There is by no means a shortage of Starbucks in South Pasadena. The same could be said for lots of locales, but Fair…More Oaks Avenue, especially, has its fair share of the world's most prolific coffee chain.</p> <p>Few, however, can claim a fountain as nice. It centers an outdoor section of tables, which makes for a great reading spot as long as traffic doesn't get too noisy.</p> <p>The service inside is cheerful and friendly, making this a very choice Starbucks location.</p>

This Starbucks -- one of several up and down Fair Oaks Avenue -- is a nice oasis from the midday sun.

The soft…More lighting and ergonomic furniture are relaxing, combined with a subdued banking atmosphere at Wells Fargo on the other side of the interior divide that separates both businesses.</p> <p>This combo store concept usually goes for large fast food chains, but here the trend has made it to the banking sector. Obviously, the idea is one stop for bank customers, a dream for Wells Fargo patrons who are also Starbucks fanatics.</p> <p>Convenience is the main sell, a tried and true marketing appeal that in this case also maximizes commercial real estate space.</p>

Wells Fargo is a big west coast bank with many branches in the Los Angeles area. Few, however, combine forces with a…More food service giant like this Wells Fargo/Starbucks union on Fair Oaks.</p> <p>The bank is one half of the space, with Starbucks on the other side. A glass partition separates the banking from the coffee and snacks.</p> <p>There's no vault, but this Wells Fargo provides the full services available at any other branch. There are also three ATMs located on the south side of the building.</p>

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has locations all over, not quite as prolific as Starbucks, but close. The company is…More still privately family-owned, and among the largest in the world of this non-publicly traded variety.</p> <p>The South Pasadena location is cozy and convenient, right near the 110. The store offers free WiFi, which along with the quiet atmosphere makes it a good place to work. This Coffee Bean opens extremely early at 5:30am, which is great for local weekday commuters.</p>