The Blue Butterfly Coffee Co, named after an endangered butterfly native to El Segundo, is a local favorite. A small brick coffeehouse located on busy Main Street, the eatery has only six dining tables on the interior and two small patio areas on the front and back of the establishment. The dining area is bright and airy thanks to skylights and two entry doors that created a mild crosswind. The walls were brick with paintings next to each table. A large celestial painting was next to the condiment bar. The furniture was light brown, creating a cozy feel. Local business flyers adorned the wall next to the main entrance. Soft music played over the speakers as patrons worked on their laptops or perused the newspaper. The menu consisted of breakfast items such as crepes with chocolate or fruit, quesadillas, “build your own” omelettes, oatmeal, pastries, and cereals and fruit cups.

Blue Butterfly also offered an extensive sandwich menu. Customized bagel sandwiches, available while supplies lasted were cleverly named after local streets and were served with fruit. Fillings consisted of vegetarian, to fish, and meats. Tri tip, chicken, and tuna sandwiches, served with fruit were available. Also available were salads, wraps, paninis, and the soup of the day.

The beverage menu included hot teas, brewed coffee, lattes, macchiato, and cappuccinos. Cold beverages included iced coffee, blended coffee, smoothies and sodas and juices. The menu prices averaged at $1.75 for a small to $4.50 for a large.

The baristas were personable and recognized returning customers by asking them if they would have their usual drink. They were as equally pleasant with newcomers offering suggestions. The staff moved the line quickly as well. They informed patrons that they would call them when the order was ready.

The macchiato ($2.50) was ready shortly after ordering. The milk was just the right temperature and the espresso was smooth with a slightly sweet taste. The mariposa bagel sandwich ($5.50) was ready ten minutes after the drink was prepared. The cheese bagel was chewy and warm. The avocado was ripe and soft, the alfalfa sprouts were crunchy, the tomato gave a subtle flavor, the lettuce was crunchy and the cream cheese was a great complement to the sandwich. The side of fruit was very tasty and the grapes, pineapple, melon, watermelon, and cantaloupe were all ripe.

The staff cleaned the kitchen area frequently. They rarely spoke to each other, reserving the quiet atmosphere. The overall aura of the coffeehouse was local and simple. No merchandise, no gimmicks, just great coffee in a cozy atmosphere.

The Blue Butterfly Coffee Co is a small coffeehouse that is popular with locals and tourists alike. Its location on Main Street makes it perfect to grab a coffee and have a walk to the surrounding businesses, have a seat on the front or back patios and watch planes takeoff from the airport, or enjoy the coffee in one of the six dining tables inside. Plenty of two hour street parking is available. Blue Butterfly is located at 351 Main St. El Segundo, CA 90245.

Bianca is a Florida State University graduate with a strong passion for writing and a love of food. She hopes to be a successful food critic one day.

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