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I tried this place in Phoenix. Very unique atmosphere. Not your typical cookie cutter restaurant/Coffee/Bakery. This place has character and its own vibe. A must try if you never been.
Giving this 4 stars only because the girl who took our order, when asking her questions, seemed to be agitated by our inquiries. Otherwise, it is a great experience to sit here for coffee, breakfast and/or lunch. Their offerings of pastries, cakes, donuts and muffins is insane. You have customers working on their laptop, families, couples, singles with dogs coming in non-stop. I love this eclectic space, with food on dishes from your Nana's house. I enjoyed both my coffee and cheeseburger with bacon on an English muffin. I will return for sure.
Okay Lux Central is not just a coffee shop -- it's an experience. From the outside you'd never know what's happening inside. No obvious signage, just this understated entrance that leads you into what feels like a creative maze. Every time I thought I'd reached the end, there was another room, another vibe, another cozy corner. And yes -- there's even a tucked-away speakeasy-style bar hidden deep in the back that you'd completely miss if you were just grabbing coffee to-go. The aesthetic is effortlessly cool: exposed wood beams, oversized glass pendant lights, open kitchen energy, eclectic art, sticker-covered doors, even a vintage red typewriter casually part of the décor. I loved that they had free postcards scattered around (super cute touch) and these giant bowls of fresh produce -- avocados, jalapeños, pears, bananas -- almost like edible art pieces that add to the whole vibe. The pastry case was stacked, including solid vegan options, my latte had beautiful foam art, and the matcha was smooth without being overly sweet. The crowd was such a mix -- students on laptops, creatives, business folks, locals hanging out -- packed but still relaxed. Indoor, outdoor, open late, food all day... definitely one of those places you stop in for coffee and end up staying way longer than planned.
If I could give a place 10*s, Lux has more than earned the title. Cool space coffee shops are definitely a thing in Phoenix lately--but Lux was the "design-genius-with-a-latte-machine" long before coffee shops were even a thing here. I've been frequenting this architectural marvel for over 10 years. While so many new shops try to mimic this vibe, none of them are Lux. Lux is King! The 11-Year Flashback: I looked back at my review from 11 years ago when I docked them a star for the "nightmare parking." Back then, I was a "to-go" only person who never envisioned myself as a laptop-hipster hanging out. Well, times change! I'm bumping them up to 5 stars now. Maybe it's the new competition nearby or my better timing, but the parking is a breeze, and I've officially embraced the "comfy chair" lifestyle. The "Cheers" Factor: What really sets this place apart is the people. After a decade of visits, it truly feels like Cheers--where everybody knows my name! Getting to know the folks behind the counter makes every visit feel like coming home. The Sip of the Night: I shifted from my usual plain Cappuccino as my target drink to include in a review to feature their Espresso Martini. I went with a Reposado base instead of the typical vodka, and it was stellar. With two full bars in addition to the coffee and pastry bar, craft drinks truly abound here! (Note: they have an amazing cappuccino too) The Comfort Classics: You cannot leave without the food. My go-to favorites? The Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese and the legendary Chocolate Chip or Red Velvet cookies. Return Factor: 100% I've been coming here for a decade, and it's still the gold standard. As I said in my review 11 years ago: "I see a book, comfy chair and cocktail in my future! Stumble home... Repeat." Still true today! #PHXCoffeeShopTour #1CupAtATime #LuxCentral #PhoenixOriginal #EspressoMartini #FlashbackReview
Honestly, this place definitely deserves a higher overall rating. I found this place cause of the trusted Yelp app and wow! A true diamond in the rough. From the outside you wouldn't know there was a full on niche coffee shop, restaurant, bakery, and bar. Service was really good as we explained it was our first time and wasn't sure of the process. The food was very original. I got the biscuits and gravy and my dad got the Dutch pancake. Everything was so delicious. My dad lives here in Phoenix and never heard of this place but he will become a regular now, it's that good.
10/10 came to this place for a book club meeting and it was perfect. There's something for everyone, especially with how large of a group we had. The dinner menu was awesome and the espresso martini and the French 75 were so delicious. Between the dinner and the drinks I paid about $50 with tip. It was well worth it in my opinion. The workers were so nice and everyone was really welcoming.
