Great coffee featuring roasts from mostly Columbia by Dune and Case. Drip coffee is pretty reasonably priced. The pour over costs more but the flavors definitely pop out. Served in a glass beaker with a tasting cup is a unique presentation. They have a nice selection of pastry on display and boxes of fresh ones on the back counter. The Baristas are wells of coffee knowledge and will offer tastes for those wanting to try something new. The ambiance has the vibe of a Scandinavian medical clinic. White walls, a few scattered pictures on the walls, a green plant next to a merchandise rack. No earth tones to give a warm embrace to your day. Parking is along Lincoln Ave and side street parking is discouraged. read more

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Came here after a hike and it was delicious!!! Got the iced latte and love that they do not charge extra for a change of milk... thats so rare for a coffee shop read more

Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Stopped by this cute little coffee shop after running a 5K in the area. It's really cute and has a nice affordable menu. The baristas were really welcoming and friendly and encouraged me to try their orange vanilla latte. I decided to try it and it was so good! I definitely recommend it! read more

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What a cute little coffee shop I found. I love the blue color of the shop! Found street parking! Love how clean and spacious the inside was tons of people studying and getting work done! Love the art really captivating and got me hella invested! Menu looks very cool wanted to try the coffee lemonade but stuck with the iced latte. Really enjoyed the roast of the coffee wasn't bitter and had a pleasant finish! read more

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Great spot! The coffee is fantastic and the staff is very friendly - what really hit home run for me was the presentation of the drinks (to stay/ not-to-go). It elevated the entire experience as unique to this spot. Very cute and homey vibe. Loved the matcha donut. read more

Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

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coffee was good but the service was not. i got there a few minutes before they opened and decided to line up outside. the barista who was setting up the outdoor furniture didn't seem like she was very welcoming. the barista who took my order was also in a mood and seemed very annoyed to have to do his job. no greeting or a smile :( read more

Highlight Coffee - columbia pourover - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

This small independently owned coffee shop in Altadena is still one of the best coffee shops in Los Angeles. They have amazing attention to detail with great espresso drinks and great original drinks like their pineapple espresso tonic, and their butterscotch latte which is handmade from scratch not a syrup. They also have amazing pastries. One of the best cinnamon rolls I've ever eaten and excellent croissants and donuts. They have milk alternatives, like Oatmilk and almond milk and they also have great tea. The interior is really clean and cute with beautiful photography on the walls and nice ambience lighting. Service is always top notch here they're very quick and very professional. Very nice and friendly, but most importantly the drinks they make are consistent. read more

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I met up with the beautiful, sweet Sam here for coffee. It's one of her go-to spots so I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. This family owned, neighborhood friendly shop has a modern aesthetic and a welcoming vibe. There is ample seating inside and a few tables outside. It's also a suitable place to bring your laptop if you need a change of scenery. The menu has some creative options, such as pineapple-lime espresso tonic. The coffee beans are sourced from Nordic roasters, the milk is organic (almond & oat are available at no extra charge), and their pastries are delivered fresh daily from Sugarbloom Bakery. The beautiful murals on the side of the building that pay tribute to Pasadena & Altadena add to the charm. My darling coffee aficionado ordered an Iced Butterscotch Oat Milk Latte (her favorite), and I had a Cortado with almond milk. We found a cozy little table to enjoy our beverages and had an good conversation. My Cortado was smooth, semi-bold, and aromatic. It didn't have a bitter or sharp aftertaste, which will make me want to come back. On our way out, Sam insisted on treating me to a pasty, so I selected the White Miso Kouign-Amann. (One of her favorites.) I've never had a Kouign-Amann before. WOW! This was amazing! It had crispy layers outside, a buttery, fluffy interior, and a crunchy, caramelized brown sugar bottom that was next level. I can't wait to go back for some high-quality coffee and the amazing pastries. *Small parking lot or street parking. *Dog friendly read more

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First time trying Highlight Coffee and I am already a fan. Please open in NorCal! The lattes were unique and delicious. The cafe was clean and spacious, and the pastry went perfectly with the two lattes I ordered. Everything tasted really balanced and satisfying. read more

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Came here earlier today to stop by for a coffee before I went to the Rose Bowl with my pup for a long walk and some fun. Let's get to it! Parking, they do have a little small area. It was full around the time came which was around 11ish am so I ended up parking on residential street parking on Vermont St. They have indoor & outdoor seating and are dog friendly. My brought my dog in and my dog was just eating up all the attention he was getting. I ordered the Iced Butterscotch Oat milk Latte, and was able to also get my Pasadena Coffee Passport stamped as well. :) The coffee was so delicious! I plan to come back to try their Orange Vanilla Latte and see what food options they have there. The staff here were really nice! Oh, and outside they have a beautiful Pasadena & Altadena mural. Had to take pictures of my dog before I left. read more

