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Central Los Angeles › Downtown › Basil & Cheese Cafe
Basil & Cheese CafeBWorth Trying
757 Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
· Cafe, Bagel shop, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (234 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Strong breakfast burritos and toasts in a casual DTLA cafe with friendly-but-inconsistent service and variable coffee quality; good for breakfast, less ideal for coffee purists or those in a rush.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Basil & Cheese Cafe delivers reliable breakfast comfort with strong food quality anchored by standout burritos that inspire repeat visits. Friendly service and a nicely designed space support the experience, but inconsistent execution—particularly with eggs and coffee—and occasional rush-hour delays prevent grade A territory. Well-suited for neighborhood breakfast seekers who prioritize hearty burritos over precision.
Restaurant Summary
Mornings here feel warm and bustling, with a line of regulars and travelers eyeing burritos and toasts while baristas work the machines. One diner summed it up: "The burrito alone made the walk worth it." Service skews friendly, though rushes can bring longer waits and the occasional curt interaction. The cooking leans comfort-first breakfast with small fresh touches: chorizo or bacon burritos packed with crispy tots, omelettes with greens, and avocado-burrata or hummus toasts. Think satisfying, not showy; the food wins more praise than the drinks, as coffee quality opinions vary from excellent to underwhelming. If you care most about a hearty start, this is a solid bet. For families, the menu has plenty kids will eat: bagels, eggs, burritos, and simple pastries. No clear kids menu, but portions can be shared. Note occasional wait times and limited seating at peak hours; bring patience on weekends and consider earlier visits.
At a Glance
- Breakfast burritos are a standout with crispy tots and bold flavor
- Friendly counter service most visits; high owner responsiveness
- Coffee quality is inconsistent and often described as too sweet or sour
- Busy rush can mean 20-30 minute waits and order errors
- Kitchen closes before shop close time; late-day orders may be declined
What Sets It Apart
- crispy-tot breakfast burritos
- burrata-forward toasts
- high owner responsiveness
What People Love
- Crispy, satisfying breakfast burritos
- Fresh toasts with burrata or hummus
- Friendly staff interactions on most visits
- Clean, cute cafe vibe that feels welcoming
Points of Concern
- Coffee quality varies from excellent to undrinkable for some; sweet profiles common
- Peak-time waits and occasional order mistakes frustrate in a counter-service setup
- Perceived high prices for drinks and some pastries relative to portion
- Review patterns show signs of templated owner responses; not review manipulation but note consistency limits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a burrito with an americano if you prefer less-sweet drinks
- Gluten-avoiders: choose omelettes with side salad instead of bread
- Vegan option: Hummus Avocado Toast with extra greens
Perfect For
- A hearty breakfast before exploring DTLA
- Casual brunch with simple, fresh flavors
- Solo work session with a quick bite
- Visitors seeking a reliable breakfast burrito
Location Insights
Area: Dense DTLA corridor with offices, lofts, and street-level cafes; morning and weekday traffic heavy, weekends quieter.
Safety: Generally busy daylight foot traffic; standard downtown vigilance advised, especially early or late.
Nearby: Near residential lofts, small offices, and other breakfast spots; limited curbside parking, paid garages nearby.
DowntownDowntown Los Angeles offers a dynamic dining environment with a wide range of options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The area is known for its eclectic food scene, blending international cuisines and trendy concepts, attracting a crowd interested in both innovation and cultural authenticity.
Arts DistrictThe Arts District is a trendy micro-neighborhood within Downtown LA, known for its converted warehouses, street art, and a vibrant food and drink scene. It attracts a hip, creative crowd looking for unique dining experiences and a lively social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–15:00
Tuesday07:00–15:00
Wednesday07:00–15:00
Thursday07:00–15:00
Friday07:00–15:00
Saturday07:00–15:00
Sunday07:00–15:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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