Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar

Venture a mere mile north of the freeway and Pasadena becomes a conifer-lined foothill community with a small town feel—much to the advantage of the area’s latest coffee destination, Lavender & Honey. Its friendly charm and namesake ingredients have found a place throughout the menu, from the espresso selection—the semi-sweet honeybee latte ($4)—to a handful of honey-drizzled toasts—the delicious peanut butter honey banana ($3). Though morning crowds can clog the entrance and indoor seating, the space stays amiable and easygoing (and with free Wi-Fi, a comfortable workspace). We suggest searching for a seat outside, whether at a shaded sidewalk table or on the side patio; a drink and a slice of toast outside, among old brick buildings and the stately San Gabriel Mountains, is one of those moments that reminds us why living here can be so wonderful.