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Alcove Cafe & Bakery
Master Critic Reviews (5 Lists)
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
7.9
Since 2004, this cottage-style café housed in two historic bungalows has served updated American classics in a garden patio setting. The all-day menu spans from hearty breakfast items to wood-fired dinner entrées, complemented by in-house chocolate and a full bar next door at Big Bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Alcove Benedict, Short Rib Sandwich, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Historic bungalows with enchanting garden patio near Griffith Park
Who should go: Families, couples, dog owners seeking all-day dining
When to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend brunch crowds
What to order: Eggs Benedict, artisan baked goods, Big Bar cocktails
Insider tip: Grab house-made chocolate bars while waiting for your table
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Vermont Ave and side streets, typically easier to find weekday mornings. Small lot behind restaurant fills quickly during brunch rush. Consider nearby residential streets.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - Los Feliz neighborhood vibe. Jeans and nice top work perfectly, sundresses and polos common. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate indoors, quieter on patio - easy conversation in garden seating, more energetic inside during peak brunch hours. Good for dates and catch-ups.
Weekend wait: 20-30 min Friday/Saturday evenings without reservation, walk-ins usually accommodated
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait weekdays, 10-15 min during peak brunch hours (10am-1pm weekends)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong options including veggie benedicts, salads, grain bowls, and meat-free pasta dishes. Bakery has many vegetarian treats.
Vegan options: Limited but available - oatmeal, avocado toast (no cheese), salads without dairy. Staff accommodating with modifications. Better for vegetarians.
Gluten-free options: Yes - GF bread available for sandwiches and toasts, several naturally GF entrees. Bakery has limited GF pastries. Inform server of allergies.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially for daytime dates - the garden patio creates romantic ambiance without being overly formal. Brunch or early dinner works well. Can get loud inside on weekends, so request patio seating for better conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, usually no problem. Weekend brunch (Sat-Sun 9am-2pm) expect 30-45 min waits without reservation. Dinner is easier. Best strategy: arrive right at opening (8am weekends) or go weekday mornings. Bar seating sometimes available.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - high chairs available, kids menu with classics like pancakes and grilled cheese. Garden patio gives kids space to move. Popular with families, especially weekend brunch. Gets busy so be patient with service.
Can I bring my dog? Yes - patio is dog-friendly with water bowls provided. One of the best dog-friendly brunch spots in Los Feliz. Busy weekends mean tight quarters, so best for well-behaved dogs comfortable around activity.
Is the bakery separate from the restaurant? Bakery items available at the restaurant - you'll see the display case. Can purchase pastries, breads, and house-made chocolates to go while waiting for your table or after your meal. Big Bar next door is separate.
How's the coffee? Good quality coffee program - espresso drinks well-executed, regular coffee solid. Not third-wave specialty level but better than typical brunch spot. Pairs well with their bakery items.
Best For
Better for: All-day dining with garden ambiance - best when you want reliable American food in a charming outdoor setting. Stronger than competitors for groups mixing dietary needs, dog-friendly brunch, and families wanting quality over trendy. The historic bungalow setting and mature patio gardens create atmosphere chain brunch spots can't match.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine or intimate quiet dining. If you're seeking innovative chef-driven menus, try Kismet or All Time nearby. For quieter date nights, head to Osteria la Buca. Weekend brunch warriors seeking no-wait Instagram spots might prefer HomeState, though Alcove's quality and ambiance justify the occasional wait.
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
8.2
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Brunch Bliss Spots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Los Feliz institution set in two historic bungalows with a garden patio perfect for weekday business lunches. The menu spans American classics from benedicts with Meyer lemon hollandaise to lamb burgers with kalamata and rosemary, while the adjacent Big Bar serves craft cocktails. The atmosphere strikes a balance between professional and relaxed, making it ideal for casual client meetings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Cake Benedict, Lamb Burger with Kalamata, Alcove Burger
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Historic bungalow setting with one of LA's best garden patios
Who should go: Professionals seeking relaxed outdoor lunch meetings
When to visit: Weekdays 11am-2pm to avoid weekend crowds
What to order: Crab cake benedict, lamb burger, anything from bakery case
Insider tip: Weekday lunch is far more mellow than chaotic weekend brunch
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Vermont and side streets, free after 6pm. Small lot adjacent to restaurant fills quickly at peak times.
