L. A. Cafe

L. A. Cafe

5815 Dixie Hwy, Waterford Township, MI 48329, United States

+1 248-623-1610

Cafe, Breakfast restaurant
(697)
Share Your Experience

About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Waterford Township, L. A. Cafe offers a vibrant and inviting breakfast and brunch experience that seamlessly blends health-conscious choices with a lively, welcoming ambiance. This charming spot is a beloved local gem known for its diverse menu, creative flavor combinations, and a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes everyone—from early-morning solo diners to jubilant weekend brunch parties.

Step inside and you’re immediately enveloped by a warm, eclectic vibe—the kind that invites you to settle in, whether you're craving a cozy date spot or a casual meeting place. The cafe’s décor and calm lake view set the perfect backdrop for lingering over a meal or even enjoying a post-breakfast cigar, as one longtime guest charmingly recalls.

The menu at L. A. Cafe is thoughtfully curated to satisfy a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences. Noteworthy standouts include the fluffy and zesty Lemon Blueberries Pancakes, a sweet and tangy delight that brightens the morning. For those craving a savory, hearty dish, the Breakfast Burrito and the Garden Omelette burst with fresh vegetables and perfectly seasoned fillings, delivering satisfying comfort with a healthful edge.

Vegetarian and vegan visitors will find a particular haven here, with dishes like the creamy Beet Hummus and vibrant Falafel Sliders offering bold flavors and texture contrasts that honor plant-based ingredients. For snack or shareable options, the Blue Chip Nacho and Chips and Bean Dip invite communal enjoyment with a hint of indulgence.

The cafe also doesn’t skimp on decadent treats, with desserts like the rich Red Velvet Oreo Brownie and the indulgent Peanut Butter Brownie satisfying your sweet tooth without overwhelming. Pair your meal with one of their standout beverages—the Dirty Chai or the festive Peppermint Mocha and Toasted Coconut Chai Latte offer comforting warmth and nuanced flavors that elevate every sip.

Service here is another highlight—numerous reviewers praise the attentive staff who consistently go the extra mile to accommodate large groups and ensure a smooth, comfortable experience even during busy brunch hours. The consistent quality, reasonable pricing, and quick, friendly service make L. A. Cafe a reliable spot that locals keep returning to for familiar, crowd-pleasing fare.

From the crunchy, herb-filled Jerk Chicken Salad to the savory comfort of the Monte Cristo French Toast, each dish carries a sense of thoughtful preparation and community spirit. The café’s relaxed “hippie vibe” offers a unique blend of comfort food with an array of healthy options, making it a standout breakfast destination in the Clarkston and Waterford area.

Whether you’re in for a delicious early start, a leisurely brunch with friends, or just a flavorful coffee and treat, L. A. Cafe sets itself apart through its spirited menu, warm hospitality, and inviting energy—a truly gratifying experience that delights the senses and nourishes both body and soul.

Service options
Outdoor seating On-site services Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great coffee Great dessert Great tea selection Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Coffee Comfort food Healthy options Quick bite Small plates Vegan options Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet Trendy
Crowd
Groups Tourists University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot On-site parking Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Thursday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Friday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Saturday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Sunday
    09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Grand Rapids Gourmand
    4 week ago

    An oasis. Perfect for dates and red eyed breakfasts, interfaith dishes but a vegetarian Mecca. Calm lake view for the post meal stogie. A place where oddities like myself can get cozy. Attended an open mic here long ago and that was a treat as well.

  • Jeff seconder
    1 month ago

    This is such a fun little cafe. Amazing breakfast and lunch options and delicious coffee flavors available as well. Been a couple times now, each time has been terrific. Do yourself a favor and stop in for breakfast or lunch.

  • Zelanda • Food and Flavor Curator (Zelanda's Kitchen)
    1 month ago

    L.A. Cafe gave us such a wonderful brunch experience! We came as a large party (without a reservation), and the staff went above and beyond to make space and ensure we were comfortable. The energy was lively and busy, but never chaotic — very welcoming. I ordered the hash brown bowl with corned beef, green peppers, and broccoli, plus gluten-free toast and lemonade. The portions were generous, everything was cooked well, and the service was top-notch. Our server took time to double-check food allergies and made sure the kids got what they wanted. It was clear they’re thoughtful about dietary needs, which we deeply appreciate. The interior is full of nostalgic memorabilia that even had me pointing out things from my childhood. It gave the whole place a personal, cozy charm. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an allergy-aware, family-friendly breakfast spot!

  • savana bellows
    2 month ago

    I had probably the best sandwich in a long time. Very reasonably priced and super fast and friendly service. They have been there for years. I just love being able to visit and the food is always consistent . They have a great hippie vibe.

  • Rob Pickett
    2 month ago

    This place is a Clarkston/Waterford classic and the food is not only on the healthier side but it's delicious too. Very cool vibe inside and friendly servers as well. I recommend the High Plains Drifter and a cold coffee with a shot of espresso! Btw they have great specials as well as baked goods

  • Catherine
    3 month ago

    Adorable breakfast spot! Coffee was to die for and the breakfast burrito was cooked to perfection! So many quirky things to look at while you are there. Cannot wait to return!

  • T
    4 month ago

    Wow, this place is awesome. On a recent visit I had a Spicy Jerk Chicken sandwich on gluten free bread, and it was banging. Just enough spice to get tingles in the back of my head and delightfully tasty. My mom had a grilled sandwich and loved hers too. The food is awesome. The coffees are good too. Full of flavor and sweet. The first time I visited, I bought a few cute mirror ball style disco ducks on my first visit here. And a Raspberry Mocha with whipped cream, on my second visit. Very cute place. Good coffee too. They offer a breakfast and lunch menu, and thankfully everything that includes bread can be ordered with gluten free bread. What a blessing to find out they cover all the stuff I love without wheat (gluten free). That's great news.

Share Your Experience

Your Rating

Discover What Travelers Love About This Place

Real experiences, honest impressions, and insights shared by the Wherevi community to help you explore with confidence.