Very cute little coffee shop, and they are definitely trying to go for a vibe. We couldn't decide if they were going for like, a stones in nature theme, or outer space. Zen or sci-fi. Not too sure. They give you a stone with a number on it that's your order. And the menu is right at the register, which gets stressful if you're at the front of the line and you're seeing the menu for the first time. We got the miso butter scone and a croissant, a hojicha latte (with the fermented rice milk) and an oatmilk cappuccino. Everything was delicious. Bit pricey though, so I concur with some of the other reviews on this bit. They were playing jazz overhead, so that's a plus. The space itself isn't super great or flowy. The coffee bar takes up a LOT of space, so people are sort of squished into the space near the entrance, which is also where people line up, so it just feels kind of constipated. There is something that's a bit like bar seating (facing a sort of rock garden, not the actual coffee bar, so the "bar" is curved), and there are two of these. Then there are maybe 3-4 small tables that you can sit at, and then a line of chairs facing the coffee bar (kind of squished alongside the bar itself). Service is very friendly. Parking is street. read more

Monolith Coffee - Croissant and a miso butter sesame scone. The miso is in the butter, not in the scone itself. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

The shop itself is very cool. The theme matches the name all around which is a nice experience. The matcha latte was probably the worst I've ever had though. It tasted very watered down, so expectations fell super flat. I'm sure some of their drinks are great but I won't be going out of my way to try it. read more

I would describe Monolith as an upscale, casual cafe. Their menu feels very curated and seems to use ingredients and blends that are not typically found at many other coffee shops. The prices are quite high for the size they provide, but they seem to offer a different experience--almost like their own version of afternoon tea.    We ordered the Echo and Edwin Norena "Watermelon". The Echo was very refreshing and earthy, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon and ginger. I don't typically drink coffee, but I also had a sip of the Edwin Norena, which is a Colombian pour-over blend, and surprisingly had strong notes of watermelon.    It was our first time at Monolith, and the staff was very helpful and informative, walking us through the menu and answering questions we had. Overall, the experience was good, and I recommend that if you do come here, the best way to enjoy their drinks is to sip and savor them. read more

Monolith Coffee - (L) Echo, (R) Edwin Norena - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Monolith Coffee in Alhambra offers a really unique take on coffee with their coffee mocktails, which is what initially drew me in. I tried the Four Movement Set to sample all four drinks, and the standout for me was the Rush (orange nitro coffee with a bright citrus kick) and the Echo (layered with dried apple, soba cha cream, and apple juice--almost like drinking an apple pie). The presentation and overall vibe of the shop were immaculate and definitely make it a nice spot to sit and try something different. That said, the drinks are on the pricier side for what you get, especially since they're more experimental and smaller in size. Still, it's a cool experience if you're into creative coffee concepts and don't mind spending a bit extra for something unique. Worth a visit at least once if you're in the area. read more

Monolith Coffee - Four movement set and matcha latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Cool concept (high-end specialty drinks) and gorgeous decor, but it's a place I go to once and never go back to. It's definitely a bit gimmicky and overpriced. The drink was good, but nothing super special. read more

Monolith Coffee - Hojicha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Interesting concept that's probably still quite uncommon in town if you're having the ones from their signature drink-in only menus. The ambiance flawlessly delivered that coffee bar concept as well with some nibbles to pair with your drink. Price was more on the high-end when you ordered from these selections given they're at mid-teen $ with tip. Being first timer, the barista was pretty helpful in giving recos and assisting me with my pick. We got the RIFT and STILL. The first one was not for me as the interesting combo of cold brew with bonito, kombu, yuzu, and Uji Geinmacha made the drink somehow tasted savory to me. The smokey hint was surely peculiar as well. I was pleased by the STILL. The Miso Caramel Cream served with cracker made a great pairing to the Hojicha for sure. The Hojicha itself was decent but not WOW-ing. read more

Monolith Coffee - Still and Rift - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

This is a narrow coffee shop located on Valley with plenty of street parking and has additional parking nearby the food court. That being said, the ordering experience could use some improvement. There's no hanging menu, and the menu consists of individual cards placed right in front of the cashier. When the line gets long, you don't really get a chance to browse the menu unless you've Yelped the place or ask the staff the prices of the pastries. Each card represents a single drink with the ingredients listed below. I ordered the RIFT (cold brew) along with a cherry danish. The dandish was crispy and slightly tart which paired nicely with coffee. Unfortunately, the cold brew wasn't for me. The yuzu and genmaicha infusion had a savory, almost miso like flavor which I didnt enjoy. They also offer WiFi, butI wouldn't recommend coming here to study. The space is pretty limited and gets crowded quickly. read more

