That there’s a padel club—tennis’ Hispanic cousin—tucked just off Sunset Boulevard in East Hollywood is a surprise in itself. But the colorful cottage cafe plopped in the middle of this grassy plot is the true revelation here. While the espresso menu is sufficient, relish the outdoor, roadside country club feel with a more refreshing caffeine buzz; the hearty Chunky Monkey smoothie—banana, chocolate, walnut and soy milk with a tangy twist of pineapple—becomes a perfect pick-me-up with an added shot of espresso. If the drinks are a good refreshment, then the açai bowl is an elixir; add in free Wi-Fi and shaded tables and you may find yourself sticking around long enough to order a second.
Just a note: Finding the parking lot for this place can be puzzling. You can spot the cottage from Sunset, but it’s easy to miss the nondescript alleyway entrance. From Sunset Boulevard, go north on Normandie Avenue and turn left into an alleyway about halfway up the block—there’s a small sandwich board that points you in the direction of the adjacent parking lot. If you find yourself at Harold Way, you’ve gone too far.