Koreatown took a long time to convert local palates to specialty coffee. For years, neighborhood residents preferred coffee lounges where they could linger for hours or chains imported from Korea. In the past few years, more independent businesses have surfaced. Beau Bar is one of K-Town’s best new options, a sister establishment to Andante Coffee Roasters, a local roastery from Steve Hyun and Tommy Kim. Their glass-fronted space houses tan cushioned banquettes, benches, and hanging wood chairs lined with white “fur.” Order from a counter featuring a workhorse black two-group La Marzocco espresso machine.

Barista Horchata ($4.50) is a flavorful, fall-like misnomer suitable for cooler weather that combines nutty almond milk, organic maple syrup, cinnamon and cinnamon sticks served over ice. Oddly, this beverage contains no coffee, so why do they call it “barista” horchata? I added a single shot of espresso to right the wrong and bump up the kick.