For years now, it’s been the norm for book stores such as Borders or Barnes and Noble to have a cafe in the building. The whole vibe of picking out a book, sitting down with a drink and snack, and relaxing is one of the more welcome additions to the national landscapes.
Maybe it’s because bookstores were struggling in the face of e-books, but an excursion to the stores became a very pleasurable experience. Even with all of that in mind though, the cafe at Village Well raised the bar somewhat.
“We are a community-focused & impact-driven bookstore-café in the heart of Downtown Culver City,” they say online. “Supporting the community is part of our DNA. We regularly explore various social causes and encourage the community to learn, share ideas, and lend a hand. Currently, we are focusing on the movement to reform the criminal justice system as it disproportionately targets people of color. Through educating ourselves with the voices of abolitionists, we stand to support the disarmament and financial redistribution of the law enforcement.”
That’s impressive; founder Jennifer Casper says that she wants Village Well to be a “third place where we go for rest and nourishment between home and work. A place where neighbors have surprise encounters, and people who might otherwise be feeling lonely at home can be surrounded by the comfort of lively, friendly human interaction.”
Beyond all of that good stuff, their pastries, desserts and beverages are delicious too. We stopped in after enjoying a meal across the street at Meet in Paris, and took home a brownie and a cheese Danish.
The brownie was perfectly gooey and crumbly. Rich chocolate on chocolate, as the chocolate chips fold into the chocolate brownie mix. It’s decadent, naughty and very, very nice. Warm it slightly and it goes up another level again. Maybe even add a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.
The Danish was equally magnificent. The flakey pastry serves as an edible platter for the sweet cream cheese and fruit compote. The combination is exquisite, which might seem like a strong word when describing a Danish pastry from a bookstore cafe, but we stand by it.
The indoor area is relaxing to the point of heavenly. There’s free wi-fi, and a community table for group discussions should you desire them. The entire place is a Culver City gem, a one-stop spot for knowledge, goodness and, yes, nutrition.
Village Well Books and Coffee is located at 9900 Culver Blvd. #1b, Culver City 90232. Contact 424-298-8951 or visit villagewell.com.