The Making of Latte Art: Inside LA’s Most Artistic Lattes

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Thanks to Instagram, every meal can be (and often is) a work of art. Snapping a breakfast pic and hashtagging it #TrueArt might be a little (or a lot) annoying in 98 percent of cases, but when it comes to latte art, well that potentially-cringey hashtag rings true, and Los Angeles has some of the best latte art in the world. Here’s a guide to the most artistic lattes in the City of Angels.

Carrera Café, located in West Hollywood, does something truly incredible when it comes to latte art—they put patrons’ faces on their drinks. No kidding. Guests might come for the infinitely-Instagrammable gimmick, but they’ll fall in love with the charming European-style café and its delicious food and drink options. Also, it’s worth reiterating: they literally print people’s faces in latte art form.

Intelligentsia is the epitome of “LA Hype”—and with good reason. No one survives a year in Los Angeles without hearing at least one rave review about the beloved coffee chain. In addition to serving up some of the most amazing brews in LA, the latte art at Intelligentsia is a SoCal classic worthy of any proud Angeleno’s Instagram grid.

Rubies + Diamonds is one of the chicest coffee shops in Los Angeles. Located in the heart of Hollywood, R+D is as luxurious as its name suggests. The décor includes chandeliers and comfy spaces to lounge for hours. The staff is also prepared to adorn customers’ lattes with decorative and delightful designs.

The Urth Caffé is an LA landmark. It’s the go-to spot for lovers of organic, health-conscious coffee and delicious baked goods. The Los Angeles hot-spot offers tasty fare and gorgeous and unique latte art. From latte leaves to blooming flowers, Urth’s baristas regularly enchant guests with their latte art.

The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker is one of Los Angeles’ hottest cafés. The European-influenced café offers fresh-baked goods, specialty coffee beverages, craft cocktails, and a comprehensive wine list (this place is most definitely not just a coffee shop). The impressive menu features seasonal, local, farm-fresh ingredients and the café serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. In addition to all of that? The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker puts out some of the most impressive and memorable latte art in LA (or maybe the world). The colorful (yes—this art comes in full color) creations beg to be photographed.