Loved their original location so decided to give the new spot a try. Everything from the quality of drinks to the ambiance was amazing. The cashier was very lovely and helpful. I got a matcha and it was delicious; very lightly sweet with the perfect matcha taste. read more

Super cute 2nd location by mandarin. I'm not going to lie...I prefer this one over the original one. Theres more seating, workers are friendlier, it's less hustle and bustle vibe. I got their seasonal coconut latte. Amazing. Perfectly balanced, great all around. read more

See all

I've been to Mandarin Coffee, so it's only fitting that I check out Mandarin 2. This location is much bigger with ample seating inside and a cozy little patio area out front. It's also attached to a fancy apartment complex, which makes it convenient for residents to get their caffeine fix. The staff here are very friendly and the vibe is chill. It's a great spot to relax with your laptop or a book or hang with friends. Menu offerings consist of creative Chinese inspired drinks, and they also have yummy pastries from Sugarbloom. The Chai Latte sounded enticing, so that is what I ordered along with a blueberry muffin for my hairdresser. The darling gal that assisted me said their chai is a bit spicy so they sweeten it with honey and asked if that was ok. I said, "sure." I soaked in the ambience of the early morning sun coming through the windows while I waited. A few minutes later I was on my way. I love Chai tea but rarely order it because it upsets my tummy. However, I did not have an issue with this latte. I could taste the spices along with cardamon but the flavor wasn't intense. It was just right, so was the touch of honey to balance it out along with the almond milk. I really enjoyed it, and my hairdresser loved the blueberry muffin. Even though it's a bit out of the way, I'd come back for the Chai Latte. *Small parking lot or Street parking read more

See all

8/30/2026 4 1/2 Stars First time at the second location. CAPPUCCINO Good smooth, creamy mouthfeel, great foam! The espresso was a bit more sour than desired. Good bitterness and no bad aftertaste. I sweetened it a bit with simple syrup because they only had Stevia. I prefer raw sugar instead. I might try their cappuccino again IF they use a different coffee bean. SICILY Wanted to try this and wow, that orange blossom is very strong! There is a bit of lemon juice, sugar and lime zest and it balances it out a bit with the fruity Ethiopian cold brew. I really like orange blossom in drinks and baked goods, but this drink did have that soapy, perfumy flavor with each sip. Still, I finished it because it was over 90 degrees and the drink was icy cold and oddly refreshing. Would I recommend? Not unless you really love orange blossom. AMBIANCE + SEATS Indoor and outdoor spaces available. Indoor benches and small coffee tables, when you go inside, there are more spaces and tables for 2. You can work inside as Wifi is available, but the music was on the louder side. But they did have a good selection of music. Went on a Sunday afternoon and it was packed! One unisex bathroom available and very clean too. LOCATION + PARKING Located on Quigley Ave + Colorado Blvd. It is on the first floor at Rinrose Apartments. The coffee shop is hidden, but if you see Hovsepyan Family Optometry, you are at the right place. Mandarin is right next door hidden by the hedges. However, you can see the patio umbrellas, so that is where Mandarin 2 is located. Street parking or neighborhood parking is available. There were a few street parking spots at the motel across from Mandarin 2. But most likely, it won't be easy finding parking spots in the area. CUSTOMER SERVICE Very friendly and welcoming! No complaints! I liked that it was cozier and more welcoming with table and seat availability than Mandarin Coffee Stand. However, the location felt a bit odd and parking was difficult to find. I will most likely return because there are tables and seats to enjoy your coffee. read more

See all

Met up with the Coffee King on a Saturday morning to check this place out cause this is how the CQ & CK roll...The interior is minimalistic with benches and tables...not too comfy if you have a bony butt like me... Again, another over priced coffee shop with only 1 cup size option for iced and hot drinks. I watched one of the barista's prepare pour overs which was an interesting process here. My coffee was very small for the price and they made it w/foam which takes away from the coffee flavor:( I did enjoy my visit with my CK, and that made the trip over here worth it. Would I go back...no. Not unless they offer larger cup sizes...LOL Street parking in this area. ~ and that's all I have to say about that... read more