Monolith Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

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Dog friendly, they even have dog treats by the pick up counter. Upscale aesthetic coffee shop are on the rise especially in downtown area but having one in the heart of 626 is new.. Great spot to have a coffee date or meet friends but really hyped up in my opinion. We visited on a Friday around 1pm and it was overly crowded. Overall they have plenty of seating but not enough for a rush. Hojicha Latte (iced)- quite watered down in all aspects. Not enough hojicha and not sweet enough. It was creamy but still felt watered down. Matcha Latte -it was alright, not great. Still (hot Assamiya Houjicha)- much better than the iced version. Rich roasted flavors with just the right amount of creaminess from the oat milk. Would love to see if they can have the Miso Caramel Cream as an add on to other drinks, that would be delicious but having it on the side with a soda cracker seemed too underwhelming. Rush (Single Shot Espresso w/ Orange Juice, Nitro infused)- soo good, perfect tanginess over the espresso. Orange zest was great added some depth to the drink. read more

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Aesthetic cafe, decent coffee but very dry pastry. I got the hojicha chestnut financier. The cake was so dry that I couldn't slice it with my fork. I had to press down really hard with my fork to take a bite. I only had a few bites and left the rest. I know. I feel bad, so wasteful. But it was really bad: tough texture and lacked flavor. The chestnut cream on top was barely a smear. This place is overhyped by social media and Eater LA. The interior is more narrow than what the videos and pictures have shown. It's not a bad place to hang out and study if you can find seating. The interior is a bit tight. There are stools and seats on both sides of the cafe. I got an iced oatmilk latte. The coffee was good but not exceptional. Not worth the drive if you don't live close by. Service was fine. There is street parking. It's across the street from Savoy. read more

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Monolith Coffee (Alhambra) is upscale, luxury coffee. I had a lovely experience. I ordered the Rift Coffee ($11). It's coffee that tastes like crisp Fruit Tea! WHAT?! There's hidden power inside that dainty glass. It's high quality coffee dressed up as a Jazz Nightclub's mocktail. I arrived at Monolith Coffee (Alhambra) on Sunday (around 12:25PM). Parking is simple if familiar with the area. I parked at the nearby neighborhood and briskly walked over; signs say, "2 Hour Parking - 9AM to 6PM - Except Sunday." Customers order at the counter; Customers have the option "For Here" or "To Go"; Customers are given a stone with a number; and Customers pick up the drink when their number is called in the corner. This place is very popular!! Staff is knowledgeable and welcoming. Staff (receipt says Will) promptly answered all my questions. Staff worked quickly. My drink took two minutes and 11 seconds. As mentioned, I ordered the Rift Coffee ($11). WOW!! This coffee tastes like lightly sweetened fruit juice. There's no bitter flavor; rather, the recognizable notes of coffee lightly hovers by. The liquid flows soft like silk, and its floral scent is even refreshing. I broke into laughter as I continued to sip. It's GOOD! After twenty minutes, the caffeine gripped me passionately which I vigorously embraced. My lips and throat felt dry as this seductive coffee took effect. On ambiance, Monolith Coffee (Alhambra) is unique. The location is stone-themed; it's all connected to nature and rocks. The music plays smooth jazz. And the location felt like an upscale Jazz Nightclub for coffee enthusiasts. However, despite the difficulty to find a seat, there's utility. The location has customer internet with password; the details are on the counter and wall. There's also a self-service water station nestled in the back. There's also three electrical outlets which are somewhat difficult to reach. This is not an ideal study/work spot. Rather, this location feels like a spot to impress a friend, family member, or special companion. Monolith Coffee (Alhambra) is something saved for a special occasion. Overall, I had a memorable & magical experience at Monolith Coffee (Alhambra). It's one of the best coffee experiences that I've ever had. If you love coffee, this is a must-try. 5 out of 5! GO!! Just GO!! read more

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First time coming to this coffee shop and the vibes were so cool! The interior of the cafe had an earthy and elegant design. There were enough seats and tables for people to do work at and wifi included. The server suggested these two drinks and wow was the RIFT so good. Highly recommend coming here and I can't wait to come back to try their other specialties!! read more

