Anko
Cafés & dessert · Los Angeles · · 5 reviews here
Cafés & dessert in Los Angeles.
What locals say
This is one of my favorite places. The shaved ice and bungeoppang (fish-shaped bread) are delicious, but I only had coffee today. It's clean, and it's a great place to stop by for dessert after visiting a nearby restaurant.
The shaved ice cream here is excellent. We tried the hojicha and matcha, and both were super yummy 😋. The hojicha comes with milk and chestnut, while the matcha has matcha cream and red beans; both combinations were delicious and well balanced. The only reason I’m giving 4 stars is the slow service. On a previous visit, we waited so long that we eventually had to cancel our order and leave.
The mango Bingsoo was refreshing and flavorful. Not artificial. The pumpkin Bingsoo was a pleasant surprise. Unique flavor that paired really well with the red bean they provided on the side. Presentation was beautiful. I’ll definitely be back to enjoy it again!
The Dessert: The Order: I tried their 4-piece Boongapang (Bungeoppang). Taste & Value: It was $12 for the order, and they tasted really good! It is a fantastic spot to grab a freshly made Korean street-food classic. Logistics & Vibe: Seating: It is a very popular spot, so it is not easy to find a seat during peak hours. The Visit: Because of the crowds, I visited right about closing time on a Friday night. If you are looking to actually sit down, late night or off-hours might be the best strategy. Verdict: Delicious, fresh Bungeoppang, but be prepared for limited seating during the weekend rush!
Anko is a café that pairs coffee with desserts in a space that feels calm and carefully considered. The interior is clean and elegant, anchored by warm wood tones that soften the room. We ordered two flavors of shaved ice, taiyaki, and a green grape sparkling water. The shaved ice was the highlight—impeccably textured, fine and feathery like fresh snow, melting almost instantly on the tongue. Both the milk and strawberry versions were well balanced in sweetness and easy to enjoy, never cloying. The green grape sparkling water leaned bright and tart, garnished with a slice of green apple, though it edged slightly too sour—enough to raise the question of whether the note came from vinegar or an overripe garnish. Overall, Anko is a solid café with a clear point of distinction, serving what may be some of the best shaved ice in town.