See all

Oh Madaarin 2 you are so cool and so hipster, that you make it hard for me not to keep coming back whenever I decide to drink coffee in Pasadena. One of the coolest vibes for a coffee shop in Pasadena and that's saying a lot. Weekends this places gets packed with a line out the door, your lucky to find a seat insideI think during the weekday it a little less crowded. Coffee is just as good as this places looks. I had the Gui How latte I know I'm not spelling it right and the brown sugar latte. Both top tier in terms of quality. If you are a discerning coffee drinker then you got to try this place. read more

See all

Mandarin 2 is a cute little coffee shop with a cozy, intentionally designed space. Their baristas respect the craft. Can't speak to the food, but I'll definitely be back when I'm in town for the One and One: a shot of espresso, a cortado, and a sparkling rose tea to clean the palette in between. Perfect balance and pairing for an effective caffeine dose. read more

See all

My wife wanted a drink and heard about this spot opening. She apparently has been to the original one in DTLA and wanted to see if this one was just as good. We got a gui hua latte decaf. The drink was pretty good. With a slight sweetness and roasted taste. The top was very very creamy. My wife loved the drink way more than I did, but I'm not that big on coffee in the first place. Wife very satisfied with the drink = wife happy = me happy. 10/10 read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

So thrilled Mandarin Coffee Stand in Old Town opened another coffee shop and this one has an Asian twist, whereas the other one has a Spanish! They're open daily 7am-3pm It's slightly hidden and apparently it seems like it's part of the apartment complex so it can be easily missed! Parking was a little tricky since they don't have parking but there was nearby residential street parking. Service was so friendly, welcoming, and helpful! Inside was very modern and spacious. There was a good amount of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as power outlets, making this a nice study or hang out spot! Pricing was reasonable and most drinks were $6-$7+. Love that they have complimentary milk substitutions (oat/almond) and offer ice/sugar adjustments! Got the Toasty ($7) and it consisted of milk tea, espresso, brown sugar syrup, and cinnamon. It's nice that the default for this drink was oat milk. This drink was so delicious! The coffee was not too strong or overpowering. I really enjoyed that it wasn't too sweet without any sugar adjustments. The cinnamon added a nice touch and cherry on top to the drink. Overall, this drink was very yummy and unique! Definitely enjoyed this cafe and would recommend! read more

See all

One of the best mochas, hands down. They use Carr Bakery chocolate from Pasadena, which makes the drink incredibly rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Their brownie cookie is also phenomenal -- chewy, salty, and delicious. The space is cozy, with just a few tables inside: three smaller ones, one large table, and a handful of smaller standing tables that are just big enough to set your drink on. The staff is friendly and genuine, and I appreciated how attentive they were. I also saw a customer spill part of their coffee after sitting for a while, and the staff kindly replaced it free of charge. read more

See all

I had an unforgettable, magical experience at Mandarin (Pasadena). It's now my #1 favorite coffee in the SGV. I ordered the Gui Hua Latte ($6.50). It's Osmanthus Flower Honey, Cardamom Bitters, House Espresso, and Oat Milk. I felt happy and alert. I arrived at Mandarin (Pasadena) on Monday (around 10:09AM). Parking is FREE and very simple compared to "Pasadena Standards." There are no parking meters in this area. There's no customer parking lot, but there's nearby neighborhood parking and free street parking. Signs say, "1 Hour Parking - 7AM to 6PM - Except Sunday." I parked three minutes away and walked over. Staff is VERY knowledgeable. Staff effortlessly went into deep details about their coffee. Staff is also very friendly and welcoming. Staff happily answered all my questions. When ready, Staff carries the drink to the customer. My drink took four minutes and 18 seconds. Good time! As mentioned, I am now OBSESSED with the Gui Hua Latte ($6.50). I need to wipe away literal tears of joy as I recall this heavenly elixir. This coffee is rich and roasted like warm cocoa; its top is foamy and fluffy while carrying wisps of that honeyed Osmanthus tea taste; and the strength is gentle yet firm like a strong cuddle from a doting parent. I felt awake and filled with unbridled joy. On ambiance, Mandarin (Pasadena) is cozy and small. There's very little seating, and it's very POPULAR. There's about three tables, four very tiny stool tables, and a long standing counter. There's also customer internet with password; details are displayed on the counter. Mandarin (Pasadena) is very minimalistic, but it's also very clean and well-ventilated. There's a gender neutral restroom. And there's soft, upbeat music playing. Overall, Mandarin (Pasadena) is a MUST-TRY for any fan of coffee. It's AMAZING!! Personally, I'd happily drive an hour to have another sip of that lovely brew. If you're nearby, you're INCREDIBLY lucky. 5 out of 5!!! "GO!! JUST GO!!!" read more

