Java Man: Best Of The Beach 2018 Independent coffee shop

Java Man’s Manuel and Jesus. Photo

If you have to meet up with someone in Hermosa Beach, and the occasion does not call for alcohol, odds are good you will meet at Java Man. Just blocks from the beach, Javaman retains the feel of a bungalow, and just about everyone manages to make themselves at home. Step inside at 9 a.m. on a random weekday, and you will hear people talking about their latest venture, reconnecting with old friends, and maybe even a local journalist conducting an interview. They hunker down with a coffee and a freshly baked pastry or one of the cafe’s much-loved breakfast burritos. But the favorite meet-up also does a booming-grab and go trade. It’s not uncommon to see a line snaking out the door as people make their way to work, a fitness class, or take a break from walking the dog. People often make fast friends as they wait for their drinks. The baristas crank out a head-spinning variety of lattes and various Italianate variations. It seems that everyone can agree on the best place to get their caffeine fix.

Java Man

157 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach

(310) 379-7209

Javamancoffeehouse.com

Runner-up: Hi-Fi Espresso

227 Pacific Coast Hwy.

Hermosa Beach

Hifiespresso.com