Fast Times is Venice’s brand-new café, bookstore, and gallery space rolled into one. Tucked in the back of Buck Mason on Abbot Kinney, it is sneakily located behind the main storefront. The entrance through the iconic clothing store keeps it recessed from the boulevard, which adds to its in-the-know feel. It has the sense of a place that is still somewhat under the radar, even as more Angelenos discover it by the day.
Inside, the space is bright, calm, and intentionally minimal. Bookshelves run along the walls and give the room a lived-in charm. Raw wood furniture and natural textiles keep the ambiance organic and effortless. A concrete coffee bar anchors the center of the space. Nearly everything in view is for sale, from books to furniture to smaller objects displayed throughout the interior.
The café is compact, but it feels airy and open. Tables are arranged close together, creating a communal layout. Laptops are allowed and the space naturally fills with a mix of work and friendly conversations throughout the day. The bookstore and gallery elements work in harmony with the café itself, keeping everything visually connected.
The menu is simple and focused. Coffee and fresh pastries make up most of the offerings. Branded beans are displayed near the counter and the signature roast is described as “diner coffee done right.” A few specialty drinks, including the crowd-favorite Maple Spice Latte, complement the standard coffee menu. In spite of its name, the overall pace is unhurried and laid-back. It feels more like a destination than a place to simply pass through.
Fast Times
1629 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice, CA 90291
Monday-Sunday: 7:00am-5:00pm
