Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    South LA Cafe

    4.5 (48 reviews)
    InexpensiveCoffee & Tea, Cafes
    Closed Closed

    Order South LA Cafe Takeout or Delivery

    South LA Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    SOUTH LA CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - South LA 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

    Banana pecan muffin
    Kristen H.

    Its in the medical office area so kinda hidden but you're in the right place don't worry. [[HIGHLIGHT]]A small location compared to the Jefferson and Western ones, there's no inside area.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I had no clue I was so close to a SLA Cafe. They texted me a birthday coupon so I got to try the banana pecan muffin which is freaking awesome. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Side note it was nice to see them not wearing masks at this location, I guess cuz they're indoors.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Not sure if that's a management decision at the other spots but it's pretty lame and confusing at this point.

    The Western
    Erika L.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Cute little coffee spot.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Always thought it was apart of the Kaiser building, sort of like a hospital cafeteria. Boy was I wrong. It's a local spot that serves LA classics. I went with their most popular drink: The Western with some modifications - large, half sweet, 2% milk, and an extra espresso shot. Loved it 10/10. My drink ended up being closer to $9 I think due to the mods. Without those, the prices are actually pretty decent for LA. Cashier was friendly and informative on their menu and customizations.

    Erin T.

    Came to try the coffee cakes cause my friend lmk they were similar to the old LAUSD coffee cakes and they were yummy. I also enjoyed the Black Mamba Iced Tea. My only critique is the avocado spread that was used on our breakfast bagel sandwiches was kind of tart and to me was a missed opportunity-there is no meat on the sandwich to hide behind-so this made the guacamole the star of the sandwich and the quac used tasted store bought and cheap. If they used a handmade guacamole, they could change the game and elevate this breakfast sandwich a ton!

    Matt L.

    Usually go to the other location but this one is just as great as the rest. The best in the business. Keeps it local and excellent at all times. Avocado toast is bomb on the sourdough and as a bougie matcha man - their matcha is fantastic with some honey. Fantastic, kind and considerate service with a real mission.

    Lashann S.

    Always a great customer service experience when I visit I now look forward to my Kaiser appointment so I can drop in for my treat! Thank you team!!

    My favorite avocado toast on sourdough bread with salmon.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]This little cafe is so amazing!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I'm visiting from SF and was assigned to work at the hospital in front of the cafe. A friend of mine highly recommended their food and drinks. I love, love, love the avocado toast with salmon on sourdough bread!!! I'm totally hooked! The coffees are made well too. Simple great quality food and drinks and amazing service. Best part is that the prices are so reasonable. So far the best food and service I received all week.

    Americano
    Carlie C.

    This is my first time to this location! [[HIGHLIGHT]]It is so cute and peaceful.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Hella outside seating and shade, didn't see any outlets?[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] but ample parking in the lot. Menu is extensive and well priced. Baristas were kind and my americano was good and the breakfast sandwich was cool. I love that they partner with Homeboy Industries for their pastries! If you're in the area stop by

    Avocado Toast w/ Fried Egg
    Janae F.

    South LA Cafe literally blew me away! My mom has been going here with a friend of hers and she wanted me to try it for myself. First off, I love the whole aesthetic of the place. I love the white and black decor, mixed with different hues of greens and stainless steel appliances. Everything just looked clean and peaceful. I really enjoyed the photo op wall and the Nipsey painting, as well as the merchandise they sell on site. The tables were spaced perfectly apart from each other and I loved how they have signs on the table that you can flip to "dirty" when you are done to let others know it needs to be cleaned before reseating. The employees were very nice and efficient with taking our order. Now on to the food and drinks! My mom gets the avocado toast every time she goes and although I'm not a fan of avocado, I couldn't help but notice how beautiful it looked. The sourdough toast was cooked to perfection, the avocado spread looked fresh, and the friend egg on top was the perfect balance. Not to mention that you get two pieces of toast for $5!! I mean where else are you getting GOOD avocado toast for that cheap? Nowhere! So yes if you love avocado, then this is a must try. I had a cheese danish and one of their freezes, which was a coffee flavored frozen drink and I wasn't disappointed. The danish was so good warmed and the freeze was a nice treat on a warm day. I will definitely be back to try other flavors. All-in-all, South LA Cafe is a lowkey hidden gem in the city and a nice place to link up with friends or loved ones to talk about life over small bites and coffee! Support Local Black Owned Businesses!

