Bonsai Coffee Bar in West LA’s Sawtelle neighborhood is a hybrid cafe and bar offering a mix of daytime productivity and evening relaxation. Known for its Andytown Coffee and Kyoto-sourced Ippodo matcha, it features unique drinks like the Bonsai Latte and Matcha-Tini, alongside Asian-inspired food options. Here's a quick rundown:
- Location: 11573 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
- Hours:
- Coffee: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM daily
- Bar: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM (Thu–Sat)
- Delivery: 7:00 AM–3:30 PM daily
- Parking: Free on-site garage and street parking available.
- Menu Highlights:
- Drinks: Cream Top Vietnamese Coffee, Tiramisu Latte, MATCHA x MATCHA ($8.62), Dirty Taro Latte
- Food: Bacon Breakfast Burrito ($17.25), Spam and Egg Bun, Red Bean Mochi Buns
- Ambiance: Two-story space with laptop-friendly zones, communal seating, and a cozy evening lounge vibe.
Visit for quality drinks, work-friendly features, or evening cocktails.
Bonsai Coffee Bar Quick Reference Guide: Hours, Menu Prices & Top Drinks
Location and Hours
Knowing Bonsai's convenient location and operating hours can help you make the most of your visit.
Address and Neighborhood
You’ll find Bonsai Coffee Bar at 11573 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025, right at the corner of Santa Monica Blvd and Federal Ave. Nestled in West LA's Sawtelle Japantown, the area is a hotspot for Japanese restaurants and unique shops.
The coffee bar is located next to BLICK Art Materials at Santa Monica Blvd and Colby Ave. For drivers, there’s free on-site garage parking (look for the first driveway on Federal Ave). During busier times, street parking on Colby Ave is another option. If you’re using public transit, Santa Monica Blvd is well-served by multiple Los Angeles Metro bus lines.
Operating Hours
Bonsai offers a dynamic schedule that shifts from a cozy coffee shop by day to a lively bar by night:
- Coffee shop: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM daily
- Bar (Thu–Sat evenings): 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Delivery (via Uber Eats): 7:00 AM–3:30 PM daily
The shop is cashless, so be sure to bring a credit card or use Apple Pay. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to work or relax, arriving early is a good idea - mornings and afternoons can get busy, especially with the college crowd. With clear hours and parking options, visiting Bonsai is hassle-free.
Menu: Coffee, Matcha, and Food
Bonsai's menu reflects the cafe's lively vibe, offering drinks that fuel productivity during the day and spark conversations at night. With a creative mix of Asian-inspired flavors and espresso, the menu seamlessly blends tradition with a modern twist.
Specialty Coffees and Beverages
The Bonsai Latte is a fan favorite, pairing matcha with espresso, milk, and simple syrup. Customers often rave about its balanced flavor.
One unique feature is the Cream Top - a sweet sea salt cream that adds a savory-sweet twist to drinks like the Cream Top Vietnamese Coffee, made with slow-drip coffee and condensed milk. This drink boasts a 91% positive rating.
Dessert-inspired drinks like the Tiramisu Latte (95% satisfaction) and Biscoff Cookie Latte, topped with cookie crumbles, showcase the cafe’s knack for inventive flavors. Other highlights include the Okinawa Latte, featuring Okinawa black sugar, and the Dirty Taro Latte, which combines espresso with sweet taro puree. Specialty drinks are priced around $8.62, while classic options like Americanos ($4.88) and Cappuccinos ($5.75) cater to traditional tastes.
For those seeking variety, Bonsai doesn’t stop at coffee. Their matcha and non-coffee drinks are just as impressive.
Matcha and Non-Coffee Drinks
Bonsai has earned a reputation as one of Los Angeles' go-to spots for matcha lovers. The MATCHA x MATCHA ($8.62) layers an iced matcha latte with a signature sweet sea salt matcha cream, delivering a rich, creamy experience. For a fruity twist, options like Strawberry Matcha ($9.20), Mango Matcha, and Sparkling Yuzu Matcha bring refreshing flavors to the table.