See all

Mandarin one was definitely caffeinated fun and now act two is a spot for you and a crew. As I went to the counter I didn't have a clue what I wanted so I ordered a few. As my eyes watched them carefully prepare my drink my anticipation grew. With my view I started to think about my review and then my ideas all started coming through and I was like phew! I stated off with their One on One and after that I felt brand new! My second drink was a Pour Over and from there I was really ready like Scooby Doo! Or maybe like an animal escaping the Zoo! LoL! But seriously, baristas here take the craft very seriously and tasting the coffee and watching them how much they enjoy doing what they do it's a no brainer why this place is legit. The service was great and the atmosphere total chill as well as the playlist. And that's my take on it, Peace out... read more

See all

#195 in my Coffeeshop Chronicles. I finally checked out the second location of the popular Pasadena coffeeshop. It wasn't until I looked up the directions that I realized how close this new location is to me. And I have to say, I think it was a pretty brilliant move for them to open the new branch in East Pasadena, since there's not as much competition in terms of independent artisanal coffeeshops. Like the OG location, Mandarin 2 offers the same specialty coffee, using exotic blends and beans imported from the Yunnan province in southern China. I ordered my usual - the Toasty latte - and enjoyed the sweet, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor profile that I have come to love. Unlike the OG location though, there's actually indoor seating here, a welcome change from the grab-and-go coffee stand in Pasadena's Burlington Arcade. ****************** My Ratings: 1 Star: Terrible; just thinking about it makes me angry. 2 Stars: Wasn't a fan so Not likely to return. 3 Stars: Meh. Average. Might return if others drag me. 4 Stars: Yum! Likely to return. 5 Stars: Amazing! Would plan my day around it. read more

A late review but hopefully will be helpful still. As a more of an indoor dine-in sequel to Mandarin Coffee Stand, I believe this second location is very much consistent with the quality of Mandarin Coffee Stand. I think Mandarin stands out a lot in LA as a dedicated Chinese specialty coffee perspective to the third wave scene. This place showcases exceptional single origin and light roast beans alike, offering coffee from renowned coffee roasters like Yunnan province in southern China. A signature beverage is the Gui Hua Latte, which is a delicate osmanthus flower, making the drink gently sweet and creamy with milk. My personal favorite, though seasonal only, is their Pineapple Espresso Tonic. It is till this day my number 1 favorite espresso tonic ever. Cool fact, this years 2026 US Latte Art Champion is a staff from Mandarin Coffee Stand! This shows how much of an expertise comes from this brand! read more

I'm an avid Mandarin (1) Stand lover, but I was quite disappointed w/ the coffee I was served today. Before that, the ambiance here is dope. Much more conductive to WFH vibes than their coffee stand spot as there's ample seating both indoor and outdoor (not sure about Wi-Fi or outlet situation). There's enough free street parking right in front. I ordered a plain iced latte and it was more than 90% milk. I wish I would've taken a picture because the color of the latte was closer to white than brown. I also found the coffee itself to taste bitter and a bit burnt. I guess stick to their matcha /: read more