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Was in the neighborhood on a Saturday morning and found Highlight Coffee. They have a small parking lot but I was able to find parking on the street in front. Such a nice relaxed and modern coffee shop that feels comfortable right when you walk up. I enjoyed that they have all the staples of any good cafe, with any modifications you want, without an overly complicated menu. The guys working were friendly and welcoming and offered help on what to order since I wasn't sure when I walked in. I went with their house made orange vanilla latte with oat milk. It's a really delicious latte, without overpowering flavor or sweetness. I also appreciate that milk substitutes are no extra charge That have a nice variety of delicious looking pastries to choose from, but my son went with a blueberry muffin which he said was very good. Definitely will come back when I'm in the neighborhood again. read more

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One of my absolute favorite coffee stops in Altadena! Highlight Coffee never misses. I always get their iced butterscotch latte and it is perfection every single time -- smooth, not overly sweet, and just insanely delicious. The pricing is super reasonable for the quality, and the service is consistently warm, friendly, and fast. They have almond milk and oat milk options and they don't charge you extra. Even when I'm not in the neighborhood, I'll happily drive out of my way just to come here. It's that good. If you're looking for a spot with great vibes, great coffee, and genuinely kind people, Highlight Coffee is a must. read more

Highlight Coffee - Iced butterscotch latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Highlight Coffee is the neighborhood coffee spot, before there others and a place we truly appreciate. It's within walking distance, and over time it's been really nice to see how their coffee flavor profiles have evolved. They've landed in a sweet spot that feels thoughtful and well balanced. Beyond coffee, they offer a lovely variety of teas and consistently good baked goods. It's the kind of café where you can slow down, enjoy a drink, meet a friend, or just sit and take in the rhythm of the day. Service is always kind. A great local spot that reflects and supports the Lincoln neighborhood community in a genuine way. read more

First time trying Highlight and it did not disappoint. Got the butterscotch coffee (ordered this first try since most reviews are raving about it) and paired with the ham and cheese croissant, so gooood! Will come back to try their matcha (matcha lover here) read more

Highlight Coffee - Butterscotch coffee (hot) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Some beer drinkers have the Miller High Life and Us coffee consumers have the Highlight! This little coffee spot hits all the check marks you would want in a coffee adventure but let's get down to the Brass Tacks. I started off with their seasonal pour over coffee which was the Feliz Navidad as a dine in set up. Believe it or not this is the best pour over coffee I've ever had and I only say that because the caramel and blackberry flavors came together with a soft touch of red apple chasing every sip. Now this is my personal experience and you'll most likely have a different one but it's all good. The next drink I ordered was their pineapple lime espresso tonic and it was legit with flavor and served in glassware to make it more enjoyable. The service was real and the recommendation was spot on to my tastebuds. Parking is tight so hit the streets. That's my take on it, Peace... read more

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I came here for the butterscotch coffee which was yummy, i came back for a matcha and it was like color green milk maybe that's my mistake for not trying my drum before heading out read more

My first time here and the menu seemed kind of dull but the orange vanilla espresso latte caught my eye. I was informed that it was their most popular drink. Ordered this iced and with oat milk and had high expectations. Coffee was honestly super weak, maybe it was overpowered by the amount of milk, but I could not taste the beans or espresso. I was looking forward to the orange and vanilla flavors but you could barely taste any hints of each, really just taste like im drinking cold milk and leaves a really weird aftertaste and left unsatisfied with my drink. I dont think Id be back soon but if I came here again maybe I'll try the butterscotch as they also said this drink was popular. Service was just okay, the two guys were paying attention to each other more than the customers. Not an aesthetic shop to be in. Limited parking but I didnt have a problem on a weekday morning. read more

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Freddo (iced) cappuccino is the way to go!!!!! Perfect amount of milk to espresso ratio in my opinion. Spacious with plenty of seating and natural lighting. I love that they use Mrs. Meyers soap in the bathroom (bonus points!) and service was good. read more

Highlight Coffee - Freddo cappuccino w/ whole milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Friendly, cozy ambiance, and warm delicious cup of coffee. Can't really ask for too much more! I especially enjoy their cappuccinos, but will have to come back to try a butterscotch latte and matcha. Parking can be tricky but if you come during a less busy time it's very peaceful and a nice place to enjoy a coffee with a friend. read more

Great coffee!! Always support local places specially over larger chains like Starbucks. Great staff some great specialty coffees. They also carry some great organic coffees that you can buy. We love the caramel coffee a highlight of the day! support this business read more

I love this little coffee shop. Their drinks are amazing and they don't up charge non-dairy alternatives. The staff is always warm and friendly. Today I was intrigued by the orange vanilla latte and was pleasantly surprised how subtle the flavor is but the citrus definitely comes through. My husband is a butterscotch latte guy all the way, he likes his coffee on the sweeter side. read more

