Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Roots Cafe

    4.5 (499 reviews)
    InexpensiveCafes, Coffee & Tea, Waffles

    Order Roots Cafe Takeout or Delivery

    Roots Cafe Photos

    ROOTS CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Hipster
    Intimate
    Trendy
    Casual

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Roots Cafe

    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

    Iced Honey Rose Latte
    Daniella P.

    Stopped here for a quick coffee and ordered an Iced Honey Rose Latte. The rose flavors weren't too overbearing and it complimented the espresso nicely. Cool place.

    Fruity Pebbles Latte, Honey Oat Latte
    Jimmy C.

    Roots remains one of my favorite coffee shops to go to. My go-to drink is The David but today I tried the Fruity Pebbles latte which was also very tasty. The baristas are always friendly and the drinks cost about the same as Starbucks, yet tastes 5x better. Whenever I'm around the area, I always gotta stop by to get my caffeine fix. I just finished my drink but I still want another one!

    Outside
    Michelle K.

    First time at this coffee shop and if it wasn't for Yelp, I wouldn't have ever know there was a coffee shop in this plaza. My husband and I came here to try out some drinks. We ordered The David (iced Vanilla Latte made w/H+H and topped with Cinnamon Vanilla Cream) and Cereal Milk Smoothie w/Cinnamon Toast. The David was really good - just the right amount of caffeine to sweet to creamy for me. It's definitely worth a try at Roots Cafe. However, the Cereal Milk Smoothie was a huge disappointment. The "smoothie" was more icy than creamy and basically felt like I could've made it at home. Wish the drink had blended better since it's listed as a smoothie on the menu but wasn't the consistency as expected. There's a few tables for customers to sit and one restroom for customer use. Roots is located in a pretty decent plaza with tons of parking. The atmosphere is more calm so I can see someone coming here to study or meet with a friend to catchup.

    Honey Rose Latte and Smores Latte
    Any M.

    A hidden coffee shop! The drinks were good, we ordered the smores latte (seasoned item) and the honey rose latte. Will def come back

    the DAVID
    Jessica P.

    The coffee is delicious here. The David is by far my favorite coffee from here. I am so sad they are closing.

    Matcha Waffle
    Lisa M.

    I absolutely love the coffee at this cafe! If I was closer to it, I would stop by nearly every morning. It's a nice vibe with plenty of indoor seating. It is located in a small business plaza with ample parking spaces. This cafe serves tea, waffles, avocado toast, and more. Their waffle was decent. It was a nice treat to share between two people and comes with a scoop of ice cream. Personally tried the matcha waffle, which comes with condensed milk as a topping instead of the traditional syrup. Friendly service. Would recommend.

    Strawberry Matcha
    Lindsey H.

    Great vibes with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to relax or get some work done. The menu offers a fantastic range of coffee and espresso drinks, along with some delicious pastries and light bites. Whether you're into classic brews or looking for something more unique, they have something for every coffee lover. The service was friendly and efficient, with baristas who clearly know their craft. One of the highlights was the music - they play a smooth selection of R&B that adds to the chill ambiance, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your coffee. Definitely a go-to spot for a laid-back coffee experience!

    Ingrid A.

    My husband and I just recently discovered roots around first week of may and we find their coffee really good! We're from lb and I can say this is my go to when I need a good caffeine fix! The place is cozy, and It saddens me that they're closing this September 2025

    Strawberry Matcha Latte Iced
    Aileen G.

    This place is soooo good! I specifically loved their "the David" drink! It was perfect and the employees were really kind. It looks small, but there's plenty of indoor seating :) can't wait to go back

    Strawberry Matcha Latte
    Jacob R.

    I've gone twice now to roots and feel like I'll be coming here often. Not only for the drinks but for the relaxing atmosphere. They have a good amount of drink offers as well as foods with tables that are all two tops. No more no less. The tables are on the smaller size to doing assignments with textbooks, laptops, and notebooks might be a tight squeeze. The cafe offers their own merch and has a playlist to my liking, sorta catered to the younger crowd like myself. Roots will now be my "go to" for my latte cravings as well as when I need to get assignments done.

    Ham Cheese Jalapeno Panini, Churro Waffle, Matcha Latte

    See all

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 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

    8 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

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nicole M.
    215
    88
    73

    5 years ago

    i love their strawberry matcha latte!! it's the best so far around this area. i always crave it! haha

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 11
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Judy M.
    13
    100
    52

    7 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Peter P.

