Rikka Fika is one of my favorites, and the espresso with cream on top is a big reason why. That little cup is the drink I get excited about here. We had iced coffee and matcha on the table too, but the espresso cream top is the one getting my L stamp.
I loved the coffee. I just kept leaving its little glass of soda water untouched.
I didn’t know whether I was supposed to mix it in, drink it first or save it for afterward. So I skipped it. If you’ve stared at that little glass and wondered the same thing, we now have an answer below.
A coffee break with a passport.
The name brings two ideas together: Rikka is the first day of summer in Japanese, and fika is the Swedish ritual of taking a coffee break. The café’s light wood and soft sunlight make that pairing easy to picture.
There is a longer story behind this East Village space. Founders Michelle Jow and Scott Chen came from engineering and experience design, and Rikka Fika built a following through coffee and bakery pop-ups before landing here in 2023. The café also curates coffee from roasters around the world, so there is more behind the counter than a single house blend.
Japanese inspiration. A Swedish pause. San Diego home.Our coffee table.
Espresso with cream top
The little cup I especially love here, served with sparkling water on the side. A Lana favorite.
Iced coffee
Our iced coffee alongside the cream top espresso and matcha.
Iced matcha
The green drink on our table, with another matcha pour captured at the counter.
So, what do I do with the soda water?
Traditionally, sparkling water served beside espresso is a palate cleanser. Sip it separately before the coffee to clear lingering flavors, or between sips for a reset. You don’t need to pour it into your espresso.
That finally explains the little glass I’ve been ignoring. Next time I can enjoy the whole ritual instead of wondering what part I missed.
Before your coffee break.
Find the East Village café
The current café is at 810 13th Street. Older coverage mentions pop-ups and a planned Bird Rock shop, so use the East Village address for this visit.
Check the day
The café currently lists Tuesday through Sunday, 8 AM to 3 PM. Check current hours before heading over.
Ask what’s on the bar
Rikka Fika features international roasters. If you’re curious about the coffee behind your cup, ask which beans they’re serving that day.