Great place to get some work done! - Great coffee - Lots of tables/ outlets - Enough outdoor parking - Good wifi - Friendly staff Con? It was freezing cold and slightly dim inside. read more

Great corner cafe. Fresh cut fruit/melons, large variety of pastries, chill vibe, hot customer service. ATM Machine inside. 2 bathrooms. Great seating. Dim lighting. read more

During one of my infrequent trips to Long Beach, I tried going to one of the coffee places up the street for tea, because, yes... I'm one of those tea tottling people - but got the chills seeing mass amounts of people spilling out onto the street. I'm not one for crowds and besides, all I really want to do is park my arse in a seat and have a relaxing drink, so I drove west and happily found Hot Java. You get a huge cup of self-serve tea at a tea bar for the money. Nice atmosphere with an eclectic mix of people and found a seat just fine. Waiting for my friend to arrive - I discovered that...yeah! they have free wifi! That was unexpected. I'm looking forward to, again, finding myself there to satisfy my tea craving. read more

3.5 3.5 is still good. I think it's a great place in a great location. I just am not so fond of their coffee or bakery.. and it's not like i would just go grab a seat there without ordering you know. The staff is friendly and the best part is that they love dogs! You can bring your dog here! AMBIANCE: 4 (cozy, and love the big windows for people watching. Also they ahve large tables for big groups) QUALITY: 3 (This is a personal opinion. I just don't prefer the taste of their coffee or bakery) SERVICE: 4 (friendly staff) PRICE: 3.5 (A little pricey but reasonable at the same time if you're comparing to other coffee shops) read more

Apparently, my friends have been going for a long while since I've been out of the country. They took me there last week to study for their respective tests. Although I hadn't prepared my materials to work there, it looked very conducive to studying, reading, etc. as it's got plenty of large tables, chairs, and little corners where you can tuck yourself away. The drinks were reasonably priced and they had a push-button coffee bar on the side which I'm interested in trying the next time. read more

I walked here to get some studying done and it was pretty quiet and lots of seating which was nice. The coffee is reasonably priced and they offer paninis which was great since I came around dinner time. I didn't want coffee with my panini but when I asked for a big cup of water they said they have to charge 50 cents. Even though I just spent $11... While the service was nice and the barista apologized for the stupid rule I don't think this would be my first choice of studying spots. I liked the Library coffee shop better due to the quiet ambiance and generous accommodations. read more

What a wonderful coffee shop! Visited from NYC and had a few hours to kill before a dinner in the neighborhood. Found this cute coffee shop and felt right at home. The baristas were fun and engaging (especially Alex), and recommended a flambe chai and mocha which were both amazing. Had we known that this coffee shop was that comfortable and welcoming (they had couches, newspapers, game boards, cards, music, etc), we would've come earlier. What a great place (and the coffee is so good that it competes with the new Bay Area Philz craze). Oh and don't forget to try a homemade cookie. An all around 5-star. read more

The hemp milk matcha latte was perfect not too sweet at all. Staff was great! Friendly staff, clean bathrooms, and good vibe all around. read more

Hot Java - Hemp Milk Matcha Green Tea latte ! So tasty! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Long Beach, California

See all

Cute little cafe. You need to make a purchase in order to get their WiFi password. Whatever you do, don't buy the food. I bought a Cinnabon that tasted like it was a month old and brought back to life thanks to the microwave. Bring some noise cancelling headphones if you intend on studying or find a table in the corner. From the few times I've been here, chatty people love coming in and being the center of attention by broadcasting either their life or current crisis. Gotta love Long Beach. A positive about this cafe is the improve show at the end of every month. It's called Last Laugh SATURDAYS. The group of people that come perform are hilarious and this event is FREE! read more

Ambiance: This venue is very open, bright and in a great location. You can eat, drink and spend time with friends while enjoying the best in terms of Long Beach's amazing weather. The cafe is not very clean as the furniture(couches) is not cleaned regularly and the customer area is not cleaned thoroughly either(I.e. Floors, tables, chairs, rugs, etc.). Operations: Being that Hot Java is a coffee house, one would expect that their coffee would be hot and consistently fresh. It is not. Most of the staff are very friendly and attentive. There are a few who are extremely impolite to guests(unless they find them to be cute...one staff member in particular Scott(raspy voice) is very unfriendly). Hot Java is often very noisy and the music that is played is not very appropriate for a coffee shop(or at least customer specific). When you are in a service industry you should play customer appropriate music and this venue plays staff appropriate music(which changes depending on who is working). The Manager Ken is friendly to a point. He is very polite with customers when behind his counter but when you bring an issue to his attention he pays little or no attention to what you are saying and he doesn't even make eye contact with you when you are speaking with him. The owner is an amazing guy who needs to start from scratch with his leadership and operations best practices because his business doesn't emulate the qualities that he possesses. Pricing is very comparable to other venues providing the same service. Overall they receive 2 stars. Not nearly the best and they could be so much more. read more

