What.A.Scene. — for better or worse. I guess we’ll start with the better…

Located in the heart of Melrose Place amidst some of the most expensive stores in town, “location, location, location” is on point for this coffee joint.  If you can snag a patio seat, grab it, especially on a Sunday when you’ll be in the heart of the Melrose Place Farmer’s Market or at night when the streets are lined with lit up trees. If you’re with someone, make sure to have them save a table while you wait in line as people tend to post up and work for hours (like us).  Now let’s step inside: Alfred‘s décor does not disappoint.  With black and white floor tiles, potted plants on the walls, a fake fireplace that is surprisingly cozy and random bold printed quotes throughout, this coffee shops feels unique in the best of ways.

Walking in, you will most likely run into someone you know – considering we were in gym clothes with no make-up, we weren’t too thrilled about this. But for those of you who get all done up to pick up your coffee, enjoy. If you’re considering posting up to do some work, make sure to bring headphones as it’s not the quietest of places. If you’re meeting a friend, this is a great spot.

And now the worse: If you’re down to wait in line for 45 minutes for an overpriced, mediocre cup of joe –  this is your place.  Although they exclusively serve the delicious Stumptown coffee, when you finally get your order, it just doesn’t seem worth the time and effort.  Also, parking is a bitch. Also, also, no dogs allowed…RUDE!

What We Ate & Drank:

Macchiato [Alex] – Skip it and just order an espresso. I was expecting a drink, not a shot of espresso with a different name. They didn’t even bother to add the milk to top it off.

Almond Milk Cappuccino [Alie] – Many times when I substitute almond milk with my coffee, it adds a bitter taste (gotta make sacrifices to keep it healthy though right?). Alfred’s managed to find the perfect recipe to keep me healthy while also keeping the taste intact. It was also topped off with a pretty foam decoration that I didn’t hate.

Espresso in Chocolate Coated Waffle Shot Glass – This sounded right up our alley so we had to try it. While it’s the most unique and memorable item by far, it’s better in theory as the chocolate is melting and by the time the shot is cool enough to drink, the cone glass is slightly soggy. Our vote: skip the macchiato and just get this as it satisfies both your caffeine fix and sweet tooth.

Chocolate Chip Cookie – We’ve been known to enjoy a cookie or two in our day so we consider ourselves  fairly accurate judges in this department. This was worth the wait more than the coffees with the perfect consistency of crunchy edges and soft gooey middle.

Alfred {Kitchen & Coffee} ↔ 8428 Melrose Place, LA, CA 90069 ↔ 323-944-0811