I went here on a date with a new fella I know, I know most people don't like coffee dates, I love them when first getting to know someone, it's not a long time commitment just in case lol.anyway the place is cute and very on par for the neighborhood. If you drive by too fast you might miss it... spoiler alert I totally missed it at first lol. I do love that parking is a breeze. I did not love the seating when I first got there. We actually moved around seats a bit to find a space that would give us time to chat while we sipped. After finding a groovy little spot by the bar, the seating isn't all that bad. Pro tip they have a little lounge area also in the back behind the bathrooms, so don't forget to check it out. We had the friendliest hostess and mixologist, we started with coffee but as the conversation kept flowing we decided to grab a cocktail. Out seating was perfect as we watched her make our drinks. The afternoon was going well so we decided to order a late lunch. I had the grilled cheese and tomato soup, it was delicious, the soup was flavorful and the bread for the sandwich was toasted and had great flavor too it. My companion got the BLT and salad. He enjoyed the salad, and said the sandwich was good. Good comfort meal in my opinion. I did mention that I would return as a work from homer I love finding little coffee shops that can make shift as a change of scenery with delicious coffee, when I come back I'm definitely trying the pastries which looked delicious!!!!
Stopped by with friends on Sunday and whoa was this place super busy! We stood in line to order and thankfully it moved pretty quick. I ordered an iced vanilla chai latte and a salted chocolate chip cookie. Waited a few minutes and my names was called out when my drink was ready. There was no where available to sit inside so we went out to the patio area. The patio are had a few small tables and chairs. My iced vanilla chai was yummy and so was the cookie. The cookie was baked perfectly and it was soft. The employees we interacted with were friendly. The outside tables did have a bunch of dirty plates and cups so it seemed as if no one had come out to clean it up.
This was my first time trying Lux, and it gives classic Phoenix vibes. It's rustic, a little alternative, and busy. The inside of the cafe has lots of seating but does feel tight. There are a lot of drink and food options, and several people doing work on their laptops. It wasn't the quietest, but could be a good place to work with others or alone.
There are days when I really miss NYC and this coffee shop comes close to the ones I like in NYC. I came in here this afternoon to get some work done and have always enjoyed my experience here. They don't have matcha on their menu, but seems like everyone was ordering matcha lol. I ordered a large iced matcha oat latte with lavender. Pretty good drink! This place has a lot of people working here, and some people are drinking alcohol while working too. I also discovered a back room past the bathroom where there is another bar and a room that has a big TV and I spied soccer on the screen! Sweet! The decor in here is fun and the music is always good in here. Great vibe and a fun place to hang out. They have lots of pastries on display but I didnt get any. They also have a full menu too, so maybe next time I'll come for some food too! This is probably one of the top 10 coffee bars in Phoenic for me! And I love that they stay open later than most coffee bars in town, no 2pm closing, thanks Lux!! I'll definitely be back again soon! The parking lot is tight but plenty of parking on the street and Pane Bianco's lot was empty and since they're closed, I'll just park over next time when I come thru.
I ordered an infinitesimally small matcha latte and the cost was $8.99 I understand inflation, but this is insane compared to the price of a reasonably sized matcha latte at comparable establishments. I clarified the price and apparently that's accurate pricing. My guess is a large matcha latte must be about $20.00 at this rate.
Pastries and coffee are always spot on. They're very kind to my son and they once gave him an orange because he was eyeing it which as a mother made me love this place even more
This place serves an amazing Espresso Martini! It's probably one of the best I've had in Phoenix. Highly recommend.
Let me start by saying my experience here was awesome! The drinks were handcrafted by a mexologist and the scaffos unbelievably knowledgeable about their craft. This is a very hipster retro retro hidden away little bar that unless you know it's there you would never find it. There is no sign of job side the job side. It sits inside of a coffee shop cafe and is tucked in the back middle section of the restaurant. We found that our food was just as good as our cocktails and the service was amazing all the way through. This is one of those special finds that I would recommend to anyone to try. Just having cocktails is an experience in itself. It is located down near the downtown corridor which has been built up so much and there's so many new things to see that this is just a great stop if you're in the area. Highly recommended! #irishcatv2 read more
