relaxing at demitasse

Sometimes you enjoy lunch with a friend, but your need to converse lasts much longer than your need to occupy a table at a busy restaurant. On just such a recent occasion, Jane suggested that we try a new coffee shop in nearby Little Tokyo so that we could spend some time relaxing and getting caught up. Cafe Demitasse was the perfect place for such a plan. It was a warm and sunny day, so after procuring our own individual carafes of iced tea, we settled in on the patio to chat and people-watch. The patio was full of slatted wood furniture and surrounded by succulent sculptures, many of which were mounted on the walls of the building. It was a serene little spot in the midst of the busy city. The barista guided us to the best tea blends and his recommendations were spot-on!

Cafe Demitasse 135 S. San Pedro Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 613-9300

Images by Lauryl Lane.

san francisco's ferry building

The Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco is one of my favorite places to visit. The last time I was in the Bay Area, {lovah} and I scooted into the city early one morning to browse the Ferry Building and indulge in lattes at Blue Bottle and sugary treats from Miette Patisserie. Later, we met my sister Erica here for lunch since she works right across the street. With yummy sandwiches from Cow Girl Creamery in hand, we claimed a bench overlooking the bay, and watched the ferry boats coming and going. The Ferry Building is full of incredible artisan shops, delicious eats, and sweet gifts from local purveyors. Every time I visit, I discover something new. It's a true marketplace.

Ferry Building Marketplace One Ferry Building San Francisco, CA 94111 (415) 983-8030

Images by Lauryl Lane.

the proof is in the baking

Although there are many excellent choices for a morning coffee in East Los Angeles, I find myself drawn to Proof Bakery over and over again. It's a short walk from my old home in Silver Lake, in an inauspicious shopping strip in Atwater Village. Proof is rather tiny, with seating for little more than a dozen people, but it's utterly charming with it's dark walls, light floors, and marble-topped tables. I love to grab a latte (delicious!) and split a delectable chocolate croissant and a slice of quiche (the flavors are constantly changing) with my husband, whilst sitting in the window, people-watching - and occasionally waving to neighbors also out for a morning stroll. Proof Bakery is one of the many reasons I love L.A.-living, it's yummy, cozy, and totally community-driven.

Proof Bakery 3156 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90039 (323) 664-8633

Images | Styling by Lauryl Lane.

bica coffeehouse | east bay

On a recent rainy day in Oakland, {lovah} and I landed at the Bica Coffeehouse to enjoy an espresso {lovah} and a green tea {me}. It was one of those perfect days in the East Bay, chilly and wet outside, but warm and cozy inside. We sat by the window and worked on our computers (Bica has speedy, free wifi) while watching the rain pound the pavement outside. If you're in the Rockridge neighborhood and in need of a good cuppa, check out Bica.

Bica Coffeehouse 5701 College Avenue Oakland, CA 94618 (510) 350-7875

Images by Lauryl Lane.