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Balconi Coffee Company
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
11301 W Olympic BlvdSte 124
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Neighborhood: West Los Angeles
(310) 906-0267
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 10 pm
Sat-Sun 10 am - 10 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
134 reviews for Balconi Coffee Company
Review Highlights
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"A cup Siphon coffee brings fantastic coffee experience." In 24 reviews -
"WOW, best almond latte i've ever had." In 7 reviews -
"Ray was very welcoming and friendly at the counter." In 17 reviews
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134 reviews in English
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Review from Alex B.
Los Angeles, CA
5/15/2012
my favorite coffee shop, period. im inclined to not rate it because i dont want other people flocking here and i want to keep it all to myself, but this place is legit. best ambience period, and the coffee is good too.
staff is nice, and theyve got all these neat books to read. only drawbacks are the lack of wifi and bathroom - i started tethering to counter the first problem but no solution to the bathroom issue yet, maybe i'll try http://www.stadiumpal.com ;) -
Review from Janel W.
5/17/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Almond Essence Latte!!! Delicious and not too sweet!
One time I came in later in the evening and didn't want any caffeine and the barrista made this delicious lemon ginger tea for me.
Location - fairly small and not equipped with wifi, so it's not a huge spot for studying, which keeps it from being overly crowded. Good place to catch up with a few friends. Overall, noise level low.
Bathroom is located around the corner, through some sort of maze.
Parking - street. -
Review from Jenny H.
Los Angeles, CA
5/16/2012
The almond latte is a must-try! It's thoughtfully made and comes with a pretty foam design on top. The almond flavor is subtle and it doesn't taste artificial, like other almond flavored drinks from boba shops.
Other than witnessing a couple canoodling at the bar counter, I had a great experience here! I'd definitely come back. -
Review from Tuan T.
Best cup of coffee I've ever had.
Recommendation: Almond Coffee -
Review from David R.
Los Angeles, CA
5/24/2012
Best mocha I've ever had. Better than intelligentsia, Cafecito O., coffee commissary!! And great guy working there, very friendly. Also, chocolate coffee cake is awesome!
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Review from Chris D.
San Francisco, CA
I absolutely love Balconi and I would recommend it to anyone, but take this recommendation with a grain of salt because this place is ideal for those who like it BLACK.
Balconi's specialty is siphon coffee and they really nail it. They have an excellent, changing selection of roasts from across the world (my current favorite being Yirgacheffe from Ethiopia) ranging from $3.50-4.50 for a small (6oz) and $5-6 for a large (12oz), and while this may seem insanely high to the casual coffee drinker who is satisfied with the $1.39 tall from starbucks, this certainly isn't your usual black coffee. Their brews are filled with flavors which are easily missed with the addition of any cream or sugar - again drink it black. Aromatic and complex, filled with flavors ranging from citrus to chocolate it certainly is an experience worth seeking. Both Ray and Peter are extremely friendly and helpful, always happy to make a recommendation to the newcomer or make casual conversation with those stopping by.
Their baked goods are pretty good and for those who really can't stand black coffee, their almond latte or green latte make some really smooth drinking, delicious alternatives. So coffee heads, don't be afraid to bring your not-so-black-coffee-enthusiastic significant other.
Couple points to keep in mind:
- There is a FREE parking lot on sawtelle; just cross to the side with the starbucks and It's in the middle of the shopping/food complex there.
- No Wi-fi available and bathrooms are a small hike away so it's not the perfect place to study although I've certainly still been productive there
- The do not specialize in espresso's; their specialty is siphon coffee. Get the siphon coffee. -
Review from Felix L.
My favorite coffee shop in the Westside. Most recently, I had the siphoned coffee using my favorite beans (Ethiopia Yirgacheffe). There were approximately 5 or 6 different choices of single origin/blend beans available on the menu. The owner, Ray Sato, was a nice, professional, and personal gentlemen. Prior to the siphon process, he allowed me to inspect and smell the freshly grounded beans. I recommend you to sit at the bar to watch the complete siphon process if you have never seen it before.
In the past, I have also tried the almond essence latte that many reviewers have highly regarded. It is a good alternative for those who do not enjoy black coffee. Indeed, the almond latte was a delicious drink and skillfully hand-crafted. It was not overly creamy. Most importantly, this latte featured authentic and distinct almond flavor acquired from ground almonds added to the espresso and milk. The almond latte definitely lived up the expectations.
