming of Kaldi is that they don't have any restrooms. Quite an inconvenience. Your best chance is to go to the library. They're closed on Sundays though... read more

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My go-to for my London Fog Loose Leaf! I love the avocado toast as well. The staff is always sweet when I come in. I'm surprised with the stars they have given this place is always packed in the mornings! It's so cute I always notice group meetings there as well as a place for people to study! I enjoy it and go very often!! read more

Great location inside and out with lots of character. Beautiful historic jewel of a building in a park neighborhood. I love going in the fall reminding me of New England. The great "vente" scene from the motion picture "Role Models" is a stand out. A nice Gloria driving scene was here for "Modern Family." And others. read more

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I ordered my drink and went outside, about 10 minutes later this guy comes charging towards me and yells at me to move my chair. Apparently I had put my chair in the wrong place, which, fine, tell me politely and I'll move it but it wasn't necessary to yell. Also, I have no idea who this cranky and aggressive guy was - manager, owner, customer? He didn't identify himself, and I hadn't seen him behind the counter, he was sitting at a table inside. I finally had to tell him to just go away and stop yelling at me. I'm giving them two stars because the women who work the counter are very nice and professional. If they have to work with this guy, I feel for them. Coffee - it's ok, nothing special. There are 3 other small business coffee houses within walking distance and I'm guessing no one will yell at you. read more

I come here almost every morning after class or before work. Superb service and awesome coffee. I usually get the iced mint coffee or the Mexican mocha. Both are great and not overwhelmingly sweet. It's a great place for getting work done or meeting up with friends. They offer free WiFi too! They don't have restrooms but I don't mind that. It's not hard to walk across the street to use the restrooms at the library.. read more

I love this place! I've been going here since the bathroom access days. I am writing this review for two lovely millennial baristas who know me by face and as a repeat customer but continue to look at me as tho I am invisible when I order coffee and food. Seriously, am I in a sci-fi movie during those moments? The owners and other baristas are fabulous! They make you feel at home. I just don't get it Otherwise, great space, natural light, good coffee, yummy food! read more

Full disclosure, Kaldi's is on my list of my own neighborhood cafes. It's a perfect chit chat location across from the library near the hub of stores and eateries that cater to the families of South Pasadena. Brick walls support local art and large windows let in plenty of light and give it a friendly bohemian vibe. The location has become more popular as a movie location and today I can see grip trucks parked in the city lot a block away. read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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Really cute spot! Sat outside and enjoyed a delicious lavender latte and a fresh tasting croissant. Great place to catch up with a friend. Will be back! read more

Shocked by the comments aforementioned... especially those concerning the lack of facilities & the baristas. 1: I find the individual attacks on the employees of this fine institution deplorable. It's not their fault!!! They don't even exist!!! Isn't that understood??? This is a historical building, people... HISTORICAL! You must understand that all employees--the owners included--are simply manifestations of the pain & suffering that the building itself has absorbed through the years... They're not real!!!Just apparitions!!! How insensitive you must be to trivialize that trauma. Shame on you, idiots. & 2: Who said there wasn't a bathroom? If you are capable of speaking pig Latin--inversely, that is--the apparitions behind the counter will gladly guide you through the pagan sacrifice which reveals the Kaldi Corridor: a hall comprised of several rooms of function: a slaughterhouse; a frigid, hot-yoga studio; a club for divorced dads; and--most importantly--an empty closet that can be used as a bathroom. It is crucial that, while using this make-shift outhouse, you do not speak your name... CRUCIAL... for if you do speak your name... the walls will remember you... & you will live an eternity as a Barista. Or, you could just walk the 10 feet to the library. FIVE STARS GR8 coffee GR8 GIRLS read more

Been here a number of times over the years, coffee is always shmeh, but their chocolate croissants are lovely. It's in the perfect location in south pas... just wish the coffee was of better quality. Their espresso is sub par. Stick with plain coffee. read more

Yay! They've fixed my one concern. The powder based drinks are now stirred in with the espresso making it the smoothest latte I've ever had! Thanks, guys!!! read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - It's a pumpkin spiced latte morning! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

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This is my favorite coffee shop in the area. The vibe is nice and the coffee taste just right. Everyone that works here is pleasant & I leave with a smile every time:) read more

Another cute little coffee shop in South Pasadena. This one is situated on a quiet corner across from the library. They have outdoor seating, so when walking the dog, I like to make a pit stop here. Patrons are friendly here and on weekend mornings, its VERY peaceful. I'm more of a fan of the ambiance. There's free street parking all around the area. As for the coffee, its good enough. Cappuccino? Ok. Espresso isn't very flavorful; tastes a bit watered down. Coffee? Friend says its similar to Starbucks. I haven't tried food here. I might have ordered a chai tea latte before, but its immemorable. The local teens like stopping by for fraps; my daughter is a regular patron with her friends. Convenient when studying across the street at the library. read more

I've been coming to this place for a little over a year now, and it never fails to satisfy my chai needs and warm my heart. The drinks are delectable, the food is scrumptious, the vibes are impeccable, and the people are so lovely; everything about it screams love, care, and coziness. I've never once had a bad interaction with anyone who works here, and I can't imagine any different because they're all so welcoming, warm, and just simply wonderful people to talk to. It also always shocks me how quickly they make the drinks, like all of a sudden they're calling my name and I'm sipping. All my friends and I adore this place; if I could give it 10 stars, I would. read more

I've been coming here since I moved to South Pasadena. It's definitely my favorite café in the area. Inside is really cute and they have also some tables outside. The coffee is awesome (I love the lattes) and the avocado toast are delicious. read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California

Everyone was so kind here! Such a cute little community coffee shop. The mint ice coffee was very yummy. Great place to work. I didn't get one but the pastries looked delicious read more

I have been coming here for 9 years now. Great local place to meet friends that I have know for same amount of time. I get my regular sugar-free vanilla latte and sandwiches from time to time. The staff on hand here are all wonderful - Stephanie, Amanda, Sierra (can't believe that horrible review from 12/15 - I don't believe it at all), and Jose. Not only great lattes, but just good people. Couldn't ask for better service! read more

Moved to South Pas during Covid and delighted to have found this local cafe to support. Kaldi had closed their indoor seating, naturally, but the library grounds across the street and the tables they offer provide ample space to hang, read, or catch up with a friend. Great coffee, simple food offering, and a real community feel. read more

I did not care for the drink chai tea was too sweet and they had no customer restrooms read more

Kaldi Coffee and Tea - Chai tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - South Pasadena, California