Gremlin has been on my list for awhile and I finally got to try it this weekend and it did NOT disappoint! They collaborated with a local community organization- Lucha Costa Mesa where they were giving 10% of the processed for certain drinks and I wanted to support both. I ordered the caramel banana latte. I'm always skeptical about banana lattes cause not every coffee shop knows how to make a good banana latte, but gremlin knows how to definitely make one! It was so good, such good flavor! I loved it and want to come back and try other drinks. I had planned to stay and do work but it was a bit hot in the garage so I decided not to. They did have a DJ on Sunday playing great bops. I appreciate Gremlin connecting with great community orgs and supporting their good work. I can't wait to be back! read more

Gremlin Garage - Inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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What a fun theme and perfect location too! Both gals were very friendly and knowledgeable about the drinks offered. No sizing options which allowed me to focus on the caffeine. The merchandise is fantastic too and definitely will be back for a shirt & maybe even a hat. Bonus for plenty of tables to work on laptop for couple of hours. The music was great & loved they played movies muted on a wall. Definitely worth stopping in for the whole experience. read more

Limited parking spaces. They are near auto shops, which fits their theme. They have plenty of indoor seating with tables. I ordered the Caramel Banana Latte, which has a nice balance of banana and caramel notes. Recommendation(s): - Caramel Banana Latte Service: 5/5 Tip(s): - Limited parking spaces - Restrooms available - Plenty of indoor seating and tables read more

Gremlin Garage - Caramel Banana Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Had to balance myself by coming to a more manly looking place after having lunch with the family at a very feminine brunch spot. I've seen this place on IG some time ago and was interested in checking it out anyway. Really like the motorcycle and vintage typewriter theme in a mechanics garage turned into a coffee shop. This place reminds me of Carbon Canyon Coffee (for the motorcycle theme) and Blue Flame Coffee (for the garage). Drinks look quite unique as well. I wanted to try its Caramel Banana Latte but wanted something light and refreshing after a heavy meal, so opted for Yuzu Tonic (with espresso) and Peach Ring Tonic with cold foam (seasonal special). Both drinks were excellent, but I think the price is high and portion is small compared to other places. I wouldn't complain too much about the price if these were served in a 16 oz. cup like most places but these were served in 12 oz. cups. Still giving five stars because service was welcoming and friendly. Barista greeted us when we entered and when we left. read more

Wow, what a great idea to have a coffee shop in the midst of auto body shops! I don't have my car serviced on this street, but I love how this is a hidden gem and that it's convenient for nearby clients waiting around. However, I came on a Thursday morning and parking was tough! Lots of cars in the small lot waiting for service. I nearly gave up but right when I was about to drive away, the first designated parking space for Gremlin Garage became available so I got parking luckily. It's such a cool space and vibe inside, and the barista was so nice. I ended up getting two drinks off their spring specials, the Kyoto Fog with vanilla instead of lavender, and the Puff Puff Pass. Both were great, but I prefer the Kyoto Fog more for the tea taste. The Puff Puff Pass was refreshing with notes of pandan and coconut water. I definitely finished my drink fast and noticed more ice than I'd have liked. Overall, cool idea for a coffee shop and good drinks! read more

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The interior makes this stop one of the most fun coffee spots in the area! Drinks are delicious, food options are a bit limited (but good), and the staff was helpful for our first time in. Parking can be tough on the street! read more

If you are looking for an awesome coffee shop experience look no further and bookmark this place! The ambiance is so cool and chill. If you are lucky enough to have Mena as your barista, she is so friendly and kind right from walking in the store until you leave. Every barista should have this amazing customer service attitude. I told her that I don't like my drink too sweet so she recommended the Burnt honey latte and it was delicious! If you are in the area, check this place out. You won't be disappointed! Triple bookmark it! read more

Gremlin Garage - Burnt honey latte! Every latte should taste this delish! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