The cost for a cup of single origin coffee ($5 for 12 oz, $3-4 for 6 oz.) was fair. In fact, these prices are competitive to those in J-Town (Cafe Dulce) and K-Town (IOTA, Bourbon Street Cafe).
Note that Balconi coffee shop is not recommended for laptop campers. As discussed in previous reviews, outlets or wifi are not available. Consequently, it is not the best location for UCLA students to "study" at. The crowd is more reserved for those who enjoy reading books or chit-chatting over coffee. If you are searching for a place with wifi and larger tables, more suitable for "studying" or "getting work done", check out Coffee Tomo located one block away. -
Review from Janlie V.
Los Angeles, CA
5/6/2012
You can feel your brain becoming alert just by walking into this place and breathing. I'm not a big fan of black coffee, but my sister loves the siphoned coffee here. My disappointment was palpable when I saw the short list of different coffee beans that one can choose from. I'm a lover of the green straw and mixed drinks, and my heart died a little when I saw the beans waiting to become a siphoned cup of black coffee for me. But my sister raved about this place, her bf is biking buddies with the owner, and I really wanted coffee. So I chose one of two flavored coffees.
Almond Essence Latte. Delicious. Perfection. I love you. -
Review from Kim H.
Los Angeles, CA
5/18/2012
It can be a challenge to find if you're driving because there is no sign above. Just look for the two bright red patio umbrellas. The owner is very friendly and the atmosphere is intimate and didn't seem to get overly crowded. There's also interesting artwork along the walls of the interior of the coffee house. Most importantly, the coffee good and the price fair. The coffee packs a lot of flavor and there is a nice selection from which to choose. Most are less than $5. And you get the sense that the barista truly enjoys his art and takes it seriously. This is not one of those hip, trendy sellouts.
The only downside is the music. I don't know if he plays frequently, but there was a gentleman who was performing when I last visited. He played the guitar quite well, but his singing definitely left something to be desired. -
Review from Paul L.
Los Angeles, CA
5/17/2012 1 photo
I really enjoyed their blueberry coffee cake and almond essence latte! Ray was really nice.
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Review from Jenna C.
Found this place on yelp when we were looking for some after-dinner coffee in the Westwood area (by the way... I feel older and older every time I'm in Westwood and see those young college kiddos...). Anyways, parking was a little difficult (street only, no nearby lots that I know of). But it was nightime so no need to pay the meters. The place was empty when we got there, but the barista was kind and pleased to help.
Their menu is brief, but their coffee is quality. We had the almond latte and the Ethiopia 12 oz. siphoned coffee. Bf loved the almond latte (beautifully decorated) and I loved the quality coffee, black. The almond latte was a bit sweet for me (I'm not a fan of sweet coffees), but better than chain coffee restaurants of course. We sat at the bar, watching the barista making the siphoned coffee. What a cool, fun experience. The owner/barista does curse like a sailor though, so if that bothers you, don't strike up conversation :-)
$10.25 for our two drinks, plus $1 tip -
Review from Casey O.
Alhambra, CA
4/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Coffee is not something that I've always liked but now a days I'm in love with coffee! I've only been to a few great coffee places where they really treat their coffee with pride and respect and balconi is one of those places.
Jenna and I tried the almond essence latte and it was heaveny! There were "pulverized" bits of almond mixed right into the mixture of espresso and frothy milk! The barista even poured me a little leaf! They always get an extra plus from me when you make some art in my coffee!
The other drink we tried was their signature siphon method coffee which was so fascinating to watch and experience. The barista let us smell the coffee grind before adding them to the boiling water. We had a nice little conversation about the process and how he has a whole siphon bar in his home!
Too bad this place wasn't here when I worked in that area because I would have been going there everyday and that would have made that horrid job much more tolerable.
Ps. Bonus points for the etch a sketch, old fashioned type writer and the iPad cash machine. -
Review from Robert P.
4/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
Awesome siphon preparation. It doesn't come cheap but if you like excellent, fresh roasted and ground coffee prepared to order, it's worth every cent. $4.50 for a 6oz cup of coffee.
Only downside, parking can be tough though. -
Review from Li J.
Los Angeles, CA
3/29/2012
This is one of those hard-core coffee shops. They take coffee very seriously and are always willing to explain the flavors of the various coffees that they are offering for the day. They grind the beans to order and use the siphon method to prepare the coffee. So the coffee is extremely fresh and flavorful....
and expensive.
A small cup (6 oz) is $3.50 or $4.50 depending on the coffee. They provide you with a small cookie/biscuit to eat with your coffee.
