Espresso Profeta Closing Doors in Westwood After Two Decades

Westwood Village is set to lose another of its long-standing establishments with the impending closure of Espresso Profeta. The coffee shop, a fixture in the neighborhood for 20 years, announced it will cease operations on Friday, September 25.

Located near the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Espresso Profeta has been a popular spot known for its quality espresso and a charming courtyard. The owners shared the news on social media, thanking their loyal customers for their patronage over the years.

While the official reason for closing was not explicitly stated, the owners indicated in a social media reply that their lease is set to expire. The shop has also announced plans to sell off its assets, including furniture, appliances, and decor, in the coming weeks.

The announcement has drawn a significant response from patrons, many of whom expressed sadness and nostalgia on social media. Customers recalled Espresso Profeta as a place that helped them through their studies and celebrated its unique atmosphere and commitment to a classic coffee style.

Espresso Profeta distinguished itself in the Los Angeles coffee scene by exclusively using Espresso Vivace beans, a Seattle-based roaster popular in the 1990s, while many contemporary shops have shifted towards lighter roasts. The shop was noted for its well-trained baristas and was even recognized by The Infatuation as one of Los Angeles's best coffee shops for working remotely, with particular praise for its back patio and reasonable prices.

The closure comes as Westwood Village navigates ongoing redevelopment and construction projects, including the anticipated arrival of a new Metro D Line subway station, which has contributed to a changing retail landscape in the area.