Monolith Coffee - Hojicha Latte and RIFT - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Saw this place online and thought it would be cool to check out! The theming and presentation were what originally drew me in. I went for my go-to iced vanilla latte. It's pretty standard, but the presentation and glassware gave it a really elegant touch. My sister ordered the Rift: a smoky cold brew with notes of yuzu and uji. The smokiness comes through both in the flavor and the presentation; you can actually see the smoke rising from the glass when it's served. The applewood smoke reminded me of a BBQ or roasted marshmallow scent. It's definitely a strong flavour/smell, but such a unique touch for a cold brew. My sister loved it and it's become a staple order for her. I'm more used to traditional coffee drinks, so it was a little too fancy for my palate. We shared the miso nori scone. A nice thing to have with coffee, it can be on the more savory/salty side. The baristas were friendly and happy to make suggestions or answer any questions. For the signature drinks, they give you a little card explaining the notes and ingredients, which I thought was a really nice detail. After ordering, you're handed a smooth stone with your order number on it (I luv that :-D ) It fits the vibe of the place perfectly. I'd highly recommend enjoying your drinks there rather than taking them to go, just so you can really soak in the ambiance and interior. The seating is cute, modern, and cozy. Just keep in mind that their hours are limited, and they usually close around 3 p.m. Definitely a spot worth trying if you're in the area! read more

Monolith Coffee - Iced Vanilla Latte, Rift, Miso Nori Scone - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

There was no wait this time but there was alot of people dining in. Decided to order a couple of coffee drinks that you could get togo. 1st one was nector lasso and the 2nd was rift. I love how you can taste the fruitiness in the coffee and it actually kept me up. Rift has more of the yuzu taste and nector lasso tastes more strawberry than the other flavors. The only bad thing is the price. Its expensive for the amount of coffee you get but i under why they charge this much. They have a couple of coffee options that is dine in only. I do want to try 1 of them because it comes with a cracker and 2 drinks? I think its the one named STILL. It might be the one they smoke as well. read more

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It's during their soft opening right now so that's why there are limited hours. Brand new coffee shop with a sleek, clean theme. It's also busy with new hype! Delivers good and aesthetic coffee that look like cocktails. I would say this is more of a sit down and enjoy the coffee and company kind of coffee shop rather than a takeout coffee place. Pros: -very friendly and nice service -clean decor -plenty of outlets everywhere -cute decor -some cool merch -roasts their own beans -self serve free water -coffee meats cocktail themes -yummy pastries -bathroom Cons: -is there any right now? Tip: plenty of free street parking read more

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Tried Monolith Coffee in Alhambra during their soft opening and it's already drawing a crowd--line was out the door when I went the first time. Second time was a bit better. The space is really unique, with rock installations and cementitious materials throughout. Even the order numbers are written on little pebbles, very consistent branding. It feels modern and thoughtfully designed without being over the top. Drinks are the highlight. Their menu leans more craft coffee / coffee cocktail style. I ordered "The Rush" (citrus + espresso), which was bright, balanced, and nicely executed. You can tell they put care into both the flavor and presentation. They also have a good selection of pastries and desserts that aren't overly sweet. Service was friendly and efficient despite the crowd, and there's easy parking nearby. It's also dog-friendly, which is a nice bonus. Overall, really happy to have a place like this in the SGV. Definitely a strong addition to the Alhambra coffee scene and definitely worth checking out if you're into more specialty-style drinks. read more

Monolith Coffee - Hochicha latte, chestnut pastry, the rush - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

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A highly unique coffee spot, although the hype is very real in that the wait can be upwards of 30mins to 1 hour. The interior is neat and deceptive with the line so that it snakes insides, rather than outside, leading you to think there isn't a line when there's a pretty long wait inside. They did a good job socializing this on social media, so unless you're willing to wait a while, plan on getting here early or waiting until the opening phase slows this place down a bit. Hands-down, one of the more unique coffee experiences I've had and the coffee is legit good, well thought out, and very aesthetically pleasing. You can see the care they take into making the drinks with the open bar situation. The flavors are very interesting and I don't think I've ever tried anything like these. I'm not much of a sweets person so I went for the cold brew named the Rift, but I actually really liked the Echo. The cream is dangerously good and the flavors are so nice and unique to where I don't think I've ever tasted tea like this before. If you can, definitely opt to dine in because the presentation of how these drinks look with the cup adds to the whole experience, sort of like a refined cocktail look. Unfortunately seating is kind of limited, so you're taking a bit of a gamble in order to sit down. read more

