Original Barista

1920 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, United States
+1 949-791-8211
$$$ Cafe
(133 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you're on the hunt for a coffee experience that transcends the ordinary, look no further than Original Barista, a beloved café nestled at 1920 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA. This gem isn’t just a place for your caffeine fix; it’s a local haven for true coffee aficionados.

The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a book. The friendly staff are genuine in their love for coffee, crafting each cup with care and precision. And let’s not forget the unique offerings that set Original Barista apart from the rest.

The menu features an exciting array of beverages designed to please everyone—from the casual coffee drinker to the seasoned enthusiast. Their Bulletproof Iced Coffee, for instance, is a standout, combining rich flavors with added health benefits. Similarly, the Whey Good Latte is a nourishing choice, perfect for a post-workout pick-me-up. If you prefer something classic, their Americano (US$3.50) and Drip Coffee (US$2.50) never disappoint, serving up bold, flavorful brews that are anything but bitter.

Customer experiences echo a recurrent theme: the depth of flavor in every cup. As Bobby Wolf puts it, “Nothing comes close to Original Barista. Their handmade syrups and strong coffee offer the perfect blend of sweet and bold.” Even those who typically enjoy sweeter coffee find a delightful surprise here, as many customers recommend asking for an extra pump of flavor if that’s your preference, ensuring everyone can customize their drink.

For those looking to pair their coffee with a delightful treat, consider the flaky and flavorful baked goods sourced from Blackmarket Bakery. Patrons rave about the almond lavender scone, a decadent morsel that perfectly complements your beverage of choice.

With an array of options including Cortado and Espresso, there’s something to tantalize everyone’s taste buds. And whether you're sipping an Espresso variation or the intriguing Magic, you can appreciate the staff's commitment to quality—served at just the right temperature, as customer Brooks Jones attests. It’s these little details that foster a genuine connection between the café and its patrons.

While the exterior may strike you as a bit unconventional, with a look that some might associate with nightlife spots or smoke shops, don’t let that deter you. Inside, Original Barista is a clean, organized space brimming with caffeine possibilities and a warm community spirit. Regulars like Rex Redjai and his wife tout it as their "goto" coffee haven, passionately endorsing its rich, flavorful coffees that showcase the dedication behind the bar.

In summary, Original Barista is a must-visit spot that captures the essence of exceptional coffee culture. Engage with their skilled baristas, savor every sip, and discover why this café has cultivated such a loyal following. Don’t just take our word for it; experience it for yourself and dive into the harmonious exploration of taste that awaits you here.

Service options
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Dessert
Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Tourists
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

133 Reviews
Trevor Childs

25 Aug 2025

I loved this place. My wife was not the biggest fan. The difference for us was the flavor of the coffee. She likes Starbucks style, super sweet with a ton of extra stuff. I like coffee. This place has very strong tasting coffee and I loved it. The pastries are delicious and the people are very nice. Just note that if you want candy coffee, you're gonna have to ask for an extra pump or whatever.

Anastasiia Patlia

21 Aug 2025

I visited this coffee shop for the first time and had a cappuccino with oat milk — it was absolutely delicious! I really enjoyed the rich, smooth flavor of the coffee itself. The service was very friendly, and I loved the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. I’ll definitely be coming back!

Bobby Wolf

09 Aug 2025

I’ve tried multiple coffee shops while visiting Newport Beach. Nothing comes close to Original Barista. Their handmade syrups and strong coffee offers the perfect blend of sweet and bold. I will 100% be stopping here every time I’m in town!

Rex Redjai

05 Jul 2025

My wife and I make a point to try every coffee shop in Costa Mesa, and while there are a lot of good ones, this place stands out as the best. We come here all the time — it’s become our go-to spot. Their americano is bold, full of flavor, and never bitter. You can tell they take real care in how they prepare it. My wife loves their cappuccino and latte — both are smooth, well-balanced, and made with intention. What really sets this shop apart is the passion they put into every cup. They don’t rush, and the attention to detail shows. You can taste the difference. It’s not just another trendy coffee shop — it’s the one we keep coming back to. Highly recommended.

Antonio Neves

23 Jun 2025

One of the best tasting coffee I’ve ever had. Very good quality. Inside is clean and well organized, outside is not too good.

D和美

14 Jun 2025

I love their coffee. Two guys who knows what they do are running this place. It is little too far to make them my regular coffee joint but I’m a fan. I’ve been there twice now and so far the product is consistent. Food is limited to baked goods from blackmarket bakery. An almond lavender scone I had was really flaky and excellent. The shop from outside looks kind of a nightclub-ish or smoke shop but don’t be afraid. I recommend it.

Brooks Jones

11 Jun 2025

I very much enjoyed both the coffee and staff at this place. The customer service was wonderful, I could tell that people genuinely enjoyed interacting with their guests. I can see why this place is gaining such a loyal following. The coffee was good and I particularly enjoyed that it was served at the correct temperature. Too often, businesses serve coffee much too hot, Original Barista nailed it.

Join the Original Barista Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.