Top 10 Best Coffee Shops In Pomona, California

Pomona, California, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles County, is not just a bustling city known for its vibrant arts scene and historic downtown but also a hub for coffee enthusiasts. With its diverse community and rich cultural heritage, Pomona offers a plethora of coffee shops catering to various tastes and preferences. From cozy neighborhood cafes to trendy artisanal roasters, there’s something for everyone in Pomona’s coffee scene. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 coffee shops in Pomona, delve into the historical background of coffee in the city, discuss the role of coffee shops in the community, and provide insights into coffee shop etiquette for visitors and locals alike.

Top 10 Coffee Shops In Pomona, California

Pomona boasts an array of coffee shops that not only serve excellent brews but also offer unique atmospheres and experiences. Here are the top 10 coffee shops in Pomona:

1. Mi Cafecito

   • Located in the heart of downtown Pomona, Mi Cafecito is a cozy spot known for its delicious Mexican-inspired coffee drinks and pastries. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

2. Augie’s Coffee House

   • Augie’s Coffee House is a well-known name in the Southern California coffee scene, and its Pomona location lives up to its reputation. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Augie’s offers a diverse selection of single-origin coffees and expertly crafted espresso drinks.

3. Sanctuary Coffee

   • As its name suggests, Sanctuary Coffee provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This community-focused coffee shop not only serves great coffee but also hosts events and gatherings aimed at fostering connections among Pomona residents.

4. Dripp

   • Dripp is a modern and stylish coffee shop chain with a location in Pomona. Known for its sleek design and innovative beverages, Dripp offers everything from classic espresso drinks to signature concoctions like their nitrogen-infused cold brew.

5. The Last Drop Café

   • Tucked away in the Arts Colony, The Last Drop Café is a hidden gem beloved by locals. With its eclectic decor and relaxed vibe, this cozy cafe is the perfect spot to unwind with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.

6. Jones Coffee Roasters

   • While technically located in neighboring Pasadena, Jones Coffee Roasters is worth the short trip for coffee aficionados in Pomona. This family-owned roastery sources high-quality beans from around the world and roasts them to perfection, resulting in exceptional coffee that’s sure to impress.

7. Café con Libros

   • More than just a coffee shop, Café con Libros is a cultural hub that celebrates literature, art, and community. In addition to serving artisanal coffee and pastries, this cozy cafe hosts book clubs, author readings, and other literary events.

8. Sweet Daily Cafe

   • Sweet Daily Cafe is a charming neighborhood spot known for its friendly service and delectable treats. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic latte or a specialty blended beverage, Sweet Daily Cafe has you covered.

9. City Café

   • Situated in downtown Pomona, City Café is a laid-back coffee shop offering a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and light bites. The cozy atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular spot for students, artists, and professionals alike.

10. The Brick Market & Deli

    • While primarily known for its delicious deli sandwiches, The Brick Market & Deli also serves up excellent coffee and espresso drinks. This family-owned establishment has been a fixture in Pomona for years, attracting loyal customers with its homemade fare and welcoming atmosphere.

Historical Overview

The history of coffee in Pomona, like much of California, is intertwined with the state’s broader cultural and economic development. While coffee may not have the same longstanding tradition in Pomona as it does in regions like Ethiopia or Italy, its presence in the city dates back several decades.

In the mid-20th century, Pomona experienced significant growth and urbanization, spurred in part by the post-World War II boom and the expansion of the aerospace industry in Southern California. As the city’s population swelled and its economy diversified, coffeehouses began to emerge as popular gathering places for residents seeking refuge from the fast-paced urban environment.

During the countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s, coffeehouses played a central role in Pomona’s burgeoning arts scene, providing a space for poets, musicians, and artists to congregate, collaborate, and express themselves. These establishments became hubs of creativity and activism, reflecting the social and political currents of the time.

In the ensuing decades, Pomona’s coffee culture continued to evolve, influenced by changing tastes, demographics, and economic conditions. The rise of specialty coffee roasters and third-wave coffee shops in the late 20th and early 21st centuries brought new flavors and techniques to the local coffee scene, attracting a diverse clientele of coffee connoisseurs and enthusiasts.

