Bites Nearby: Buster's Ice Cream & Coffee Shop

Overview: Fondly referred to as “The Coffee Shop by the Tracks,”  is most definitely a South Pasadena community landmark.  Whether you’re in the mood for a great cappuccino and a pastry or one of their delicious salads or sandwiches, Buster’s family-owned coffee shop is sure to not disappoint.

Decor: The down-home charm of Buster’s is just one of its many attractions. Catch some rays and do a bit of people watching as you sit outside at one of the colorfully painted and eclectic tables. Or get cozy in the upstairs loft area while typing away on a laptop and pause every now and again to admire the view of Mission Street below.

Beverages: While Buster’s drip coffee is some of the best I’ve tasted ($1.75-$1.95), their espresso drinks are equally as delicious. Try a latte or a cappuccino ($3.00/each), or cut right to the chase and order an espresso. Not in the mood for caffeine? No problem. Buster’s infamous Rickie’s are a menu favorite; try the Lime Rickie for a tart and tangy treat ($2.75). 

Smoothies and shakes are all the rage at this local coffee joint. The Banana Buster, a simple mix of bananas and creamy vanilla ice cream, is one of my long-time favorites ($4.65). Get a quick boost and order the Tiger’s Milk smoothie ($4.65); a delightful blend of vanilla ice cream, carob powder, bananas, protein powder and milk.

Snacks & Pastries: Buster’s muffins and pastries never fail to disappoint. Try a cinnamon roll ($2.75) or one of my “go-to’s”, a cappuccino muffin ($2.75). With chocolate chunks and an espresso-chocolate flavor throughout, this muffin is the ultimate treat and packs a lot of punch. Not much of a sweets-for-breakfast person? Order a bagel with cream cheese ($1.50), a slice of quiche, made fresh daily ($4.00), or a bowl of oatmeal ($3.25) to enjoy with your morning beverage of choice.

Salads & Sandwiches: Buster’s boasts more than just tasty breakfast items; the coffee joint also dishes out killer sandwiches and salads at lunchtime. The roast turkey with avocado and cranberry on a fresh baguette is always a win ($6.00), the sweetness of the cranberry sauce balanced perfectly by the savory pieces of turkey and mellow flavor of avocado. For all you non-carnivorous folk, order the egg salad sandwich on fresh whole wheat bread ($6.50). Or go for one of their healthy and hardy, freshly made salads ($6.75).

Ice Cream: As if there aren’t enough treats to tempt your taste buds, Buster’s also serves up several flavors of Fosselman’s ice cream. Try a scoop of Cappuccino Chocolate Chunk ($2.65), a Mint n’ Chip Shake ($4.50), or go all out and order a Hot Fudge Sundae with all the fixings ($4.00).  If you’re more of a frozen yogurt buff, you needn’t look any further than Buster’s. Get a medium sized frozen yogurt with your choice of fresh fruit mixed in ($4.50).

Service: Not only are the baristas friendly, they’re fast and efficient, too. Although the line can sometimes push out the door (especially during on weekday mornings before work), it moves quickly.

Address: 1006 Mission St., South Pasadena
Phone: (626) 441-0744
Owners: Renee Richards, Colette Richards, & Monica Barry
Cost: $