It seems like LA is finally gaining some momentum in the coffee scene. In almost every major neighborhood these days, you are able to find a decent espresso or cup of coffee or whatever. I wouldn't say maybe to the standards of New Yorkers, but then again, they always love to hate on LA. :)

Located on North Figueroa Street in the ever-changing Highland Park, Civil Coffee is a good example of the coffee bug that has recently infected this city. With its high, airy ceilings, dark wood furnishings, and MUSHROOM BACON (pardon me), it is setting a stellar example for the best coffee shops around. Did I mention mushroom "bacon"? Anyways, back to the espresso. Civil Coffee serves both Coava and Heart Coffee (again, both great roasters out of Portland). Most times that I have been I have tried their "Tandem", which is one shot of daily espresso alongside their guest espresso. And most times I have been pleased with at least one of the two. Typically single origin madness is hard to pull off well in an espresso anyways. Sigh. Overall, great place for coffee in Highland Park- whether its a quick take away or a place to visit with friends. 

Recommend: Roam around the neighborhood and find next door some cool stuff at The Quiet Life or some dark/mystic/intellectual books and records and things the other direction at Mt Analog.

Note: Try all food on the menu.

Espresso Rating: 8.5/10

Overall Rating: 9/10

Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-5pm

Address: 5629 N Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90042