When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Re/creation Cafe
Why Re/creation Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Re/creation Cafe is a unique and vibrant gathering spot located in Mid-City, Los Angeles, where creativity and community seamlessly blend. This café stands out as a dynamic social space that redefines the traditional café experience by inviting visitors to play, create, and connect. It offers a nostalgic, homemade-style menu featuring exceptional espresso drinks and innovative mushroom elixirs, catering to diverse tastes including vegan options. Beyond food and beverages, Re/creation Cafe thrives as a venue for artistic and social engagement, hosting weekly live music performances, painting events, game nights, yoga sessions, salsa, and movement workshops. The atmosphere is enhanced by an inviting industrial boho design featuring high ceilings, exposed rafters, rustic wood details, a large wrap-around bar, and a spacious patio with cozy lounge seating, a fire pit, and vibrant Spanish tiles. It is an ideal place for friends to meet, relax, and engage in creative activities together, fostering a sense of wellbeing and community. The café’s philosophy embraces the concept that playing and creativity are essential to learning and living fully, making it more than just a place to grab a coffee—it’s a cultural hub for inspiring experiences and genuine social connection.
Here's what people think of Re/creation Cafe
As of recent, Re/creation Cafe holds a 4.7-star rating based on 175 reviews.
User reviews of Re/creation Cafe overwhelmingly highlight the inviting and energetic atmosphere that fosters both creativity and community bonding. Visitors appreciate the diverse range of activities hosted at the venue, such as live music, yoga classes, and art events, which collectively contribute to its reputation as a one-of-a-kind social space. Many reviewers praise the quality and variety of the homemade-style menu and exceptional espresso drinks, noting the inclusion of vegan options as a big plus. Positive feedback often mentions the friendly and attentive staff, the appealing industrial-boho aesthetic, and the spacious, comfortable seating arrangements that support socializing and inspiration. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional challenges such as limited parking availability and busy times leading to longer waits or noise levels that can affect the ambiance. A few guests have also noted pricing as slightly on the higher side, which may be reflective of the unique offerings and location. Overall, the positive experiences greatly outnumber the negatives, confirming Re/creation Cafe as a beloved neighborhood spot that effectively balances great food, creative programming, and an exceptional environment for meeting up with friends and participating in engaging community events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dylan Brittany Blount del Cid
Had a delicious breakfast date here today. Went around 10am on a Saturday and there was no wait/ plenty of seating available. More people began to arrive when we were leaving. The staff were friendly and patient. The food was tasty and the presentation gave a high end feel. The coffee was delicious. I am vegetarian, and I had plenty of options to choose from for breakfast.
Sherilyn Rong
Wonderful Cozy Cafe (with a catch if you don’t mind it) So I’ve eaten here about close to 10 times usually on Friday-Sunday. My go to: cornbread waffle with ricotta and fruits, sweet potato fries with sauce, and any of the teas, fish tacos. Food consistency: 4/5 - generally the food that comes out and tastes okay like it could be cooked longer. And sometimes it tastes good. (See photos for the changes) Fish taco is a good size for a semi light meal. Sweet potatoes fries is baked then fried again- taste delicious, great for by yourself and with the crowd! Specifically since we get the waffle each time without fail we can see how much they range on the fruits.. from maybe 2 strawberries and a few blueberries and one slice of banana to 3x that amount. Sometimes the waffle comes out barely finished cooking and other times just right. 😅 I would say 7/10 times they are good. Ambiance: 10/10 - it can get loud at times. They limit computer use here. Otherwise great place to hang with friends and groups. Family welcome here too. Even seen Church groups here too. Service: 8/10 - sometimes they forget your orders or bring it when it is already cold..or ask what did you get.. and most time they remember you need your order. They try their best. Parking: Not difficult around lunch time Friday-Sunday. Street parking, can park alongside on the wide street or residential street. Restroom: Yes, handicap friendly for the most part with large space and accessibility bars. The sink height might be challenge, depends on user. They do provide toilet seat cover.
Mr Owl
Beautiful designed, wonderful inviting atmosphere, and delightfully delicious food and drink. Don’t let the name fool you, this is more than your average LA corner cafe. The venue is so spacious making it great for groups. Interior design was thoughtfully designed that lends itself to big parties or groups or small intimate dates. Cool for casual hang outs or professional networking events. This is the ultimate meet up space with good food, great drinks, and excellent atmosphere. Kudos to the team who helped make this space possible.
J
housemate dragged me along for a quick afternoon smoothie, and I just thought this place was adorable AF. Very welcoming, casual environment, obvious live music, personality filled decorations and building, not pretentious at all. Smoothie was actually surprisingly delicious. I want to spend more time here. Comfortable AF Had the pleasure of meeting Nick and having a quick conversation. Feels like a place I'd feel happy to spend money. Set up karaoke nights!!
Kim K
Re/creation Cafe is such a vibe. Cute spot in the #westadams area in #losangeles. Been wanting to try this spot out for some time and so glad we did as they had an #openmic #jam & #livejazz on Wednesday night which was so fun! The food & service was great as well. 👍🏽 Grilled quesadilla - yummy West Coast Crispy Tacos - delish 🌮 Lavender matcha latte - yum! 💚 Will definitely be back!