But damn it sure tastes good. You know how the coffee at a fancy hotel is always so rich and good?? Well they've got it down at Balconi and you don't even need a reservation.
I will admit that the price is a bit prohibitive - I can't get coffee there every day. But then their coffee is meant to be savored and be enjoyed there as opposed to you rushing in and rushing out and then drinking the coffee as you're driving through rush-hour traffic and talking/texting on your cell phone.
Give it a try and plan to sit and stay a while. -
Review from JENNIFER N.
Redondo Beach, CA
Absolute adorable coffee shop. They used local grown coffee beans. different brands every week or so. They also use the Siphon pour over method.
This place is usually quiet, definitely come here for studying or writing time.
Plenty of parking in the shopping center!! :-)
Hard to find if you are counting on a GPS. It's in the large shopping center on Sawtelle and Olympic Blvd.. Same shopping center as Brian's shave Ice and Pinkberry but on the other side of the center, facing Olympic Blvd. -
Review from Chariya S.
Los Angeles, CA
4/11/2012 2 Check-ins Here
First off, this place played Cambodian/Khmer music - which automatically made it one of my favorite to go to place for coffee.
I'm not a fan of almond but their iced almond latte was SO GOOD. I drank it within like 5 minutes (I know, I should take my time and enjoy it but I couldn't help it!). $4-5 for cup of coffee was a bit on the expensive side but it was worth it. Their ipad register was legit too. They texted me the receipt right after I paid.
But I'll probably go there to study one day since it seems like such a chill place. -
Review from Christine K.
Los Angeles, CA
4/23/2012
The almond essence latte is fantastic. I was a little weary of stepping outside my starbucks box but this place was great and worth the step! I was really impressed with the quality of the coffee, fresh pastries and service. We will be going back very soon!!!
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Review from Tiffany W.
Monterey Park, CA
3/21/2012
Their almond latte is amaze, as most Yelpers have noted. It's pretty sweet, which is great for me because I love my sugar with coffee. But other coffee connoisseurs may prefer otherwise.
My only gripes are 1) no Wi-fi and 2) the store is very small and not too well ventilated. After 1.5-2 hours of studying here, I had to leave because it got too stuffy.
Great place to experience some excellent coffee, but I wouldn't recommend Balconi as a study location. -
Review from Elia C.
Malibu, CA
4/29/2012 1 photo
Wonderful. The almond essence latte and the matcha lattes are absolutely phenomenal. Creamy, lightly sweet, full of flavor and gorgeous latte art to top it off. The coffee is wonderful as well, prepared with a siphon and they go through ALL the coffee beans manually to pick out imperfect ones.
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Review from Amy G.
Long Beach, CA
3/3/2012
3.5 stars.
Coffee shop that looks like a laboratory and feeds me cookies? Yes, please.
With little siphons lining the counter, the place conjured up fond memories of Poindexter and Pinky and the Brain. Each cup of featured coffee is individually brewed using the siphon method, and comes with a little Danish cookie (at least when ordering in). The owner is very nice and took the time to explain the various coffees available and how they differed from one another. Definitely a nice spot to sit down and catch up with a friend over some choice brew.
Balconi also offers a variety of baked goods including blueberry coffee cake, mini chocolate bundt cake, and carrot cake. The baked yummies are made off site and are delivered to the shop in the morning. The shop also serves hot chocolate, teas, and lattes.
Notables: street parking is limited to an hour max every day but Sunday. The place is small with 3 or 4 tables, a counter that sits maybe 6 or 7, and a couple of tables just outside the shop. -
Review from Lynn C.
2/14/2012 1 photo
A little difficult to find - it's in a small shopping mall. I was nervous meeting up here, since I don't drink coffee, but even I couldn't resist a decaf soy latte (FYI they also have many teas). It was delicious, and so was the blueberry crumb cake.
No WiFi! -
Review from Tammie L.
Los Angeles, CA
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! (to one of the employees)
Warning: I might be a little biased because I love everything almond and places that are known for their almond-awesomeness. And there aren't a lot of places like that so when I do find one, it's love at first sip. So needless to say, I LOVE THIS PLACE!!
I went here for the first time today cuz of all the awesome pictures on yelp. And yes, the almond latte was amaZING!! It was not too bitter or too sweet, just perfect with that coffee kick from the aftertaste. My friend got the green tea latte and it was just as delicious. This coffee shop really lived up to its hype and rep. The employees were very welcoming and super friendly.
Cozy little coffee shop. Friendly service. Almond-Awesomeness. FIVE STARS!! -
Review from Oliver D.