Other notable drinks include the Hojicha Latte ($7.47), made with roasted green tea and brown sugar, and the Moonlit Taro, which offers a milkshake-like sweetness with taro puree. Tea lovers can enjoy selections like Yuzu Honey Tea ($5.75), Hibiscus Iced Tea, Peach Oolong, and Chai Lattes ($6.32). Most drinks can be customized with oat or almond milk.
Food Options
The food menu offers a tempting mix of Asian-inspired breakfast items and savory bites. The Bacon Breakfast Burrito ($17.25), served with tater tots and avocado, is a hearty option. Other savory choices include the Spam and Egg Bun, Curry Pork Bun, and a variety of banh mi sandwiches.
For those with a sweet tooth, the menu features treats like Red Bean Mochi Buns, Taro Mochi Buns, Ube and Corn Flake Brownies, and chocolate croissants. While many savory pastries include meat, the plain croissant is the go-to vegetarian option. Bonsai Coffee Bar has garnered a 4.6/5 rating from over 300 reviews on major delivery platforms.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
By day, Bonsai functions as a sleek, Asian-inspired cafe. But come Thursday through Saturday evenings, it shifts gears into a dimly lit lounge serving soju and sake-based cocktails. This seamless transformation creates a space that caters to both productivity and relaxation, perfectly aligning with Bonsai's dual-purpose concept.
"The cozy space is usually packed with laptops and people working on their thesis drafts. But at night, it transforms. The lights get dimmer... and the tables fill with boozy, dessert-esque cocktails." - Cathy Park, Senior Staff Writer, The Infatuation
Let’s dive into how the design and layout make this dual ambiance work so effortlessly.
Interior Design and Layout
Bonsai’s interior spans two stories, showcasing a clean and minimalist aesthetic. The space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate both work and leisure. High-top seating near power outlets makes it ideal for those looking to get things done, while specific laptop-free zones encourage conversation and relaxation.
During the day, upbeat pop music sets the tone, though it can get loud enough that noise-canceling earbuds might come in handy for those deep in focus. As evening falls, the vibe shifts. The lighting dims, and hip-hop music takes over, creating a cozy, lounge-like atmosphere.
Indoor and Outdoor Seating
The two-story layout, bathed in natural light from large windows, offers a variety of seating options to suit different needs. Whether you prefer bar-style high tops, round tables, or communal seating, there’s a spot for everyone - perfect for solo work sessions or casual meetups.
Although Bonsai occupies a corner location, the focus is on its spacious indoor setup rather than outdoor patio seating. The interior adapts effortlessly to its patrons' needs, whether they’re settling in for a productive afternoon, catching up with friends over coffee, or enjoying cocktails as the evening sets in.
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Amenities: Wi‑Fi, Parking, and Accessibility
Wi‑Fi and Work‑Friendly Features
Stay connected with Wi‑Fi options tailored to your needs. You can choose between the standard "Guest" network or the faster "Loyalty" network, which requires a code provided on your receipt. Keep in mind, though, that Wi‑Fi access is limited to two hours per purchase and supports up to two devices. If you need more time online, an additional purchase will be necessary.
For those planning to work remotely, you'll appreciate the abundance of power outlets. They’re conveniently located under the bar, at high-top seating, and near round tables. The spacious layout makes it a comfortable spot for working, though the lively background music might have you reaching for noise-canceling headphones.
The café isn’t just about digital convenience - it’s also thoughtfully designed to ensure physical accessibility for all visitors.
Parking and Accessibility
Parking here is hassle-free. You’ll find free parking, including a reserved garage conveniently located near Federal Avenue. There’s also street parking available in the surrounding area, but spots tend to fill up quickly during busy hours.
Accessibility is another priority at this café. The space is wheelchair accessible, though navigating during peak times might require a bit of patience due to the crowd. Restrooms are clean and well-kept, with two stalls available in each. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a longer visit, the amenities are designed to make your experience as smooth as possible.
Matcha Classes and Events
Matcha Workshops
Bonsai Coffee Bar brings together tradition and modern flair with its immersive Matcha Whisking Experience. This workshop is perfect for anyone eager to dive into the world of Japanese green tea. You'll learn about different types of matcha, their health perks, and the proper techniques for sifting and whisking.