Monolith Coffee - Echo and Rift - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Got a chance to check out Monolith at one of their soft opening dates. The store is decent in size with multiple seating areas. Monolith is not your typical coffee shop. Their aim seems to be more boutique, opting for bolder/complex flavors with their drinks. They do have your typical set list of drinks (e.g., americanos, lattes, and matcha lattes) but what you're really coming here for are their speciality drinks. They have a bevy of choices that are a mixture of coffee based drinks and those that are tea based, none of which are simple in taste. I ordered a matcha latte and one of their speciality drinks, Echo. Word of note, there were only 2 drinks that could be served to go as of their soft opening. The goal of the shop is for people to enjoy their drinks in house as they serve them in fancy glasses. It was a bit difficult to do that day since the whole shop was packed. Now for the drinks, honestly the matcha wasn't anything to write home about. It tasted a bit watered down. For the specialty drink Echo, I would describe it as a sophisticated Apple juice. It was complex in flavor both with the foam and the drink itself so if you're not into that, don't get this drink. Overall it was an enjoyable drink but a bit steep in price at $12. Also, word of note, if you take your drinks togo they currently don't have caps. If you're looking for a boutique coffee shop, this is definitely the place for you. If you're looking for a coffee shop to grab something in the go, probably would skip. read more

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Monolith Coffee is an establishment where it's apparent that the most minute details are curated to showcase what the cafe has to offer from the beautifully crafted beverages, stoic, yet bright interior, and even the baristas behind the counter bringing great vibes despite being incredibly packed this week. My girlfriend and I decided to share a pour over and one signature drink (and would have loved to try a desert but it was sold out by the time. The Nestor Lasso was downright incredible. The strawberry and watermelon notes are super forward and genuinely shocked me my first sip (positively) and the whole cup was incredibly smooth. In this current LA heat wave, ordering it iced was definitely the move, it was so refreshing. The Still was a richer Hojicha latte with burnt sugar notes and made with Koatji which is also very forward in this drink. Overall, don't think it's for me, but I'm just not the biggest Koatji fan - if you are though you'll enjoy it. Gotta say though, did not think that the cracker with the miso caramel was gonna be that good - I needed to ration out more cream because i felt like my leftovers were a waste haha Overall, so glad that Monolith has joined the specialty coffee scene in the SGV. Lines were long when we went and waited about 30 plus mins, but it's clear the team is working hard. Definitely on the pricier point, but as a craft beverage shop it's priced accordingly to what they're offering. read more

Monolith Coffee - Still and Nestor Lasso - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

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Different and delicious! Unique design concept was very amusing and nice vibe when dining in. Flavors were wonderful. I forgot the names but both were recommended for done in only and I cam see why. The presentation is key to some drinks on the menu. I would definitely go back. read more

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The line was crazy on Sunday all the way to the back of the cafe but it moved fast. Rush was sold out when we arrived around 2pm. Echo was good, definitely a tea + apple juice flavor. Hojicha latte was good too. The matcha latte looked good but it was tasteless kind of disappointed. The rift we all agreed tasted like udon soup! Later we realize it said it was made with kombu syrup, so that made sense. It was interesting but nobody liked it. Would not recommend that; it was a salty soup-like coffee. The vibe was really nice in there though, SGV really need more cafes like that. It reminds me of cafes in Asia. read more