West Los Angeles, CA
1/9/2012
Hidden in plain sight, this inconspicuous little cafe brews up some amazing siphon coffee. There's neither long lines nor pretense, just good quality coffee served piping hot (seriously, let it cool down for a bit if you value your tongue). If you typically drink your coffee with milk or cream, it will be politely suggested that you try this one black. Take their advice; you can always add the milk later.
Great service, pleasant surroundings, and superb coffee. -
Review from Roland L.
In case you missed this: http://www.yelp.com/li...
Am I totally, insanely out of my mind that I will venture out 20+ miles just for a Caffe Latte? You might come to the conclusion that I am, but you must know that I will go great lengths for a cup of fine espresso with steamed milk.
***BEGIN SIDEBAR***
For those who are unfamiliar with my espresso fetish, here's a little background. (I promise to keep it short.) Roughly the last 15 years, I was accustomed to consuming 6 shots of espresso a day...at the very least, with approximately 7 of those years, consuming 18 shots a day. Don't ask why...it's a long story!
Yes, I am a stickler for fine coffee and espresso, so much so that refuse to brew anything but illy Medium Roast (http://www.illyusa.com...) in the office. And I will drink 20-32 oz. a day...black!
***END SIDEBAR***
There are a number of great coffeehouses in LA, all of which I will refrain from naming. Please just refer to my list.
My intention was to go to my favorite coffeehouse this afternoon, but that would be too easy. Since I have an open mind to visit new coffeehouses (or at least new to me), I let yelp.app on my trusty iPhone determine my destination. What caught my eye would be a 4.5 star rated coffeehouse named Balconi Coffee Company.
Parking is primarily metered curbside and is enforced Monday-Saturday 8am-3pm. Of note, there is no parking in these areas Monday-Friday between the hours of 3-7pm.
Wifi is NOT available.
Balconi is perhaps best known for employing siphon coffee brewing method.
As you would anticipate of any independent, neighborhood coffeehouse, Balconi has its regular patrons. The two man operation appears to be well loved by their regulars as was evident during my visit. The proprietors have a tendency of not equally distributing attention to faithful patrons and new. Marginalized aptly describes my 30 minutes of exposure to Balconi.
Caffe Latte: 3/5
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Although this cup had undertones of natural sweetness with minimal bitterness, it was a little watery and had a very sour finish. Sip after sip, the faint taste of sweet was subdued by the fetid milk taste.
I would like to revisit the marginalization factor as I close out this review. I've never been to an independent coffeehouse that made me feel like they really didn't want my business. Upon leaving, not a word was uttered in my direction. Not even "thanks" or "have a nice day" or "see you again soon". How could I possibly overlook this transgression when there were only two other patrons present? Balconi is not the only coffeehouse around and I will gladly take my business elsewhere.
Here's my tip to you guys at Balconi: Work on your customer service and public relations. Times are tough and competition is stiff. If you want to keep new customers, make them feel the same as your regulars...and fix that sour taste in your caffe latte.Listed in: Thanks a Latte!, Overrated!
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Review from O G.
Los Angeles, CA
Stopped by today for a brief visit with Ching-a-ling and the owner, Ray, was working. He brewed me a nice Costa Rican and I congratulated him on having been able to relocate from his old place to a hopefully better location.
His attitude of calm involvement with his customers is refreshing.
I'll be baaack.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/7/2011
Saw a thread on Yelp today about making coffee at home and I recalled the syphon style coffee I so… Read more »
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Review from Grant G.
12/4/2011
I go here often. Ray the owner, has always been very friendly, helpful and attentive. After many visits I have observed that his style of customer service seems single task oriented. Some folks may not be able to appreciate it but I don't mind waiting a bit when it's busy to receive someone's full attention as opposed to intermittent time slices. It's always refreshing to patronize a boutique coffee shop where there's zero smug or snoot factor.
As for the product, I enjoy finely crafted coffee and espresso. I'm particular on a scale of about 8/10. No, I'm not a member of the home barista snob society so take my subjective opinion for what it's worth. He has a pretty good rotation of about eight or so roasts with regular changes. The American style coffees are done siphon method and espressos are pulled ristretto style. I've always had a great cup here.
Cup, plate and silverware is clean and appropriate. I've had several of the pastries and they've always been really delicious. Ray has made good pairing recommendations for me as well.
There is no wifi and no power outlets. I love it. It means you're likely to find a seat to sit in. For those of you looking for temporary office space, there's a Starbucks across the way for that.