Wow. Legendary. This latte one of the greatest brown liquids to ever enter one of my orifices. I'm nowhere near any sort of coffee connoisseur but I know when my taste buds are tingled and tickled for sure. This was so good. Also the affogato with their witchcraft ice cream was super gas too. read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Let's get to it! 5/5! Just like the og location in the Burlington Arcade, this one is great! They have different menus but the quality is really good. I got the gui hua latte and it was lightly sweetened plus made with oatmilk. The drink comes hot automatically. The espresso was smooth and easy to drink. Overall will be back! Service was nice. They have indoor and outdoor seating. Plenty of seats and they have tables for those who have work to do. It's located below a residential building. Lots of parking available. Decent pricing too! read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Five stars just for their matcha tonic because it's truly one of the best I've ever had and I'm obsessed! I'm not a coffee drinker, but my husband likes their coffee so I don't think you can go wrong with anything from their menu. I find this location to be much less busy than their first location because it's a little more hidden as it is located at the first level of an apartment complex. The inside is very spacious and offers a good amount of seating for people to work or chill. Lastly, parking is street parking only but I've never had issues finding parking. read more

Drinks: The affogato was a standout, espresso and ube ice cream, absolutely divine. Also grabbed a Sicily to go which was just as incredible. Both drinks were full of flavor and beautifully made. Service: The barista/cashier made the whole visit feel personal. When I mentioned I wanted to enjoy the affogato in house and take a Sicily to go, she suggested I relax with the affogato first and just signal her when I was ready, so the Sicily would be freshly prepared right as I headed out. That kind of thoughtfulness really stood out. Atmosphere: A great spot to slow down and enjoy a drink in house before heading out with another for the road. Cozy, welcoming, and worth lingering in. Overall, 11/10. The drinks, service, and atmosphere all delivered a fantastic experience. read more

Mandarin 2 - Sicily - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

We wanted a post-lunch coffee, so we went to Mandarin 2 this past Wednesday afternoon. My cousin's been to Mandarin Stand before, but we went to this location since it has seating. The interior is pretty spacious, and we had no issues finding a spot after we ordered our coffee. Mandarin sources many coffee beans from various well-known roasters including Hydrangea, SEY, and Terraform (from Shanghai), which they also use for their pour overs. We tried a couple of their current offerings: Ninga, Brundi from SEY - 6 tasting notes: black tea, plum, pear blossom Brighter coffee of the two, I liked that it had a more tea-like flavor mixed in the fruity notes. La Margarita, Peru (gesha) from TERRAFORM - 13 tasting notes: lavender, raspberry, nectarine Cleaner and more subtle, very floral with mellow fruity flavors. The pour overs tasted very clean, but we thought it was a bit too diluted and would have preferred a stronger coffee. Overall, glad I got to try Mandarin, and I hope to buy a bag of Hydrangea beans next time (sadly, they were out of the bag I really wanted). read more

Mandarin 2 - Pour over - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Affogato! It's a must try. And before pouring that espresso take a taste of the individual ingredients. It stands out among any affogato. The unique flavors are a flavor zap that will keep you mmm mmming all the way till the end. This sweet and savory mix is done so well itll keep you coming back. Limited 1hr Street parking. Inside seating area or one outside table available. Baristas were so friendly, welcoming and informative. Will definitely return. read more

See all

When I first walked in, I honestly couldn't tell if they were still remodeling or if that unfinished look was part of the aesthetic. That said, I'd definitely come back. The coffee is reasonably priced and actually tastes great. You can really taste the crema, like they're pulling the espresso shots properly unlike a lot of these newer coffee shops popping up lately It feels like they actually know what they're doing and have mastered their craft. I've been to so many newer spots charging $10 for a drink that ends up tasting burnt or way too milky. This would be a great spot for a coffee date or to study. There are plenty of tables, good lighting, and the service is quick and efficient. I'll definitely be back. read more

Mandarin 2 - Gui Hua Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

This second coffee shop of the famous and popular Mandarin coffee stand located at the Burlington Arcade in Lake is much more spacious. A simplistic light colored wood aesthetic works well in their cozy space, well lit by natural sunlight. Decent amount of tables, lots of standing table space, but no plugs/outlets for your laptop. Same high-quality, unique, artisan coffee drinks as their original coffee shop. They also have a good selection of pastries. Personable staff and baristas, quick service when I was there (though it wasn't too busy yet, as they tend to get in both locations). A good addition to East Pasadena. read more

