Welcome to Cosmic Cafe
**About Cosmic Cafe**
Nestled in the breathtaking Mt. Wilson Skyline Park Picnic Site, Cosmic Cafe invites visitors to enjoy delightful sustenance amid stunning views of nature. This cozy retreat offers a selection of comforting fare, including homemade chili, indulgent banana splits, hot chocolate, and simple sandwiches. Although the ambiance leans toward practicality with its picnic benches and minimalist decor, patrons appreciate the friendly service and cleanliness of the establishment. Ideal for a post-hike snack or a quick coffee break, Cosmic Cafe stands out as a convenient pit stop, enhancing your outdoor adventure with good food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cosmic Cafe: Reviews & Ratings
Got to taste the chili and the banana split. Both were surprisingly good! Beautiful views as well. Only complaint is I wish the establishment has more “cosmic” themed decor. Can just have the ceiling painted with astronomy stuff. It’s a bit bland looking place with just picnic benches. Other than that it’s a great little run of the mill cafe. I parked there didn’t hike, however there are many little trails around the area.
Amazing location for the cafe We enjoyed a hot cup of coffee and the view .
Cosmic Cafe is open for business! You don't come up here for the food, but if you come up here for a small spontaneous get away at least there IS food. They have cold and drinks , ice cream , baked goods (pie!), Simple sandwiches like PB&J, ham, turkey and veggie , hot dogs, fruit , and even greens salad. So, you'll be able to have something to hold you over for the next leg of the adventure. The staff here is very nice. The area is generally clean. The folks up here are all nice, something about the mountain air . Ample parking below or at the lot above. There's plenty of picnic tables in the immediate area outside the cafe if you decide to bring your own goodies. The restroom was very clean as well. At the rear of the cafe is the meeting spot for tours and the hours are posted. Don't forget to pick up a daily parking pass at the bottom of HWY 2 at the gas station. Though I didn't see a ranger for the time I was there, the lot DOES have posted signs "All parked vehicles must display parking permit." Do it at your own risk, but it brings piece of mind that you don't have to come back to your car and find a 50 parking ticket. It's a National Forest, chip in to keep it accessible and maintained for all! Cheers, enjoy your time at the mountain!
The reason I gave this cafe 5 star is mainly the location. You don’t go there for the cafe and their food, but if you are up there and wanna grab something it’s great. There are no other store there and sometimes they stop over an hour for hunch break and usually they run out of food. So it’s good to have something with you if you are going there for a hike. Restroom water: Drinking water fountain and restroom available. Parking: There are few parking lot available, so finding parking spot should not be a concern. Road/Drive: Nice drive with recently renewed asphalt. Although you should be careful with the stones falling/fell in the road. View: Fantastic view, I would recommend to have some portable chairs with you to chill and enjoy that amazing view. ***It’s a bear area, please watch out kids and keep them close. Enjoy!
Today we hiked to Mt Wilson, it rained, showed, we were cold and wet by the time we got to the peak, we had the best hot chocolate, coffee here. And the best part the staff let all the hikers stay warm inside the cafe. Thank you for your great service
After a long and challenging hike up the Mt. Wilson Trail, we were excited to visit the Cosmic Cafe at the summit. It's a charming spot, perfect for taking a break and refueling after the trek. The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere with a beautiful view, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. However, we were a bit disappointed on our visit as they didn't have the banana split ice cream that day, which we were really looking forward to. Despite that, the other menu items were satisfying and provided a much-needed energy boost. The Cosmic Cafe is a convenient and pleasant spot for hikers, but be sure to have a backup plan for your snack choices just in case your favorite treat isn't available. Overall, it's a nice place to unwind and take in the stunning views after reaching the top of Mt. Wilson.
We came for the telescopes, hike and the view- not the food. Cosmic cafe sells passes for the 1:00 tour on Saturdays. You can also just hike the area and go view the telescope on your own. The food is pricey, but consider it a donation to keep this historic place going. There are bathrooms, a water bottle refill station and clearly marked paths. The parking is pretty good with two possible parking areas. We had a delicious cookie, a wrap and a hot dog. The best part is the view. You feel like you’re eating in the clouds. It does get very cold so pack a sweater and grab a hot beverage. Remember to throw away all your food because this is an active bear area.
The food is okay but the views are incredible. We are thankful to have this Cafe at the top of Mount Wilson! If you hike up it's always nice to get a refreshment or a chili dog with cheese and onions.
Location
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Mt. Wilson Skyline Park Picnic Site, LA CANADA FLT, CA 91011, United States Hotline: +1 626-214-8030
Welcome to Cosmic Cafe, your picturesque pit stop nestled in the heart of Mt. Wilson Skyline Park, located in the scenic La Cañada Flintridge, CA. This charming cafe might not be a culinary destination in the traditional sense, but its offerings are perfectly suited for those soaring the peaks of adventure or simply seeking a cozy meal surrounded by stunning vistas.
From the moment you arrive, the gorgeous views capture your attention, making every bite an experience to savor. Patrons rave about their chili and banana split, which shine not just for their taste but as comfort food for the outdoorsy spirit. In the words of customer Stella Luna, both dishes are "surprisingly good," and you cannot help but agree. The cafe stands out for its simple selections—hot drinks, baked goods like pie, and classic sandwiches that are quick and satisfying follow-ups after a long hike.
The cafe's ambiance can be described as rustic with its basic picnic bench aesthetic. While some visitors feel it lacks the “cosmic” theme in decor, this simplicity adds to the charm. After all, the breathtaking landscapes do much of the talking here. As Shahana Khan noted, the location is simply amazing for enjoying a hot cup of coffee while soaking in the views.
For those venturing down the trails, Cosmic Cafe is a convenient respite where you can refuel before continuing your journey. While the food may be basic—think PB&J, hot dogs, and fruit—it’s refreshing and offers sustenance when you need it most. Customer reviews highlight the friendly staff and well-maintained facilities, underscoring that this space is not just about quick bites, but also about community. As Dan Valencia aptly puts it, “you don't come up here for the food,” but there’s enough to indulge in to keep your spirits high.
Moreover, if you plan to spend a day here, don’t forget the tip shared by ali: the cafe operates on a variable schedule, so having a few snacks in tow can enhance your experience. The restrooms are clean, and ample parking options are available to make your trip as smooth as possible. Just be sure to snag a daily parking pass to avoid fines.
As you enjoy your visit, take a moment to breathe in the mountain air and appreciate the vibrant surroundings of Cosmic Cafe. Whether you’re adventurously hiking up to the peak or lounging with a hot chocolate after a chilly trek, this cafe serves as the perfect haven to recharge and reflect.
So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and head up the mountain to experience the simple, yet fulfilling offerings that await you at Cosmic Cafe. It's more than just a cafe; it's a warming embrace for all who traverse these beautiful trails.