When you're ready to pay, you can use the card case app from Square to pay on a tab and it works like magic! -
Review from Marilynn L.
Los Angeles, CA
3/6/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I pick favorites and use the word "best" quite frequently so I wish there was a superlative to top best because this was the BESTEST coffee I've had in LA. I've been to La Mill, Intelligentsia, Paper or Plastik, Urth Cafe, Spring for Coffee, Cafe Demitasse...but there's a recent this one is ranked #1 in the city on yelp! The almond latte was a little grainy but I loved the texture...almost as if there were ground almonds or something in it. The flavor was amazing - not too sweet but very strong indeed! And my husbands regular latte was smooth, strong, and handsome, just like him :P
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Review from Karen W.
This is an interesting spot, and I mean that in a good way!
Luminous red walls encompass the cozy space occupied by a center lined with bar stools and small chair and built-in seating to the sides. An Art Deco-inspired illustrative series of work in black frames hangs on the two facing walls.
The 19th century coffee processing system is another attractive feature of this place. Interesting antique objects co-reside with the coffee brewers. The typewriter kept me amused for a while as I waited for my Almond Essence Latte (which took about 10 minutes to make and serve, complete with a face with big hair as the decorated foam on top). Sweet barista.
Come to sit and chat intimately with another individual and stay awhile, it's no place for a rushed cup of good ol' Jo.
Simple menu, easier for decision-making.
Restroom is a bit of a hassle from what I saw, it's separate from the unit. -
Review from William H.
West Los Angeles, CA
12/14/2011 1 photo
The best green tea latte I have had by far.
I haven't tried their syphon coffee ($4.50/cup), but i'm sure it's excellent since i see the staff pick through the beans that are inadequate to go through the grinder. I'm not a coffee snob (in fact i don't drink much coffee at all), but i know Ray and his partner are in that small circle of coffee-obsessed baristas. For the most part, I love their baked goods (blueberry coffee and cherry bar excellent, carrot cake not too sweet and kinda bland), which rotate pretty often. Recently I tried their almond latte which probably had coffee, but i was overwhelmed by the almond flavor. It reminded me of almond jello i used to have as a kid. As for ambiance, I love it. I get a lot of work done here, mainly because it's fairly quiet and there is no internet access (to prevent random hours of surfing). Be aware, there aren't any electrical outlets available. -
Review from kazuko O.
Los Angeles, CA
10/13/2011
This cafe is the first professional cafe I have ever been in CA.
I was surprised that the owner make a coffee for people by using siphone burner and he is even serving cold brew coffee!
When you go there, you want to take time sitting in the counter and enjoy listening to the music, watching people outside. No hurry.
The taste of coffee is amazing. It is not bitter or light or something.
You will taste the difference of each brand of coffee bean. You will taste like mild chocolate taste from coffee bean. You will taste different things from other beans and it is amazing to know all different flavor you can taste from simple coffee.
The price is cheaper than coffee beans or starbucks and the way he makes coffee will make you feel you are special. really. it is like order made coffee.
It is almost hard to find a parking lot around there. You can park your car at Olimpic Collection parking under ground 1 hour free with validation from the shop. -
Review from Akiko T.
Los Angeles, CA
12/18/2011
I liked the black coffee I had with the little cookie on the side, but I didn't care for their almond latte. Ray is reserved and kind and definitely passionate about coffee. The place seems to attract regulars because most people knew Ray.
Tip: I couldn't find this place at first while driving on Olympic because the sign is hidden behind a tree. It's in the plaza on the NW corner of Olympic and Sawtelle. -
Review from Jenny O.
2/26/2012
Very charming place. The employees are warm -- as is the atmosphere -- and the coffee is great. I'm a fan of green tea so I prefer the Green Tea Latte (the Almond Latte is equally delicious!) to the coffee. LOVE it when musical artists come by and sing! Always a treat :)
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Review from Johanna C.
Los Angeles, CA
this place is literally right across the street from where i work which makes it a dangerous location for me! there's a starbucks across the street but WHY would you want to go there when you have balconi?!
i had the green tea latte which sooo good. very unique drink and sweetened to perfection! the barista's always very knowledgable and the place seems to serve high quality coffee.
i def want to go back to try their drip-coffee.Listed in: **5 STARS**
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Review from Adrienne F.
Manhattan Beach, CA
10/1/2011
Great coffee & Excellent Service.
I met the owner and he incredibly friendly and very knowledgeable!
I loved watching my coffee being siphoned into my cup, amazing!
