Story originally published February 2021; updated June 2026
STUDIO CITY, CA
Coffee and Plants attracts social media butterflies as if the flowers on the beautiful faux-flora backdrop truly smell of sweet nectar. Romeo, Cruz, and I watched visitors stage, pose, and smile. Of course, just moments before, we had our own mini shoot. And the lone barista kindly obliged us all.
It was a quiet Monday afternoon. Still, friends and families gathered around the bistro tables accented with fresh red roses and the golden light of a sinking sun. Nearly every black-and-white wicker seat was taken. I felt grateful. Seeing so many people support Coffee and Plants and other vegan small businesses sets my heart aflutter, which happens more often than you’d think. These compassionate projects are popping up at a speed I can’t keep up with anymore.
When I started this blog nearly ten years ago, my mission was to visit every all-vegan restaurant in the world. At the time it seemed feasible. Now it’s impossible. Pretty awesome, huh?
Photo snapped at the old Pasadena location. Coffee and Plants is open in LA’s Studio City only, 7 am to 6 pm daily
MANIFESTING A DREAM
While prepping a new Community post, I like to do a little research. It’s usually as simple as scouring the business’s website, social feeds, and media coverage. So half the time I know what I’m going to order before I even step through the front door.
Well, for Coffee and Plants, I went back to their earliest Instagram posts. I learned that Leona Lewis is one of three creators who dreamed up the adorable little shop. The drop-dead gorgeous singer/songwriter/actress/model/businesswoman happens to be a big deal in the vegan community. As if all her hard work and talent weren’t admirable enough, she’s also an activist, supporting groups like Mercy For Animals.
Once the awe of my celebrity sighting wore off, I paid closer attention to the enterprising trio’s development process, shared via small glimpses @cofeeandplantsla. Like a jolt of caffeine, an eternal truth struck me. Here was a perfect example of our ability to transform things imagined into reality. They wanted to combine their love for rich, artisanal roasts and plants… They did. They wanted storefront perfection… They got it. They wanted a peaceful getaway in the middle of the city… They built it.
Leona, Dennis, and AC didn’t stop dreaming after Coffee and Plants opened in 2019. Visit more than once and you’re bound to have a new experience every time; the menu and romantic, decorative touches change with the seasons.
ASPIRING TO GIVE MORE THAN THEY TAKE
Promisingly, their vision reaches even further into the future. For every 100 cups served (the cups are exceptionally chic BTW), Coffee and Plants plants one tree through their partnership with the National Forest Foundation. 🌲✨
THE MENU: PLANT-BASED AND FUNCTIONAL
Traditional coffee enthusiasts will find espressos, cortados, lattes, and a signature drip at the top of the list. Then you’ll see what they call “functional” drinks—beauty and wellness made sweet and sippable.
☕ Collagen Latte: glowing skin, creamy, restorative
☕ Ashwaghanda Latte: adaptogenic, restorative, smooth
☕ Blue Lavender Latte: floral, calming, smooth
☕ Chagaccino: adaptogenic, earthy, focus
Honestly, I have no idea WTF adaptogenic means. In case you need a refresher too…
adaptogen (n): a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body’s ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning
A creature of habit, I ordered a vanilla latte. The boys split a puppuccino: coconut whip and a doggie biscuit. Cruz turned two the day before our visit, and we were still celebrating his birthday. 💙
The indulgence doesn’t stop at drinks. Behind a glass case, flaky croissants, moist cupcakes, donuts sprinkled with sugar, and chewy cookies sit atop lovely pedestals, eagerly waiting for someone to take a bite. I also spied muffins in fancy flavors like Coconut Cocoa Swirl, Blueberry Poppy, and Almond Butter Cherry. New to the menu are more savory and satisfying options: Avocado Tartine, Coconut Bacon + Egg Tartine, and Egg + Cheese Croissant.
The indulgence doesn’t stop at pastries either. Some of the plants can be taken home. Tiny cacti, heart-shaped succulents, and lush, leafy plants in painted pots and woven baskets stand pretty beside books like How to Raise a House Plant and Make It Love You Back.
Stop by to see what other goodies they have for sale. It’s a charming place for a coffee and a daydream. Now I leave you with flowery words of wisdom from @coffeeandplantsla. 🌼
Wherever life plants you, bloom with grace.