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Good coffee and ambiance.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The bagel/coffee was good. Plug on wall for compute[[HIGHLIGHT]]r was available and useful. A/C was cold and[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] great with plenty of tables

    Latte

    I never leave reviews but I had to. While waiting for an appt at kaiser I picked up a latte...I confess I'm quite a coffee snob and frequently disappointed by small coffee shops. I avoid starbucks like the plague!!This coffee was DELICIOUS! The foam was perfect. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The counters were clean[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff was very nice and professional. I will definitely be returning for your coffee even if it's out of my way. Thank you!

    South LA Cafe is located right on the Kaiser Baldwin Hills campus.
    Therese G.

    Love love love the Horchata Latte, personalized with oat milk, 2 pumps vanilla, 2 pumps horchata, extra shot at South LA Cafe. I went back to get a second one within 10 minutes and doubled my old school coffee cake, added avocado toast (just $3 or 2 for $5), almond croissant, and a pound of their in-house roasted espresso. More than that, I love love love their mission in the community. They have continued their grocery give-away throughout Covid. They offer high quality products to our city. This second store is right on the Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Hills Campus. You'll soon be enjoying them at the Hollywood Bowl too! I fully support @southlacafe COFFEE. COMMUNITY. CONNECTION

    Butter Croissant
    Kris S.

    Had to make a quick stop at Kaiser Permanente and was finally able to get a taste! I ordered the Horchata Latte with Oatmilk and a Croissant. The service was great, and the lady taking my order took the time to answer my questions about the drinks I had in mind. I chose the Horchata Latte just because it was different. I knew the taste of horchata and figured mixing that with espresso would be a nice, sweet pick me up on this rainy day. I must say that it was a nice experience! The strong taste of espresso was ever so sweetly complemented by the horchata syrup they added to the drink. I can truly understand the popularity, as this is like a warm cinnamon milk drink that happens to have some caffeine charge to it! The croissant was big and beautiful looking. It was warmed up, per my request, and nicely placed in a container to go. Though it was not as sweet and buttery as those that I usually have, it was still good. I honestly did not feel as guilty eating this one, like I do the other people's croissants, mainly because it was not as sweet and buttery tasting where you need to wipe your hands afterwards to make sure you do not get any grease stains on your clothes. Overall, this was a great experience, and there is a great chance that I will go back and not just when I have a doctor's appointment. From taking my order to the delivery of my items at the pickup window, the experience was positive, and the interactions were pleasant. On a side note, the prices are reasonable (compared to other big names coffee spots) and there is a squareup rewards system. Not sure what the point redemption options are, but I bet this place will allow you to stretch your dollars and cents a bit better without missing out on the goodness Java has to offer!

    Empty drink cup emphasizing the community motto
    Omar A. M.

    I had an unexpected surprise here at the Kaiser Permanente Martin Luther King, Jr campus. It was a HOT and I needed some refreshing. So I went to the South LA CAFE and had them make a cold brew with 2 pumps hazelnut some oatmilk, it was quite refreshing. While sitting the shade ran into this beautiful couple who were so wonderfully styled. I had to record them. I took one star off their rating because when I made the order the person did not stir the drink properly and all the good stuff with at the bottom and I almost missed it the yumminess.

    This is my $5.50 empanada.... Don't waste your time.

    See all

    Review Insights

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mel D.
    1124
    1283
    1217

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lashann S.
    156
    69
    44

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Julio M.
    166
    62
    86

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]Beautiful cafe that offers a creative and tasty menu, just what the neighborhood needed[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]].

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Helpful 12
    Thanks 2
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kris S.
    2
    20
    34

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Nini H.
    0
    18
    15

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    We love hearing this! Keep coming back and show us support!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Luis G.
    42
    22
    7

    2 years ago

    Love this place but the wait for two pastries is ridiculous. They need to hire more people service is the one star.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Thank you for the amazing review! It makes all the difference!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chris W.
    367
    75
    3

    2 years ago

    Best coffee and atmosphere in South LA. Great prices, great vibe, great employees. WELL done!

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Noriko P.
    30
    93
    91

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Suzy S.
    122
    312
    737

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jasmine C.
    180
    36
    24

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Joe W.