I don't think I have ever been here when the place is empty, which is a good sign. Never too busy and the service is fast. The soy foam on my medium americano was perfect, which most places don't bother and/or just barely top my americano with hot soy foam. Free Wi-Fi ables me to do some real estate work while away from the office. Lastly, a very chill and friendly atmosphere. read more

Hot Java - A few blocks walking distance from mi casa. Been here a few times and peeps that work here are super nice. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Long Beach, California

See all

The most overrated coffee shop I have ever come across. The coffee is not only unimpressive or unimaginative, but made poorly. Every cup of coffee I have attempted there has been either far too strong or weak to the point of creamer being pointless. To add, the place doesn't have the "happening vibe" it used to. As much as I love to support my gay community, I take my business elsewhere. Not to mention the shitty "coffee house" jams. Pass. read more

I go there every morning, the coffee is good the staff are very friendly. The only complaint I have is they no longer have coffeecake read more

Love that the chocolate used in the Java blasts is vegan. Had no clue that Starbucks wasn't until tonight, but luckily I'm a hot Java customer and not a Starbucks one. They have more milk alternative options here anyways like my favored hemp milk :) read more

See all

Hot Java is a cozy coffee shop across the street from a diner and just a short walk away from the beach. There is outdoor seating that in the right weather is perfect and the inside atmosphere is super welcoming. You could have a nice casual get together or date here for sure. The baristas are really kind and even somewhat playful! I ordered a small coffee and chocolate croissant: $4.08. The small coffee was their dark roast and I asked the barista to poor some of the freshly made stuff into my cup. It was great! I'm pretty sure if I had the stuff that had been sitting I would have been bummed. The low review is because when I ordered a chocolate croissant, it was definitely stale. Not even just a little bit crunchy... It was definitely very very stale. So much so that the plastic knife and fork they gave me were not enough to get through it. Clean bathrooms, wifi available, and decent cappuccinos. If you're just in for drinks, I think this place is decent. Bottom Line: If you don't have the highest of standards for an accompanying pastry with your coffee, then this is a good place for you. However if you are keen on fresh coffee and fresh sweet treats I would not recommend this place. read more

Hot Java - Display case full of yummy treats. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Long Beach, California

While the coffee is mediocre at best, the service is always fun and the ambience is simply magic. It never fails, I walk into Hot Java and their is always some LB-based queer group mingling about, talking about the weeks events and sharing broken love stories. The baristas are almost always ready to help you, and the flow is upbeat. The music is always soothing and the decor is, well... gay. For those of you looking for a safe space to spend your evenings, look no further than Hot Java. It is a gay-owned establishment and primarily a gay clientele base. Because it is a small coffee shop, or Independent, make sure to check back frequently. Starbucks has trained most coffee goers that a Frappaccino is the only blended beverage and that ALL drinks must taste the same. At these places, you order a drink dependent upon who is working the counter. As you get to know your barista, you begin to know the drink they make best. Might I recommend a iced vanilla chai tea latte or iced coffee with non-dairy creamer? See ya there! read more

I came here with my sister yesterday and upon entrance it didn't feel like any coffee shop I've been to. The setup was nice and comfortable. I'd probably stick around hot java rather than Starbucks if I'd ever need a place to study. Service is great. Nice people, friendly and a little flirty, but definitely a place to go if you're interested in swell service. Though they were still training someone so it took a little bit of time, there was someone who helped keep me entertained through conversations and mentioning how customization is an option. From what I've experienced, service tries to make you as comfortable as can be. Now for the coffee, my sister got a mocha blast and I got a mocha macchiato. The macchiato took longer to make and wasn't as flavorful as my sister's (the taste of the almond milk was overpowering the mocha), it tasted better than what I'd usually get from Starbucks. Also, feel free to try out their homemade whipped cream, it tastes pretty good with both their coffee and iced coffee. read more

