Balconi Coffee Company

Editor's Review

Stylistically, Balconi Coffee Company goes against the grain of many other cafés in the city. Here, you won't find the modern industrial interiors and clean Scandinavian minimalism that's the star of the moment. Instead, Balconi takes you to a steampunk dreamland. Upon entering this funky vintage-esque café, you'll feel practically transported from the Sawtelle/Japantown neighborhood that this café calls home. With bright red walls, chandeliers, and local art hanging throughout, this tight-knit but cozy space is something that you'd be more likely see in New York City than Los Angeles.

Balconi believes that good things take time, this is proven in their beverage menu, which is exclusively served via Syphon when it comes to brewed coffee. As for the 'spro, you're encouraged to take a look at their second menu, which details "how to taste espresso," and if you get an espresso-milk drink there's a good chance it'll be adorned with teddy bear latte art. For the dessert coffee lover, the almond essence latte is a treat worth drooling over—a beverage made with housemade sweetened pulverized almonds.

Friendly baristas and quality-driven coffees make this a standout gem in the midst of Japanese restaurants and boutiques on Sawtelle. But who's to say you can't grab some sushi right after?

Reviewed by Katrina Yentch.

Cafe Features

Buy Beans

Loose Leaf Tea

Outdoor Seats

Table Seating

Toilets

Coffee + Drinks

Decaf

Non Dairy

Cold Brew