Located at a busy intersection, Highlight Coffee is hiding in plain sight — inside the weather-worn exterior of the once Hotel Glendale. Inside, however, the coffee shop boasts an open, minimalistic scheme. Friendly staff and soft background music help complete the illusion of being transported to another world, far away from the loud and hectic reality outside.

As suggested in the name, Highlight’s main highlight is their coffee, both iced and hot. While their menu changes, coffee-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, mocha, drip- and cold- brewed coffee stay constant on the menu.This focus does not go unrewarded, as each cup is carefully brewed by the baristas to ensure the bold, full flavor that is associated with a fresh cup of coffee. If coffee isn’t your thing, they also offer a selection of teas and bottled drinks on the small menu.

During my visit, I ordered an iced latte, which is made using espresso and milk poured over a glass of ice. The beverage had flecks of essential oils in it, which is usually a sign of an excellent cup of coffee. Being a primarily home-brewer myself, however, I was completely unprepared for the flavor of the coffee, complete with sweet, fruity undertones and none of the bitterness I was used to.

Despite its appearance of a more “grab and go” locale, most customers were seated and busy on their laptops while enjoying their drink. The experience was a bit undermined by the few seats available in the shop. At the time I arrived all the tables were taken, and I had to awkwardly stand at the counter while sipping my drink.

The staff is very friendly. During my visit, they answered my questions, helping me decide on a drink. It was also apparent that they were on friendly terms with each other, which in a small location is very important to the ambiance of the place.

All told, Highlight Coffee is a great place with delicious coffee and on-par service, perfect for stopping by for a pick-me-up.

Highlight Coffee:

701 E Broadway, Glendale, CA 91205

Hours: Monday-Friday: 6:30 a.m. –  9 p.m.

    Saturday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

    Sunday-  8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

www.highlightcoffee.com