One of LA’s first ‘Second Wave’ coffee shops that opened up in the late 80’s is Buster’s Ice Cream & Coffee, located on Mission Ave in South Pasadena. Their location, right next to the gold line and right across the street from the Mission Street Farmers Market (every Thursday) is unique, their food is great, and their two stories of seating with views of the train make it an interesting spot for people watching, book reading, and more.
The coffee is getting better. That’s the best I can say. I’ve had really bad experiences in the past, but my cappuccino today (and fresh brewed coffee) were a great step in the right direction. I learned they recently put their staff through barrista training again – so it’s obvious their trying to up their quality.
Their food is great. They make everything from scratch in their upstairs kitchen. I had a Bran Muffin that was great. They also serve Fosselman’s ice-cream, cheesecake, lots of delicious sandwiches, and more.
The views and seating on the bottom floor feel nice for meeting friends and sit-down food. My only complaint would be that the up-stairs seating (which somehow always beckons to me since it has better views & is more quiet) is somewhat uncomfortable & slightly awkward. Some of the seats are weirdly positioned, some low bar stools are bolted in place, there is a bench up there – it’s all a bit strange. Not bad, mind you – but just a little eclectic.
After my review, I was able to sneak aside one of the owners, Collette Richards, who filled me in on some of the crazy things they’ve went through over the last 20 years – including being in the middle of the 94 Riots, lines out the door just for their coffee, lines no-where to be seen, and everything in between.
Buster’s is one of those places that really tries hard to offer great things to their customers. I’d say their coffee isn’t the best in LA – but they’re moving in a great direction – growth. Any retail business has to change with the times, and I believe this place will be around a long time – and will only get better and better.
Buster’s Ice Cream and Coffee Shop
http://www.busterscoffee.com/
1006 Mission Street
South Pasadena, CA
(626) 441-0744
Popularity: 17% [?]
Hum… Peaked my interest. Thanks for the review. Perhaps I’ll recommend my friends and I meet there next week at our bi-monthly get-together….
Hi Chuck,
Thanks for responding to Karen’s e-mail.I’m glad I got to meet you the day you came in and your experience at Buster’s was better and I appreciate your honesty about are coffee. We are always working hard to make improvements.I have to say it is kinda hard reading reviews of course I always hope for all positive ones, yet like I said I totally appreciate your honesty.I feel that even though I’ve been in the business for a long time I’m constantly learning and opened to comments.
No big deal but this is the correct spelling for Fosselman’s Ice Cream.
Thanks for the review and It would be great to see you again.
Colette
Colette, thanks for commenting!
Changed ‘Fosselman’s’ spelling – thanks.
I’ll revisit a few times over next few months (I’ll try to sneak in usually).
Thanks again!
Hey Chuck. SP farmers’ market is held on Thursday 4 – 8.
Thanks Karen. Got it.
I’ve been going to Busters since the 1980s when I lived in So Pas. I used to take my kids there when they were little. I was one of the original customers. I’ve brought all kinds of people to Busters. No matter where in LA I’ve lived, I’ve always made it over to Busters. My Dad, who lives in my home state of Connecticut, stills asks about it after I brought him there over 15 years ago.
A note about the coffee: I’ve always liked it, but when I wanted a REALLY outstanding Latte I’d go to Peets. HOWEVER, today, August 14, 2010, I got a double large at Busters which was made using their BRAND NEW huge and beautiful espresso machine which was installed only a day or two ago. I was there when the owner was getting trained on it. AMAZING and every bit as good as Peets or any other. Rich, creamy, smooth, fantastic. Busters, a wonderful, honest neighborhood place, just got better. I drive there from Hollywood at least three times a week.
David, thanks for the note! Yeah, that sounds great. I can’t wait to try it soon. I’ll update the post for sure after visiting!