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tl;dr the carefully curated coffees and teas overshadow the sometimes underwhelming pastries at this pricey, ultra-modern coffee shop Like the monolith in 2001: A Space Odyssey, Monolith Coffee remained a relative mystery leading up to its debut. The Instagram page (which has been active for nearly a year) shared minimalist updates featuring the shop's Castle in the Sky-esque monolith logo. But, as of today, you can experience the ultra-modern coffee shop, with a sophisticated drink menu spanning from standard espressos to curated teas to elevated "Moments" (rotating caffeinated mocktails with descriptions like a haiku). Monolith shares a small shopping plaza just off the intersection of Valley and Garfield. From outside, you can barely see through the tinted windows of the rounded storefront. The interior is a desert-y chic. The color-washed walls and plentiful stone motifs offer a surreal take on minimalism. Some tables seem to sprout from the rounded rocks. Pringle-shaped lamps and more stones hang from the slate-shaded ceiling. All of the action surrounded the glass-enclosed, extended horseshoe-shaped kitchen. Seating options range from backless half-booths to raised barstools. Fast-paced jazz rattles the room. My fiancée and I arrived close to opening for the first day of the soft opening, and the line wound through the shop out the back door. We waited an hour to finally place our order, and it was prepared relatively quickly. Our favorite item was the "Still" houjicha latte, a toasty and comforting beverage with hints of sweetness; admittedly, the side of salted caramel cream was impractical to incorporate. But the smoky "Rift" cold brew was no slouch -- its unique combination of salty bonito flakes and acidic yuzu added new dimensions without ever overpowering the drink. Of our pastries, we preferred the Miso Nori Scone, which appropriately balanced salty, savory, and sweet. In contrast, the Matcha Yuzu Pound Cake was mostly dry and one-dimensional. The prices aren't cheap (pasties are over $5, and the Moments hover around $10). On the first day of the soft opening, the service was clearly working hard but maintained a friendly and approachable attitude; I expect they'll work out the kinks over the next few weeks. Overall, I was impressed by the premium Moments, which reminded me of Asia's super-sophisticated cafes; I probably wouldn't dabble in the pastries again. Even for the premium price, I'm excited to try more drinks in the future. Monolith is definitely adding to Alhambra's thriving premium-coffee scene. read more

Monolith Coffee - Miso Nori Scone - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Visited Monolith recently and really enjoyed the experience. The interior has a super interesting concept with rocks, natural textures, and decor that makes the space feel unique in its own way. It definitely stands out from your typical coffee shop. I also liked that some of their drinks are exclusive for dine-in only. Even though we wanted to order it, we needed something on the go so I ordered the latte, which was really good, and I loved the ice shape they use for the drinks. My boyfriend got the iced americano and enjoyed his as well. Overall, a very aesthetic and creative spot worth checking out if you want something a little different. read more

Monolith Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Elevated "cocktail" coffee shop that offers coffee in a refreshing twist. Echo 9/10 This drink has a refreshing and pleasant apple taste with a slight taste of cinnamon. The foam on top is light and airy which makes the drink more fun especially with the dried apple topping. Think an elevated version of apple juice that's perfect for the summer. Still This has a very smooth taste of Hojicha blended with chocolate. Malty flavor with a hint of sweetness. Paired with the miso caramel cream and soda cracker, the snack is perfectly sweet with a little salt from the nori crumble. 10/10 Fast service but expect a long wait. We waited around 30 minutes at 2 pm just to order and around 10 minutes to pick up. Limited seating and there's a small parking lot behind the shop. Very aesthetically pleasing that reminds me of a museum. Definitely will come back for the pastries and to try the other drinks! read more

Monolith Coffee - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

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I've been seeing Monolith on social media. Decided to give it a try today, and I unknowingly went during soft opening (my fault for that), so it was a long wait! I arrived at around 11:20 and finally got to order at around 12:04. Waited about another 10 minutes to get all my orders. Nestor Lasso - hot pour over with notes of watermelon, strawberry, and lychee. I tasted more of the lychee and floralness, while the body of the coffee was slightly thick. Overall great mouth feel and flavor. Matcha Latte - I opted to get whole milk and unsweetened. Tasted very smooth, but I do think the matcha flavor is a little light. Coffee Chocolate Pound Cake - it was soft, light, and the chocolate had a good bitterness to counteract the sweet notes. Overall, I think I had a good experience. I'd probably wait till the hype dies down to avoid the long lines. Prices for the hot pour overs are a tad higher than most places (my total for all 3 items came out to $25 after tax). Plenty of parking is available. read more

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Easily my new favorite cafe on the Eastside! Monolith does not disappoint with present and ambiance. If you can snag a seat, then enjoy the well-curated almost cocktail-like caffeinated drinks. True to form, rocks are throughout the space and as if in a geological museum your drinks are specimens to be desired. I only wished I tried their flight of signature caffeinated drinks. There was constantly a line wrapped around this bouquet-y style cafe so expect a little wait and the prices to match. Not a study space but great for a friend date. read more

Phenomenal atmosphere if you enjoying being outdoors and feeling luxury. There was a great selection to order something new and advancing coffee flavor profiles. It's an intimate place to catch a breathe and relax. The service is well spirited and systems are organized to get orders quickly! read more

Monolith Coffee - Rush Espresso and Ice Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Hottest coffee shop in the area. My wife is a coffee fan so we came here on a Friday morning. Luckily, only one person ahead of us although the establishment was packed. Luckily, we were able to snack a seat. The drinks are unique but honestly not my cup of tea - although my wife did enjoy it. The pastries were dry and stale so I am skipping those. Would come back again and try other drinks but they are on the pricier side. read more