Last morning in Phoenix--last coffeehouse before hitting the road to return home! We had no idea what we were walking into when coming into LUX CENTRAL! In fact we couldn't even find the front door at first! When we finally found the entrance, it had only a single light above the door. No signage. We thought we might be asked for a secret passcode to get in! Like walking into a speakeasy! Stepping inside, we discovered the speakeasy vibe was exactly what they wanted to create! The atmosphere was dim lit (of course!), the decor a blend of modern and retro (those ceiling lights!!) One section was a coffee bar and the other side was a bar serving alcoholic drinks (yes they start serving boozy drinks at 8am!) Beyond the two main spaces, a couple of other cool hidden spaces to sit and mingle (we discovered them when looking for the bathroom). Also found an outdoor patio area. The food and drink menus were extensive! Greeted by the long row of delicious baked goods, we couldn't resist ordering from the case! Beyond the case, there is much to chose from, cooked to order. QUICHE LORRAINE - classic quiche with eggs, cheese and bacon. Served cold. Would have been better warmed up. BLUEBERRY MUFFIN - loaded with blueberries, cake like texture with unusual flattish sugar crust top. Yum! RASPBERRY BANANA MUFFIN - healthier option (no sugar top), dense and delicious! LATTE - beautiful, excellent! Smooth Espresso, nicely done foam. Loved how they hand wrote our order and names on paper, slipped it onto the saucer! Over all a unique experience! Recommend for an adult crowd, although we did have little ones with us. read more
5 years ago
I used to go to lux regularly when going to school. I stopped for a while (like 2 years). Now, lux is on the way to my work, and I am finding myself going there on the reg yet again. This isn't the "perfect" coffee, but Lux has recently been my work coffee place, and their iced coffee is great! The atmosphere/decor/ambiance hasnt changed; it is still the casual hangout spot it has always been. Food is good too, I recommend the egg and cheese bacon jalapeno pastry thing... it's pretty good. Messed up my coffee a couple of times but it isn't burnt like starbucks; it's actually coffee still LOL. read more
I had a really hard time finding this place. There are no signs and the entrance is in the back. It's also next to a vacant office. There's nice artwork and decor inside but some major negatives. The seating layout is awkward and too crowded where you're forced to sit next to strangers that you dont want to listen to their obnoxious conversations. They kept playing the same genre of music which gets really irritating, even Starbucks has better music variety. The crowd seemed to be all ASU students trying to pretend study but spending more time gossiping. I prefer a more diverse crowd that includes people that work in the area of different ages. The prices are very expensive. My coffee was very good but $3.25 is steep. The AC was weak too. Overrated. read more
Still my favorite coffee shop in town. Ambience: 4 large rooms. When you walk in, there are tables leading up to the glass case of delectable pastries and cakes. You can order your lattés here from the friendly baristas. The next room is filled with long tables and benches in front of the kitchen grill - they have savory food here too such as Mac & Cheese! Turning down a hallway leads to what I like to call the 'screen/ sports room' because there's a big screen against the wall and often it features one of the live games. The last room is tucked away into the very last part of this cinnamon-roll-of-a-building layout and it has dark walls and even more tables on which to do some work. Food & Drink: absolutely love their lattés and mochas. Not too bitter, not too sweet, and the perfect temperature. Their latté art is on point too- every single time. Their pastries are a delight to try! I haven't gotten one I have not liked. From cookies to cakes and scones, the textures and flavors are generous and there are always new things to try. Staff: By far some of the friendliest and kindest staff members. Quite hospitable and they very obviously love working here. Love love Lux. read more
I stopped into Lux between meetings downtown. I ordered a latte and a blueberry muffin. The coffee was solid, but the muffin was insanely good. I seriously would have licked the plate if I hadn't been sitting at the bar. Lux is hopping. You may have to look for a seat and share a table with a stranger. Also, the door to Lux is at the back of the building--near the door for Pane Bianco. I will have to schedule more meetings downtown so I can come back for the pastry. read more
3 years ago
Originally from AZ but live in LA now. I get to travel back and forth a lot for work and family engagements. Lux is still my favorite coffee shop in my small wide world. Coffee is outstanding, baked goods are top notch, their savory pastries always amaze me! This place is an experience for sure and it's always my favorite experience! read more
5 years ago
Lux is a well-known and well-visited establishment. The place is busy with folks working, meeting with friends, and chowing down both in and outside. There is plenty of space but it gets crowded, though many folks keep it moving. I kept it simple and ordered a latte. I have to say, I enjoyed their coffee. It's not too strong and it comes out at a perfect temperature so that you can start sipping right away. Since this was my first time, the cashier actually paid for my coffee. Talk about making an impression! I was so grateful and surprised, and it's honestly a testament to why this spot is loved by many! I sat outside during my stay and there are plenty of shaded and sunlit areas. Beware that the wifi doesn't reach the outside area so if you're needing to do some work, arrive early to get a spot inside. Thank you for helping to kick my day off on a very good start, Lux + team. I look forward to my next visit and trying more items off your menu. Cheers! read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
Splendid drink, earths bounty provides such a unique refreshment, I wish the bartender would wear a bag over his head. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
