A Definite Buzz

The finicky caffeine orders you’ll hear may be totally L.A.--coffee of the day, three-quarters decaf; cafe mocha, double shot of espresso, hold the whipped cream--but stepping into the colorful Studio City coffeehouse Lulu’s Beehive makes you think you’ve exited Los Angeles for some small town where people are actually . . . nice.

“Hi!” beams the energetic manager, Virginia Sibley, whose style runs more to hugs than handshakes. Before you can say much back, she’s ushered you to a red-and-black checkered tabletop and launched into the history of the place. (Luana “Lulu” Flippins, the original brains and brewer of West Los Angeles’ popular coffeehouse Lulu’s Alibi, co-owns the joint with Fiona Sanderson.)

Then, just like a proud mother, she whips out photos of the cafe’s regulars.

“That’s Al,” she says, pointing to a picture of a smiling coffee drinker. “Oh, and these two met here, and now they’ve been dating eight months! Here’s a guy who comes in every day . . . for salad dressing. He likes ours so much he brings his own lettuce.”

The abstract paintings on the wall? “Those are by Brenda Ferreira--she’s a Capricorn,” offers Sibley, by way of explanation.

Make that a small town where people are nice . . . but definitely eclectic.

Lulu’s is the kind of place where customers come before public relations--a reporter calling to check out the place is hung up on during the late-afternoon rush. The cafe even opens its doors after hours for familiar faces. (Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, formerly of the “Cosby” show, was fed a tuna sandwich--regulars rave about the tuna--when he showed up after shut-down.)

Manager Sibley looks out for her customers and her counter workers. Just as she has set up her guy and gal customers, she also breaks up pickup attempts if she senses that female patrons are being harassed.

Then there’s Jessica Benassi, 25, who started out as a customer, but ended up getting hired when Flippins and Sibley overheard her saying that she was worried about money and considering a job as a telephone psychic. Sibley nods her head approvingly when Brett Wagner, a 31-year-old Northridge actor, notes that he’s been much better off since switching from strong cocktails at a nearby Mexican restaurant to Lulu’s strong coffee.

“It’s a neighborhood joint. People feel emotionally safe,” concludes Sibley, as the night wears on and locals show no signs of leaving. “And the coffee will [give you a] kick!”

BE THERE

Lulu’s Beehive is at 13203 Ventura Blvd., Studio City. Breakfast, lunch and snack dishes are available. Full coffee and dessert menu. Entertainment nightly, no cover. Open 7 a.m. to 2 a.m., seven days a week. (818) 986-2233.