The best coffee shops in Echo Park

Clean, bright and airy, Eightfold is a refreshing addition to Echo Park's growing coffee scene. There's nothing but smiles and pleasantries behind the counter here, where you'll find pastries from Rockenwagner, a rotating selection of bento boxes, and coffee and tea. The coffee shop has a Japanese influence to its selection, so try their killer matcha latte while perusing Eightfold's well-curated book selection. Short marble-topped tables line one wall, while a communal table is perfect for collaboration or working on your laptop (yup, there's free WiFi here, too). 

Fix sits tucked into the hillside, way up Echo Park Ave and catty-corner from an elementary school (no, frolicking children won't disrupt your workflow). It's almost eerily silent over there. There are no other shops or restaurants nearby in this decidedly residential area, so there aren't many distractions, aside from the good lookin' baristas. The space itself is gorgeous as well, with a sunny outdoor area (complete with firepit for "chilly" winter days), a covered patio and an indoor space with bar seating and tables for two. Aside from the extensive coffee list, the bar offers tea, mixed juices and pretty impressive eats: alongside the usual pastry fare, you'll find savory lentil salads, cheese sandwiches and vegan options aplenty. It's a great spot to get some work done, not in small part due to its location in a cell tower dead zone. Like we said, no distractions!

We can't think of a better spot for a pick-me-up than the beautiful old boathouse on Echo Park Lake, the Eastside's newest gem-of-a-park. The lakeside version of Hollywood's popular all-day breakfast destination, you can expect the same morning favorites around the clock—standouts include the breakfast sando; potato taquitos served with guacamole, tomatillo salsa and cabbage slaw; and chorizo chili and cheddar cheese. In the mood for dessert? Grab a house-made sweet to-go before hopping on a pedal boat. The tasty espresso and pour-over here comes from Intelligentsia beans.

Stories Books and Cafe is a funky, cozy spot off Sunset Boulevard—a bookstore/coffee shop hybrid with new and used titles packed floor to ceiling, plus a little cafe in the back with good coffee and fresh food. There's also an outdoor patio popular with the freelance crowd, which gets packed with coffee fiends during the day and is used as an event space at night. If you're looking for an obscure book, chances are they'll have it here. There's also a good selection of gift-y things such as greeting cards, coloring books, magnets and mugs (our favorite has a hot librarian graphic and the words "reading is sexy"). Regular events include readings, signings and open mic comedy, although we usually just go for a good latte.

Something’s brewing in Echo Park. Oakland-based coffee house Blue Bottle has nestled into the Eastside location, bringing its signature roasts and baked goods to yet another LA hood. Home to masterful pour overs, espressos, specialized roasts and fancy latte art, this ever-expanding coffee spot is no rookie. The exposed brick walls, industrial light fixtures, and picture-perfect coffee might just make for the perfect insta-worthy photo. Note: If you’re craving an iced coffee, get your caffeine fix with the highly coveted New Orleans cold brew.

A fashionable, young crowd congregates for coffee at this popular hangout. The service leaves a bit to be desired, but no matter: lots of people spend hours here working or chatting at the tables outside—it's the perfect spot to people watch and experience a slice of neighborhood life on the Eastside. It's in a mostly residential area, which means a quiet cuppa, but be sure to explore the block, featuring galleries (there's even one inside Chango), clothing boutiques and a darling gourmet grocery, Cookbook.

Stop into this cozy neighborhood spot for a (strong) pour of Wrecking Ball Coffee from the owner/barista Saadat Awan, who's always around with a smile. It's a good spot to meet a friend or get some work done (there's wifi here, unlike Blue Bottle down the street...) and the no-frills design means more space to sit and sip. The benches out front are a good alternative if it's too packed inside, as long as you don't mind sharing your seat with the pups that usually get tied there to wait for their owners to perk up.

Taza recently popped up on Echo Park's main drag, across from the Echo in a teeny weeny storefront just big enough for an espresso machine and a plate of pastries. Locals stop in for coffee and tea to go, and can peruse flyers from local bands and art spaces while chatting with the always-friendly, sometimes-frazzled baristas. A couple hefty planters just appeared outside, carving out an equally pint-sized patio with minimalist tables and chairs for those with pups or time to spare.