Enjoy a giant cappuccino at this overlooked L.A. landmark.
Step off 7th Street in Downtown L.A. and into this gorgeous European-Esque alleyway made of colorful shopfronts, cobbled brick paving, and charming cafes. St. Vincent Court is home to an eclectic mix of delis, cafes, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants, jewelry shops, a flower shop, and a tiny espresso bar. The lively al fresco scene tucked away behind St. Vincent Jewelry, between Broadway and Hill St. is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of DTLA.
What is now a California State Landmark (#567), was originally St. Vincent’s College (now Loyola Marymount University) from 1868 to 1887, and also happened to be the first higher learning institute in Southern California. While this narrow breezeway was initially built for store merchandise deliveries for the Bullocks department store, its shaded location naturally had a broader appeal as a place to stop and relax. And that only grew when its 1957 revamp transformed its facade into what looks like an old European lane.
If you visit this gem, do stop at Mima’s for some Mediterranean and homemade food, or some Persian food at Farid and enjoy a cappuccino at Cafe Bonjour. An afternoon at this atmospheric outdoor spot, filled with plants and umbrellas, will make you question which continent you’re on.
Featured Image: @miketendstotravel
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