Is it so hard to find the ideal cappuccino in Los Angeles? I think not. I wouldn’t call myself a snob (well, maybe a food/wine/dining snob), but I do take utter joy in having flawless cappuccinos (perhaps with a side of biscotti!). I don’t drink drip coffee; it always tastes like it’s missing something extra, and it doesn’t quite cooperate with the stomach (digestion, ant-acid, etc.). However, I have had certain drips with the French Press technique that do come pretty close to capturing greatness.

Due to my love of espresso, I am always on a quest to find that special cappuccino that tops the last. Believe it or not, I have had some of my best java on my travels to Tokyo and Istanbul (the Turkish Coffee is sublime as well). Both countries consistently offered up the perfect foam combined with the freshest, highest quality beans (both get their espresso beans mostly from Africa). Of course France and Italy were impressive too, but they’re known for their amazing cappuccinos…they better be good. Therefore, you can imagine how frustrating it was to come home to LA, a city inundated with Starbucks and Coffee Bean, and find something comparable. Thanks be to God, it’s out there.

LA is a hodge-podge of different cultures and immigrants, and the greatest reward from this, is that we get such a wonderful variety of culinary fare. Therefore, when seeking out premier caffeine, go to the source, a.k.a. a French Bistro, Italian Café, or a Central-European coffee shop. Another native source are the Bohemians of the Northwest Territory (i.e. Portland, Seattle); they make good coffee in their sleep. I’m sure I still haven’t witnessed many of the grandest cappuccinos in this town, but from my experiences thus far, here are the best:

Groundwork Coffee Co.-Starting in 1990, owner Richard Kamo decided to roast his own coffee. They were the first certified organic roasters in Southern California. This hub is very anti-corporation, and stresses an ultra-relaxed vibe. Try their killer pastries too (the best croissants).

Several Locations: Downtown, Venice, Santa Monica, and Hollywood

The Conservatory-Located right across from Sony Studios, this family-owned barista also roasts its own coffee. They prefer to think of it as baking, not roasting. They have anywhere from 24 different blends of single-varietal beans. This is a mellow atmosphere with most likely some jazz playing in the background.

10117 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232

The French Market Café-Situated in a tiny nook in Venice, this is where all the local Europeans hang out. Here they can get the ultimate taste of home; thin crepes, cigarette smoking without judgment, and rich, strong cappuccinos with chocolate powder sprinkled on top. It’s easy to feel transported here and pretend you’re in Paris for the day.

2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA

Maison Midi-From the outside, you may just think this little French boutique was just a furniture store, but hiding in the back is a cozy little café. The dining tables on the sidewalk slightly give it away, but inside you can find a variety of authentic French dishes, as well as a state of the art, stainless-steel cappuccino machine. The simplicity and power of the cappuccino took me by surprise and it is worth every glorious sip.

148 S. La Brea Ave.
LA, CA 90036

Kings Road Café-A bistro and coffeehouse in one, this popular West Hollywood hangout has the beans to back up the hype. They also roast on-site. It’s a bit of a trendy who’s who pit stop, but just ignore the pretentiousness and you’ll thoroughly enjoy your latte.

8361 Beverly Blvd.
LA, CA 90048

Kean Coffee-From the previous owner of Diedrich Coffee (which Starbucks bought out), this smaller shop focuses on the highest quality (in-store roasting 6 day a week). Many options of beans from South America and Kenya, and I do suggest you try the Turkish latte w/ cardamom. You’ll have to drive a little ways South, but if you’re on your way to San Diego, you know where to stop.

2043 Westcliff Dr.
Newport Beach, CA

Zona Rosa Caffe-This is where you find the sinful combination of Mexican Chocolate with fine espresso beans. It is a seductive blend. Right in the heart of Pasadena, Zona Rosa has full Mexican décor and music playing, and it includes an upstairs reading room. The owner won’t even disclose where he gets his beans from (top secret), but we know they come from San Francisco. I don’t care where he gets it, as long as he keeps it coming.

15 S. El Molino Ave.
Pasadena, CA