L.A.’s hidden gem: The Alcove Café


Athanasius Georgy| Daily Trojan

Athanasius Georgy| Daily Trojan

Cafés in Los Angeles are a dime a dozen. Lunch on Melrose, drinks in Beverly Hills, coffee in Silver Lake – they’re about as common as sunshine. With so many options, how do you decide where to go? Look no further than the hidden gem in Los Angeles, The Alcove Café and Bakery.

The Alcove is archetypal L.A. Nestled near the Griffith Observatory in Los Feliz, it’s the answer to your every lunch need. Want a healthy-conscious salad that tastes like a cheat day? Want a burger with a boat-load fries? Literally – the fries are massive – the Alcove has it all.

Let’s talk décor. You feel like you’re in Alice in Wonderland. The trees, the ivy on the walls, the cobblestone, it’s as if you’re in a small village in fairy tale, yet the patio still emanates L.A. posh. Stand outside and it feels like a dream. When you applied to USC and thought of the fun you’d have in the city, pretending you’re a movie star or having lunch with some real estate magnate who offers you an internship, this is the spot you’re imagining.

Worried about money? You won’t be burning your pocket here. For what you get, it’s a great value. With great food, the coffee and tea are some of the best in town, and dessert is a must at the bakery. Their classic blackened chicken salad is what keeps people coming back. It’s a relatively hidden location and isolation from main roads makes it a hot spot for celebrities, so it won’t be uncommon to spot a famed face here and there while you’re enjoying your food.

Street parking is usually available on Hillhurst Avenue. Don’t park in the shopping center close by, you might get towed — and they do check. Valet is available at the front as well. There is always Uber as well and it is possible to Metro from campus, but you may find yourself walking and taking up time.

Next time you’re free for lunch or just want to explore L.A. with friends, check out The Alcove!

Athanasius Georgy is a sophomore majoring in economics. His column, “Food n’ Frame,” runs Tuesdays.

Athanasius Georgy | Daily Trojan

Athanasius Georgy | Daily Trojan