I've been a coffee addict my whole life and there are very few coffee shops that really know how to roast coffee and then serve it properly. Intelligentsia, however, does both those things. Their baristas are highly qualified, undergoing extensive training and competing in barista competitions throughout the nation. They are also highly regarded as having some of the best espresso and coffee in the world.... Starbucks has nothing on these guys! The Angeleno (my favorite) is a fantastic 3 shot iced latte sweetened with simple syrup and their hot lattes feature some of the most perfect latte art you will ever lay your eyes on.
The atmosphere is very modern and the store is right in the middle of Abbot Kinney so you can grab your coffee and go window shopping at the fantastic art galleries and antique stores.
Parking can be tragic after 5 pm (esp the first friday of the month, which is free liquor night on Abbot Kinney) otherwise there is parking in the back that's free and easy to find during the day.
Be prepared to wait a while for your coffee (ranging from 10-20 minutes) but you can have fun eavesdropping while you wait.
Pros: Award winning coffee and baristas
Cons: Parking at night is a bear.
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