The boy and the bear




951 E Green St

Pasadena, CA  91106




At the corner of Mentor and Green Street, The Boy and the Bear is making a statement. 

Open from 7 am to 4 pm the building has very large windows covered by curtains, 

hiding the inside.



Stepping in, you enter an exotic jungle atmosphere filled with plants 

that can be hard to notice since the light is dimmed by a combination of grey and black paint. 

A peculiar music amplifies the mood. 

The Boy and the Bear wants to be different, but true to its roots.

Inside, there are a few slingback chairs contrasted with benches made of simple planks, 

uncomfortable, accommodating about 20 people. 

A few small tables outside seat about 10 people on the sidewalk.




Parking is okay all along Green Street, which can be a bit crowded but beautiful.

The coffee is respectable, soft, and well-balanced (with darker notes), 

farmed in Colombia and roasted locally in Redondo Beach. 

Pastries are quality offerings from Out of Thin Air, 

and there are a few house-made tartine options.




Then come the staff — kind and always polite, 

while sometimes taking too much time both to take the order and to prepare it. 



For instance, we had two espressos delivered at different times, 

which almost killed the enjoyment and consistency we were expecting. 




They are served with a generous-sized sparkling water and a house-made chocolate bite, 

greatly enhancing and elevating the experience.

Prices are a little high, matching the slightly obnoxious and prestigious overall environment. 

Somehow, it feels a little overdone.


They have several options of merchandise for sale: bagged beans for home, 

travel coffee gear, mugs, chocolate, and even stationery.




Overall, it’s a great place to have in the surrounding neighborhood 

and one that we enjoy only once in a while — not a top favorite.



theboyandthebear.com

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