If you're in the area and can find parking, please try out Gremlin Garage. It can be difficult to find parking sometimes as reserved spaces are limited and there is minimal street parking. Also, the coffee shop closes around 3pm every day except Tuesday (not open on Tuesdays). Regardless, I've only had good experiences here. The staff is really friendly, and every time I've gone there is plenty of seating available to get some work done or chat. My absolute favorite latte right now is their Burnt Honey latte. I randomly ordered it instead of my usual matcha or americano, and have only gotten this latte since. It's so good!! The coffee is strong and not bitter at all. The baristas make this latte good every single time. Just writing this review makes me want to swing by for a Burnt Honey latte right now. read more

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Their staff and vibes are nice. Thought there would be more seating but I like the comfortable seating area and lighting decor. There are several tables. I ended up creating my own vanilla double matcha - matcha latte with a matcha cold foam (because they ran out of Earl grey base as part of their seasonal menu so they let simply choose a different base). Good drink and not overly sweet. read more

Gremlin Garage - Seasonal menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Yup! This place really exists. Take a look at the photos, now back to the review, now back to the photos, now back to this review. Is it fair to say that its mancave meets indy coffee vibes? In this case a picture is worth a thousand words. The shop is tucked inside an industrialist (mostly auto repair and custom shops) street filled with alleys. In one of the alleys lives this shop. Check the days and times the spot is open because the hours/days are indeed limited. The folks are super friendly, and accommodating. Where else do you get service as it should be, where you order your drink, take a seat and they bring it right to ya! There is a secret menu laying around somewhere (if you can find it). I've had the sparkling Yuzu Matcha here and its solid. Nice couches to relax on or tables to get a few things done on your laptop. Movies play against the wall. A small moto assortment of items and gear for sale. Dog friendlyish. Like other reviewers, parking is quite difficult. One time I had to park at Mitsua and walk (even though Mitsua parking security says you can't) and one other time I had no choice but to give up and go elsewhere because after five laps of driving around there was Ziltch, but the other nine or ten times i've frequented the place I've gotten lucky with it. Really and truly...a hidden gem! read more

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Very cool atmosphere this place nails that masculine, vintage aesthetic. Think leather, motorcycles, vintage cameras, and typewriters. Definitely my kind of vibe.i have brought so many friends here to see how cool this place is. The staff is always friendly, and I've been here multiple times now, consistently a great experience. The espresso is excellent (5/5), and the yuzu espresso tonic is easily my favorite (also 5/5). It's unique, refreshing, and done right with the syrup and pulp from the yuzu. If you go, start with a straight espresso to really understand the quality of their beans, then branch out into a latte or one of their specialty drinks.I even picked up a bag of beans that they had for their espresso that day. read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Go in through the garage, not the front doors if that makes sense! Following a recommendation from my friend, we decided to get a morning pick me up at Gremlin Garage. The ambiance is chic and relaxed, spacious with plenty of seating for studying or hanging out with friends. We had their seasonal specials, the peach ring tonic and the Kyoto fog with lavender syrup. Both drinks were flavors I haven't had before and felt crisp, flavorful, and refreshing. I definitely will be coming back read more

Gremlin Garage - Peach ring tonic in front, Kyoto fog (lavender) in back. Seasonal special - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This is such a good coffee place! It's super vibey in there. The crowd was chill and the cashier was very patient with me. I got the burnt honey latte, so simple but so so good. The espresso was so tasty. She recommended me the spinach cheese croissant for a snack and it was the best croissant I've ever had. Just as good as some too bakeries I've been to around the world. Will definitely be back!! Will definitely come again!! read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Stopped by Gremlin Garage for the first time and had the Caramel Banana Latte, which was absolutely delicious. The flavor was unique, well-balanced, and one of the best specialty lattes I've had in a while. The customer service was just as impressive--everyone was very welcoming, friendly, and made me feel right at home from the moment I walked in. The shop has a great atmosphere, a clean and inviting space, and you can tell they take pride in both their coffee and customer experience. I'll definitely be back to try more from the menu. Highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the area! read more