    Peter P.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Paul D.
    159
    158
    54

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Very good quality drinks, especially love the oat milk matcha latte. Owners are very kind and it's a cozy atmosphere!!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Melissa G.
    135
    93
    56

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Brando E.
    177
    50
    11

    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

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mary O.
    316
    42
    20

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Star Q.
    44
    164
    92

    8 years ago

    Nitro brew was smooth. Just like I like it. Staff was nice and friendly. Can't wait to go back for a bite to eat!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Nice and cozy spot. Quick service and great drinks. My Wife loves their lavender late. They have some tasty treats as well.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Josh R.
    100
    5
    1

    8 years ago

    Great coffee, great ambiance, friendly staff. Roots cafe is definitely one of my go to's

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 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

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Carlos S.
    29
    165
    27

    8 years ago

    The lavender ice latte is really nice. Especially on a hot day. Check this place out.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Emily K.
    217
    43
    12

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alexis G.
    0
    118
    131

    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
    Photo of Mary M.
    50
    40
    8

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    I swear to god this is one of the best fucking lattes I've ever had, i love you roots

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kaela S.
    116
    55
    86

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jay L.
    399
    4
    0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Maria R.
    291
    90
    12

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 10 of 13

    Ask the Community - Roots Cafe

    Is indoor dining avaliable again?

    I noticed some parking spaces are blocked off in front of Roots; is there going to be outdoor patio seating?

    Yes! We were preparing to do so.. but because of the ash from these fires, we were delayed

    Are any of the waffles vegan?

    Hello, unfortunately the waffles are not vegan We do have vegan sourdough and bagel options Thank… Read more

    Is the internet connection better? I stopped going lately coz it was pretty slow few times I went, but besides that, I really like everything else about this place.

    Hi, Im so sorry about our internet speed. Unfortunately this is the only service available at the plaza. I bought 2 internet lines to try to battle the speeds.. but I realize… Read more

    Which one is better in terms of sweet wise, Iced Lavender Latte, Iced Hazelnut Latte, Matcha Latte and Toffeenut Latte?

    Hi, Sweet-wise.. our toffeenut would be the most sweet out of those options. Followed by hazelnut, lavender, and matcha.

    Any plans to open a new location in Irvine? I've tried almost all of the coffee shops in Irvine/Aliso Viejo/Mission Viejo/Tustin area and I do think you guys will be super successful down here.

    Thanks for your input! We would love to add locations as soon as we are financially able. We will keep your idea in mind!

    Do you have vegan options?

    Thanks for your question! Our vegan options at this point include our avocado toast, bagels and most of our drinks!

    Are there gluten free pancakes or waffles?

    No, we do not have that option.

    View All 11 Questions

    You might also consider

    Off Street Cafe

    Off Street Cafe

    4.3
    (4.1k reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$

    Place was crowded but seating was done very efficiently. We were 17th on the waitlist but got…read moreseated within 25 minutes. Being a party of 2 probably helped. Garden omelette was delicious and cinnamon roll French toast was heavenly. Service was quick, courteous and attentive.

    Everything about this place is five stars I just wish it…read morehad a bigger parking lot, place gets really busy and sometimes parking is a challenge . The food is delicious, by far my favorite breakfast place and I only learned about it about four months ago ! I usually get the garden omelette, which comes with hashbrowns & toast but I usually substitute the toast for two pancakes, which is three dollars more, my husband gets an omelette and he keeps the toast and we just share the toast & the pancakes. The omelette has fresh pieces of vegetables in it , gives it a nice crunch and bursting with flavor! I've had the French toast, which is really good ! They also make their own jam, which is so delicious ! I look forward to a piece of toast with jam every time I go, the peach and the raspberry are my favorite. The wait staff is on top of things! In spite of it being so busy, they are quick, friendly and efficient every time! I kind of don't wanna leave this review and gate keep the place but that just wouldn't be nice ! My husband and I are retired and we have been going there at least once a week , it's so so so good! I had to edit this review because I wanted to mention that I was reading some of the other reviews and somebody said the pancake " just OK" I am very picky about my pancakes and these pancakes are so good ! Served with warm syrup and lots of butter! But very flavorful without anything on them too. Fresh squeezed orange juice as well ! I forgot to mention that! What more could I look for in a breakfast spot?

    Photos
    Eggs Benedict
    Eggs Benedict
    Off Street Cafe
    California Chorizo burrito

    See all

    California Chorizo burrito
    Bakers & Baristas

    Bakers & Baristas

    4.1
    (1.9k reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    This was my first time visiting Bakers & Baristas but not my first time trying there macaroons…read more My daughter has been treating me to macaroons on special occasions and I absolutely love them! I can't have them from anywhere else because these hit the spot so hard that no one can compete. I personally have not tried anything else, but my kids have enjoyed other treats from this place. They are located in Cerritos at a very busy shopping plaza and there's plenty of parking. I didn't expect the bakery to be an actual restaurant. There was a good crowd, sitting at tables and eating and drinking. They have about a dozen different flavors of macaroons. You can't go wrong with any of them, but my top favorite are the Birthday, Fruity Pebble, Horchata, Cappuccino and Ferrero Rocher. They make nice gifts too, as they can put it in a treat box in an ice brown paper bag. I definitely need to come back and try their drinks and something else from their menu.

