In an unassuming and congested segment of downtown Fullerton beside a McDonald’s lies an adorably eclectic coffee joint.
Dripp Café reminds you of a friend you can take anywhere and never worry about them saying the wrong thing in the wrong crowd. The furniture and atmosphere of the place exude hospitality and comfort. While the bakery has no plain theme or continuous pattern, the vintage feel welcomes visitors immediately.
The lot in the Fox Fullerton Theater at 500 N. Harbor Blvd was purchased and ground broken nearly three years ago, though Dripp had its official grand opening Feb. 22, 2016. Shane Bonanno, a cashier and barista, said the publicity of the place made its first weeks nearly chaotic with business. In recent weeks, however, foot traffic has been significantly down and is at a more “pleasant pace.”
light and openness
Walking into the log-cabinesque café, large windows to the outside world provide light and openness. The thin iron archways and cherry blossom flowers lining the perimeter give the place a calm feel, while its wooden ceilings and countertops encourage the homey vibe. The wall made of open books encourages deep study as well as recreational reading.
While known for their hot coffee and inviting atmosphere, Dripp also offers cold drinks to soothe the southern California scorch. They have refreshing juices like the “Gingin,” a West African ginger lemonade. Shane recommended the Spanish Latte, a delicious espresso-pumped drink lined with cinnamon and an adorable latte heart.
appealing to a diverse audience
The food at Dripp Café is not something to be ignored either. Shane’s favorite dessert is the Kouign Amann, a croissant-looking dessert that, when warm, presents a soft buttery interior while maintaining a hard outer shell. While he did push Dripp’s wonderful ice cream options, such as Coffee Espresso and Maple Bacon, I had to pass.
The shop offers pastries and small sandwiches, some of which appeal to a more diverse audience of visitors. My pescatarian self was more than excited to learn they offered a “Veggie Delight” sandwich, made with ricotta cheese, olive tapenade, sun-dried tomatoes and arugula on ciabatta bread.
composed of coffee lovers
The target group for Dripp is clearly composed of coffee lovers. The staff firmly believes the café appeals to both current espresso fanatics and those who have simply been ignorant of their love for the caffeinated miracle until now. The aim is hospitality with a bright and talented staff. The shop draws from only local bakeries for their food items, while brewing all their drinks in-house.
Dripp is a true spectacle and a joy to visit. While feeling welcome there is the primary goal, be sure to watch the clock. Hours can pass by unawares whilst coffee is enjoyed and friendships are formed in this adorable coffeehouse. The shop opens every day at 6 a.m. and closes Sundays at 11 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays at 12 a.m. and Fridays and Saturdays at 1 a.m.