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HATE when I find a coffee shop that's so stupid good I know I'm gonna be back to spend lots of money there. In this economy though, Gremlin Garage is an OC coffee shop that's well worth the $8 charge for a specialty latte for a few reasons: 1. The ambiance is excellent. You can tell someone put a lot of thought and care into curating the pieces in here. It's like a coffee shop that is lightly themed like an auto shop? Given its proximity to the auto shops nearby, this makes perfect sense and adds just a little bit of whimsy to the coffee experience. There's also plenty of seating for lounging, working, whatever. It's a great space. 2. The service was excellent. The cashier took the time to walk me through the menu when I told her it was my first time and even offered my doggy a pup cup with a little treat in it. So sweet! I love kind humans. 3. The coffee is so good and these flavors are unique, which is genuinely hard to achieve in a coffee saturated city like Costa Mesa. One of their signatures is a burnt honey latte. I ordered this and found myself having to physically stop myself from chugging it. It was that good. My husband got the caramel banana. I know banana is pretty standard these days but the addition of the caramel just elevated it a bit. He's not really a fancy coffee person and he loved this one. 4. Dog friendly! My pup enjoyed getting to come with us and enjoy her pup cup and the staff loved her. For me, this is a mark of a truly dog friendly spot, versus just dog tolerant. My only nit (and I'm sure they're well aware of this) but parking SUCKS. There's like 4 spots and on a crowded weekend even the street parking fills us. That's why we arrived as early to opening as possible but when we came by a few weekends before we just had to drive away because we couldn't find a spot. It would be great to procure a few more spots. read more

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I returned here for another crack at their coffee drinks and was happily delighted that the drinks were just as good! I did have a seasonal drink and it was ah-mazing. Be sure to keep an eye out for their secret menu because it's worth it every time! read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tucked away in a business area near Mitsuwa...this spot was absolutely a hidden gem. Went on a weekday morning and it was not crowded. The people were very kind and welcoming. I got their Mango Sticky rice matcha and their winter special white chocolate raspberry matcha. I like the white chocolate raspberry more. Love the theme and interior. They have a hidden secret menu which they give you a hint on where to locate it! Would definitely come visit again. read more

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Such a cute coffee shop with inside a garage! Not only the decorations are cool, I feel like the space is well decorated with some cool displays as well! They have plenty of drinks and pastries to choose from. They made the drinks pretty fast too! The staff are friendly and chill. They also sell merch exclusive for Gremlin Garage. read more

Gremlin Garage - Burnt Honey Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This spot has such a distinct vibe it feels exactly like you're hanging out in your coolest friend's motorcycle garage. It's got that raw, industrial aesthetic, but they've clearly put a lot of intention into the details to make it feel welcoming rather than cold. The service was top-tier! Even the Wi-Fi password was a highlight (it's hilarious and definitely fits the "coffee" theme). I originally stopped by specifically for a secret menu item they happened to be out of, but the guy working was so nice about it that it didn't even matter. I ended up with the Peaches and Cream Matcha with oat milk. It was delicious and super well-balanced. I also really appreciated that they double-checked with me about the topping--it's dairy, and since I ordered oat milk, it was great of them to confirm I was okay with that instead of just serving it. If you want a place with character and staff that actually pays attention, this is it. I'll definitely be back to try and snag that secret menu drink next time! read more

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I want to gate-keep this spot so badly just because parking can get difficult! Gremlin is such a hidden gem in Costa Mesa. They have a fun menu with interesting flavor combinations, a very cool aesthetic inside (this is a former auto shop garage after all), and the owners are incredibly friendly. Like I said, parking can be difficult, but there is plenty of workspace and tables inside. read more

Gremlin Garage - Caramel banana latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

