Xocólatl is a new cacao, tea and coffeehouse in El Sereno from Semillas Sociedad Civil, a non-profit that operates two neighborhood charter schools: Academia Semillas del Pueblo (K-8) and Anahuacalmecac International University Preparatory High School. Willie “Huitzil” Reyes, a member of the band Quinto Sol, is the head barista and helps to ensure they’re “serving consciousness.”

Semillas Sociedad Civil had been looking for a way to provide nutritious meals for its students, and Antigua Coffee House owner Yancey Quinones was keen on creating a community coffeehouse, so he negotiated a sub-lease with the Cal State LA Federal Credit Union for a banquet hall across the street from the two schools. The space contains Xocólatl and the kitchen will prepare meals for the students beginning November 30. Xocólatl is the Nahuatl word for cacao, a naturally occurring energy booster.

Yancey Quinones is roasting beans for the coffeehouse, sourced from his family’s farm in Panibaj, Guatemala. To brew espresso drinks, Xocólatl uses a four-group La Marzocco. In addition to espresso drinks like cappuccinos, macchiatos and Popocatepetl (a cacao latte with a shot of chile), you’ll find five different beverages made using cacao. Xocólatl also produces ice blended drinks, a variety of teas and blends, and a small selection of sandwiches.

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The contemporary space features comfortable seating and yes, features free WiFi. In the future, be on the lookout for art exhibits, film nights, poetry readings and “current issues nights.”

The grand opening is December 12 and includes spoken word by Poets del Norte and In Lak Ech, fire dancers at sundown, an art auction and booths offering cacao workshops, live mural painting and giveaways. The blowout event will also feature performances by Quinto Sol, punk fusion group Ollin, urban son band Gabriel Tenorio y su Domingo Siete, lyrical MC Olmeca and local favorites Las Cafeteras. The grand opening lasts from 10 AM – 10 PM.

Regular Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
Sunday: 6:30 AM – 8 PM

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