Coffee Cartel

The atmosphere is great, the drinks must be great too, but one of their staff questioned me and said I was "skeptical" about my curiosity to ask and see what brand of tea they were using for the Thai tea. Also, even though the menu may or may not say it, the same staff member failed to mention that a normal cup of ice water was $1. To the person accompanying me and I, it seemed a bit overly defensive and we both agree that it wasnt good service.

Coffee Cartel is my personal go-to coffee house. I used to live a couple of blocks away until the rents in the area skyrocketed and forced my wife and I to have to move further inland ... into the interior of Torrance.

But I still ride my electric-assist bike down to Coffee Cartel to get my morning mocha and do a little work on my laptop.

There's always an eclectic gathering of interesting people who frequent the Cartel.

Actually, I think their coffee's, espressos, teas, and food is way better than McStarbucks or McCoffee Bean and Tea Leaf. It's just a fact. Plus, they're just more personal, and feel like a part of the community.

Corporate franchises just NEVER feel that way, and that's because they're NOT and they never will be. It's not part of the corporate mindset or its infrastructure.

Plus, there are WAY more places to sit down and relax at Coffee Cartel. There's nothing personal, nothing homey about a McStarbucks.

I may be biased in rating this place, as I have too many memories here. This is def a local's hangout spot with lots of character. Most items in the place are actually there because the regulars have put them there to make it feel more like their living room :) From the kosovarian flag on the wall in one corner to the books scattered around the place. Walking distance to the beach ( the quiet part of it where only locals go :) )
The minimal food items they offer is nothing to brag about, their espresso is ok.. but the character and service is great

The quintessential coffee house. Relaxed seating, great coffee and deserts. Tuesday night is open mike night. People of all ages hang out here. The staff and baristas are pleasant and helpful.

This awesome eclectic little coffee shop has been here for a really long time, there's Big Comfy sofas lots of books, board games and good coffee. What more do you want? Also the beach is right there.

Great coffee... So much better than S-bucks. Great cozy vibe, with nice indoor seating well spaced for distancing.

LOVE this unique comfortable place with a wide variety. Come here every single day when I’m visiting redondo beach area. Every employee is way above when it comes to knowledge and service.

The guy behind the counter did not give me the right change and took $10 off of the correct change.

Beautiful in place
Could not get any of most of the food. Coffee is just OK.

Pleasant staff, bitchin coffee drinks and fine croissants. Comfortable seating surrounded by bookshelves full of interesting finds; this place is very chill and i am a fan.