QUICK TAKE// I'd give this place a 7 out of 5 if I could for their customer service and thoughtfulness of their menu and options. FOOD// It just so happens that I'm on a keto diet at the moment so I was fully expecting to get plain coffee with some creamer. But to my amazing surprise they had a TON of sugar free syrup options: vanilla, s'mores, pumpkin spice! The Barista came up with a fall drink for me that was KETO-FRIENDLY: SUGAR-FREE PUMPKIN ALMOND LATTE WITH CINNAMON . So delicious and way more than what I was going to get. SERVICE// I spent some time telling my barista how much I appreciated the variety they had in their menu. She mentioned that they had regular customers who are keto and they try to have as many options as possible . Another random thing that happened to me: I went to the gender-neutral restroom and found they had extra feminine hygiene products available which is an extremely thoughtful touch. VIBES// The reason I chose this spot! Cool theme with an open airy vibes and a ton of seating options. They had outlets for my boyfriend to get some work done on his laptop ‍. They also have a projector and were playing a movie on the wall . read more

Gremlin Garage - "SF" for sugar free pumpkin spice!!! Yay for KETO customers that they have some fun sugar free options. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Gremlin Garage in Costa Mesa is such a fun spot with a grungy, artsy vibe--think fancy garage meets creative art space. The aesthetic of the shop is seriously cool and unique, making it a great place to hang out or snap a few photos. They host fun events, and the drink menu is huge with so many options that you can customize exactly how you like. Whether you're into coffee, tea, or something a little more adventurous, there's something for everyone. Parking can be a bit tricky, but there's some street curbside parking nearby, so it's definitely manageable. Overall, it's a spot that feels energetic, creative, and a little bit rebellious--in the best way! read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

JUST BEWARE OF PARKING!!! Caramel banana latte- The gremlin (Americano with house foam)- Tara the barista ROCKS. So welcoming and great vibes. Coffee shop is a garage which is so cool. Lots of open space and seating. Motorcycle things everywhere. Cool merch:) read more

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A new favorite! My husband and I came into Gremlin this morning for some fun coffee. We've been wanting to visit for a while, and I'm so glad we finally made it! Sarah greeted us right away and was incredibly warm and welcoming. Everything on the menu sounded amazing--especially the iced coffee options (their secret menu is dangerously tempting!)--but since it was early, we both went with hot drinks. My husband ordered the Sweater Weather latte and I got the Burnt Honey latte. Both were absolutely delicious. While chatting with Sarah as we waited, we mentioned it was our anniversary, and she was so sweet about it. She wrote "Happy Anniversary" on our cups and even gave our dog a pup cup! Such a thoughtful touch that made our morning. The decor inside is super unique and cool--there's even a motorcycle setup with gear and tools. The seating is comfortable and inviting, and they have great merch for sale too. Loved the service, the coffee, and the overall vibe. I wish I could come here every day! Can't wait to come back. read more

Gremlin Garage - A sweet touch - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Love this spot! The staff is always so friendly and I love that it's dog friendly and woman owned. It's been a great place to get some work done and I love how there's comfortable seating options. Only downside i could see is limited parking, but I've been able to snag a spot if I get there early. read more

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This was a unique spot - very spacious with nice lounging furniture. Limited but quality drinks menu. If you put on headphones and focus, it's good. But if you're trying to have a conversation or study/work, it can be loud. They also don't have power outlets. read more

I visited Gremlin Garage and thought this cafe was super unique! The interior has so much charm and is really well decorated. The staff were also really kind and fully committed to the concept, which made the ordering experience cute and fun. I ended up getting the mango sticky rice matcha from the secret menu, and it was delicious. The barista recommended 50% sweetness, which ended up being perfect for me. It was well balanced, light, and refreshing. The space itself is really big and has a very relaxed vibe. It's a great spot to get some work done or hang out with friends. I'll definitely be returning! read more

Wow. Not to often that I go to a place and walk away wanting to come back the next day. Gremlin Garage does that. First, the flavors that come from the caramel banana latte are to die for. Love how strong the banana is. I also got the burnt honey latte and loved how simple and tasty it was. Can't go wrong with those two. Now the atmosphere is top notch. Motorcycles, green, black, and gremlins, like how can you not love the vibes. The two employees were so kind as well. I loved chatting with them about the coffee shop and about the drinks they offer. The ONLY downside is parking. Any pro tips on where to park? read more

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Such a fun coffee shop! Absolutely love the decor and the drinks are delicious! I will be coming back for sure.