Great vibe in this local coffee shop located right on Central corridor. Location--4 stars: It's a little bit confusing for us to find the parking lot in the back, if they could put up a sign on Central that would be better. Food--4stars: you could taste the freshness from the first bite. The dishes come with a relatively smaller portion than regular brunch places. Organic oatmeal is the best, Dutch pancake is specially made, Farmer's Market scramble egg and savory zucchini cake is just ordinary (Farmer's Market tastes better than it appears). Vibe--5 stars: The staff there are very welcoming and helpful. Some customers bring kids and pc there, while others are reading and chatting happily. Ideal place for family/friends get together. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Really casual vibe. Cafe, bakery, open bar... all of it combined. The esthetics is like if you stepped into someone's kitchen/den and everyone from the neighborhood is just hanging out eating and drinking. Food was great. Some places like this only have the ambience and horribly over priced food.. but their coffee, pastries and food was all delicious. The food, in line with the overall feel of the place, is chunky and scrumptious. The people working at Lux do everything... no one person who is doing one thing but open to help with any service. The parking is always full and it's busy in here, full of young and old with computers studying or getting their creativity fix. read more
I only had the avocado toast here so this review is based on that and it was really good. I'm glad I let the cashier convince me to get the pico de Gallo on top because it took it to another level. My friend actually ordered the Mac and cheese and I had a small bite and it was also pretty good with the right amount of flavor. The location is a little difficult to find. We almost left cuz we thought it was in the building next door and it was closed down but we pulled into the parking lot and saw people sitting outside so we went up and asked them. Glad they did cuz they were quick and it was perfect for our drive to Sedona. read more
2 years ago
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8 years ago
I can't believe I haven't written a review for this place because I'm here... at least... 3 times per week. It's become sort of a problem. The lines are long but they're super efficient and drinks come out super fast (food other than pastries takes a little longer). Honestly, I love all of their coffee beverages. Even just the plain straight black coffee (which typically isn't my thing)... so it's sort of saying something. I've also tried to iced latte (whipped cream is amazing here, I think it's a cold brew infused whip) but haven't tried the velvets or mochas because chocolate just isn't my thing (but hear they're amazing)! They also have fresh-squeezed juices which I have a deep love for. I haven't tried their lunch or dinner but frequent around breakfast time to get some work done here and there. Food wise: all of the menu Items I've tried are awesome, with the aunt Gladys breakfast being my favorite. The pastries I love. I've tried the cookies and muffins. I honestly prefer the standard muffin over the corn muffin, but both are great options. Really I haven't found anything you can go wrong with here! read more
1 year ago
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5 years ago
The best city coffee. I will be giving my five-star rating to this coffee shop. They always did their best and had great customer satisfaction. Their coffee and service, this coffee shop are completely awesome every moment! Because of the taste, I still drink coffee here, and the place is nice too. They also have good, polite, and supportive staff. Don't miss the chance here to drink amazing coffee. I would highly recommend this place without any doubt! Thank you so much to all of you for the warm assistance. read more
6 years ago
Stopped here for a quick coffee run and my experience was great. Not only did this location give off chill/relaxing vibes but awesome customer service. Will be a returning customer for sure. Thank you! **picked up menus to share read more
2 years ago
Very busy spot for coffee and drinks. Let me tell you, insanely overpriced. Also, the price didn't match up but the worker started taking the next person's order while I was paying. Italian soda is 4 dollars yet I was charged 5.43. Interesting. Very unique setup inside but probably won't be back. read more
Lux is amazing. Such a cute spot first of all! The coffee is always on point especially with the house made whipped cream!!! And the pastry case is always filled with delicious creations. The grilled cheese sandwich is also a highlight of mine! So good. The baristas are all super friendly, especially Cheryl! Love this neighborhood spot! read more
6 years ago
2 years ago
Love this cozy place. Perfect for slow mornings, excellent coffee and delicious omelette. Service was good. read more
My partner lives here in AZ and I came to visit him. Usually I love Matt's Big Breakfast and he insisted I come here for a specific item on the food menu. We have been here before. I love their coffee and the vibe. It's always packed and the music is really enjoyable. Communal seating and comfy couches create a pretty wonderful atmosphere. Back to the food...this Savory Dutch Pancake absolutely stole my heart. The crispiness of the pancake with the yummy sautéed veggies and cheese was everything. I am really big on textures and each mouthful was a perfect balance. We shared one and ate it with our hands like a pizza/taco. They stop serving this at 11 AM. All I can say is next time I won't be sharing...I want my own. read more
8 years ago
