I write for a music and coffee blog called Crooners In Coffeeshops, in which I interview local musicians at local coffeeshops. My writeup reflects the positive experience that I encountered at The Cow's End on our interview date.
Cow lovers and coffee lovers collide when you step into The Cow’s End Cafe in Venice, CA. Family owned since the eighties, the loft style shop very much has classic hangout vibes with its weathered brick floor and wooden stairs, and adorable cow-themed knick knacks and memorabilia scattered around the shop for all patrons to enjoy. Owner Clabe Hartley’s goal for the shop was to re-create a feel similar to that of his youth while growing up in Old Town Chicago, and his vision was met by a grand opening of around 500 supporting customers. Let’s just say that it’s been an udderly delightful ride for the shop since its inception.
While its proximity to the beach has an effect on the amount of parking and flow of sidewalk traffic, The Cow’s End is an absolute gem that provides a splendid menu of food and drink options to make it all worthwhile. Once you step inside, you are greeted by kind workers, a quirky atmosphere, and the smell of fresh coffee courtesy of their old school espresso machine. I opted for the delectably creamy Latte Latino (espresso, steamed condensed milk, half and half with thick cream) along with a delicious trio of breakfast sliders comprised of eggs, corned beef, white cheddar stuffed into fluffy mini baguette style buns (note: they normally have pretzel buns and I asked for the mayo on the side). So don’t worry your pretty little head because there is plenty of space for any sized beach going group, adventurous couple, or relaxed solo visitor looking to enjoy a caffeinated beverage with some all day breakfast while soaking in the sights, sounds, smells of the famed...
Read moreGreat FAMILY owned cafe in Historic Washington Square. If you have lived in, visited or worked in the MdR/Venice area you should know Cow's End Cafe. Situated between Cold Stone's Ice Creamery and Cabo Cantina Venice on the South side of Washington Square you find the newly remodeled Cafe. It has been a fixture in the area since the longtime resident and actor, C. Hartley bought the Building back in the 80's.
It has been one of the infamous Venice Local Hangout's, especially on both Weekdays and Weekends. Weekdays are busy between 7-9A with Locals grabbing a Hot Beverage and maybe a quick bite before they start their workday. It slows down by 10ish but then picks up around 1130 for Lunch. Lunch rush is over by 2-2:30 unless school is out early, its a Holiday or the Surf is up at Venice Fishing Pier. They are open until 6P but if the Weather is Cold or Rainy and business is slow they might close early.
Weekends are busy from 7A onward and the line can be all the way to Bay Market which is 2 doors down. Expect a wait to order and a wait for Food and foofoo drinks on the Weekend and during RUSH Hour Weekdays.
The menu is quite varied from Breakfast Sandwichs, Wraps and Salads. They have alot of Gluten Free and Vegan items on their Menu. They have fresh juices which you can customize if you so choose. They sell Acai Bowls and you have plenty of options to choose from. They've upped their game with the Baked Goods and Donuts recently.
I've been going there consistently over the past 8 years and I can honestly say I haven't had anything that wasn't good.
It is a great spot for meet-ups, coffee, tea, pastries or...
Read moreI was excited to try this place after seeing the reviews and the choice location! I chose the banana oat late and asked for it iced with an extra shot of espresso. The guys that were working one with a vans beenie and the other with a black echo hat is were my experience felt horrible. Vans beenie went up to his friend and told him to only make it 2 shots. I heard this and made eye contact ( he clearly didn’t know I was there. I clarified he charged me for an extra shot which would be 3 shots) yes he said. The guy through a little 4 ounce cup with 2 shots and banana syrup l. I was shaking at this point in utter disbelief and disappointment. Vans beenie told him iced latte and he grabbed the 2% milk, ( I asked for oat milk) iced a cup and poured the 4oz cup of espresso on top. I took the drink and left with a smile and thanked them. No one should be treated like this ever!!! This isn’t for customers, you’ll have plenty, it’s a great spot. This is for management and owners. I was there Friday March 19th @11a.m. I’m sure you can look at your barista schedule. This isn’t the first time they’ve treated others like this and it won’t be the last . About 3 others saw this interaction and made eye contact with empathy for me. I’m sure they won’t be coming back either. I hope you can find some...
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