Orange County: Best Instagrammable Coffee Shops
There’s nothing better than a coffee shop that creates delicious drinks along with amazing aesthetics. I love trying new coffees and teas and often visit smaller shops in order to switch up my regular morning routine. However, sometimes these smaller coffee shops focus more on the aesthetics than the actual drinks.
As much as I appreciate a cute design, I prefer a quality drink if I’m paying a little bit extra. Because unfortunately, sometimes Starbucks has better coffees than some of these hyped up, insta-worthy shops.
So, after visiting several coffee shops around Orange County, I’ve put together a list of the best Instagrammable coffee shops that actually serve tasty drinks!
Check out Part 2 here!
Daydream Coffee
Newport Beach
Recommendation: Rose Cardamom Latte
Daydream is at the top of my list due to the chill atmosphere and friendly staff. When I was looking at the coffee menu, I just couldn’t decide what to get. Like most places, Daydream has your typical espresso drinks- nothing too fancy or over the top. And only a few other specialty lattes and teas.
At the time, I didn’t want anything too bitter or plain. So, when I asked for a recommendation, the barista pointed out the Rose Cardamom Latte. I was extremely hesitant because floral flavors always taste like soap to me. The barista reassured me that it wasn’t too floral and if I didn’t like it, he would make me another drink. Well, it was delicious! Not too floral, not too sweet. The perfect balance of flavors, but still obviously a coffee drink. I am still dreaming about this latte months later!
Morning Lavender
Tustin
Recommendation: Iced Frosted Mint Latte (with oat milk)
The perfect spot to go with friends! Morning Lavender is the cutest combination of boutique and cafe, decked out with flowers in every corner. Mornings tend to be quite busy and crowded, so I recommend going in the afternoon if possible, but at least you can browse the shop as you wait for your drink to be made.
There’s so many options to choose from between coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more! For something a little different, try the Iced Frosted Mint Latte. The mint makes for a smooth and refreshing drink that isn’t too overpowering. Surprisingly, this coffee drink is even better than a peppermint mocha! Plus, you don’t have to wait until the holidays to grab a mint latte.
Bonus: Enjoy a tea party with friends on the weekend! You can reserve Tea Services for Saturday or Sunday between 10am and 3:30pm.
Frame Coffee
Fullerton
Recommendation: Spanish Latte
A quiet gem along the main road. Whenever I’ve passed Frame Coffee, I never knew if it was actually open or not. Parking isn’t that noticeable and there’s never too many cars in front of the building. However, it is worth stopping by for both the coffee and peaceful aesthetics!
There aren’t too many coffee shops in the area that offer good Spanish Lattes (also known as Café con Leche) It’s perfect for when you’re craving something a little more bittersweet since it is not as sugary as a regular syrup-flavored latte, but sweeter than a plain latte. Try it iced or hot at Frame Coffee.
Modern Times Cafe (CLOSED)
Anaheim
Recommendation: Vanilla Cold Brew Latte
Feel right at home when you enter Modern Times. This cozy little spot feels as if you never left the living room to get your daily dose of caffeine. It's quite a charming house with it's eclectic interior and warm atmosphere.
Sometimes you just have to keep it simple, which is why I'm recommending the Vanilla Cold Brew! It was smooth, delicious, and a great balance of flavors. I did go back and try the Spiced Maple Brown Sugar Latte, but honestly it just fell flat in terms of flavor. So stick to the vanilla! All of the lattes are served with almond or oat milk.
Bonus: Modern Times is also a brewery, restaurant, and swim club! While the café is open in the morning, all other aspects of the property open up in the afternoon.
The San Diego location is still open.
Herst Coffee Roasters
Newport Beach
Recommendation: Masala Chai
Delicious coffees with no fuss, but still such a beautiful place to sit down and enjoy a nice cup of coffee. Herst Coffee Roasters is simple, sleek, and straightforward. Perfect for those who love a more minimal aesthetic!
A tea recommendation at a coffee shop? Well, it's the only place I've discovered that creates an actual spiced chai that isn't overly sweet. Both hot and iced versions are equally remarkable and it's a great option for when you want to try something different. If you're still looking for that coffee fix though, try the Cortado with a pump of simple syrup!