Just moved a few blocks away so decided to go for an early coffee stop! Such a welcoming atmosphere and the staff is very helpful. I ordered a "Flaming Dirty Chai" which was hands down the best chai I've had in a while! The guy asked me how dirty I wanted it (espresso shots) and how flaming (spicy). Very helpful staff and warm ambiance, free wifi too! Ohh my boyfriend and I tried our first ever crounut! It was delish! I'll deff be back! read more

Hot Java - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Long Beach, California

A good little coffee shop. I wouldn't have any strong feelings about it except that the employees were so damn nice I can't help but like it. I agree with the reviewer who said it's very gay AND straight friendly. Seems like a welcoming place for all sexual orientations and gender identities. read more

I'm kind of appalled at the negative reviews for this coffee house, because for the most part, I've always had a wonderful experience here. I don't usually get anything but a regular coffee, or an iced coffee. But the service is always with a smile. They have the best non-dairy creamer in the world. Not too sweet, not bland. Just right. Very gay friendly, which I guess can be un-appealing to some... But I'm a straight guy in my mid 20's who hangs around there and never gets bothered by anyone. The only draw back I've had is that the music is sometimes too loud. I spend most of my time there reading, and more than a couple times between the music and conversations going on around me it gets to be a little too much (I can do one or the other, but not both). But for the most part this place is A-OK! read more

This is a great neighborhood place for kicking back. Coffee and sweets are all good. The cups are eco-friendly, and they are willing to use your refillable mug if you bring one. Some coffee joints won't use my re-usable mug. They tell me to pour the drink in myself, then they throw their cup in the trash. That undermined the whole point, I'm trying to not put single use cups in the landfill. Hot Java has lots of outdoor seating, on a corner so you can avoid or embrace the sunshine. It's a gay cafe in a gay neighborhood, so if that bothers you, try a Starbucks scalded McLatte. I see all kinds of people, reading , waiting for a friend, whatever. I am straight but feel more comfortable here than another coffeehouse nearby where everyone is so tragically hip, I feel out of place if I stop by in business attire or a sweat suit. Clean bathrooms, OK parking depending on the time of day you arrive. You may have to walk a block. read more

For me, this place represents only a decent cup of joe on the way to Bluff Park. As for coffee quality & taste, I prefer the brews over at Portfolio. But if I am headed in the direction of the water (usually on weekend strolls with the doggy), we sometimes stop in and get coffee here. Since I am putting convenience as the ruling factor over taste, the coffee is actually quite good. My convenience bar will go as low as to get coffee at 7-11 so this coffee quality is high considering that factor. This place is very gay-friendly. They seem to allow dogs at the patio tables. Looks like a good mix of people working and socializing. The pastries here are better than portfolio. I had a yummy almond croissant and a muffin from here. Overall, I prefer the taste and setting of Portfolio (but I am probably not Hot Java's key demographic as a straight female). This location is perfect for picking up some caffeine and a snack before or after a walk on the beach. read more

A-ok is pretty good considering there are a million coffee shops within a 1/2 mile radius of my house... This shop by far, is the most comfy... The regulars are all very quite or friendly opposed to the nonsense just a block up at another coffee shop... The workers here always seem very busy, but they don't smile much- they are efficient, so I guess that's all you can really ask for... The ambiance of this place is rad, its very very cozy.... inside and out, there is great people watching on the street.... As for the product, i have had tea, a bagel, a banana and thats about it... read more

My favorite gay coffee shop in long beach. They make the BEST cappuccino hands down. I have had many many in my life. They have nice big work tables for those who are studying or freelancing. They also have a nice selection of drip if youre going on a budget. One thing that turns me off about several other shops (like portfolio) is that there is never anywhere to sit if youre like me and there to seriously work. they offer 2 routers just in case internet is slow. i have never had a prob with slow internet. I also like the music channels they play and their dog-friendly attitude. They will give your dog a biscuit if you bring him in. They may have been dinged by the health dept. for the dogs, but i could care less. I love bringing my 4 legged friend. After all, animals are the children of the gay community! The service is always super fast and the location has a nice breeze going throughout. and the womens restrooms are always clean. (for me always a requirement.) :D read more

