Caffe Luxxe-rious

Reportedly the first cafe in Los Angeles to make the move toward “hand-crafted artisanal espresso,” Caffe Luxxe in Santa Monica deserves respect.

Located not far from the sandy beach, this luxurious, classy shop was on our coffee bucket list. It is sandwiched between other small boutique-like shops, just a couple streets north of the Third Street Promenade. There are three other locations, but we visited the original (as we often try to do). 

Caffe Luxxe features finished wood shelving, classic white walls, simple hanging lights and an exposed ceiling. The shop is small, but its level of class does not suffer from the lack of space. Art pieces were hung on the walls, but otherwise, decorations were minimal. And I like minimal. 

The shelves displayed organic lotions, soaps, etc. for sale. Working with a college student budget, unfortunately, I only sampled the lotion. 

Ashley and I both ordered iced lattes, which we later realized was not the best decision. We missed the opportunity to see their latte art. Let’s just say we were not happy campers.

However, the taste of the lattes immediately perked our moods. The espresso was incredibly creamy and smooth. It was clear that the baristas use only the best beans.

The price was higher than I usually like to pay for an iced latte, but the sapor made up for the reservations I had about paying over $5 for a small latte. 

The baristas, one of which was likely an owner, were not overly excited to talk with us. But then again, they can make an amazing latte.

This statement was posted on their website:

Our Caffe Luxxe philosophy is friendly and approachable, yet technically precise without the pretension that we’re know-it-alls.

Eh - you could do better on that, Caffe Luxxe. 

The shop, as a whole, was simple with its classic elements and minimal decorations. The coffee tasted delicious (not the best I’ve ever had, but pretty impressive). The baristas acted friendly enough, but could be more engaged. 

With the positive and negative aspects of the shop, I’d offer Caffe Luxxe a B+. I realize we don’t normally grade coffee shops, but I thought this situation called for it. So there it is.

-Allison