They also use clover stornetta cream which is made in my hometown, so that is an extra bonus! -
Review from Thomas L.
11/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Awesome ice coffee drip... smooth as buttah.
No really, while I live in the land of Starbucks and Tully's, and while I love Clover coffees from Starbucks, this drip was just awesome.
We also tried the almond essence late which was delicious as well. -
Review from Davey G.
Los Angeles, CA
9/28/2011
Thumbs up for providing a science lab feel to what would otherwise be a run of the mill coffee shop. The siphon hardware makes you feel like you're on the set of a Mr. Wizard episode.
I was having one of my typical post-dinner coffee cravings. I'd noticed Balconi on my way to dinner and thought I'd stop in to check things out rather than run across the street to Starbucks.
The space is on the smallish side, but the focus is clearly on delivering a good product. I ordered a standard Americano. While it wasn't a siphon coffee, the barista was careful and attentive in preparing it. The coffee itself was also incredibly flavorful. Where Starbucks burns the crap out of their beans to get a consistent flavor, the coffee at Balconi has nuanced aromas and flavor notes. I distinctly caught molasses/raw cane sugar and nuttiness on the nose and palate (and this was with no sweetener added).
One thing I would suggest is that they add a tip line to their credit card software on the iPad. I was hoping to give the guy a few bucks, but I had no cash handy and there was no way to amend the total.
Overall, a very tasty cup. -
Review from Sean P.
Newport Beach, CA
3/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Best coffee I have had in LA. Granted I haven't been to every coffee shop, but I'm trying. The baristas are welcoming and make a mean cup. I like that there is no wifi so the place is not cluttered with campers. Every time in the neighborhood, I make it a point to stop in.
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Review from Andrew N.
The whole process of making siphon coffee is fascinating. While I prefer lattes, I thoroughly enjoyed the black coffee that I've tried here. My favorite drink though is the almond essence latte. It's really unique and I've never tried anything like it. It's basically a great latte with the strong taste of almonds. They use real ground almonds so the taste is excellent.
Menu is minimal - it just has 4 or 5 kinds of siphon coffee and the almond latte. Apparently, they can make different kinds of lattes but I've never asked. Prices are bit steep but that's expected considering the quality and taste of the siphon coffee & lattes.
It's a nice place to talk or read but not a great place to study. There are no outlets and no wifi. It faces Olympic Blvd, which is awfully noisy all the time. The tables are very small and the bench they have on the side is very uncomfortable as a seat. On the plus side, there it doesn't get crowded and people who come here are generally quiet[ly enjoying their coffee].
As some people mentioned, parking is tough but not impossible. They do validate for an hour or two at the Olympic Collection, there is also meter parking on the streets, or you can park in the neighborhoods a few blocks away for 2 hours max.Listed in: Study Places in LA/OC
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Review from Malaika B.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 3/13/2012
The almond latte was fantastic!!! Plus, the ambiance is far superior to chain coffee shops. There's local art on the walls, a serene, sophisticated and welcoming community feel. My favorite place for a good sippin' cup.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/13/2011
This place is amazing for a mid-morning refresher cup. The first time I went in, I admit I was… Read more »
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Review from Tess M.
1/11/2012
In need of caffeine, with an hour to kill, an easy access, metered space out front sealed the deal. Now, I've had coffee every which way but thanks to F G.'s review http://www.yelp.com/bi... I was anxious to add syphon-brewed to my repertoire.
I explained my java preferences to Balconi's knowledgeable barista, Peter, went with his recommendation for Sumatran, and took a seat at the counter ready for my lesson.
In sommelier fashion, Peter offered the freshly ground beans, encouraging me to inhale their aroma to officially begin the experience. All through the brewing, he explained exactly what was transpiring but like chemistry class, I fear I was a tad lost. Fortunately, I wasn't the only neophyte at the bar so I listened to Peter's patient, informative lecture again but knew I'd have to go home, look it up, to fully get the process http://en.wikipedia.or...
Within a few minutes, perfectly brewed coffee was in front of me. Inhaling again, confirmed I was about to taste coffee as it is intended to taste, sans sugar and/or cream as Balconi suggests (Is there any other way?). Mm, bold, brown gold with a slight bitterness reminiscent of chicory. Peter advised that as the coffee cooled its flavor would change but not in a bad way, confirming my love of the bean hot or cold.
Balconi's digs are modern, comfortable, and with no wifi, conducive to conversation or contemplation. $3.50 per is a modest price to pay for such a gracious, complete coffee experience!Listed in: Sweet Things, Java, Joe...