Today, Pomona boasts a vibrant and thriving coffee culture, with a wide range of cafes and roasteries catering to every palate and preference. From traditional diners serving bottomless cups of joe to trendy artisanal shops specializing in pour-over and cold brew, coffee has become an integral part of the city’s culinary landscape and social fabric.

Diversity

One of the defining characteristics of Pomona’s coffee scene is its diversity. Reflecting the city’s multicultural population, coffee shops in Pomona offer a wide range of flavors, styles, and influences, drawing inspiration from various culinary traditions and cultural heritage.

At Mi Cafecito, for example, patrons can savor the rich, aromatic flavors of Mexican coffee, infused with spices like cinnamon and chocolate. Meanwhile, Sanctuary Coffee embraces diversity not only in its menu offerings but also in its commitment to inclusivity and social justice, creating a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and identities.

Jones Coffee Roasters, with its emphasis on ethically sourced beans from around the world, celebrates the global diversity of coffee-growing regions, showcasing the unique terroir and flavor profiles of each origin. Similarly, Café con Libros celebrates the literary traditions of diverse cultures, offering a curated selection of books by authors from marginalized communities.

From Latin American-inspired cafes to European-style espresso bars, Pomona’s coffee shops reflect the city’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, inviting visitors to embark on a culinary journey around the world without ever leaving town.

Role

Coffee shops play a multifaceted role in the community, serving as more than just purveyors of caffeinated beverages. In Pomona, coffee shops serve as gathering places where people can connect, collaborate, and build relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

For many residents, coffee shops are more than just places to grab a quick cup of coffee on the go—they’re extensions of their homes and workplaces, where they can relax, socialize, and recharge amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it’s catching up with friends over lattes at Sweet Daily Cafe or brainstorming creative projects at Dripp, coffee shops provide a space for people to come together and share meaningful experiences.

In addition to their social function, coffee shops also play a vital role in the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the city’s tax base. By supporting local coffee businesses, residents can help stimulate economic growth and create a more vibrant and resilient community.

Furthermore, coffee shops often serve as cultural ambassadors, introducing visitors to the unique flavors and traditions of Pomona and fostering cross-cultural exchange and understanding. Whether it’s sampling a traditional Mexican cafe de olla at Mi Cafecito or savoring a specialty Ethiopian pour-over at Augie’s Coffee House, patrons can experience the diverse tastes and aromas of the world right in their own backyard.

Coffee Shop Etiquette

While coffee shops are generally casual and relaxed environments, there are still some common etiquette guidelines that patrons should observe to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Here are a few tips for practicing good coffee shop etiquette:

• Be respectful of others: Keep noise levels to a minimum and avoid disturbing other patrons with loud conversations or phone calls. Remember that many people come to coffee shops to work or study, so try to maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere.

• Mind your space: Coffee shops can get crowded, especially during peak hours, so be mindful of your surroundings and avoid taking up more space than necessary. Don’t spread out belongings or hog tables for an extended period if the shop is busy.

• Support the business: If you’re going to spend time in a coffee shop, consider purchasing something to support the business, even if it’s just a small drink or snack. This helps ensure that coffee shops can continue to thrive and serve the community.

• Clean up after yourself: Dispose of trash properly and clean up any spills or messes you may make. This helps keep the coffee shop clean and welcoming for everyone.

• Respect personal boundaries: While coffee shops are social spaces, it’s important to respect the privacy and personal space of others. Avoid eavesdropping on conversations or intruding on private conversations.

By following these simple guidelines, patrons can help create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy their coffee and company in peace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pomona, California, is home to a vibrant and diverse coffee scene, with a wide range of cafes and roasteries offering something for every taste and preference. From traditional diners serving classic diner coffee to trendy artisanal shops specializing in specialty brews, Pomona’s coffee shops reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax with friends, a quiet corner to work or study, or a cultural experience that celebrates the flavors of the world, you’ll find it in Pomona’s coffee shops. So next time you’re in town, be sure to explore the local coffee scene and discover why Pomona is a destination for coffee lovers from near and far.