"Join us for an immersive Matcha Whisking Experience, where you'll discover the art and science behind this powerful Japanese green tea." - Bonsai Coffee Bar
The workshop provides all the tools you’ll need, and participants get to create their own matcha latte, served alongside themed treats. Class schedules are updated monthly on the 8th, but keep in mind that spots can fill up quickly or sessions may be temporarily unavailable. Check the official website for the latest updates. If classes are full, you can join the waitlist to receive notifications via text or email when openings arise. Want a guaranteed spot? Organize a private workshop for groups of 12 or more, starting at $500, by reaching out to info@bonsaicoffeebar.com.
In addition to these engaging workshops, Bonsai extends its cultural vibe through community-centered events.
Community Events
Bonsai’s spacious 2,000-square-foot venue serves as a hub for community gatherings. From private celebrations to corporate events, the space is versatile and welcoming. If you’re interested in hosting your own event in this inviting setting, contact the team directly at info@bonsaicoffeebar.com.
Conclusion
Bonsai Coffee Bar stands out by combining creativity and quality in every cup. With premium ingredients like Ippodo matcha sourced from Kyoto and Andytown Coffee from San Francisco, their offerings are nothing short of exceptional. Drinks such as the Pandan Coconut Matcha and Dirty Taro Lattes bring bold, Asian-inspired flavors to the table, while their signature cream top - a sweet, sea-salt foam - has become a fan favorite. As customer Debbie P. shared, "There is no better place! High quality matcha artfully made. Honestly my day is not the same without their Bonsai Latte with honey lavender!". These carefully crafted creations make Bonsai Coffee Bar a standout spot in West LA.
Whether you're looking for a cozy workspace, one-of-a-kind matcha drinks, or a lively place to relax with cocktails, Bonsai Coffee Bar has something for everyone. With over 300 reviews and a 4.6/5 rating, this is the place to experience the unique cream top and see how owners Tommy and Yani have shaped one of West LA's most talked-about destinations.
FAQs
What are the most popular drinks at Bonsai Coffee Bar in Los Angeles?
Bonsai Coffee Bar has built a reputation for its inventive matcha drinks that keep customers coming back for more. Some crowd favorites include the pistachio matcha, pandan-coconut matcha, mango matcha, strawberry matcha, and the sea-salt-cream-topped matcha latte. Each drink stands out with its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation, making them as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
For those who lean toward coffee, the Vietnamese iced coffee with its rich, creamy foam top is a must-try. Another highlight is the hojicha latte, a roasted green tea latte that offers a smooth, slightly nutty flavor with just the right touch of sweetness. These drinks are perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of Bonsai Coffee Bar’s menu.
What’s the vibe like at Bonsai Coffee Bar during the day versus at night?
During the day, Bonsai Coffee Bar is a haven for those seeking a relaxed and inviting space to work or study. With its spacious, Asian-inspired interior bathed in natural light, it’s easy to see why so many patrons settle in with their laptops. Signature drinks like the matcha latte or the pistachio matcha are popular choices, adding a delicious touch to the calm, focused atmosphere. Whether you're tackling a project or simply taking a break, the vibe here is perfect for staying productive or unwinding with a warm cup in hand.
As the sun sets, Bonsai Coffee Bar undergoes a striking transformation. The lights dim, creating a cozy and intimate setting, while a curated playlist featuring artists like Tyga adds energy to the air. The crowd shifts gears, swapping coffee for cocktails and creative boozy drinks, making it a lively spot for evening gatherings. Bonsai seamlessly transitions from a tranquil daytime café to a vibrant nighttime bar, all while retaining its signature bonsai-inspired aesthetic.
Does Bonsai Coffee Bar host any events or workshops?
Bonsai Coffee Bar is more than just a spot for coffee - it’s a hub for learning and community. They host a range of events and workshops, catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner curious about the basics, want to get your hands dirty in a repotting session, or are an experienced enthusiast aiming to refine your techniques, there’s something for everyone.
Planning a special gathering? They also offer private event options, making it a great choice for group celebrations or unique get-togethers. Be sure to check their schedule to find an event that matches your interests!