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The SGV demands legit 3rd wave coffee spots. This spot is gorgeous inside and worthy of social media. Unfortunately, the drinks leave much to be desired. I visited on a Friday at 2pm. There was no line and plenty of parking. I was the only one to order, so I didn't wait long. I got the Rift and the Rush. Unfortunately, there were barely any open seats, so I had to put my drinks on a bench. My critique has to do with the recipe and execution. Reading the drink ingredients sounds exciting and innovative like a mocktail. Unfortunately, the execution leaves much to be desired. Instead of focusing on the coffee flavor and nuances of the roast, the drinks were merely coffee inclusive with barely a hint. The other ingredients were missing. Why do you say there's yuzu or kombu leaves? I could hardly taste any of these components. I'm unsure if it's the original recipe or the execution was lacking, but it's so unfortunate to read about the drink, have some expectations, and hardly taste any of the flavors. I felt like I drank a light OJ and some water. This place could truly be special if it paid attention to the execution. read more

We wanted to check out the hype and the line wrapped alllll the way to the back of the place and it was very busy, all the seats were taken. They serve like more mocktail type of drinks and I got the RUSH and it was pretty good but pricey for just a few sips but that's the price of a drink now a days. Love the vibes and the presentation of the drinks even though it was busy, the staff did not rush anything and our number for the drinks even though was a rock, going with the whole monolith rock theme. Would come back again! read more

Monolith Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

Waited in line just to be disappointed with their matcha. I don't recommend this place for matcha. Ambiance was good. Service was ok.

I tried their Rush coffee and matcha latte and was impressed with the drinks and overall vibes. The cafe was very aesthetically pleasing with an earthy modern look - rocks serving as the bases of tables, smaller rocks hanging on the walls, and numbered pebbles as order numbers. They also sell coffee beans and merch on the side. I was impressed with the flavor of the rush coffee which had an espresso shot with orange juice and garnishes. The quality coffee shot nicely complemented the orange flavors and textures (fresh orange zest and garnishes), elevating the drink experience. The foam on the drink was exceptional and made the drink very elegant, fragrant, and fun. I also got matcha latte which was very solid too, it tasted more uji type of style (not sure if it was or not), and although I prefer more roasted deep umami matchas, it was solid! I would definitely come back for the rush coffee since it was a quality drink and they also served it in a cute cocktail glass, making it feel like a hand crafted cocktail experience! It is quite expensive for some drinks ($9 for the rush coffee). Otherwise, it was fun watching the baristas make the drinks. Some drinks were individually infused with smoke! I found street parking easily. read more

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Very interesting and fun concept! Glad I was able to try Monolith Coffee but man it's pricey! Definitely worth it if you're coming to treat yourself or slowly sip and catch up with friends. The size of their signature drinks is like a small cocktail or martini glass so it's not very worth, but the taste is very intricate and fun to try. I arrived at 10am on a weekend and it was packed. Difficult to find seating and the line was very long (wrapped all around the cafe to the restroom). Luckily they're pretty quick to make their drinks so that wait isn't very long. There's only one gender neutral bathroom but it's large and clean. No outlets or large desks - so I wouldn't do work here or bring my laptop or read. read more

Crazy long line, spent about a half hour but I guess it's as expected with it being new. Great space too; on the cozier end, but they had ample seating, some tables you could work on too if you wanted. We had three drinks, and the flavors are great! Out of the ones we had, I liked Rift the most- had this smoky flavor to it. One of my friends didn't, said it reminded him of a cold soup because of how savory it was lol. What I see some other reviewers saying and I gotta agree, is that their drinks are for sure on the pricier end. I get the whole thing of smoking, using other methods in creating the drink etc., but what's rough is that they're not in large cups- they style it like cocktails, so I guess it's non-alcoholic cocktails?? Still delicious I guess! read more