Highlight Coffee - Orange vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Cute little coffee shop off Lincoln. I ordered a chai latte with Oatmilk and it was delicious. It had just the right amount of spices and was not very sweet which is how I like my chai. Staff was super friendly. Patrons were busy at work on laptop so seems like a good place to get some work done. read more

Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

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A true highlight to any coffee experience in Pasadena/Altadena. We first stumbled upon the Glendale shop years ago and were stoked to hear a new one opened on Lincoln. I've been here probably 50 times or more since they opened. The espresso is pulled correctly, and milk drinks are creamy and served at the correct temp. I think they rotate the espresso bean selection. The staff is great, knowledgeable and pleasant. If you are nearby skip the other shop down the street and come here. Street parking or bike here which is my preferred way. The shop is small, seats maybe 25 and has a few more spots out front. read more

Tried the orange vanilla iced latte and a sip of their matcha latte. Both tasted really watered down, could barely taste any coffee or tea. Bathroom was dirty, wouldn't come back. read more

An excellent place to stop for a unique coffee or tonic drink. Terrific quality espresso and creative drinks at the highest quality. I like the orange vanilla & butterscotch latte. I recently tried the pineapple-lime espresso tonic. Refreshing and delightful! You will not be disappointed. The owner, Frank, is personable and pleasant. read more

Amazing pour over selection. I live in the Thousand Oaks area, was driving through town, and couldn't find parking at Intelligentsia, so we found Highlight. I'm so glad I couldn't find parking at Intelligentsia! I had an amazing Colombia natural pour over from a roaster in the Netherlands. It was almost like a slightly milder anaerobic to me. Hit all the right notes. My wife's flat white was good, too. Knowledgeable and friendly folks working. Will def be back any chance I can get down there. read more

Came after a run at the Rose bowl mid morning on a Saturday and happy to see it wasn't too busy. I opted for an iced mocha latte and my friend got a hot matcha latte. Both were perfectly sweetened and very flavorful. I like how they don't overload my coffee with ice so even when it's melted, it still tastes like coffee. Our perfect accompaniment was the strawberry almond croissant. I love how the strawberry isn't too sweet and it's such a great compliment to the almond paste. The ambiance was very chill and the inside was very clean and bright and the service was efficient. I love the vibe of this place. I'll be back when I'm in the area! Street parking, but not too bad on Saturday morning . There's a small lot to the left of the shop but it's very limited and I'm not sure if it's reserved for patrons read more

Highlight Coffee - Hot matcha latte with oat milk and an iced mocha latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Stopped by for a quick latte. Decided on the butterscotch latte with oat milk. It was delicious and not too sweet despite the name. The employee told me it has actual real butter in it. Sat inside which was spacious and cleanly decorated. The building itself has a New Mexico type of vibe to it. There were about 20 seats which were mostly taken up by people working on their laptops. I was there on a Friday morning so I'd imagine it's packed on the weekends. Anyways the coffee was fantastic. Dropped a star BECAUSE.. the menu says oat milk no extra charge which is great and so different from everywhere else right? But my dang latte cost over 6 bucks. No wonder they don't charge extra for oat milk. Honestly on the pricier side for me personally, so I wouldn't come here regularly. Heck, I visited HomeState across the street and my breakfast taco cost less than this latte. read more

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If you're looking for high quality coffee, this is the spot for you! They don't charge for alternative milk options which is a huge plus! Servers are extremely friendly and welcoming. I got their hot matcha latte and a iced chai latte both with almond milk. They have a few tables and wifi available, and when I got there around 11am, most of the tables were occupied. The hot matcha latte had a nice latte art and light foam that tasted really good. It was on the sweeter but the warmth was very comforting on a cold day. I got the chai latte to go after having the matcha latte and it tasted decent though I prefer matcha over chai. I could taste the strong chai spice and I would recommend it if you love chai tea. They are partnered with a bakery and sell their fresh pastries every morning. I especially love their butterscotch cookies and almond croissants but they typically sell out by early afternoon. I've heard that their pour overs are of great quality so hopefully I come back to try that one day! read more

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I've been searching for a "home" coffee shop that I can enjoy on a weekly basis. I've been here three times, each time ordered a plain espresso. I have to say this is the worst attempt at espresso I've ever seen. Each time the espresso has been extremely bitter and today it was the worst it has been out of the all three times I came in. It didn't taste anything like coffee I thought I was drinking a shot of lemon juice. My fiance said it was absolutely disgusting. I was extremely disappointed and I just can't come back to order another drink from here. I'm guessing the staff has no knowledge of proper espresso making. It is a shame because the establishment itself is nice and the service is normal, not bad but not memorable either. I immediately walked down the block and ordered an espresso from stumptown....definitely better but still not great. I wonder if I'll ever find a coffee shop in LA that serves espresso as good as what you find in Italy. I'd like to support a small local business but I can't come back to waste money and remain disappointed. read more