    I've been here before and honestly wasn't a fan of their breakfast. Their drinks were decent…read morethough, and after eating teriyaki in Gardena, I was craving something sweet, so we decided to stop here again. I ordered a hot salted caramel latte. They charge an extra dollar to substitute oat milk, so I kept the regular milk. My son got the cappuccino cake, and I chose the ricotta pistachio cake. The pistachio cake was a little dry -- not terrible, but noticeable. However, my hot salted caramel latte was actually very good and paired really well with the dessert. The music and atmosphere were nice, and there were only a few patrons inside, which made it feel relaxed. However, there were a couple of dirty plates left sitting on tables while one employee seemed more focused on organizing napkins instead of clearing them. I also wasn't too sure how fresh the cakes were since they had been sitting in the display. Whether I come back really depends on the flavor and quality of the food and drinks next time around.

    Photos
    Dining area
    Dining area
    Dumplings - ok  flavor lacking imo
    Dumplings - ok flavor lacking imo
    Mapleccino - Maple syrup, two shots of espresso, dash of spice mix. Topped w/ Biscoff crumbs. Need a Biscoff dunker :-p

    See all

    Mapleccino - Maple syrup, two shots of espresso, dash of spice mix. Topped w/ Biscoff crumbs. Need a Biscoff dunker :-p
    Sunny on South

    Sunny on South

    4.4
    (748 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    Found this cute, small cafe while looking for breakfast after dropping our car off for service…read more We opted for the breakfast burrito and a side of biscuits and gravy. The burrito was tasty - loaded with eggs, bacon and ham, hash browns with crispy bits, cheese, and fresh pico de gallo. 10/10 Salsa Verde was flavorful, could use more heat. 9/10 The buttermilk biscuits were topped with sausage gravy. The biscuits were great, crispy on the edges, soft in the middle. The gravy was too salty for both of us. It's our first time here, so I'm not certain if that is how the gravy normally is or if they just got a bit heavy handed with the salt today. Service is fantastic - everyone is really attentive and friendly. We will return when in the neighborhood.

    Spacious patio, also plenty of seating options indoors. Found this spot when looking for a local…read morespot for breakfast. Both times I've been the local law enforcement was in having coffee, so you know the service isn't going to be horrible. And heads up for seniors, there's an early bird breakfast during the week for $10.95 for a basic breakfast. Right off the bat going to say a couple of the reviews weren't off...the coffee listed on the menu advertised refills, but truly, the mugs are small and there's not someone routinely walking around with a coffee pot like you might expect at a breakfast spot. And I too found a hair in my food...had not planned on mentioning this, but when another reviewer mentions it in less than a month's time, think it's time for management to review prep and food handling standards. On the positive side, I was able to get a coffee to go. And I wasn't going to complain about the hair (I found it halfway through finishing off my pancake), but I realized it was really stuck in there so needed to let them know they needed to likely toss that batch of batter. Having been restaurant management, I personally would have comped the ticket. But they did take off the pancake, in fairness, without my asking for a refund. But truly, it does pretty much end your meal (just took the rest of my omelette to go). The prices are steep, but I'm sure the overhead is not low...food costs are going up, staffing costs are up, and they have a large space with plenty of parking. All of that comes at a price. But the portions are good, and overall what I've had was tasty. I did give the place another shot after the pancake incident (truly, the pancake was a bit underwhelming, with an expansive menu I recommend trying something else). I tried the birria omelette and the carnitas omelette with the house potatoes. Taters were tasty, omelettes were fluffy and consistent. It was interesting how they plated. A basic cheese omelette with the meat layer on top. I also tried the loaded chili cheese fries. I ordered without onions as I'm not a raw onion fan. It comes topped with sour cream and some other sauce. I would recommend order both toppings on the side. There was so much sauciness that you could barely taste the chili, but it does fluff up the plate, so maybe there's a method to the madness there. Staff has been nice and polite, but I can see where some folks may have had a bad experience. You can tell there are some hard workers (both of my servers fell in this category), and there's a couple of slackers. But the manager on site should be floating so that they can keep an eye on the operation (front and back of house), and check in with diners. Just my two cents. Definitely worth a try if you've never been.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Short Rib Birria Benedict
    Short Rib Birria Benedict
    Birria omelette

    See all

    Birria omelette

    Roots Cafe - cafes - Updated June 2026

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