If you’re looking for the best places to enjoy coffee (and maybe a pastry or two) across Irvine and Orange County, CA, here are the 7 Top-Rated Coffee Shops in Irvine and Orange County, California that stand out for quality, atmosphere, and popularity. From European‑style crepes to freshly roasted beans, these spots offer variety and charm for every coffee lover.
Below are the 7 Best Coffee Shops in Irvine and Orange County:
- Press & Moka — Irvine’s European-Style Coffee & Crepe House
- Blue Hummingbird Coffee — Freshly Roasted Beans & Community Vibes
- Wall Writers Coffee — A Cozy, Laid-Back Spot
- The Lost Bean Organic Coffee & Tea — Organic & Relaxed Atmosphere
- BLKdot Coffee — Trendy Vibe with Vietnamese-Inspired Coffee
- 7 Leaves Cafe — Quick, Affordable Coffee & Tea
- Peet’s Coffee — Reliable Classic Coffee Chain
1. Press & Moka — Irvine’s European‑style Coffee & Crepe House
Why Press & Moka tops the list
- Press & Moka is a vintage‑style modern coffeehouse in Irvine, offering a mix of quality espresso and European‑style crepes.
- Their menu includes everything from espresso, cappuccino, flat whites and lattes to iced/glacé drinks, plus Italian‑style indulgences like “Bicerin,” “Espresso Shakerato,” and “Instant Tiramisù.”
- They also offer a full café‑style menu: sandwiches, paninis, avocado toast, salads, pastries, making it more than just a coffee shop.
- The ambiance is inviting: a cozy space with indoor tables, outdoor seating, free WiFi, and convenient location at 18881 Von Karman Ave, Suite 175, Irvine.
- For those searching “best coffee in Irvine,” Press & Moka positions itself as more than a drink, it’s a full café experience blending European café culture with friendly, modern vibes.
Recommended: Try a latte or flat white with one of their savory crepes or avocado‑toast sandwiches, a great pick‑me‑up or casual brunch spot.
2. Blue Hummingbird Coffee (CUP & Roastery Locations) — Freshly Roasted Beans & Community Vibes
Why it makes the list
- Blue Hummingbird Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster with several locations in Irvine and Orange County, delivering freshly roasted beans in small batches.
- Reviewers often praise its inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and what many describe as one of the best cafe experiences in the neighborhood.
- Their menu includes a variety of espresso drinks, house blends and roasts, teas and snacks — a good option for those who care about bean quality and consistent roasting craftsmanship.
Recommended: For lovers of freshly roasted coffee beans and a relaxed vibe, Blue Hummingbird offers a reliable coffee fix with character.
3. Wall Writers Coffee — A Cozy, Laid‑Back Spot for Coffee and Chill
Why you might love it
- Wall Writers Coffee is often listed among the top coffee shops in Irvine.
- It offers a nice selection of coffee and matcha drinks, ample seating, and a relaxed vibe, good for studying, casual meetups, or just a quiet break.
- Many locals choose it as a “go-to” when they want something simple yet quality‑driven.
Recommended: If you want a straightforward coffee spot without fuss, Wall Writers is a solid, dependable choice.
4. The Lost Bean Organic Coffee & Tea — Great for Organic Coffee and Relaxed Atmosphere
Why it stands out
- The Lost Bean is frequently mentioned among the top coffee shops in Irvine on local listings.
- It appeals especially to people looking for organic coffee, a cozy atmosphere, and a calm setting — ideal for reading, working, or catching up with friends.
Recommended: If you value organic/ethical coffee and a laid‑back vibe, The Lost Bean delivers a quiet café experience.
5. BLKdot Coffee — Trendy Vibe with Vietnamese‑Inspired Coffee
Why it’s a local favorite
- BLKdot Coffee is known for its modern, relaxed ambiance, often attracting students and young professionals
- Their signature Vietnamese‑style coffee drinks, bold espresso options, and mix of drinks and snacks give a distinct flavor compared to standard coffee shops.
Recommended: Try their Vietnamese‑style coffee or iced matcha latte if you want something a little different from the usual latte.
6. Leaves Cafe — Great for Quick, Affordable Coffee & Tea
What makes it worth visiting
- 7 Leaves Cafe is known for its signature drinks, Vietnamese iced tea, sea-cream jasmine tea, Vietnamese coffee, making it a go-to for tea and coffee lovers on the go.
- It’s popular among students and young adults for its balance of quality, affordability, and convenience.
Recommended: If you want a quick, tasty drink without the fuss, 7 Leaves is an easy, budget‑friendly choice.
7. Peet’s Coffee — Reliable Classic Coffee Chain in Irvine & OC
Why it rounds out the list
- Peet’s Coffee remains a recognizable and widely available option across Irvine and Orange County — great for those who want consistency and familiarity.
- Their menu caters to classic coffee drinkers: espresso, brewed coffee, cold brew, lattes and more — reliably prepared and easy to find
Recommended: When you want a dependable cup of coffee during errands, Peet’s is the safe, familiar choice.
How We Picked These Coffee Shops in Irvine and Orange County— What “Top-Rated” Means
In compiling this list, we looked at:
- Verified cafés with official websites, clear addresses, and up‑to-date menus and about pages
- Coffee shops consistently mentioned in local “best of” guides, reviews, or community rankings for Irvine and Orange County.
- A variety of café styles, from small specialty roasteries to classic chains, to reflect the diversity of the coffee scene in Irvine and OC
- Balance between quality drinks, ambiance, reliability, and accessibility
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or visiting Irvine/Orange County, there’s a coffee spot here for every kind of mood:
- For a full café experience with European flair, visit Press & Moka
- For freshly roasted beans and cozy vibes, visit Blue Hummingbird Coffee
- For casual, affordable drinks with variety, visit BLKdot Coffee, 7 Leaves Cafe, or Peet’s Coffee
- For a quiet, reliable space to chill or work, visit Wall Writers Coffee
Feel free to pick based on what you’re looking for on that day: espresso and pastry, organic pour‑over, iced tea, or just a familiar brew.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Press & Moka the top-rated coffee shop in Irvine?
Press & Moka offers a European-style café experience with signature crepes, a full menu of sandwiches and pastries, specialty espresso drinks, and strong community engagement through events, collaborations, and live music. Their coffee is sourced from Italy’s historic Caffè Vergnano roastery.
Are these coffee shops suitable for remote work or study?
Yes. Cafés like Press & Moka, Wall Writers Coffee, and The Lost Bean provide free WiFi, ample seating, and quiet areas ideal for working or studying.
Which coffee shop has the most unique specialty drinks?
BLKdot Coffee (Vietnamese-inspired drinks) and Press & Moka (Cinilla Latte, Bicerin, Espresso Shakerato) are great for trying unique, specialty beverages.
Are there coffee shops in Irvine that focus on organic or sustainable options?
Yes. The Lost Bean is known for organic coffee options and a commitment to sustainable practices, while Press & Moka partners with Caffè Vergnano, which emphasizes sustainability in its operations.
Which cafés are best for a quick, affordable coffee?
7 Leaves Cafe and Peet’s Coffee are ideal for affordable, quick drinks without compromising on quality.
Do any of these cafés host events or live music?
Press & Moka hosts live music every Saturday during summer and collaborates with local organizations and artists. Other cafés may have occasional community events or tasting sessions.
Can I find pastries or light meals at these coffee shops?
Yes. Press & Moka, Blue Hummingbird, and The Lost Bean offer sandwiches, crepes, salads, and pastries in addition to coffee.