See all

(+) Gui Hua latte (+) Spacious (+) Ambiance Mandarin 2 is a coffee/tea shop that specializes in Chinese inspired tea/coffee flavors. It is labeled "2" because this is the second location opened, as their first location is in Pasadena. Unlike the first location, there is plenty of seating indoors. Parking is available on the street only. The front door is located on the corner of Colorado and S Quigley Ave., behind a green hedge. Thank goodness for dairy alternatives, that are also free of charge. Drinks: I tried one of their signature drinks, the Gui Hua Latte. It is a Osmanthus tea with cardamom bitters and oat milk. This drink is only offered as a hot only. My initial thoughts were "interesting" in a good way. I tasted the floral tea at first, and then the espresso taste followed after. Dried tea leaves are sprinkled on top, which was a distraction. I would order it again, but would try another signature drink before. Service/Ambiance: The shop is inviting and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Plenty of natural light and an awesome place to go and study or finish some work. The servers are friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have. Overall, I would recommend Mandarin 2. It is a cute shop that deserves recognition and thankful for a location closer to my home. read more

See all

I was in Pasadena for a dentist appointment and had to find somewhere to take a couple work meetings. I had seen news about Mandarin Coffee opening a new location (I haven't been to the original though), so decided to check this out! PARKING: I was able to find parking on the surrounding streets, but may be difficult if coming during a peak time WHAT I'VE ORDERED: Iced toasty White miso kouign amann THE DRINK: Iced toasty was great - as the name implies, very toasty. The espresso tasted really good in the drink and paired well with all the other flavors. The rooibos wasn't too prominent, but in a good way such that it didn't overpower. The kouign amann was good too and such a great flavor pairing, though I wish it was fresher and crispy, but I came later in the morning so that made sense. SERVICE: Baristas were so friendly! If you get it dine-in, they bring your order to you. VIBES: Lots of people studying/doing work, though I wouldn't say it's ideal for that (no outlets I saw!). I think that was intentional, and perhaps this place was meant more of a place to connect, and I think it's perfect for that. Here's my work-from-coffee-shop checklist: * OUTLETS: None that I saw! * WIFI/INTERNET: Yes, pretty good speed * BATHROOMS: Yes, clean * VOLUME: Not too loud * SEATING AVAILABILITY: A mix of tables, and there was also some standing area, as well as a super cool outside area with little stools. * LAPTOP FRIENDLINESS: No restrictions I saw BOTTOM LINE: DEFINITELY want to come back to chill with friends and try the other interesting looking drinks. read more

Mandarin 2 - Iced toasty - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

This spot doesn't have the matcha cream top that I've come to associate with Mandarin, but I really love the pour overs here. You've gotta scan the block for residential parking and once a peacock came by and scratched up my car while I was inside the cafe, but overall this is a cute place to come and yap with friends or get some work done. read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

I'm literally still sitting in this cafe at the moment, but they deserve a great review so I'm leaving this before I forget. Suchhh kind staff and such a lovely spot to hang out/get work done. One of the baristas even brought out a free sample of iced tea for me + the rest of the customers to try, completely unprompted! Thank you so much! You guys are the best. read more

See all

Super cute coffee shop. Great space with tables for working or studying. Highly recommend the gui hua latte (hot option only) if you want to try something new. I really enjoyed the florals-- not too strong! read more

Mandarin 2 - Gui hua latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Cute coffee shop with a solid coffee menu, but kind of limited seating. They had a small pourover menu with beans from Sey in Brooklyn, NY and La Cabra in Copenhagen, as well as a single origin espresso menu. The signature drinks on the menu also sounded good, but we didn't have the chance to try any of them. We got two pourovers and thought they were decent. Nothing mind-blowing but we were at least able to get some of the notes that came with the beans. Espresso was similar, decent but not anything standout. Mandarin seems to be pretty popular, so it was kind of difficult finding a spot to sit down. There are only a few small tables for 1-3 people and a counter by the window. Pricing is pretty on par with other specialty coffee shops we've been to. I'd give this place about a 7/10. read more

