Coffee Gallery Backstage
2029 N. Lake Ave.
Altadena, CA
Morada Place
626-398-7917

I've had cups of joe at this cozy cafe in Altadena on many occasions and the last time I paid my friends a visit, I threw forward my business card and offered to take away with me the Coffee Gallery's performance listings. The barrista gladly gave me his last flier and also invited me on an exclusive, albeit short, tour of the Coffee Gallery's performance stage. We took a detour past coffee tables and the reading area and through the storage space to a hidden enclave cleverly named "Backstage."

The Backstage is a wonderfully Disney-like muraled room. Inside, one feels as if they've stepped into a 19th century train depot. It's roomy, seats up to 70 people, and it's a few degrees cooler than the cafe. The Backstage regularly hosts local bands and artisans performing to a mostly Altadena-based crowd. The regular poetry readings here are known as "Brain Candy." The Coffee Gallery Backstage is a rare treat for those who hanker for coffeehouse acts and events in a place with a genuine community feel.

Daytimers will find a homey setting with plenty of plush sofas, books-on-loan, paintings by local artists and windows with views of the San Gabriel Mountains. The shop isn't part of any big-name chain, and therefore boasts a unique ambiance and plenty of charm. The pastries are delightful and the coffee flavorful.

As he served me a second cup o' joe, the same barrista who gave me the tour showed me pictures of his two children -- and snapped shots of my handsome nephew to add to the collection hanging over the espresso machine. He was also kind enough to offer me an I.O.U. when I tried to pay with plastic rather than cash. Instead, I managed to gather enough loose change to cover my bill.


Hours: Mon.-Fri., 6 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Performance schedule varies.