You’re driving down Verdugo Road in Glassell Park and see a small, checker-floored spot with a vibe that feels like a quiet corner of Melbourne. That’s Little Ripper. It’s an Australian-inspired cafe that has somehow managed to bridge the gap between a neighborhood coffee haunt and a sophisticated evening wine bar. Honestly, if you’re looking for the Little Ripper LA Los Angeles menu, you have to realize it's a bit of a shapeshifter depending on when you walk through the door.
Early morning? You’re getting smashed avo and flat whites. Evening? It’s natural wine and scallop crudo.
What’s Actually on the Little Ripper LA Los Angeles Menu?
Most people head here for the "brekkie" culture. The menu is divided into a few distinct categories: Toasts, Jaffles, and Breakfast Plates.
The Smashed Avo Toast ($15.40) is basically the law here. It’s sourdough topped with avocado, pickled radish, chilis, and micro cilantro. It’s simple but done right. If you want something heartier, the Spanglish Brekkie Sandwich ($19.80) is a massive hit. You’ve got sourdough, an over-easy egg, Swiss cheese, butter lettuce, heirloom tomato, bacon, and a healthy dose of kewpie mayo.
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Then there are the Jaffles. For those who didn't grow up in Australia, a jaffle is essentially a sealed, pressed grilled cheese.
- The Classic Jaffle ($11.00): Simple cheddar and tomato.
- The Nutty Nana ($11.00): Nutella and sliced banana.
- The Loaded Jaffle: A more intense version with prosciutto and hot sauce.
One of the quirks that makes this place feel authentic is the Fairy Bread ($5.50). It’s literally white bread, butter, and "hundreds and thousands" (sprinkles) with the crusts cut off. It’s a childhood staple in Australia and a total nostalgia trip for expats.
The Coffee and "House Specials"
The coffee isn't just an afterthought; it's the core of the brand. They use a Verdugo Blend for their house drip, but the "Little Ripper" signature drinks are the real draw. These are double-shot lattes made with house-made almond milk. You can get them in three specific flavors:
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- Lavender: Flowery but not soapy.
- Chicory: Earthy and a bit dark.
- Turmeric: Bright and spicy.
They also serve a proper Flat White ($5.50) and something called a Magic ($5.50). In Melbourne coffee speak, a Magic is a double ristretto topped with 3/4 full milk—stronger than a latte but smoother than a cortado.
Transitioning to the Evening Menu
Right around 4:00 PM (Thursday through Saturday), the vibe shifts. The laptops go away, and the "Dinner and Wine" menu comes out. This is where things get a bit more "chef-y."
You'll find items like John Dory Tuna Toast with cornichons and house chili oil ($16.50) or even more elevated plates like Turkish Eggs ($18.00) with herbed labneh and matcha salsa.
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The evening menu is often handled by Chef Selena Lechuga and frequently features small plates designed to pair with their natural wine selection. They do a Happy Hour from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Thur-Sun), which is probably the best time to catch the transition between the cafe energy and the wine bar "linen-outfit" crowd.
Dietary Options and Practical Details
If you're vegan or gluten-free, you aren't stuck with just black coffee. They have house-made almond milk and plenty of "VV" (Vegan) or "V" (Vegetarian) markers on the menu.
- Bircher Muesli ($13.00): Overnight oats with coconut milk and passion fruit yogurt.
- Baby Bear's Porridge ($16.00): A savory quinoa risotto with shiitake and pecorino.
Parking can be a bit of a pain since it's on a busy stretch of Verdugo, but there's usually street parking if you're willing to walk a block. They are open for breakfast every day from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Dinner hours are more restricted, usually Thursday through Saturday until 10:00 PM.
To make the most of your visit, aim for a weekday morning to avoid the weekend brunch rush. If you’re coming for the evening wine bar experience, try to snag a seat on the string-lit patio. It's one of the few spots in Glassell Park that feels truly transportive. For a first-timer, the move is always a Flat White and a Classic Jaffle—it's the most "Aussie" experience you can get without a ten-hour flight.
Check the chalkboard when you walk in for daily pastry specials from local spots like Sugar Bloom, as their lamingtons—buttery sponge cake with chocolate and coconut—often sell out before noon.