I agree with Brian F. below and would give this place 4.5 stars if it wasn't for all the smokers near the huge windows in this place. If they allowed smoking only on the side of the building without windows, the atmosphere inside would be near perfect. I doubt this will ever happen because I notice both of the owners smoke themselves. But, on to the rest of the important stuff. The ambience inside is nice with a variety of couches, chairs, and tables depending if you're chatting, reading, or computing with the free wi-fi access. The staff is friendly enough, the service is good, and the menu selection is above average. Good variety of coffees which change enough to make it interesting, and 3-5 ice tea choices(try the passion fruit ice tea). A nice couple of extras are the gelato bar and the super clean restrooms. This place is Broadway trendy enough without being pretentious. A good mix of students, 9-5'ers, and locals. In the evening, it's about 60% gay clientele, a little less on the weekends. All in all, if it werent for the wafts of second hand smoke, this place would be my favorite cafe. read more

Ok,let me start by saying this is my first review but certainly won't be my last! You yelpers have really helped me broaden my horizons here in LBC where the tendency to swerve towards Belmont Shore in search of a good meal is ALL too common. Thanks for taking me to new and great places! I'm forever grateful! Now, about Hot Java.....I love the place! Sure, unruly dogs (with equally unruly owners) can be a nuisance and the coffee may not be the best in town, but what it lacks in sophistication it more than makes up for in comfort and ambience. The owner is funny, engaging, and really makes an effort to make you feel at home. For those of us who work from home, getting out of isolation is important, at least it is to me. On my morning coffee run (laptop in tow) it's nice to see the same faces settled around their macbooks and Dells, cranking out spreadsheets or hammering out morning emails over a steaming cup of coffee. Pass on the "to go" cup and grab a big mug and you save both $$$ AND the environment, both great things in my book. The couches are comfy, the outlets plentiful and the wi-fi is pretty speedy, especially for a crowded coffee joint. The music/TV's can be a little loud so if you have a conference call to catch, it's probably best not to take it here. I read other reviews about the food being mediocre to bad but my experience has been pretty good, so far. I had a turkey and cranberry pannini yesterday that was served with kettle chips...pretty standard for a coffee shop. The bread was fresh and the service was fast...though it was a bit expensive for a "heat and eat" at $8.95. But, again, I am paying for the convenience and atmosphere so I will gladly spend the extra couple of bucks. If you are homophobic, please stay away and save us all the trouble...but if you are looking for a diverse, fun and friendly place, this is it. See ya there. read more

"Hot Java is the best place in LB to get coffee." Very sit back and relaxed atmosphere. Cozy, homey, and warm. Gay and Straight Friendly. Straight's don't let the big gay flag outside scare you away. Staff is very friendly and they don't bite. Support this friendly community coffee house. Come on in and have a drink. I took my mom and her straight friends here, they loved the place. Coffee House, WiFi, Coffee, Pastries, People watching on out side patio Note: Bring a book to catch up on or your lab top they have great WiFI, or just set back enjoy the atmosphere and music. =) read more

Oh Hot Java! How I once loved thee! This used to be my cafe of choice. Whatever seating I may want--seating at a long table, my own individual table, a comfy couch--Hot Java has it. Plenty of outlets too! Love the selection of coffee (the mocha is especially delish!), teas, and treats. The staff has always been nice and I find the other costumers fit this pleasant atmosphere. But something went very wrong on my last visit. I could not sign online! I wasn't get much reception to begin with, but my computer wouldn't accept their internet server. Error! Error! I've never had this problem before. So my love for Hot Java has diminished some. As a free WiFi spot. Otherwise, it's still a great Long Beach cafe. read more

I like Hot Java because it's open late (11 pm), has tons of ample seating, and has good coffee and killer pastries. So far I've tried the spiced chai with soy milk, the red eye, and the Americano. Never been disappointed, and I love the vibe. I've tried the pumpkin muffin and the lemon bar, both of which are overwhelmingly delicious. Friendly baristas make this place feel like home. read more

I 'lava' Hot Java... ...why: everything the other reviewers already posted - friendly service, vibe, yum stuff esp.the Chai, comedy nights, easy/comfy chat hangout. Been here twice, 1st on a date w/a hunky scuba dive IT guy, to catch Carlease's Laugh-A-Latte performances & 2nd for a recent weekday evening hangout. Both times, unexpectedly major chill fun. ...why not? Everyone's super cool regardless of background, etc. What does sexual orientation have to do w/how one takes their cup o' Joe? Unless of course, they prefer an ACTUAL Cup O' Joe! ;-) The ENTIRE neighborhood surrounding this quaint cafe is gay friendly, or friendly in general--not just the establishment itself. ...however disagree w/other posts. Sorry guys, there's enough room in my heart for both Portfolio Coffee & Hot Java. They both rock in their own special awesome-ness. read more

