Paramount Coffee Project

In a city where coffee shops have become extensions of co-working spaces, Paramount Coffee Project stands as a refreshing throwback to what cafes were meant to be—places to actually hang out. This Australian import on Fairfax Avenue brings the laid-back cafe culture from Down Under to LA, creating an environment where pulling out a laptop feels oddly out of place and genuine conversation feels right at home.

The food here punches well above its coffee shop weight class. Every dish arrives looking like it belongs at a much fancier establishment, from the picture-perfect avocado toast adorned with radishes and micro herbs to the creamy burrata served on toast with poached eggs and dukkah. The Paramount breakfast sandwich has earned a devoted following—think of it as an English muffin sandwich that makes you question why you’d ever hit a drive-through again. For something more adventurous, the vegemite and butterscotch milkshake offers an unexpectedly delicious sweet-salty combination that even skeptics tend to enjoy.

Unlike typical LA coffee shops where you order at a counter and awkwardly wait for your name to be called, Paramount offers full table service. Grab a spot at one of the intimate indoor tables or head to the charming back patio and let them take care of you. The flat whites here rank among the best in the city—no surprise given the owners’ Australian coffee credentials. Whether you’re catching up with friends over brunch or enjoying some solo time with an excellent cup of coffee, this is a space designed for actually being present.

If you’re looking for somewhere to post up with your laptop and grind out work, this isn’t your spot. But if you’re craving excellent Australian-inspired cafe fare, some of LA’s best coffee, and an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment, Paramount Coffee Project delivers on all fronts.