Beauty and the Bean

                                   Beauty and the Bean

                               By Dena Feldman Garfinkel

            There's nothing like a hot cup of coffee first thing in the morning.  One thing I love about being a Studio City local is the embarrassment of riches we have when it comes to getting primo coffee and tea.  It's not just a drink; it's an experience. And my favorite place for that experience is the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.  There are so many to choose from!  The Bean, as it's been nicknamed by regulars, lines Ventura Boulevard the way palm trees line the sidewalks. 

            Step into the Bean on the corner of Ventura and Whitsett, and you'll be waited on with smiles and hilarious senses of humor.  You'll also have the convenience of being next door to Kriser's All Natural Pet Food Store and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. 

            If you want easy, free underground parking, go to the Bean at Ventura and Coldwater Canyon. You won't find more upbeat baristas than these folks; their energy level is unparalleled.  You'll also be able to pop in to Western Bagel, grab a bite at Five Guys Burgers and Fries, mail a package at the UPS shop, or pick up a Father's Day gift at Sy Devore. 

            There's another easy and free underground parking garage at the Bean on the corner of Ventura and Laurel Canyon.  Like the one by Coldwater, this Bean is convenient if you're heading eastbound on Ventura from Sherman Oaks (both will be on your right: easy in, easy out).  You'll also have access to a frozen yogurt shop, an eyeglass shop, Loteria Grill and the Daily Grill, and beauty salons. 

            For those headed over to Toluca Lake, don't miss what I refer to as Tiki Bean (the building looks a little reminiscent of the Tiki Room at Disneyland).  You'll find this exuberant crowd of baristas on the corner of Riverside and Lankershim.  Great place to get a cappuccino while waiting for an oil change at Jiffy Lube!  You can also pick up a quick take-out dinner from Zankou Chicken or Baja Fresh when you pick up your Ice Blended.  Again, more free underground parking; you just can't beat that in the San Fernando Valley.

            The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf not only makes delicious drinks, but also serves sandwiches, salads, yogurt, cottage cheese, oatmeal, fruit juices, and a variety of pastries.  They cater to the Jewish community by having hechsher (certification by a rabbi of all food and drink being kosher).  No meat is served at the Bean, so it's a terrific option for vegetarians. 

            A good cup of coffee or tea is one of life's simple pleasures.  The Bean is the end-all/be-all for me.