Nestled among the oak trees in Los Angeles’ iconic Griffith Park sits a charming little spot that’s captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike – The Trails Café. I stumbled upon this hidden gem during one of my morning hikes and instantly fell in love with its rustic appeal and mouthwatering breakfast options. Whether you’re fueling up before exploring the park or just looking for the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post, this quaint café delivers both delicious food and enviable photo opportunities.
1. A Beloved Stop for Griffith Park Hikers
The Trails Café sits at the base of several popular hiking routes, including the trail to Griffith Observatory and the shady Fern Dell Nature Trail. Its location makes it a natural meeting point for hikers, dog walkers, joggers, and families heading deeper into Griffith Park.
The café has been serving the community since 2005 and is tucked just off Fern Dell Drive, not far from the Western Canyon entrance. Surrounded by large sycamores and tucked into a gentle slope, it feels like a woodland escape in the middle of Los Angeles. It’s especially popular early in the morning, when the air is cool and the light filters gently through the trees.
Locals often use The Trails as a pre- or post-hike ritual, with many arriving still in hiking boots or gym gear. On weekends, lines can form as early as 9 AM, but the wait is rarely long and always worth it. The Trails is more than a café – it’s a kind of community hub for people who love the outdoors. Its laid-back, park-adjacent location also makes it a popular destination for those looking to unwind without venturing too far from the city.
It’s close to key attractions like the Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theatre, making it convenient for both locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to enjoy breakfast surrounded by nature, few LA spots compare.
2. Fresh-Baked Goods Made Daily
The Trails Café is especially well-known for its baked goods, which are made fresh daily and often draw as much praise as the savory offerings. Regulars rave about the pecan bar, which features a rich, chewy layer of caramelized pecans atop a buttery crust – it’s decadent but not overly sweet.
Other popular treats include banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, and a rotating selection of muffins and scones. The café keeps things seasonal, so you might find pumpkin bread in the fall or blueberry muffins in the summer.
All baked goods are made in-house, giving the café an unmistakably homemade, comforting aroma that greets you as you approach the counter. Items are displayed in simple glass cases or rustic wooden trays, inviting you to grab something on impulse while you wait for your coffee. Many customers pick up a baked good “for later” – only to eat it on the spot. On busy days, some of the most popular items sell out by mid-morning, so early birds get the best selection.
The café’s baking philosophy is rooted in using real ingredients, avoiding overly processed shortcuts. That authenticity shines through in every bite, whether you’re indulging in a thick brownie or a humble slice of banana bread.
3. Famous for Its Avocado Sandwich and House-Made Quiche
The Trails Café may have a compact menu, but what it offers is executed with care – and some items have earned near-legendary status. Chief among them is the avocado sandwich, a simple yet satisfying creation made with thick, hearty whole-grain bread, fresh avocado slices, tomato, and a light spread of cream cheese. It’s served cold and wrapped in paper, making it easy to take on the go or enjoy at one of the picnic tables.
The sandwich is vegetarian, and it’s become a must-try for first-time visitors. Another staple is the house-made quiche, which is often loaded with seasonal vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and leeks, nestled into a golden, buttery crust.
The quiche is available by the slice and makes a great breakfast or light lunch, especially when paired with their herbal iced tea or fresh-squeezed orange juice. For those looking to keep things light, The Trails also offers simple fruit bowls and granola. Portions are generous without being over-the-top, and the ingredients are always fresh.
Many menu items cater to vegetarian diets, though vegan options are more limited. That said, the café is open to substitutions when possible, and staff are typically helpful in guiding guests to the best choices. It’s this thoughtful simplicity – nothing overly fancy, just well-prepared food – that keeps people coming back.
4. Outdoor-Only, Dog-Friendly Dining
Dining at The Trails Café is an entirely outdoor affair, but that’s exactly part of its charm. Picnic tables are arranged across a shaded dirt patio beneath a canopy of mature trees, including oak, sycamore, and pine. There’s no indoor seating at all, but the café’s setting feels more like a park picnic than a restaurant anyway.
Diners often linger at tables long after they’ve finished eating, chatting with friends or enjoying the breeze. Because of its open layout and connection to nearby hiking paths, it’s not uncommon to see dogs relaxing under tables, often rewarded with treats and water bowls.
The café is dog-friendly, and well-behaved pups are welcomed with smiles from staff and fellow guests alike. In fact, many visitors bring their dogs just for the walk and the atmosphere. Seating is first-come, first-served, and while weekends can get busy, the space rarely feels overcrowded thanks to its casual layout. The Trails offers a brief escape from the city’s hustle, without ever leaving LA proper.
Whether you’re visiting after a hike or just stopping in for a bite, the fresh air and natural surroundings make every meal feel like a tiny getaway. It’s one of the few places in the city where you can enjoy breakfast under the trees with a view of the Hollywood Hills in the distance.
5. A Staple of LA’s Casual Food Scene
Though it may not have the glitz of LA’s trendiest eateries, The Trails Café is widely respected as a local institution. It’s been featured in travel guides, food blogs, and local publications as a must-visit for its authenticity and charm.
Unlike more stylized cafés, The Trails leans into its rustic, no-frills identity – and that’s exactly why people love it. Its enduring popularity among hikers, artists, musicians, and families is a testament to its broad appeal. Over the years, it has quietly built a loyal following who come for the vibe as much as the food.
The café reflects LA’s unique blend of laid-back outdoor living and creative culture. On a typical weekend, you might spot someone sketching in a notebook, a yoga group wrapping up nearby, or a musician softly playing acoustic guitar. Tourists also find their way here, often after Googling “best cafés in Griffith Park” and stumbling upon glowing reviews.
Despite its popularity, the café has retained its approachable personality – no reservations, no gimmicks, just good food and good vibes. For anyone exploring Griffith Park, stopping at The Trails Café isn’t just a meal – it’s part of the full LA outdoor experience. It’s one of those places that feels like it’s always been there, and hopefully, always will.
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