VIBE

Selecting from a veritable library of direct-source beans and using a mind-boggling array of flashy gizmos to procure the perfect preparation, superstar baristas create rich brews that aficionados savor like fine wine. (In fact, they’ve even got a coffee sommelier on staff.) The stylish space, with its saucy bright red and sharp colored accents, makes this a popular hangout spot even for those not so picky about their beans, while the carefully constructed Cal-gourmet café menu has caught the eye of the foodie set. Laptops are plentiful among the crowd, as the experience comes complete with free Wi-Fi.

CROWD

Coffee connoisseurs and nerdy (in a cute way) types mingle with the hipster set.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Something trendy casual, like skinny jeans, cute sneaks, and an ironic t-shirt.

GO HERE WITH

The girls for coffee and cake; a hard-to-please coffee snob

WHY WE LIKE IT

The coffee is gorgeous, the mouthwatering menu a big step up from usual café fare, and the ooh-la-la ambiance beats sterile chain competitors hands down.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Ordering can be pretty intimidating, what with the plethora of bean and “extraction method” choices–a bit more guidance would be nice.

GOOD TO KNOW

Their fresh roasted coffee and custom teas are available as gift boxes–perfect for last minute presents. If you’re coming for breakfast, it’s served 9:00am-3:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am-3:00pm on weekends. Good parking around back, and to-go cups are available (but didn’t appear to be the norm when we visited).

CLOSEST COMPS

Bourgeois Pig (Los Angeles); Intelligentsia Coffee (Los Angeles)

Read more about Lamill Coffee Boutique in The Diary

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