See all

I was happy to find out Mandarin was opening up a second location and this one does have indoor seating! This coffee shop is located underneath an apartment complex and there's plenty of street parking in the area. Unfortunately my experience was meh so I won't be back. I went in hoping to order a Vienna einspanner but turns out they only have that drink available at their first location. Crazy because that's the most popular drink along with the matcha einspanner. Anyway I'm fine with that but the person at the counter was very unfriendly, when I asked all she said was we don't have that drink here. No other context and I wanted to ask if they would eventually add it to the menu but she looked like she didn't want to talk any more so I just ordered a brown sugar latte and left it at that. And that brown sugar latte was way too sweet, my drink didn't taste like coffee at that point. Big flop. Was hoping this location would be better! read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

Gotta start off the bat - coffee is phenomenal. Immediately as a coffee geek or not you can tell, care and attention to detail is poured into these drinks. Although the space is definitely on the tighter side, the interior is well thought out to feel cozy while still remaining open with large windows to let in ample light. Now the star of the show, the coffee. I ordered a One and One which is a seasonal single origin espresso (pre-selected by the shop), a Cortado, and I believe their seasonal mulled wine? (Pls someone correct me if I'm wrong) which I was pleasantly surprised by! Espresso was dialed to perfection with clear tasting notes of berries. A single sip of the cortado had me roll my eyes in defeat because I immediately knew after I finished that I definitely wouldn't be able to replicate it at home hahaha. The freeze distilled milk adds a great level of creaminess and sweetness to the drink while still allowing the espresso to shine. Also incredible selection of coffee beans from iconic roasters, from SEY to Hydrangea and safe to say I am really enjoying brewing my Catimor at home. In the SGV, there aren't many specialty coffee shops at all without going into the heart of LA, so I am obsessed that Mandarin decided to open a location more on the east side. read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

This mandarin coffee location is a little easy to miss, but when you spot the red stools outside, you know you're there. I ordered the matcha tonics and i think it was one of the best I've had! It was so yummy in a nice glass. Didn't really interact with the workers but they were getting drinks out quickly. Efficient. Thanks to the barista that waited for me to start taking pics to pour my matcha bahahaha read more

See all

I had no idea there was a second location for Mandarin so I was super excited when my husband took me here! The interior is modern and spacious! I didn't see a designated parking lot but there is street parking. I usually get matcha at mandarin so I thought I'd try their espresso and ordered the cortado, which was delicious! I got the butter croissant and my son got the chocolate donut, which both were good. The croissant was flaky but a little too crispy. I did get it warmed up so might opt not to get it warmed up next time. Staff was friendly and can't wait to go back! read more

See all

TL;DR Mandarin 2 is the only place for the serious spro enthusiast! Over the years, I've been incredibly honored, blessed and humbled to experience coffee in deeper way than most, locally having the experienced Thee Coffee GOATs/Royalty & LA Coffee Pioneers (Glanville & Babinski and the OG crew that includes but not limited to Jaymie Lao, Percy Ramirez, Brent Glanville, M'lissa, Sumi Ali, etc...and including so many more like Mike Phillips, Tyler Wells, Yeekai Lim, Leon Li, Frank La...I can go on and on), to which I am eternally grateful. Regrettably over the last 10 or so years, it has been my perception that much of the specialty coffee industry has: 1) capitulated to the taste buds of the casual coffee drinker (or the masses) and have abandoned their desire to change hearts and minds with education about a new wave of coffee drinking experience; 2) are shops owned and operated by people who are non coffee professionals (you know who you are!) and lack pedigree & experience. I get it. It's tiring and frustrating trying to help customers understand that what they are drinking is not "weak" coffee just because they "can't taste coffee." The masses & self-proclaimed coffee enthusiasts want "strong/bold" coffee but they themselves don't even understand what that means! Youngsters want to drink their iced lattes all the while pretending to be grown ups and/or be part of some trendy shop. they take 100s of pictures of the same latte and finally post one to their intriguing Instagram story. Why? Because trendy, duh! Thank God for Sherry Gao and the undeniably talented team at Mandarin & Mandarin 2. THESE KIDS ARE BONAFIDE COFFEE PROFESSIONALS!!!! They have phenomenal coffee pedigree! If you are familiar with my senseless ramblings, or so-called "reviews", you will notice that this one lacks my customary per item ratings and elaboration. This is intentional. Considering the subject matter of coffee, I simply cannot and will not write about "how good this latte is", etc. With all due respect, I drink spro, and almost always only spros at shops that actually know what they are doing (with an occasional deviation of a spro & some milk or something else interesting to my palate at the moment). So yeah, if you must know, Mandarin 2 is THEE PLACE for coffee. And to all the iced latte experts, please do spare us your expert opinion on coffee. read more

