Cafe Collage — Restaurant in Los Angeles

Somewhat, kinda ok, place to pick up a coffee or latte. Although, way much better is the Starbucks, on the boardwalk.

Because, this place is "clueless", about a true latte and an actual Milano. ie. Milno is a northern Italian city, which is internationally recognized "as one" of the major fashion capitals of the world.

(with Italian companies, such as ; Versace, Gucci, Prada, "Capezio"🤙dance, Dolce and Gabbana, Giogiro Armani, and yes, even Adidas. )

Therefore, as an Italian "northern" city, its cuisine is heavily influenced by French foods, such as; milk, creams, "vanilla", white chocolates, oaky tastes.

Very different cuisine and coffee, of most all, southern Italians with hearty tomatoes, olives, dark red grapes, black lava flavors and thick espressos.

Actually, analogous, to a northern Canadian restaurant, which would "claim" to specialize, in perhaps, southern soul food cuisine, of mashed potatoes, fried chicken, bbq and such. Instead of maple, apples, and northern Canadian cultures and tundra. Completely different beautifully diverse cultures and actual cuisines. Another example, you wouldn't enter a Chinese restaurant and expect to order hot dogs and popcorn, correct.

But, this is exactly, the clueless, choices of coffee and cuisine this place offers.

My suggestion to this place, take a educational course from Starbucks. About...

This little spot is actually one of my favorites in this immediate area. It's Venice's tourist central, and yet it's not a particular trendy place. It just serves up an interesting mix of cafe-type fast-casual food and it's all pretty delicious.

4.5 stars, rounding up

My favorite standard item so far is the SPICY CHICKEN BURRITO. Definite pleaser for a medium-to-high spice lover. Not just hot for it's own sake, it is also spicy in the non-hot sense of the word. Chicken tossed in a dense hot paste equals tons of yummy flavor in every bite.

But the specials can be amazing too. ADOBO CHICKEN WING BOWL -- delicious, deep, adobe flavor. Mmm.

Whoever sets the menu understands a California palate and a love of Mexican and Asian influences on traditional cafe fare.

Most food under $10 and well worth it. (Rent around here is hella expensive, and a lot of restaurants price their food above average because of it.)

Only drawback to this spot (-1/2 star): they often run out of specials, and sometimes out of regular menu items, too -- and you won't know until you try to order it. So gird your loins for possible disappointments, and you won't have anything to...

Cafe Collage is your classic mom-and-pop gem in the heart of Venice, located right across from the iconic Venice sign. What makes it stand out is its hours — one of the few spots that opens early and stays open late (7 AM to 7 PM), which is rare for the area.

The menu is impressively large and eclectic. It’s Korean-owned, so you’ll find everything from teriyaki chicken bowls and bánh mì sandwiches to buttery croissants, hearty breakfast burritos, fresh juices, teas, and solid coffee. I really appreciate the variety.

The clientele is just as diverse — from locals and creatives to tourists passing through. Service is generally quick, and the vibe is super relaxed. They have free Wi-Fi, lots of natural light from the big windows, and a cozy layout that makes it great for getting some work done, reading a book, or just enjoying top-tier people-watching.

It’s got character, charm, and a sense of community. One of Venice’s OG spots — treat her with love, and she’ll...