A clean Euro look, enormous picture windows, that hip décor or a really funky vibe; these are the spots that make you want to open your laptop and stay all day. Here’s a list of coffee bars that provide a home away from home for java junkies to sit and reflect or to settle in and “work from home.”
Avatar Coffee Roasters in Santa Ana is a hidden gem with an industrial chic feel. The bar, with electronic outlets, is the place to perch if you’re on the clock. A merchandise display offers several devices to brew coffee at home, and a live coffee tree is part of the décor. Photos by Anne Valdespino, Culture OC
Avatar Coffee Roasters
This hidden gem in an unlikely spot right off the 55 freeway has a bit of an industrial chic feel combining unfinished ceilings and luxe accents like marble flooring and a live coffee tree. The bar, with electronic outlets, is the place to perch if you’re on the clock. Otherwise, find a spot inside or out to enjoy tasty drinks such as a lightly spiced cardamom vanilla latte ($5) or a masala chai latte ($4.50) for those who prefer a fancy cup of tea.
Yogurt parfaits, toasts, flatbreads or shareables like charcuterie boards keep the munchies at bay. Pastries by Crema always hit the spot, but order the ones that hold well; think chocolate muffins ($4.75) rather than scones. Word: Be sure to park outside and not in the structure or you might get locked out when you return to your car.
Open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday; 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. 1951 E. Dyer Road Suite B, Santa Ana, avatarcoffeeroasters.com
Color saturated, super trippy décor assaults the eye at Coffee Dose, but the