Dress code: Business casual to smart casual - jeans acceptable but the lunch crowd skews professional
Noise level: Moderate indoors, quiet on patio - conducive to business conversations without shouting
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday-Saturday evenings
Weekday lunch: Typically seated within 10 minutes, patio fills 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including veggie Benedict, grain bowls, and multiple salads
Vegan options: Moderate selection - avocado toast, grain bowls (specify no cheese), select salads
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free bread available, several naturally GF options, kitchen accommodates requests
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for daytime dates - the garden patio creates romantic ambiance for brunch or lunch. Dinner works but lacks the intimate lighting of traditional date spots.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch: yes, usually fine. Weekend brunch: risky - 30+ min waits common 10am-2pm. Book ahead for parties of 4+.
Is it kid-friendly? Very welcoming for children - spacious patio gives kids room to move, diverse menu pleases picky eaters, weekend brunch sees many families.
How long should I plan for a business lunch? Budget 75-90 minutes total. Service is attentive but not rushed, portions are substantial, and the setting encourages lingering conversations.
Is the bakery case worth it? Absolutely - their pastries rival dedicated bakeries. Arrive early for best selection or order a slice of cake to go for later.
Best For
Better for: Outdoor business lunches with clients who appreciate charm over corporate sterility. The historic setting and garden patio offer sophistication without stuffiness, plus the quality-to-price ratio beats hotel restaurants.
Skip if: You need absolute quiet for sensitive discussions (weekend brunch energy), want cutting-edge cuisine (menu is reliable not revolutionary), or require formal white-tablecloth ambiance for conservative clients.
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
8.1
Two historic bungalows converted into essential all-day cafe with garden patios and Big Bar attached. House-roasted coffee, artisan baked goods, and updated American classics served from breakfast to late night with consistently strong dessert program and maple-glazed ham benedict.
Must-Try Dishes:
Benedict with Maple-Glazed Ham, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, French Vanilla Rum Cake
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: One of LA's most essential everyday cafes with perfect patio atmosphere
Who should go: Anyone needing versatile neighborhood spot for any occasion
When to visit: Anytime—it works for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert
What to order: Benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, french vanilla rum cake
Insider tip: Big Bar next door offers solid wine list and craft cocktails
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Vermont Ave or surrounding residential streets. Moderate difficulty - easier before 11am or after 3pm on weekdays. Small lot behind building fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual neighborhood vibe - jeans, sundresses, athleisure all common. Los Feliz creative crowd means anything goes.
Noise level: Moderate indoors, quiet on patios - easy conversation throughout. Gets livelier during weekend brunch but never overwhelming.
Weekend wait: 20-30 min wait typical Friday/Saturday 7-9pm. Patio fills first. Big Bar next door good for waiting.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait except Monday lunch when other spots closed. Can usually grab patio table within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - multiple egg dishes, salads, grain bowls, veggie sandwiches. Ricotta pancakes are vegetarian highlight.
Vegan options: Moderate - avocado toast, grain bowls, some salads can be modified. Not extensive but staff accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes - GF bread available for sandwiches and toast, several naturally GF options. Bakery items not GF but savory menu flexible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for daytime first dates - garden patio is romantic without being too intimate, noise level allows conversation, and casual vibe takes pressure off. Evening also works but feels more neighborhood-hangout than date-night special.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for most times. Best bet is weekday breakfast/lunch or arriving before 10am weekends. Saturday/Sunday 10am-2pm expect 20-40 min wait. They don't take reservations for parties under 6, so everyone's walk-in during brunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - outdoor patios give kids space to move around, menu has pancakes and simpler options, and neighborhood vibe means families are common especially weekend mornings. High chairs available. Gets louder during brunch so fussy babies blend in.
How's the coffee here? Excellent - they roast their own beans on-site. Espresso drinks are consistently strong, drip coffee is fresh and well-balanced. Coffee quality on par with specialty LA cafes, not just good 'for a restaurant.'
Can I work here on my laptop? Yes during off-peak hours (2-5pm weekdays). Free WiFi, plenty of outlets at certain tables. Gets too busy mornings/weekends for camping out, and staff may give gentle hints during rushes. Not a true work-cafe but occasional laptop use welcomed.
Best For
Better for: All-day versatility - works equally well for solo coffee, family brunch, friend lunch, or casual date. Garden patio is prettier than most neighborhood competitors. Desserts significantly better than typical brunch spots. Connected to Big Bar for post-dinner drinks.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine or trendy scene - this is reliably excellent but not innovative. Skip for business meetings (too casual) or if you need guaranteed seating weekend mornings without waiting. Better trendy brunch options exist in Silver Lake, better refined brunch in West Hollywood.
