Ever since I started reading books and watching Hollywood movies and series, I was intrigued by the city of Los Angeles, also called city of stars.
During my research on all things Los Angeles, I also found some good places I’d definitely love to visit. And one of these places – you guessed it – are the bookstore cafes.
LA is also a paradise for book lovers who enjoy the comforting blend of literature and coffee. From cozy nooks filled with hidden literary gems to vibrant bookshops offering artisanal coffee, LA’s bookstore cafes are perfect for unwinding with a great read and a warm drink.
While there are more indie bookstores than book cafes in LA, some of which worth exploring, this post covers the book cafes where you can peruse your next favorite novel while sipping on coffee.
If you’re looking for a place to escape the city’s hustle and get lost in a book, here are some of the best bookstore cafes in Los Angeles.
Best Book Cafes in LA
Stories Books & Cafe
Address: 1716 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Located in the heart of Echo Park, Stories Books & Cafe is the ultimate indie bookstore café where books and coffee go hand in hand. With a cozy, punk rock-inspired interior, this charming shop offers an impressive selection of new and used books, including literary fiction, poetry, arts, psychology, and rare finds. The in-store café at the rear of the store serves excellent coffee, making it a perfect spot to unwind. The outdoor patio offers a relaxed space to enjoy a book.
Village Well Books & Coffee
Address: 9900 Culver Blvd #1b, Culver City, CA 90232
Village Well Books & Coffee in Culver City is a warm, community-driven bookstore café that blends a love for literature with a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Known for its thoughtfully curated selection of books, it’s the kind of place where browsing the shelves feels like a treat in itself.
The in-house café serves delicious coffee, fresh pastries, and light bites, making it easy to settle in for a while. With indoor and outdoor seating, cozy nooks, and a recently expanded space, it’s a favorite spot for locals to read, work, or simply enjoy the vibes and aroma. Frequent events, knowledgeable staff with great recs, and a focus on community engagement make Village Well the perfect retreat.
The Last Bookstore
Address: 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
The Last Bookstore is a haven for book lovers and one of LA’s most iconic bookstore. It is a literary adventure, an art gallery, and a historical landmark.
Housed in a former bank building, it boasts towering bookshelves, labyrinth-like aisles, soaring ceilings, and artistic book displays that make browsing a magical experience. With a vast selection of new and used books, rare editions, and vinyl records, it caters to every reader.
The in-house coffee shop provides the perfect atmosphere to sip on a latte while flipping through your latest find. Whether you’re hunting for a rare edition or need a cozy reading spot, this place has it all.
Cafe Nido: Coffee & Books
Address: 2810 Hyperion Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cafe Nido is a charming little spot that combines a love for coffee and literature. With shelves of books lining the walls and a cozy, artful interior, it’s a haven for creatives and readers alike. Their menu features espresso drinks, teas, and small bites, making it a perfect corner to curl up with a book or meet a friend for a literary coffee date.
More than just a bookstore cafe, Cafe Nido is a vibe. In this Instagram-worthy haven, visitors can unwind with a book, journal in peace, or enjoy a reflective chat under shaded outdoor seating surrounded by plants. Though service and seating comfort can be hit or miss, the magic of this hidden gem lies in its ambiance. Whether you’re a creative soul or a casual wanderer, this cafe offers a serene pause.
Barnes and Noble
Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Barnes & Noble at The Grove is one of those rare gems where you can truly get lost for hours—in the best way. Spanning three stories, this flagship location is spacious, beautifully organized, and packed with everything from bestsellers and fantasy to magazines and hidden gems you didn’t know you needed. The third floor houses a Starbucks café with cozy seating and views overlooking the shopping center, making it a perfect pit stop for reading, journaling, or just recharging.
Whether you’re here for a specific title or just wandering the aisles, it’s a book lover’s dream right in the heart of LA.
Also a part of my list: Bookstore Cafe NYC
Vroman’s Bookstore
Address: 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
Vroman’s Bookstore has existed for a long time—it is, in fact, the oldest independent bookstore in Southern California and a beloved local spot.
With a spacious, beautifully organized interior, it offers an incredible range of books across every genre, plus a curated selection of gifts, stationery, and even fountain pens. The cozy in-store café is perfect for settling in with your latest read, and the adjacent 1894 Wine Bar adds an extra layer of charm. Whether you’re browsing for books, attending an author event, or just enjoying the quiet atmosphere, Vroman’s is a must-visit for any book lover.
Los Angeles is home to a variety of bookstore cafes that cater to every kind of book lover. Whether you’re searching for a hidden indie gem or a well-stocked bookstore with a relaxing café, these spots offer the perfect mix of literature and lattes. Next time you’re in LA, make sure to visit one (or all) of these book cafes for a cozy reading retreat!
Looking for romance books to buy? Here are some reviews of my favorite reads (in no particular order):
Twisted Love by Ana Huang
Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa
Bared to you by Sylvia Day
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young
From Lukov with love by Mariana Zapata