Cafe Dulce

134 Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Reviewed by Chris JordanSeptember 2025

Location

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Overall Score Score: 8.3 out of 10
8.3
Overall Score
Coffee Score: 8 out of 10
8.0
Coffee
Atmosphere Score: 8.5 out of 10
8.5
Atmosphere
Service Score: 8 out of 10
8.0
Service
Vibe Score8.0 / 10

The Story

Born in the heart of Little Tokyo, this cafe set out to bridge cultures through creative pastries and thoughtfully crafted drinks. Over the years, it has become a community anchor, drawing regulars and visitors alike with its inventive menu and warm, inclusive spirit. Its signature donuts and matcha lattes have earned citywide acclaim, helping to define the neighborhood’s culinary identity. The cafe continues to inspire with a mission to celebrate diversity and bring people together over great coffee and food.

Craft & Expertise

Baristas here are well-versed in both classic espresso techniques and playful specialty drinks, such as the Vietnamese iced coffee and matcha latte. Beans are sourced from respected local roasters, ensuring balanced, flavorful brews every time. The presentation is thoughtful, with drinks served in sturdy glassware or to-go cups that keep flavors intact. Seating is casual and communal, ranging from window counters to outdoor tables, making it easy to settle in with a pastry and a pour-over. The food menu, especially the mochi donuts and green tea pastries, complements the coffee beautifully.

What Sets This Cafe Apart

A standout feature is the inventive fusion of Asian-inspired pastries with specialty coffee, offering treats rarely found elsewhere in Los Angeles. The cafe’s location in Japanese Village Plaza gives it an authentic neighborhood feel, while its ever-changing menu keeps regulars coming back. Its commitment to quality and creativity shines through in both the drinks and the food, making each visit a new experience. The vibrant atmosphere and cultural blend make it a memorable stop for anyone exploring Little Tokyo.