    Joe W.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - South LA Cafe

    You might also consider

    ORA

    ORA

    4.6
    (115 reviews)
    0.7 mi
    $$

    This place is a vibe. I did not grow up with this term in the schoolyard so I had to search what it…read moremeant to ensure I was using it right. And basically vibe is a non literal way of saying that a place has a striking and specific atmosphere that matches the objective of the place. For instance, if a beach has a vibe than it offers all that a beach should in a clear and present kind of way. And this place offers a multi-functional coffee house vibe that is clear and present. For instance, I can easily see friends catching up over latte's and croissants and feeling cozy enough to make the chat lazy in a most wonderful way, like laying on a bean bag with no midterms or mortgage payments near. I can also see people producing here. Whether it be beats, plays, books, or corporate re-structuring plan this place has a vibe that communicates one can focus to create. And that is the kind of vibe I like, cause it is the kind of vibe I need when I seek to produce. The focal point of the vibe were the work pods of the place. I took a picture of them and the way I did makes them seem like a row of catacombs or something like that. Something with infinite pillars. Why is sitting in pod important? Will my prose really be that much more impactful if I sit in a pod from this place as oppose to my kitchen table or a regular table that this place offers? Maybe. Perhaps not. But, like, science cannot explain why coffee taste better out of one's "coffee mug" but if one is a coffee drinker and one has a designated mug of their own, then one knows that coffee does taste more exquisite when the mug and the pour become one as vessel and brew. I am thinking the same concept applies here just in a different kind of way. Meaning that the work pod might not have any actual effect but a quasi-placebo or even self-fulfilling prophecy effect take place and make the person impacted produce work that sings better. I know my signatures are better when I use my favorite pen. I read a sign on the pods that ask visitors to only stay for 90 minutes, no more. So the pods of this place are regulated so they must be that important. And I can see why. At the basic level they are engaging to sit in and write within them. The last time I went I ordered one of the best iced coffees I ever had in my life and that is no cap. That felt good writhing, so I will say it anew: I ordered one of the best iced coffees I ever had. Meaning that on a random day, where I expected little, I try something new that makes me happy to be open to new cuisine even if the new cuisine is just a new flavor: Barry White. It was black berry with white chocolate. I expected the combination to fail in pleasing me. But I was wrong. Me. Not the drink. I loved the sweetness of the concoction. I also ordered their sweet potato chicken bowl. Another great set of bites, but not to my liking because I did not ask for the chili to be removed from the chicken bowl. But if the chili was gone I would have described this dish as the bomb or something similar. But the coffee takes the cake. I visited the place just yesterday and they had an exhibition titled the heartbeat of culture. I took a picture of two women just outside the bussiness on a festival day. They were wearing clothing of their cutlture. They were standing tall in pride, supporting each other, and reminding me that all people have a heart that shines brighter when they are wearing something that makes them feel powerful with color pop. This place is certainly a move when one is at Leimert Park or if one needs a place to work and they are just over the Hollywood coffee scene.

    Came in on a Tuesday afternoon and it was pretty full. I've been meaning to visit and finally made…read moretime. The space is open with high ceilings and had amazing photographs throughout. The natural light makes it a very welcoming environment. I ordered matcha and the turkey bacon and egg sandwich. It took about 10 min; they had a steady flow of traffic. The matcha was perfection and had excellent flavor (I got almond milk and lavender). The sandwich was also tasty and I LOVE that they have a turkey bacon option. This is a solid choice for a nice chat or meeting with someone. Check them out!

    Photos
    ORA
    AVOCADO TOAST
    AVOCADO TOAST
    PEACHES AND CREAM MATCHA

    See all

    PEACHES AND CREAM MATCHA
    Highly Likely

    Highly Likely

    3.8
    (737 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    Came out on Mothers day for Breakfast. This place has a nice, chill vibe and mainly outdoors…read moreseating in the back. They have some interesting drinks on the menu, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The food was alright, nothing special or that stood out. Service was quick and they do have high-chairs if needed. They did get quite busy around 10am so if youre thinking of coming here, it might be worth getting a reservation. Overall it was a nice breakfast, but a little out of the way for me and parking was tough (street parking only).

    Well, I honestly have to say I am really disappointed in the service here. I am a single girl who…read morecan't cook so I dine out 24/7 and RARELY leave a review however I feel that if I do maybe something can change for the next guest trying to enjoy an experience. It's really hard to be in a joyful mood when you are not being attended to. I did receive a glass of water at the very beginning, that was nice, after that everything was basically as if I was invisible. They brought my food out fast, I wanted to ask for sauces, more napkins & no one checked in on me. Maybe because I came during dinner time? The bartender is gold -- he was more attentive than the whole staff the entire time. I am sad to say that this truly made my food non exciting and very blah. I've been here before for breakfast and it has been great, bummed that wasn't today. As a single eater, I felt extra lonely. Sincerely, Anonymous foodie x

    Photos
    Highly Likely
    **Li'l Chicky Sando
    **Li'l Chicky Sando
    Vegan (Or Not) Ceasar with parm cheese and I added chicken; delicious salad!