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
7.9
Garden-patio institution housed in historic bungalows serving updated American classics all day. The expansive menu balances breakfast comfort food with healthier options, anchored by exceptional house-baked goods and an inviting covered patio perfect for lingering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Alcove Benedict with Meyer Lemon Hollandaise, Country Breakfast, Chopped Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: One of LA's most essential cafes with perfect garden patio in historic bungalows
Who should go: Anyone seeking a calming, versatile neighborhood gathering spot
When to visit: Weekday breakfast for quieter experience, weekend brunch gets busy
What to order: Alcove Benedict, lemon ricotta pancakes, any bakery item
Insider tip: Despite crowds, the space maintains a remarkably calming atmosphere
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant plus street parking - surprisingly easy for Los Feliz
Dress code: Casual neighborhood vibe - yoga pants to sundresses all welcome
Noise level: Surprisingly calm despite crowds - covered patio absorbs sound well
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - multiple egg dishes, salads, grain bowls, veggie scrambles
Vegan options: Good options - avocado toast, oatmeal, salads (ask about dressings)
Gluten-free options: Yes - GF bread available, several naturally GF options like egg plates
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for daytime first dates - the garden setting is romantic but not overly intimate, conversation flows easily, and the relaxed vibe takes pressure off. Skip for evening dates (closes early).
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don't take reservations - first come, first served. Arrive before 9:30am or after 2pm on weekends to minimize wait. The patio seating turns over regularly so waits move faster than expected.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - spacious patio gives kids room to move, highchairs available, and menu has simple options (pancakes, scrambled eggs). Weekend mornings see lots of families. The noise level means no stress about loud toddlers.
Good for solo dining? Excellent for solo - plenty of single diners reading or working, bar seating available, and the patio setting makes lingering feel natural rather than awkward.
Can I work here on my laptop? Weekday mornings yes - WiFi available, spacious tables, and relaxed atmosphere. Weekends get too busy to camp out. They're respectful but will nudge you along if there's a wait.
Best For
Better for: Choose Alcove when you want a calming patio atmosphere with reliable all-day menu and exceptional baked goods - it's more serene than Little Dom's, more polished than Los Feliz 3, and far more spacious than Cafe Stella
Skip if: You want cutting-edge brunch creativity (try Sqirl), need dinner service, or prefer trendy scene over established neighborhood comfort
Alcove Cafe & Bakery
8.3
Two historic bungalows create an essential Los Feliz gathering spot with umbrella-shaded brick courtyards serving elevated American cafe fare from morning through late night. Known for creative benedicts, lamb burgers, and house-made Alcove chocolate, it's where the neighborhood comes to breathe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Alcove Benedict with Meyer lemon hollandaise, Lamb burger with kalamata olives, Lemon ricotta pancakes
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Perfect patio atmosphere with house-made baked goods and Big Bar cocktails
Who should go: Patio seekers, brunch enthusiasts, dog owners
When to visit: Weekday mornings or late night dessert runs
What to order: Any benedict, smashed rosemary potatoes, house chocolate bars
Insider tip: Adjacent Big Bar has themed cocktail menus and same great patio
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hillhurst or side streets - easier mornings/afternoons, challenging evenings. Small lot behind building fits ~8 cars.
Dress code: Casual Los Feliz style - jeans, sundresses, athleisure all work. No one's judging your brunch outfit.
Noise level: Pleasantly conversational on patios, livelier inside during rush. Can always hear your dining partner.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min for patio tables Fri-Sat evenings, inside seats faster. Big Bar next door absorbs some overflow.
Weekday lunch: Walk right in most days, 10-15 min wait at peak brunch hours (10am-noon Sat-Sun)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options - veggie benedicts, grain bowls, multiple salads. Pastry case is vegetarian paradise.
Vegan options: Possible but limited - avocado toast (no cheese), some salads modified, oatmeal. Call ahead for specials.
Gluten-free options: Dedicated GF bread available, several naturally GF options. Kitchen accommodates but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic patio setting without stuffy formality, conversation-friendly noise level, and broad menu reduces ordering pressure. Daytime dates especially shine here. Evening shifts toward neighborhood hangout energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for most visits - they hold plenty of walk-in capacity. Weekday breakfast/lunch is easy. Weekend brunch (10am-2pm) expect 20-40 min waits for patio. Inside tables turn faster. Tuesday-Thursday evenings are your safest bet.
Is it kid-friendly? Very welcoming for families - spacious patio layout, simple menu options kids like (pancakes, grilled cheese), relaxed vibe absorbs kid energy. Stroller-accessible. Best before 7pm when it shifts more adult.
Best For
Better for: All-day versatility (breakfast through late night), patio ambiance that feels special but approachable, and house-made bakery items you can't get elsewhere. The neighborhood living room vibe is unmatched in Los Feliz.
Skip if: You want adventurous/cutting-edge cuisine, need guaranteed immediate seating on weekend mornings, or prefer intimate/quiet dining. Also skip if you're anti-patio - that's 70% of the appeal here.