Perhaps Hot Java is my favorite local coffee shop to post up and study for a few hours. The layout is not that large, but it is well designed and feels spacious. The noise level is good. They usually play great music, but sometimes I notice it will randomly transition to popular music that I'd rather not have to hear. I'm assuming it happens when a different employee comes on shift. But that's not of utmost importance. The workers are friendly and make me good coffee, so I'm a happy customer. The overall environment paired with their coffee drinks is what mainly draws me in. It's comfortable and clean, and I can get a lot of work done. It's exactly what I need in a coffee shop. :) read more

First time here. Always looking for good coffee shops to sit and work in between customers. This one is definitely being added to my list. Really inviting and friendly staff, great coffee, and although I did not partake this time....the food looks fantastic. read more

So the coffee is probably 5 stars but the service is meh. I have been. 3/4 times and my drink caramel machioto with almond milk is sooooo delicious. I think they use caramel syrup versus sauce. It really is so yummy. Service is just kinda crap. Like not actually rude more unfriendly.....not sure what thats about. read more

Last night, I ventured back into Hot Java (twice) after being away from here for a long time. The Iced soy Mint Mocha I had was spot on, Made by Mr. Owen "the canary." It really makes a difference when you have baristas who know how to mix a drink properly, but seems like a let down when you come across one that doesn't. With Owen, Pete, Mike, and a couple more, I know I'll get what I pay for in quality. This joint was JUMPIN last night, with three different groups present, students studying, and the air seemed much lighter than it has been in some time. Could it be the new paint and decor change? Could it be the season? Who knows, but it does feel like the Hot Java that I once loved dearly again. For a while there, I felt like it was in a coma of sorts, which left a bitter taste in my mouth....or maybe my coffee cup? I really want to score them higher, but I know in time they'll get back up there, and I'll let complete strangers to this great coffeehouse decide the mood instead. KUDOS to the management for the changes! read more

I love hot Java!!!! It is my preferred coffee shop in the neighborhood. The dirty bi chai is my drink and the smoked salmon plate is my breakfast. Everyone that works there is very friendly and there is always plenty of seating. read more

Came in from the rain because I saw they had chai tea lattes on the menu. They also had different flavor choices which I loved because I'm a huge fan of chai. The line was only a few people long but someone behind the bar asked for my drink order before I got to the register so he could start making it. Of course I loved! The employees are all super sweet and friendly, attentive, and helpful with making your drink just perfect for you. I was visiting a friend's home nearby and ended up here on happy accident. I will definitely come by again whenever I'm in the area! #smallbusinessesrule read more

Wow, so, when The Library went sour did all the clientele migrate down Broadway to Hot Java? It always seems to be busy no matter when I go and finding a place to sit is sometimes an issue, but other then that this place has potential. The staff always seems to be willing to help me and is always very friendly with me and my friends. The coffee itself is decent, however I finding that in some of the drinks they are a little heavy handed with the sweeteners... yuck The food, well, I would advise to use caution, young Padawan, since it looks old and stale... yuck But all in all, it seems like a nice place to sit and sip on a coffee while talking to friends. read more

Meeting my lady-friends for a little study time is one of my favorite things to do at Hot Java. It is usually pretty busy, but the service is quick. As for the drinks- the spiced chai is not to be missed. Delish! read more

2 coffees and a pumpkin muffin shared between my partner and I. We enjoy this location because it's always packed with members of or community. Usually the staff is pretty helpful but tonight, unfortunately, the female staff member wasn't so cheerful. A little smile can go a long way. Still love this place. read more

Hot Java - Pumpkin muffin - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Long Beach, California

I would love to love it as it's a few steps from my house...the ambiance is great, but the coffee is not that good, and the pastry on the weekend is steal!!! How about going across the street and buying it from Park pantry rather than serving old one. Also, enough with the smokers who get to enjoy the beautiful LB outdoors at cafes and ruin it for everybody else who wants to smell their food and drinks. YUK! SMOKE FREE LB!!! read more