We passed by Highlight Coffee on the way to our hike and decided to come back here for our post coffee hike. There is only street parking and the inside was clean and welcoming. I ordered the Nathan Palmer which is a mix of coffee and lemonade. I was skeptical about the flavor but the guy assured me it's pretty good. On the first sip, it was a pretty good blend of lemonade and the coffee wasn't too overpowering. read more

I wanted to like this place since it's such a good space to sit and study/ chill for a while. The vibes were good, the coffee was not my favorite. I got an iced latte with an extra shot, and my drink was not good. It was extremely bitter/acidic and after a few sips it really wasn't drinkable for me. Possibly the barista who made it is new and that's totally okay, but it just wasn't a good coffee, I'm sorry. I threw 70% of it away after leaving. I think it was probably over-extracted. I loved the pastries I got; I got the vegan pretzel croissant and a sweet one I don't remember. Both were good. The ambiance was nice; it's a large space with a communal table in the middle, a couch on the side, and some single seats. Parking is super confusing. There's a back lot, but there are tons of signs that seem to contradict themselves. Some list the businesses out front whose customers can use the lot, while others say nobody can use the lot and that if you park there without a permit, you'll get towed. So idk, that's where I parked, but I made sure not to stay more than 10 min just in case. Gorgeous exterior and walking distance to other restaurants. read more

Highlight Coffee - exterior - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Trendy little cafe with decent indoor seating, small adjoining parking lot, and very pleasant baristas. The coffee is on par with any non-chain craft coffee shop in the area. Prices around $5-6, also standard for this kind of cafe. We tried two of their specialty lattes, the butterscotch and the orange vanilla. Both were good, though we agreed we should've gotten the unflavored latte or a cold brew instead. Next time. The flavored lattes were just a tad too sweet for our taste, though I imagine some folks may enjoy them. Just weren't worth the extra money in my opinion. Noted that the cafe was on the chilly side indoors, and also that although this cafe has decent seating for work/study, if anyone else in the space is having a conversation, it gets loud quickly. read more

Highlight Coffee - Iced orange vanilla latte & Iced butterscotch latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Summary: found this place by accident but all I can say is WOW to my iced latte with no extra charge almond milk! Parking: street parking pretty easy to find on Lincoln on a Saturday early afternoon. Ambiance: clean and modern. Latte: not sure what beans they use but on my gosh, amazing! No joke - one of the best espresso drinks I have ever had and I've had a lot of them. Summery: there was no wait for me but even if there was, I'd go back in a heartbeat. read more

Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Back at it again! The drinks here never fail to disappoint. My fiancé and I came back again for their matcha latte and orange vanilla latte. There was only one person there today (Saturday around 1PM) but he managed everything by himself so well and service was good. The cleanliness of this store is always so great! Also.. I love their lids for the iced drinks! I'm not a fan of drinking my iced coffee/drinks from the cap and always use a straw, but the lids they use at Highlight Coffee are unique and the only drinks I will drink straight from the lid. Not sure who makes these lids but they're great and I've never had any liquid spill into the outside area on top of the lid. read more

Highlight Coffee - Matcha Latte (L), Orange Vanilla Latte (R) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

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I was having a "blah" day. I visited my go-to coffee place close to work. Ordered my usual drink ( it's one of their top seller and also the butterscoth) light, flavor of orange that you taste at the end of your sip. Anyway, I wasn't going to post this but someone paid for my drink! Lol! So, I saved $7 today. So that's my highlight of the day read more

Highlight Coffee - Iced orange vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

I come here almost every weekend after a walk and I always get the coffee lemonade. It sounds like a weird combo, but it's so delicious and totally addicting. read more

Coffee was mid - I could barely taste my espresso. I have had their orange vanilla latte before and it also tasted ok. Nothing tooo special. If I'm paying LA prices, I'll probably go somewhere else. Also not sure if the barista was having a bad day or what but they weren't too friendly. The place is nice to study at tho. read more

This place is so cute. I ordered their matcha latte with oat milk (no additional cost), and there was an option to ask for it unsweetened. The barista recommended the banana bread with the medjool dates. It was scrumptious. They have a small parking lot to the side and there's some street parking. There's a good amount of seats inside and a couple of people studying. I would come back with a book or laptop to work. read more

Highlight Coffee - Matcha latte with oat milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Both orange vanilla and butterscotch latte were good. Matcha shake was delicious though a little too sweet for my taste. Masks required. Flavors for latte was $1 additional but nondairy milk alternatives are free. read more

Highlight Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California