    See all

    Vegan (Or Not) Ceasar with parm cheese and I added chicken; delicious salad!
    Alibi Coffee

    Alibi Coffee

    4.5
    (292 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    I was headed to dinner at the fabulous Holbox, but driving there from Hollywood at rush hour is…read morenever a good idea. So I looked for a coffee spot closer to the restaurant at which I could do some work. Alibi Coffee is only 10-15 minutes from the restaurant, which made it a good candidate--and off I went. It sits on the corner of Washington and Raymond Avenue. While there's one-hour parking on Washington, Raymond seems to offer unlimited parking (other than street cleaning days)--the friendly, helpful barista directed me over there. Inside, it's a tranquil, clean and comfortable environment that mixes contemporary touches with brick industrial vibes. I'm in my cream top era, so I decided to get their Trademark Cream Top Latte, which uses cold brew and house made cream with a hint of brown sugar. The drink was smooth and not too sweet and, all in all, extremely enjoyable. Next time, I might try the Salted Caramel Cream Top Latte. I was warned it was a bit sweeter, but I'd like to see for myself. Wi-Fi seems solid, and there are plenty of outlets (yay!), so this was a great work spot. I'd definitely return anytime I needed to be in this area.

    My supervisor loves this place and recommended it. I haven't been inside, so I can't comment on…read moreservice, etc. Honeycomb Sugar Latte: I like the idea that you can add the amount of honey crumble into the drink based on your preference. I ended up adding it all. Salted Caramel Latte: I tried this drink the second time around, and I love it. It will be my go-to drink from now on at Alibi Coffee. It's sweet and creamy.

    Photos
    Pastry
    Pastry
    Inside
    Inside
    Pastry, HONEY LAVENDER LATTE, HONEYCOMB SUGAR LATTE

    See all

    Pastry, HONEY LAVENDER LATTE, HONEYCOMB SUGAR LATTE
    FUEGOS LA

    FUEGOS LA

    4.8
    (135 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    I've only recently visited this place, but I've already been here two times. Both my experiences…read morehave been amazing, but vastly different. My first night/ visit: I came on a casual evening and sat at the bar. I ordered a variety of empanadas and a glass of Malbec. Finished with the chocolate banana dessert. The decor here is wonderful with a great spatial sense. If la vie bohème were a physical space. The people were warm and friendly and even met and struck up conversation with a fellow patron that was friends with the owners. A place I feel like the artists in 1920 Paris would hang out in, haha. My second visit: it was during an Argentina game watch during World Cup '26 (6/27 vs Jordan). Fugazzettas, choripans, and Maradona beer koozies! This felt like going to a close knit Argentinian community block party. The passion for their national team and the sense of community. I just loved the energy. I also really enjoyed my slice of fugazzetta while sipping down some Quilmes in my new Maradona beer koozie. With a chants and the cheering when Messi scored, I felt like I was experiencing a special 'soccer cultural event'. The rest of their menu looks quite amazing. And everything is reasonably priced as well. I've been recommending it to friends and I can't wait to come back to try some other entrées.

    Stopped by on Friday, 05/01/26 for the first time with my old coworkers just catching up about our…read morelife. For happy hour, you get to choose a wine of choice and a side. Ordered the following: - 1 happy hour truffle fries with white wine = $15 - 1 empanada (beef) and white wine = $14 - 1 Bee Dri = $8 - 1 fugazzeta pizza = $22 - 1 empanada (ham and cheese) and red wine = $14 - 1 empanada (chicken) and red wine = $14 - 1 mushroom and spinach empanada = $5 - 1 empanada (corn) and beer drink = $14 - 1 arugula and jamon pizza = $28 - 1 fuerza rojo = $16 - 1 banana split ice cream = $12 - 1 mini churros = $10 SUBTOTAL = $172.00 TAX (9.75%) = $16.77 SERVICE CHARGE (3%) = $5.16 TOTAL = $193.93 TIP = $37.75 OVERALL TOTAL = $231.68 Overall interior vibes are great on a Friday night. Very interesting restroom vibes as well! I personally feel like the prices here a tad overpriced.

    Photos
    FUEGOS LA Gourmet Casual Argentine Food.
    FUEGOS LA Gourmet Casual Argentine Food.
    IG: happyfoodietown
    IG: happyfoodietown
    Arugula salad

    See all

    Arugula salad

    South LA Cafe - coffee - Updated August 2026

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