How to reach Re/creation Cafe
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Why Re/creation Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Re/creation Cafe with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing requires a spot that offers more than just food and drinks—it demands an ambiance that sparks joy, a menu that excites diverse tastes, and activities that create shared experiences. Re/creation Cafe in Los Angeles achieves all of this remarkably well, making it an ideal rally point for groups. Boasting a stellar 4.7 rating from 175 reviews, this cafe is celebrated not just for its welcoming atmosphere but also for its versatile space designed to accommodate groups comfortably, with seating for up to 75 guests. Its unique industrial boho aesthetic combines rustic wood details, exposed rafters, and a wrap-around bar, creating an environment that is both cozy and stylishly modern. The large roll-up door to an expansive patio with Spanish tiles and a fire pit extends the social vibe outdoors, perfect for casual hangouts or lively celebrations. Whether your group is seeking a relaxed brunch, vibrant evening drinks with live music, or an inspiring environment for creative meetups, this cafe effortlessly caters to all. Its music stage and ambient lighting elevate any gathering from ordinary to unforgettable, making Re/creation Cafe a standout choice when rallying with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Re/creation Cafe?
Re/creation Cafe offers a variety of activities that cater to different group dynamics and interests, solidifying its status as the go-to spot for meetups. One highlight is its live music stage, where bands and DJs can be booked to create the perfect soundtrack for your gathering, allowing your group to immerse in energetic rhythms or mellow tunes depending on the occasion. The cafe also hosts community events such as free Sunrise Yoga sessions and mid-city neighborhood cleanups, providing opportunities for wellness and community involvement that groups can join together to enhance their experience beyond just dining. For groups who prefer a lively atmosphere, the cafe’s sound system and ambient lighting create an engaging environment for socializing, dancing, or enjoying artistic performances. The large patio with a fire pit and cozy lounge seating extends social space outdoors, perfect for conversations under the stars or intimate fireside storytelling with friends. Additionally, the creative cafe limits computer use, encouraging face-to-face interaction and making it easier for groups to connect meaningfully without digital distractions.
Why is Re/creation Cafe perfect for a group meetup?
Re/creation Cafe's versatility makes it an excellent choice for groups seeking a space that balances comfort, style, and function. The spacious interior with comfortable seating offers ample room for groups up to 75 people, accommodating both small gatherings and larger celebrations seamlessly. The open industrial layout with high ceilings and large windows allows for plenty of natural light during daytime meetups, enhancing the welcoming vibe and energizing group interactions. For evening meetups, the cafe’s carefully designed ambient lighting transforms the space into an inviting, magical setting ideal for intimate conversations or lively parties. The venue's amenities include two beautifully tiled restrooms and street-level access, ensuring convenience for all guests, including those with mobility needs. Moreover, the cafe offers full catering options and several bar packages with professional bartenders, streamlining event planning for private groups and allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of friends and family. The option to bring your own entertainment or let the cafe arrange live music or DJs provides flexibility for tailoring your meetup to your group’s preferences.
What food and drink options does Re/creation Cafe provide for groups?
Food and beverage offerings at Re/creation Cafe are crafted to satisfy a range of dietary preferences and group appetites, further enhancing its suitability for gatherings. The menu features innovative dishes like cornbread waffles alongside vegan options, ensuring that every member of your group can find something delicious. The kitchen serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which means your group can enjoy a full day of dining from casual morning meetups to more festive dinner parties without leaving the locale. While the commercial kitchen is reserved primarily for cafe operations and film production use, external catering is available, and the venue is flexible regarding outside food with some restrictions. This setup allows groups to customize their dining experience — whether you prefer the cafe’s culinary offerings or wish to incorporate external catering that fits your event theme. The bar service at Re/creation Cafe includes curated cocktail and drink options served by professional bartenders, elevating your group's social experience with expertly mixed beverages. This makes it easy to coordinate drinks for everyone without the hassle, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable meetup.
What makes the ambiance at Re/creation Cafe unique for social gatherings?
The ambiance at Re/creation Cafe is a major draw, expertly blending industrial and bohemian aesthetics to create a warm yet trendy atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. The exposed rafters, concrete floors, and rustic wood details give the venue an authentic, earthy feel, while the large picturesque windows flood the space with natural light, establishing a bright and uplifting environment. The carefully designed ambient lighting adds a magical touch at night, turning the cafe into an almost enchanted space where conversations flow easily and energy pulses naturally. The large wrap-around bar not only serves as a social hub but also adds a visual focal point that encourages mingling and interaction among guests. The patio space, featuring Spanish tile flooring and a cozy fire pit surrounded by lounge seating, extends the ambiance outdoors, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy fresh air and deeper social connections. Elements like a high-quality sound system throughout ensure that music and announcements reach all corners clearly without overwhelming the intimate conversational settings.
How does Re/creation Cafe support event planning for group meetups?
