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The quest for satisfying coffee is never-ending for true coffee fanatics. As a result of the vast wasteland of product served up by most coffee vendors, this search can also prove to be routinely frustrating. But thanks to local producers, including the Coffee Cellar/La Bodega de Café operated by Angel Orozco (located within Mama's Hot Tamales), we've got some exciting alternatives here to the Starbuckization of the world. more ›

While LAist is on the subject of how to simultaneously spend your dollars and support micro-enterprise, job skills, artisans, and environmentally conscious practices, make sure to check out the Mercado de la Paloma if you haven’t already (it's been around for several years). Esperanza Community Housing Corporation developed and operates the Mercado, a rare example of a full-service community economic development center. In sum, it’s part of Esperanza Community Housing Corporation’s overall “strategy to revitalize our neighborhood, bringing together new economic, health, social, and cultural resources under one roof.” At 3655 S. Grand Avenue you’ll find all sorts of goodies, including an art gallery, craft shops, community space, and amazing chicken tacos. All of the above are convenient for you Downtown-based worker bees. more ›