See all

Hooray for a new location! Place is small but warm, chill/friendly baristas, not a chaotic vibe at all like some other busy coffee places! They have pretty interesting drinks like some sort of osmanthus latte and the orange blossom cold brew was great as well But yes it was pretty busy when we went on the weekend, but the line moves. Some folks are reading, some were on their laptops, although I wouldn't say it's a cafe meant for working (table space is limited) but great they they could do that on the small tables lol If you're close by, it's worth stopping in! Tbh both locations are a vibe, although this one's further out but much, much less busy than the other location. There were much more families dressed well at this one, so I wonder if there was a church nearby or that's just how east pasadena is lol read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

I have visited the first location before, so I thought it would be nice to check out their second location to compare. They are located down stairs of an apartment building, the sign is very small (you won't be able to notice it when driving). Their matcha is from Kettl, so I was excited to try. The matcha quality is above average, not the best quality. The bitter, earthy, umami taste is minimal. The matcha is not too creamy and nutty. Not a must try. Gui Hua Latte is a great coffee latte alternative choice. The osmanthus taste is strong. Compared to the first location, the store is more spacious with lots of seatings. The interior design is simple, vibrant, and bright. In this second location, they do not have Vienna latte and some other of their specialty drinks. They have more pour over at this location. I visited on a Sunday afternoon, so street parking was kind of limited. The staff were all very friendly and welcoming. There's a lot of staff, so the wait for drinks is not too long. read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

I was super happy that my favorite coffee spot opened a new and much bigger location! Popped in on a random Tuesday morning and was pleasantly surprised that I didn't have to wait in a long line like I would at the Lake location. There are actual tables and places to sit in and outside of the cafe. The staff was patient, attentive, and quick in taking and making drinks. Reflecting on my visit, I wonder if the menus between the two locations are different. I should've asked, but I was bummed to see my favorite black tea latte wasn't on this location's menu. I also thought parking was a bit tricky as I parked in the nearby neighborhood but wasn't sure if I was allowed to use the parking structure. Otherwise, I definitely prefer this location over the original. read more

Lines are going to form once you realize that it's so much more accessible for those who are on the east side of SGV. Bigger space, seating areas, distilled to the essence of coffee--what else would make one happy? Parking aplenty on the street. Current hours are 8-2 daily with plans to expand in the future. There are Mandarin 2 exclusives and an expanded pour over selection. read more

See all

I came to try mandarin 2 on a random Thursday hoping it would be somewhat similar to the original stand in Pasadena, however it was not. To begin with, this place definitely had more of a cafe feel where there is more seating and space for one to work both inside and outside the cafe, which I can appreciate. Staff is very friendly, although they were a tad busy im sure they do their best to get orders out as quickly as possible. As for the coffee, I was expecting to see my absolute favorite Vienna latte here and was disappointed to see that it wasn't. Instead the barista recommended I get an iced toasty which is more on the sweeter side (his words). It definitely wasn't, the coffee was in the stronger side and had a burnt flavor, maybe that's why it's called the toasty. Especially for that price I wouldn't buy it again. Overall I would appreciate this place a lot more if their menu had just remained the same as their original. read more

See all

Love the space of Mandarin 2 than the Mandarin Coffee Stand. Mandarin 2 locates under a complex of luxury apartments in East Pasadena. It's a bit of a further drive for me, but I really love their interior space design and it is more spacious with both indoor and outdoor seatings. Staff are friendlier and warmer here. Their drinks are consistently good. This time we ordered their Toasty coffee and Red Oolong tea. Both taste good! I recommend going to this location if you plan to have a long chat with friends or have a work session! read more

Mandarin 2 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Pasadena, California