Noun Coffee

Practically hidden in a residential sea of apartment complexes, Noun Coffee gives a sleepy side street in Marina del Rey a dose of energy. 

The vibe: Despite its austere design, the coffee shop and wine bar could hardly be described as soulless. Most of the day, you’ll find your standard mix of remote workers, friends catching up, and awkward first dates. Once happy hour starts at 5pm, the sake, gossip, and natural wines start flowing. 

The food: Their popular “girl dinner” charcuterie platter struggles in its presentation. With nary a carb in sight, the grazing tray reaches for chic, silver servingware and lands on a human-sized dog bowl whose enormity draws attention to the portion sizes. Their cachapa is the actual cult favorite, offering a light and bright take on the gluten-free Venezuelan dish. 

The drinks: The wine selection, currently skewing light and natural as summer approaches, is inoffensive, but café beverages stun in their balanced simplicity. The Short Stack finds the not-too-sweet spot for a salted maple cappuccino or you could choose your own adventure with a pourover ranging from “easy drinker” to a dealer’s choice “wildcard.”

Time Out tip: For the liveliest evenings, Fridays, Saturdays, or special events featuring winemakers or local food pop-ups will draw people to a communal table or out on the patio.