Home #Hwoodtimes Inside West Hollywood’s Newest Brew: A Firsthand Look at Drinkit Coffee

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Inside West Hollywood’s Newest Brew: A Firsthand Look at Drinkit Coffee

August 14, 2026

By Tom Wright

Sleek Newcomer Making Coffee Waves

If you have been cruising down Santa Monica Boulevard lately, you might have spotted a sleek newcomer making waves on the block: Drinkit Coffee, on Santa Monica Boulevard.

While some passersby have mistaken its ultra-streamlined, digital-first approach for something out of a sci-fi film, Drinkit is a very real, highly stylish coffee shop specializing in high-quality brews—including specialty favorites like rich cheese foam.

I stopped by the West Hollywood spot to check it out firsthand. Upon walking in, the atmosphere strikes you immediately: clean, cozy, and quiet, offering a welcome respite from the bustling street outside.

West Hollywood is indeed the official site of their very first U.S. launch, acting as the flagship proving ground for the international brand to test how American consumers respond to their high-tech, cashier-free model.

Given how much the local neighborhood leans into trendy, design-forward concepts and hyper-convenient digital spaces, the area has embraced that distinct “Drinkit” style—proving that a cozy, minimalist café paired with app-driven customization and great food fits right into the WeHo rhythm.

The Human Element Behind the Counter

Drinkit is a digital-first specialty coffee brand originally developed by Dodo Brands, a major Russian food-and-beverage group founded by Russian entrepreneur Fyodor Ovchinnikov (which is also the parent company behind Dodo Pizza).

Though the concept leans heavily into self-service, in-store digital terminals, and mobile app ordering, the human touch is still front and center. I was greeted by Nikita manager and the two baristas Josh and Pappy—dubbed the “cube baristas”—who took the time to talk through the menu and help navigate the coffee options.

When it came to the menu, the standout recommendation has to be their turkey and scrambled egg roll. Paired with a piping-hot, exceptionally crafted coffee, it makes for a surprisingly delicious breakfast or afternoon bite.

Growing Pains and Hospitality

As a newer spot still finding its footing, you might notice a few minor growing pains. Because Drinkit is built around app-based checkouts and digital ordering, traditional cash handling and navigating coinage differences can occasionally trip up the staff. However, any minor operational hiccups at the register are quickly forgiven thanks to attentive hospitality—complete with team members bringing your food order straight to your table.