The centerpiece is Monolith's rotating seasonal menu called "In Four Movements," a lineup of composed drinks that changes roughly every three months. What to order * Rush: A standout from the "In Four Movements" series, this layered drink combines espresso with orange juice, oleo saccharum, jasmine, and sage before being nitro-infused. It is finished with orange blossom mist, fresh zest, and an orange gummy bear garnish. * Echo: A caffeine-free drink built on apple juice with ginger, cinnamon, and house-made apple syrup. Topped with soba cha cream and dried apple, it drinks like a chilled slice of apple pie with a lightly savory edge. * Still:Hojicha meets chocolate burnt sugar and malt, along with banana vanilla and mint syrup. Miso caramel cream, nori crumble, and soda cracker add texture and umami. * Rift, a cold brew infused with bonito and kombu syrup, yuzu, and genmaicha matcha before being finished with applewood smoke. This is definitely a must do experience, but Expect a wait. read more

Every since my first sip of Chinese deli powdered milk tea, it has become my obsession to try different bubble teas, fruit teas, and coffees. I am always searching for the "Best" of a drink and for new and previously untasted flavors. I've tried some of the top chains from China and Taiwan, as well as some sweet local spots in every city I visit. Monolith coffee is a coffee shop that absolutely surprised and delighted me with its Moments mocktails, giving me flavors both comforting and innovative. I had seen an Instagram post about Monolith's soft opening, but had originally planned to visit in the coming weeks. By happy accident, I found myself at my favorite bakery in the 626 on the day of their soft opening and well, how could I not?! The store seemed deceptively unoccupied from the outside, as the line didn't go out the door. Instead, as I stepped into Monolith's minimalist, stone-inspired space, I was met with a looong line snaking to the back of the store. I followed the line past the merch and coffee beans, past the restroom, and to the back door where the line had folded up on itself. Despite the intimidating length, the line moved steadily. I spent about 30 minutes in line, which was time I spent trying to decide what I would like to order. The worker at the front was very friendly and good about answering questions about the menu. Despite contemplating a pastry, I ended up getting two drinks from their Moments series, Rift and Echo. I was given a literal rock with my order number written on it, and found a seat to wait. Drinks came out within a reasonable timeframe, and they each came with their menu card with the details of what went into them. I smelled Rift before I tasted it. As soon as the barista took the lid off of the glass, I inhaled the fragrant applewood smoke. At first sip, I was speechless; this drink was really something else, going from bright and sour to a dark, rich umami that lingers. I really like a savory drink, something that lies in the grey area between fun drink and soup, and Rift really does the job right. The cold brew itself is smooth and sour with no hint of bitterness. It integrates beautifully with the kombu syrup thanks to the addition of yuzu. The smoke infusion made this drink a true multi-sensory experience, enhancing the deep, savory flavors of the bonito and genmaimatcha with each sip and each breath. I was struck by a strong sense of deja-vu as I worked my way through this drink, until l realized that I had tasted and loved these same flavors two years ago at a ramen shop in Kyoto. Inoichi, a highlight of that Japan trip, was known for their shoyu ramen served with yuzu zest. How marvelous that I got to enjoy that delicious flavor again, thousands of miles and thousands of minutes away! My other drink, Echo, was markedly different. In contrast to the bolder, heavier flavors of Rift, Echo was warm and comforting from ginger and cinnamon, fluffy from the soba cha foam and fresh from the apple with a crisp, clean finish and no aftertaste. Overall, this drink was greater than the sum of its parts, and tasted more homogenous compared to Rift, where each flavor had its time to shine. Despite the steep prices (~$11 per drink), I highly recommend Monolith as an elevated drink experience. There is a thoughtfulness to their drink composition that makes you savor every last sip, and I am already planning to come back to try the other two beverages in their Moments series! read more

