Philz Coffee is too hipster for the Apollo Landing

By Julia Oudiz

Features Editor

Philz Coffee, the newest edition to the Apollo Landing, is too hipster for El Segundo to handle with vegan food, an earthy atmosphere, and unusual drinks.

While this coffee shop is probably a perfect fit for SoHo’s bohemian vibes, it does not belong in a beach town like El Segundo. The shop, which is next to Shake Shack and Leafy Greens, does not tie in with the basic layout of the other traditional restaurants.

Philz Coffee originated from a man named Phil Jaber who wanted to add a more personal aspect to coffee shops. Thus, after ordering a drink, the baristas ask the customers to taste it and people have the option to tell them what they would like to change about it.

The drink menu at Philz Coffee is filled with a variety of unique drinks that sound good on paper, but not once they are in a cup. While other items on the menu might be tolerable, the hot chocolate was far too chalky and, while the presentation was extraordinary, the mint mojito tasted bitter.

The food menu is limited and most items looked like unpalatable vegan pastries. Some of the pastries that are laid out for display include croissants and vegan donuts, but most of them are only breakfast food, so people looking for a lunch will not be able to find anything from Philz Coffee.

While the system of baristas making drinks and asking their customers if they would like anything changed about it, might seem like a positive thing for people, the overall experience was awkward. The shop would be much better without this interaction if the drinks were actually made well the first time.

There was a large, decorated area outside for seating, but the atmosphere does not mask the taste of the food. People have the opportunity to read or work while sipping on coffee at other more affordable coffee joints, such as Starbucks or Coffee Bean.

Philz Coffee is overpriced and definitely not worth the long line. The overall hipster theme of the restaurant does not blend well with the surrounding restaurants and the food and drinks on the menu are not appealing.

Philz Coffee is located at 2191 Rosecrans Ave in El Segundo and is open daily from 6am to 8pm.