Aqua fresca, a luscious boba, juice featuring locally grown fruit, a complex cup of coffee with plenty of kick: The beverages we enjoy in Southern California run the glug-worthy gamut, with hot drinks, cool concoctions, and all sorts of splendid sips drawing us back to the stands, cafes, and eateries we adore.
But our devotion to the area’s well-known sodas and tantalizing teas is matched by our affection for the inspiring people that oversee the counters, stands, shops, and hangouts we frequent.
The Natural History Museum will line up the mugs, flutes, and goblets over several months in 2026 via an online series, one that celebrates some of the star drinks of our libation-loving region.
L.A. Culture in a Cup, the newest offering of the “Being L.A.” program, will pay tasty homage to “… the diverse cultures and people of Los Angeles by raising a glass to the city’s rich beverage traditions.”
The months-spanning look at dazzling local drinks isn’t just about what’s in the cup; the museum will also consider “the unique vessels that hold them.”
“Brewing Resistance & Resilience,” a piece featuring South L.A Cafe, is up first, with Canter’s Deli, Yala Coffee, and Sip & Sonder to still to come, along with several other fantastic eateries, coffeehouses, and tea shops.
The twice-a-month digital series “… showcases how all of these individuals, creators and businesses go beyond the norm to build community, celebrate resilience, and embrace L.A. in unique ways.”
Will your favorite beverage, barista, drink destination, or shop owner be in the sip-worthy spotlight? Follow along at NHM online and discover the libations you obsess over, as well as a few fabulous, new-to-you quenchers.