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First. It's hard to respect the negative comments of people who do not understand what a SOFT OPENING is! When a business is newly formed and opens to the public -EXPECT A LONG LINE! And don't whine about it. To avoid it wait until they've been open for a bit. Now that I got that out of the way.... I am SO GLAD MONOLITH is in a Class by Themselves like ELOREA! in Korea Town. We've needed something that wasn't yet ANOTHER cookie cutter coffee shop. Something with Class and Creativity. Something for people who have elevated above Starbucks and Da Vien! Here is what Monolith is GIVING: Vibe: Minimalist stone + speakeasy energy Why it hits: This isn't coffee-it's crafted like a cocktail experience Drinks come with tasting cards Seasonal menu = like a 4-course story! Feels hidden, intentional, slow Monolith is NOT a "latte shop." It's a coffee tasting experience disguised as a café- drinks are built like cocktails with layers, textures, and even smoke. Verdict: If you want presence + depth + conversation, this is #1. MONOLITH DRINK PLAYBOOK (what to actually order) 1. The Rift (signature / conversation starter) What it is: Cold brew Yuzu (citrus brightness) Bonito + kombu syrup (yes... savory umami) and Applewood smoke Why it HITS: This is their "Old Fashioned" equivalent - smoky, layered, slightly wild. Order this if: You want to pause mid-sip and go "Wait... what IS this??" Energy: Bold. Memorable. Not basic. 2. The Echo (soft, warm, disarming) What it is: Apple juice base Buckwheat tea and Cinnamon-ginger foam Why it HITS: No coffee, but still deep. It lands emotionally warm, not stimulating. Order this if: You want the conversation to feel safe, open, and grounded Energy: Disarming. Gentle. Soul-level. 3. The Rush (bright + alive) What it is: Espresso Orange juice and Nitro / layered texture Why it HITS: It's citrus + coffee done RIGHT (rare). Feels like morning sunlight in a glass. Order this if: You want light, playful, energized conversation Energy: Alive. Uplifting. 4. The Still (quiet power) What it is: Hojicha (roasted green tea) and Nutty, earthy, slightly savory Why it HITS: This is the understated killer!! It's calm, grounded, mature. Order this if: You're leading with presence, not performance Energy: Centered. Anchored. Because their menu is built like a 4-part composition ("In Four Movements") each drink plays a role in a bigger narrative. For these types: you're not rushed you respect the craft you're here for the experience For my energy and how I show up: Me: Rift / Still Evonne: Echo / Rush Me = grounded / intriguing Her = open / expressive WHAT NOT TO DO Don't default to a vanilla latte Don't rush the order Don't treat it like caffeine *This place rewards slowness + curiosity FINAL WORD You're not grabbing coffee. You're setting a tone: "We're not here to consume - we're here to experience." Order like that... and the whole conversation shifts. Welcome to ALHAMBRA!! read more

Monolith Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

I only recently encountered Monolith's name when I was at nearby Yihui Coffee (which is also excellent), and I saw that they carried their coffee beans. So imagine my surprise when I saw that they decided to open up a storefront close by in Alhambra. I monitored their social media to see when the soft opening would be, and knew that I had to stop by. Monolith's space is decorated entirely in line with their theme/name. You quite literally see rock and stone motifs everywhere. I stopped by with some friends and we ordered three of their signature drinks (the Rift, the Echo, and the Still; unfortunately, the Rush was sold out by the time we ordered). The drinks are quite pricey, all hovering around $10+, so keep that in mind. I would say it's definitely an elevated coffee experience, so it appeals to your niche coffee-fans, but can definitely be a step too far if you're not that kind of coffee enthusiast. My favorite of the three was the Still. I liked the nice subtle sweetness of the Houjicha, and it was arguably the most "normal" of the three drinks. I think the cracker on the side with the miso caramel cream was a fun idea, if maybe a little too abstract. I wasn't quite sure if I should be dipping some of it into the drink or just munching on it separately on the side. The Echo was also nice and refreshing, with a clear apple note shining through. The Rift is definitely the most unique of the three. It had a noticeably savory element, and it felt like my tastebuds were trying to identify different ingredients the entire time. Be aware that during the soft opening times, the lines may be quite long. We took about 40 minutes in line before we ordered, although the drinks did come quite quickly afterwards. Parking is easy enough to find in the larger lot behind the shop. read more

This coffee shop just opened up! The ambiance is quite nice . They were definitely on brand. I had their cappuccino with their Finca beans. It was dialed in to the T. Really nice nutty and chocolate flavor notes. Well balanced. They really know how to brew and roast coffee with depth. Thanks for the coffee . Will be coming back more frequently. read more

Monolith Coffee - Cappuccino with coffee pound cake - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

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Coffee was good, service felt selective with the cashier off putting attitude and shortness. Didn't help explain menu but when another couple walked up after unprompted took the time to explain the menu to them. Not a welcoming atmosphere doubt we'll come back. Clearly they only want to serve a specific audience. read more

Monolith Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Alhambra, California

This is like the 3.5th wave of coffee. They're quite used to lines for a place that usually sees people dine in. Parking lot in back is a bit small, but plenty of street parking. I would come here twice - once to see for myself, and a second time to show someone else. Not a great place to work, mostly just an experience. Rift - interesting cold brew flavor combination. It's definitely different. You haven't tried this before. I don't like the savoriness of the kombu though. Still - This was a favorite. Probably the least abrasive, comes with a yummy cracker & cream spread. They also sell beans that are really worth trying out. I liked their beans from yunnan. read more