Such a cute cafe located in downtown Phoenix! I dropped twice, once to just grab a quick latte, and the second time to grab some food and caffeine! First off, I had a bit of a hard time finding the entrance the first time after parking in the front. The second time, I parked in the back and was able to walk to the door more easily. Once inside, I was met with a line both times, but was happy to see that it moved pretty fast. During my most recent visit, they also started grabbing drink orders while people were in line so that they could get started on those more quickly. I settled on a black and white with whipped cream and a savory dutch pancake. Now the black and white was deeelicious, especially the whipped cream! The savory dutch pancake was super rich and buttery and made me really want to try the sweet version next time! Overall, such a cute cafe with a really unique interior -- drop by if you're in the area and want some coffee/pastries/food/cocktails! read more
3 years ago
While known for their coffee, Lux Central is also a solid choice for real drinks. The Old Fashioned and Margarita are excellent, and I've had them at plenty of places. Even on a weeknight, this place is packed. Excellent selection of pastries. A place where you can plug in a laptop if you're a digital nomad and work, or just come with a group of friends and kick back. Another highlight? Dog friendly. Overall, a pleasant crowd. read more
Absolutely yes!!!!...i recommend this place. Casual vibe with cool music and awesome decor. The lamps and lights around give to this place a special touch. The food is amazingly delicious!!! I had a muffin with bacon, egg and cheese. I described this sandwich as simply exquisite. It's the most delicious breakfast sandwich I ever had!!!mmmm....my brain still thinking about it!!!! The Dutch pancake served with berries it was light and sweet, but almost naturally sweetened, perfectly pair with a latte. read more
This place was so fun! Went here for some late night drinks in their back room and it was beautiful. They had a movie going with a projector so fun. The furniture and decor is so retro and fun! The drinks were so delicious the bartender is amazing I gave my favorite choice of liquor and the word "sweet" and I was taken away so yummy! Definitely call reservation needed for back room cocktails! read more
What a great way to spend a Friday night. After dinner, my date and I decided to grab a drink, so we stopped into Lux, and I was immediately impressed by the atmosphere of this place. They serve coffee, treats, and there's a bar! Score! Ordered the Espresso Martini and it was absolutely delicious. The place is not very big, but there are plenty of tables ad chairs to sit and enjoy your drink, socialize or finish up some work. Would love to come back and try their coffee. read more
2 years ago
tl;dr This is a loud coffee shop with great drinks and food but limited parking and seating. A little overpriced, but not unexpected. -- It's typical for coffee shops to have coffee, tea, and pastries, however this place also offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and alcohol menus! I got the "Two Eggs The Way You Like 'Em Bacon Or Tomato And Hash" for $8.50 and a "Black And White Iced Latte". Both were delicious and I recommend them. There is a small free parking lot with 27 parking spaces plus a little bit of street parking right before turning in. During non-peak hours, the parking lot was full and there were 2 street spaces left. In theory, there is a lot of seating at Lux Central. However because the furniture around each table is bulky, if you're there by yourself or with just one other person, you're forced to take a whole couch area that actually fits 4-5. When I arrived there wasn't any seating available. Luckily as I was about to walk out without ordering, a couch/table area opened up. If you're planning on bringing guests here, prepare to take them somewhere else in case there's no seating. There is loud, upbeat music playing. It's not as high as in a club, but it's definitely louder than background music. If you're going to have a conversation, you'll have to speak up. (Side note: Huge shout out to Saturday afternoon's playlist! Top 40 from the 2010's was amazing!) I'd go back. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
More info about Lux Central
4400 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Directions
(602) 327-1396
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http://luxcoffee.com
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Ask the Community - Lux Central
Do they also made chilled desserts like cream pies, mousse, trifles, etc?
Their dessert options vary daily. Yes, they often have chilled desserts in the refrigerator across from the bakery items.
Is it a good place to get some work done between appointments?
There isn't a whole lot of space with a table/desk, and if there is, people are likely eating there. I think a collaborative team meeting would be fine. You definitely can work on a computer, but taking zoom meetings or calls might be a little…
Anybody else drive out here late at night thinking they still close at midnight?
Yes. Happened to me recently. They don't stay open late since Covid. :-(
Do they have new hours, if so what are their hours? Also, are their pastry's available all day or is it better to go in the morning?
Hours I cannot speak to. Pastries are always available and rotate throughout the day!
Is 9 and 12 too young for this place?
Unless I am there with my youngsters, else I would not let me kids here by themselves. It's a place mostly appropriate for 18+ for coffee, mingle, and/or small bar areas.
Are the lemons and oranges free?
No. Unless you're former mayor of Phoenix. I saw him take a banana without paying.
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