Sunday’s are made for doing absolutely nothing and simply slowing down.
They’re also made for praising the Lord if you can do both, but if you’re not into that then doing nothing should be just fine. As much as I love the Lord, this Sunday I couldn’t get up early enough for church. I overslept through my alarm to the point that my phone decided to give up. I don’t blame it to be honest. Once I managed to roll out of bed and look somewhat presentable to the world, I chose to start my day off with coffee in hopes that it would make me somewhat productive throughout the day. While Lavender & Honey, the Coffee Gallery, and Community Kitchen, are all in close proximity, I made my way to a place I haven’t devoted too much time to: Café de Leche.
The second, and latest, location to the Café de Leche family this coffee shop sits on the main street of Lake Avenue just a few short blocks north of Mariposa Street. Although the shop’s coordinates aren’t the most exciting, seeing it open was a day of elation back in 2016. Why? Because the small city of Altadena where I’ve grown up and currently live needed a coffee alternative to the single shop that is there now.
From the front to the back door, Café de Leche has a small interior. Seating seems to fit about six people comfortably, and four if they’re all strangers—ummm…arms distance please. Ample space can be found both in front and in the back of the shop if the weather permits. I wouldn’t suggest Café De Leche as a coffee shop to study in as there aren’t enough tables or table space inside. Instead, if you’re looking for a coffee shop in Altadena where you can stop after a hike and cool down with a newspaper or over casual conversation with friends, then sure this is the place for you.
Seating aside, the staff is in friendly and patient especially if you take a bit longer when ordering. In my case I stared back and forth over the succinct menu featuring classics, teas, specials, and cold brew beverages. With drinks that find their origin in El Salvador and Nicaragua I had no idea what to pick. To keep from wasting time I ordered something I haven’t seen before and went with a large Agave Latte ($5.46). It was a bit unfortunate that this location doesn’t sell food for guests to order, like a loaf or small sandwich, but I was sure that the latte would be able to stand well on its own. Turns out, I was right! It was incredibly refreshing and lightweight and didn’t lean too heavily on a sharp espresso aftertaste. That could be thanks to the extra agave (five pumps instead of three) that I asked to have increased. The blend of it all created a drink with such an easygoing flavor that I was beyond elated that I went with this choice over anything else.
While there isn’t much more to discuss about Café de Leche aside from the location, staff, and the single agave latte, I am glad that I made my way into the shop today. I spent only a few minutes in the space, but in that time I found a new drink to add to my list of favorites near my home. Since Café de Leche will serve primarily as a grab-and-go shop for me I will actively visit them on days when I don’t plan on lingering. This Sunday was the type of day where I needed something to propel me for the following hours was a perfect example and most likely, won’t be the last.
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Address: 2477 Lake Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Phone: (626) 807-2900
Hours: Daily – 7:00am to 4:00pm
Social: Website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