Re/creation Cafe understands the nuances of hosting successful group events and offers a variety of services and amenities to simplify the process. For private gatherings, you can book the venue, which is professionally cleaned before and after every event to maintain high standards of hygiene and ambiance. The cafe’s team can assist with booking bands or DJs, helping you select entertainment that complements your group’s vibe. If you’re planning a larger or more formal event, the venue provides AV technician support, ensuring that sound and lighting are perfectly managed for presentations, speeches, or live performances. Bartenders are required for bar service, guaranteeing skilled drink preparation and attentive service throughout your event. The presence of street-level access makes it easy for guests of all mobility levels to attend, and the two well-maintained restrooms accommodate larger crowds comfortably. Re/creation Cafe’s clear cancellation policy, with options for full or partial refunds depending on notice timing, offers peace of mind when planning, making it a dependable choice for group meetups and celebrations.
What community events does Re/creation Cafe offer to enhance group experiences?
Beyond being a premier social venue, Re/creation Cafe is deeply integrated into its local community, hosting events that groups can participate in to deepen their connection and add meaningful experiences to their meetups. Notable recurring activities include free Sunrise Yoga sessions held monthly on Saturdays, welcoming all levels and providing an inclusive wellness start to your day with friends. Another highlight is the “Second Saturdays Mid City Clean-Up,” an event focused on improving and beautifying the neighborhood where groups can volunteer together, fostering camaraderie and social responsibility. Additionally, the cafe offers regular yoga flows and wellness programming, making it a hub not only for dining but also for holistic health and social engagement. Attending these events as a group infuses your meetup with a sense of purpose and shared accomplishment, making the outing memorable beyond just food and drink. These initiatives reveal the cafe’s commitment to community-building and wellness, encouraging groups to connect on multiple meaningful levels.
How accessible and convenient is Re/creation Cafe for group gatherings?
Convenience and accessibility are key when organizing group meetups, and Re/creation Cafe delivers on both fronts. Located at 4500 W Washington Blvd in Los Angeles, it is easily reachable by car and public transport, placing it in a vibrant neighborhood that is familiar and welcoming to locals and visitors alike. The cafe offers street-level access, which is particularly important for guests with disabilities or those who prefer to avoid stairs. Spacious seating arrangements mitigate the feeling of crowding, even with groups up to 75 people, while the availability of two restrooms reduces wait times during busy events. The cafe’s hours—from 9 AM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays and shorter hours on other weekdays—allow for flexible scheduling, accommodating early breakfasts, afternoon meetups, or late evening socializing. Phone and email contacts are readily available for booking and inquiries, and the venue’s clear policies on cancellation and refunds provide confidence and reliability when planning your visit. This combination of accessibility, flexibility, and clear communication streamlines group planning logistics.
What unique features make Re/creation Cafe stand out among other cafes for meetups?
Re/creation Cafe distinguishes itself through a combination of its distinctive design, comprehensive amenities, and community focus. Unlike many cafes limited to casual dining, it offers a multi-functional space that can transition from a quiet morning spot to a lively event venue featuring live music, DJ sets, and community programming. The industrial boho style with rustic and modern design elements creates an ambiance that is both Instagram-worthy and genuinely comfortable, appealing to groups that value aesthetics alongside functionality. Its large patio with a fire pit is a rare outdoor feature that encourages groups to linger longer and engage more deeply in their social time. The professional approach to event support such as AV technicians and catering options elevates the experience beyond typical cafe offerings. Furthermore, the commitment to fostering wellness and community through yoga and clean-up events broadens the appeal for groups looking to enrich their gatherings with purposeful activities. This blend of design, service, and community engagement make Re/creation Cafe a uniquely attractive destination for meetups.
How does the cafe ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for groups?
Re/creation Cafe prioritizes a safe and comfortable environment for all guests, especially important when hosting larger groups. The venue enforces policies such as requiring professional bartenders for bar service, ensuring responsible alcohol service. The presence of well-maintained restrooms and clean facilities reflects the cafe’s attention to hygiene and guest comfort. The space is professionally cleaned before and after events or productions to maintain a pristine environment. Sound levels are managed carefully with a sound system tuned for clarity without overwhelming noise, and computer use is limited to encourage social interaction, reducing distractions during group gatherings. The spacious layout and patio access allow guests to spread out comfortably, minimizing overcrowding risks. All these aspects combine to create a venue where groups can feel relaxed, secure, and fully enjoy their time together without concerns over safety or comfort.
Why is Re/creation Cafe the ideal venue for both casual and special occasion meetups?
Whether you are planning a casual brunch with friends, a weekend coffee catch-up, or a special occasion such as a birthday celebration or reunion, Re/creation Cafe adapts to your needs perfectly. Its warm, stylish environment invites relaxed conversations, while the layout and amenities cater to more vibrant, festive events effortlessly. The availability of a live music stage and professional entertainment services allows groups to amplify celebrations with dynamic programming. Catering and bar options simplify event logistics, letting hosts focus on the guest experience. Convenience features such as street-level entrance, ample seating, and flexible hours support meetups of various sizes and times. Also, the community-oriented events and wellness programming introduce opportunities to blend socializing with meaningful activities. This blend of casual comfort and upscale functionality makes Re/creation Cafe an exceptional, reliable venue for virtually any type of group gathering.