Ballers & Brew — Restaurant in Burbank

We stopped here to grab breakfast on our way out of town while we were in Burbank on vacation. I was expecting a quick in and out so we could get on the road. Instead what I got was the friendliest experience I've ever had while dining. I mentioned we were on vacation and visiting for the first time, and the owner, (I believe her name was Lydia, but I'm really bad about remembering names) immediately began to explain everything they had to offer, asking what we liked, and making recommendations. She was extremely kind and asked if she could give us some ballers (donut holes) on the house. My wife generally doesn't like coffee, so Lydia made her a mocha that tasted much more like chocolate than coffee. There were a group of regular customers sitting at the tables outside that chatted with us, and one had a very friendly dog that my kids loved getting to meet. It very much felt like a family atmosphere that we were welcomed into. The owners thanked us profusely for stopping by, and encouraged us to come back next time we're in the area. We got the cinnamon ballers, and she encouraged us to try them while they were hot, which was absolutely the right choice. We also got the avocado toast that my wife loved, and I got a blueberry scone that was soft and delicious. My only regret was that we didn't come by earlier in our trip, because I would have gotten breakfast...

I stopped by Ballers & Brew on an early Saturday morning and was immediately met with a cozy, welcoming vibe that felt like a true neighborhood hangout. Locals greeted each other by name, or at least knew each other very well. The atmosphere was very calm and friendly. I chose a cold brew coffee and was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and flavorful it was. The donut holes, drizzled with syrup, were definitely on the sweet side but still really tasty and satisfying. While I didn’t try one, I couldn’t help but notice the bagel breakfast sandwiches coming out of the kitchen. They were huge, loaded, and clearly made with care. I’ll definitely try one of those the next time.

The service was excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who made the experience feel personal without being overbearing. It wasn’t too busy when I visited, but even so, they seemed genuinely happy to be there and happy to have you there especially because it felt, again, like they knew the locals.

The prices were more than fair for the quality of the food and drinks, which makes it even easier to recommend this place to anyone in the area. Whether you’re grabbing coffee to go or sticking around to chat with friends or locals, This place feels like the kind of spot that earns...

I waited for a latte today, and the order of the line was this: couple (man/woman): woman in front of me; me; and man behind me. The cashier was bubbly with the couple, explaining the menu and making recommendations. With the woman in front of me, she was direct and matter-of-fact, yet could barely make eye contact with me. After I placed my order, she went back to being bubbly with the guy behind me, asking him if it was his first time there and whether he had any questions. It was my first time there, and I would have appreciated some guidance, but alas, was offered none. Maybe they have a preference for men?

I ordered the Canadian Maple Latte, but when she entered the order, it just said, "Add maple syrup." The latte totaled over $8, which seems rather pricy, even for Burbank. The drink was just okay. It tasted watered-down, and certainly not worth what they are charging.

I will definitely be back for the "ballers," which is a Greek specialty, and look pretty good in the photos on the sign. I'll update my...