Huge coffee shop operating out of a converted industrial space inside an auto industrial park. My kind of hole in the wall! Great coffee menu and there's a secret menu awaiting if you are able to find it.... Good coffee and good flavor profiles that is inventive. I had a maple rosemary latte with salted cold foam today and a few of their drinks and specialty drinks and they are all very good. The space is amazing for hanging out. Parking can be difficult during peak hours. Please come and create your own adventure. read more

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Pretty good to try it at least once, service was good as well and the location is so creative! The drinks were yummy and the vibe was pretty cool read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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This was a very creative location and idea for a coffee shop. It's very open with a good amount of seats. The seats are at large tables though so sometimes it's awkward when it's just 2 people that need to sit. I ordered a pistachio latte and don't get me wrong it was great but didn't taste anything like pistachio. It tasted like a classic vanilla latte (still loved it but pistachio was nowhere to be found.) One friend ordered the burnt honey latte and the burnt flavor was STRONG to the point it was hard to even drink it. We also ordered a banana matcha and it was delicious and very accurate banana taste. read more

Cool place to study or work. Mainly the concept is related to vintage motorbikes and there is one morning where I witness a group of triump riders having rich vibe, status-driven families--Triumph bikes, designer leather, and spoiled-wife energy. I ordered Strawberry matcha, but definitely I loved their Matcha Durdy too! Dogs are welcome and they have cool wide study tables! read more

Gremlin Garage - Strawberry Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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What a cute little place. I definitely felt a little dorky driving my EV down this street bc it's a lot of auto shops but I was here looking for matcha. You could easily miss this place, but they have a huge sign that says gremlin garage in cursive. Found the spot, parked in the front. When I walked in, it was this well decorated area with lots of seating and lounging. The mango sticky rice matcha is was brought me here and I wasn't able to order until I actually found the secret menu, which I loved. I was getting frustrated at first because I suck at finding stuff lol!! I ordered a chai and matcha for a friend then got myself the mango sticky rice and it was yummy! Would definitely recommend coming here if you're looking for something different! Very nice. read more

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I'm giving this a 5 because the service is so good. You feel welcomed and at ease here. The drinks are good and they'll adjust them to however you want them. I haven't tried the food yet, even tho the pastries were calling me! The decor is great. There are different places to sit and have a private conversation or you can join a big table and meet people. read more

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A hidden gem-- er should I say garage! This hole in the wall coffee shop is tucked away behind some corporate buildings amongst mechanic shops. It felt like entering a speakeasy that only coffee shop junkies knew about. The interior is garage/motorcycle themed, but in a very chic and hipster kind of way. Amazing branding and fun little Easter eggs throughout the place, one of which is their secret menu! When going up to order, the cashier gave us a few hints as to where their secret menu was located (Spoiler alert: It was behind one of the framed photos!). I opted for their Blueberry Tonic- super refreshing and bright! Tons of seating options inside for anyone looking to be productive. My only note is that it can get quite chilly in the winter as it is a garage! read more

Gremlin Garage - Blueberry Tonic (Secret Menu) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I'm still thinking about the Caramel Banana iced latte--it was so good I finished it in three sips! Fantastic, friendly service, too. I'll definitely be back read more

Really good coffee shop. I ordered the Yuzu Tonic with espresso and it was tasty. The Yuzu was tart but the tonic helped keep it smooth. The staff was friendly and the inside was fun to look at. read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Gremlin Garage is a cool cafe with a nice ambiance. Coffee was delicious, and service was fast and friendly. Price is on higher side though for coffee. read more

Gremlin Garage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Amazing service, house made syrups and a cool place to drink your delicious coffee. They were super nice and sweet offering suggestions for drinks and I went with a banana caramel latte. Decor is bike and green with lots of couches and a cool garage vibe. read more

Gremlin Garage - Banana caramel latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Costa Mesa, California