In a far away land of East Los Angeles, behind the vine-covered gates of a dingy strip mall, next to the comically named "Thong-Lo" sits an unexpectedly fine coffee shop: Chimney Coffee. My friend who recommended the spot lived down the street at the Brewery (which also has some of the best views of LA if you find the roof), and I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of their coffee. When I first tried this place, they served coffee from Suits & Knives--roasted in Los Angeles (!)-- that I had first tried at Coffee Co Lab Downtown. The first few times I visited, I got a simple cup of coffee - so tasty and nutty! And finally, on a weekend when I was also able to enjoy their breakfast sandwiches, I tasted their espresso. Unfortunately - not so great! And again a few weeks or months later, I gave them another shot at the espresso. Again, a bit of a bust, as it tasted quite bitter. However, I do applaud Chimney Coffee for their deliciously, consistently on-point food menu (I think I got their "Uncle A.C.E." - the one with the mini umbrella), kind service, and for that on-the-way-to-work black coffee that I sometimes so need. Chimney has stopped serving Suits & Knives coffee, but has switched to a different rotational local coffee. I already know I will keep visiting Chimney - and not just out of convenience - but I do hope to keep searching for the perfect espresso here!

Note: Hard to find, but just look for Thong-Lo!

Recommend: Visit Chimney for Brunch on the weekend and try the Uncle A.C.E.--so tasty!

Espresso Rating: 5/10

Overall Rating: 8/10

Address: 1100 North Main Street Suite B, Los Angeles, CA, 90012

Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm; Friday-Sunday, 8am-6pm