This cozy, venezuelan-owned cafe on Ramona Street was surprisingly busy for 11 o’clock in the morning on a weekday.
Most customers are on their laptops enjoying a cup of coffee or Coupa’s classic chai latte. Coupa has a relaxed and chilled out vibe that is perefect for studying, or for just getting a cup of joe.
Though the vibe is what makes Coupa welcoming, it is the food that keeps costumers coming back. Coupa has not only one type of hot chocolate, but two: “the abuela” is made with bittersweet chocolate, “spicy maya” contains cayenne peppers, pasilla and cinnamon.
The huge banana strawberry waffle ($8.95) comes with whipped cream and maple syrup. This is heavenly: the fruit on top added amazing flavor.
The Tiramisu ($6) is delectable, although it was a bit too creamy compared to other varieties.
The wide array of choices of food and hot drinks make it hard to pick because they all sound great. But no matter what one chooses you are sure to be satisfied.
In addition to its downtown location, Coupa has four locations scattered around Stanford Univeristy campus.
Coupa Cafe is definitely one of the best cafes in downtown Palo Alto, the overall ambiance of the cafe is welcoming to anyone who passes by, the service is great and the food is absolutely worth going back for.
Coupa Cafe
Best Local Cafes
Cafe Venetia
This authentic Italian inspired cafe has two locations on University Avenue, one between Waverly and Kipling and one right by the Palo Alto Train Station. The calm atmosphere creates a great place for relaxing, or studying. Plus, cafe Venetia is one of the few cafes in downtown Palo Alto open until midnight on the weekends and till 11 P.M. on weekdays. The Waverly and Kipling location has a narrow entryway, with bar-like seating on both sides. The cafe’s downstairs is cramped, however the upstairs is more spacious. The cafe’s second location by the train station is a lot bigger and roomier than this one.
The coffee is rich and flavorful, while the macchiato is silky and delicious. If you are looking for a natural, genuine cup of coffee this is a great place to visit. There is not a huge variety of coffees that you can chose from, making deciding your order quick. The cafe also offers several pastries, but no lunch or dinner entrees.
John's Cafe
This newly opened cafe on the corner of Lytton Avenue and Waverly Street in downtown Palo Alto looks casual and simple from the outside however upon entrance, one is greeted by the welcoming owner John. John’s disposition sets the calm and casual atmosphere.
The mocha ($2.75) is very rich and delicious — though it tasted more like hot chocolate than coffee, it was for a very good price! The cafe was pretty quiet with several people working on their laptops and enjoying drinks.
They have a pretty wide selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries and breakfast dishes on their menu. Their lunch specials and pastries sounded delicious. On their menu they have a selection of paninis, fresh garden salads, egg entress and deserts including parfaits, pastries and pumpkin squares. The drinks they offer include teas, cider, chai lattes, sodas, brewed coffee and espresso.
John’s cafe’s variety of food and relaxed atmosphere yet again creates a great cafe in downtown Palo Alto.
