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Cafe Balzac: Authentic Moroccan-Spiced Coffee & French Pastries in Downtown Los Angeles

Cafe Balzac, nestled in downtown Los Angeles, offers a vibrant coffee experience inspired by the legendary French writer Honoré de Balzac, famed for his love of coffee. This charming café captivates with its rich, Moroccan-spiced lattes and authentic French pastries, including delicate cheese danishes and coffee cake that perfectly complement its beverages. The warm, attentive service, highlighted by owners who welcome guests like old friends, elevates each visit. With a diverse menu featuring traditional and unique espresso drinks, crepes, and upscale refreshments, Cafe Balzac is a must-visit haven for coffee lovers seeking bold flavors and genuine hospitality.

Cafe Balzac at a glance

  • Address 700 W 7th St ste 310, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States
  • Restaurant type Coffee shop .
  • Popular for Popular for breakfast , Good for solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

Cafe Balzac: Reviews & Ratings

Omari King
5

I workout right below here and if you have seen my other reviews you know I love trying new coffee spots. This spot is amazing! The coffee is Moroccan based with phenomenal flavor and spices. The lady running the cafe is so pleasant! She was willing to let me try different coffees before I made a decision. The pastries were so good, I couldn’t believe how good the coffee cake and cheese danish were. Also I got a pumpkin spice latte & dipped my coffee cake into that If you’re in the Bloc area stop by Cafe Balzac you will not regret it.

Angie Cooner
5

A true delight! We loved their authentic French pastries and Pistachio Latte. The owner that took care of us was warm and welcoming. I highly recommend.

cali banks
5

It's my 1st time here and I already feel like a regular customer ! This Beautiful woman made me the best matcha latte I've ever had in my life! Maybe it's so delicious because she was so wonderful or maybe it's the way she took pride in making it... It also could be the mouth-watering aromas and display of the accompaniments! I know.. IT'S EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS PLACE Have a look at the pics and run here for an upscale experience that will make your day!!

Jonathan Serrato
5

I like the espresso at Cafe Balzac - it's smooth and rich, just like me. When I got a double shot and walked into UCLA Health for my appointment, the security guy and receptionist both remarked on how good the espresso smelled. I've gotten it many times since, as it's a nice treat in the afternoon - in taste and of course energy. Cafe Balzac has a wide variety of coffee drinks - from hot to iced, traditional to those with unique flavors. And they also have crepes in many choices, along with a pastry selection. And some bougie water choices as well, such as Aqua Panna and Fiji at reasonable prices. They're on the cool side of the building, next to the watch shop near where the old Macy's used to be. Give them a try for delicious and uplifting refreshments. P.S: The Cafe is named after Honore' de Balzac, a French writer from the 1800's who loved coffee and advanced literary style.

Matthew Vitale
5

Lovely cafe, recommend the Moroccan latte, the spices and seasonings added make it a nice twist on a standard latte and a nice change of pace. They also have a small pastry and cold drinks selection in addition to their menu :)

Elina Khoshnevis
5

Truly one of my favorite cafes in LA, a must-visit whenever I’m downtown. Their Moroccan and spiced lattes are exceptional. The owner is incredibly kind and welcoming too. The pastries are out of this world, especially the ham and cheese croissant, which is always fresh along with their other pastries. They have an selection overall, and AMZING crepes. Even the small details, like the custom cup I got last time, made my day. Highly recommend stopping by, this place truly stands out as one of the best. They also have outside seating.

Terry L
5

their espresso is on point! I just got an iced americano and a coffee cake and they are both super delicious and pairs so well together. the workers are super friendly and there's usually no wait time. why go to a corporate chain coffee shop when you can enjoy craft and service of a small business?

mitzi gonzalez
5

DELICIOUS decided to try this place on a random stop in LA and I’m so glad I did. The crepe was hands down the best crepe I’ve had and their coffee cake is so much different than any other coffee cake I’ve had in the best way possible. Super moist and flavorful. Service was great, definitely worth the price and time. Already went back for a second time!

Location

  • Cafe Balzac
    Cafe Balzac
    700 W 7th St ste 310, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles at 700 W 7th St, Cafe Balzac is a gem for coffee lovers seeking something beyond the ordinary. This cozy café draws inspiration from the legendary 19th-century French writer Honoré de Balzac, renowned for his passion for coffee and literary style. The atmosphere here blends warm hospitality with a refined taste experience, setting it apart from typical coffee stops.

The highlight at Cafe Balzac is undoubtedly their Moroccan-inspired coffee — a bold and aromatic fusion that carries rich spices, offering a unique twist on traditional lattes. Whether you savor their Moroccan latte or the smooth, energizing espresso, each cup is crafted with care and precision. The barista’s willingness to guide customers through tastings reflects a commitment to quality and customer connection.

Complementing their exquisite coffee selection, the café boasts an impressive array of authentic French pastries. From buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cheese danishes to perfectly spiced coffee cake, each pastry enhances the overall experience. The pistachio latte and matcha latte also stand out, praised for their delicate flavors and artful preparation. Pairing a pumpkin spice latte with a coffee cake, as one guest did, reveals the thoughtful harmony of flavors you can find here.

Beyond the drinks and pastries, Cafe Balzac offers a well-curated selection of crepes and even upscale bottled waters like Aqua Panna and Fiji, elevating the café experience. Its location near the historic Macy’s building adds an urban charm that fits perfectly with its blend of tradition and modernity.

In essence, Cafe Balzac is more than just a coffee spot; it is a destination where passion for craft coffee meets genuine warmth. For those in the Bloc area or visiting downtown LA, this café promises not only flavorful drinks and pastries but also a welcoming ambiance that invites you to linger, savor, and enjoy.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Credit cards