Best of 24 coffee shops in San Diego
San Diego is known for its vibrant coffee shop scene, which offers a wide variety of options for coffee lovers. From small, independent roasters to popular chains, coffee shops in San Diego serve up delicious drinks and tasty treats in unique and inviting atmospheres. Whether you're looking for a place to work, socialize, or simply enjoy a great cup of coffee, you'll find it at one of the many coffee shops in San Diego.
- 1. Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest
- 2. Communal Coffee
- 3. Cafe Moto
- 4. Portal Coffee
- 5. Lestat's on Park
- 6. Flor and Seed Coffee Roasters
- 7. Bay Park Coffee
- 8. Copa Vida
- 9. S3 Coffee Bar
- 10. Moniker Coffee Co.
- 11. Better Buzz Coffee Fashion Valley
- 12. Hawthorn Coffee
- 13. Influx Cafe
- 14. Adore Coffee House
- 15. Achilles Coffee Roasters @ The Rey
- 16. Fisher's
- 17. Coffeentalk
- 18. Genteel Coffee Co.
- 19. Scrimshaw Coffee
- 20. Peet's Coffee
- 21. Rikka Fika
- 22. Humble Bean Cafe
- 23. Margaritaville Coffee Shop
- 24. WFM Coffee & Juice Bar
1. Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest
Unique 'order anywhere' system, community focus

The staff at the establishment are consistently described as friendly, eager to help, and possessing a positive attitude towards customers. Their welcoming demeanor contributes to an enjoyable atmosphere for visitors.
In terms of the coffee, opinions are mixed. While some guests have raved about the flavor, others have found it to be lacking. Those who enjoy the coffee often recommend ordering a plain latte, or exercising caution with the amount of sugar added.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Lunch
- Vegetarian Options
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2. Communal Coffee
Community-focused atmosphere with local art displays

If you're in search of unique flavored coffee, consider trying the lavender honey latte and rose vanilla latte. Both are delicious and offer a distinct taste compared to traditional coffee options. Pair your drink of choice with their avocado toast topped with tomatoes or the lavender honey toast, which is especially intriguing. The coffee itself was impressive, with the black sesame coffee being a notable choice.
Besides the tasty food and drinks, there is also a convenient parking lot available for customers. Additionally, the location of this establishment is quite favorable as it's situated near other popular food places, such as LA Purchase. The beautiful decor adds to the enjoyable atmosphere, making it a great spot for a coffee break or a meal with friends.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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3. Cafe Moto
Features a roastery and a vintage motorcycle museum

Cafe Moto is a popular coffee shop known for its rich and high-quality coffee with a strong and authentic taste. They do not use heavy milk or sugar in their drinks, which sets them apart from other coffee shops. In addition to their coffee, Cafe Moto offers a selection of baked goods, including some vegan and dairy-free options. Despite experiencing some service issues, Cafe Moto is highly recommended and often compared favorably to other coffee shops in the area.
The drive-thru experience at Cafe Moto is particularly noteworthy. Customers can expect a personal touch, as all items are delivered by hand. The menu is easy to read, and the apparel and merchandise on offer are adorable and cute. These small details make the overall experience at Cafe Moto enjoyable and memorable.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Portal Coffee
Sustainable sourcing, community events, rotating guest roasters

This location offers a pleasant experience with self-serve ordering and ample indoor and outdoor seating. The coffee served here is of good quality, although it is not cheap. The service received was commendable. If given the opportunity, the individual would return for more, but is also interested in exploring other options.
In addition, if one chooses to take their drink to go, there is a scenic walk available along the waterfront park towards the navy ship museum.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
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5. Lestat's on Park
Artisanal coffee roasted in-house, cozy atmosphere

Lestat's, a coffee shop located in Normal Heights, takes inspiration from Anne Rice's vampire character, Lestat. This Gothic-themed establishment offers a relaxed atmosphere and features outdoor seating on the sidewalk. Visitors can indulge in a variety of gourmet coffee and tea. Whether you're looking for a place to catch up with friends, a quiet spot to study, or simply a late-night coffee destination, Lestat's on Park is an excellent choice.
At Lestat's, customers can appreciate top-notch gourmet coffee and tea in a setting that reflects the allure of the Gothic genre. Its atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for various activities, from socializing with friends to studying, or even satisfying that midnight caffeine craving. The coffee shop's charm and offerings make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists in Normal Heights.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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6. Flor and Seed Coffee Roasters
Uses organic and fair-trade beans, Artisanal approach

Flor & Seed Coffee Roasters in Old Town is a must-visit for coffee lovers. Known for their exceptional coffee and friendly staff, this coffee shop is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out. They specialize in coffees from Mexico and work directly with local farmers to ensure the best bean quality.
In addition to their excellent coffee, Flor & Seed also offers a selection of local pastries. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, providing a welcome respite from the Old Town crowds. It's rare to find a coffee shop that is so good that you would return, but that was the case for many visitors to Flor & Seed. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this coffee shop is definitely worth checking out for a delicious cup of coffee and a relaxing break.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Breakfast
7. Bay Park Coffee
Rotating selection of single-origin beans, Roasts coffee in-house

The coffee shop in question is both friendly and efficient, providing quick service that is ideal for those looking to start their day off strong. The establishment is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along. In addition to the excellent service, the ambiance of the coffee shop is perfect for early morning coffee and getting caught up on administrative tasks on the computer.
This dog-friendly coffee shop is known for its fast service and welcoming atmosphere. It is a great place to start the day with a coffee and some computer work. The ambiance is quiet and peaceful, making it easy to focus and be productive. Overall, this coffee shop is a perfect spot for those looking for a quick and efficient dining experience that is also welcoming to dogs.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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8. Copa Vida
Sustainably sourced coffee, in-house roasted beans

Copa Vida is a popular spot for coffee and breakfast, known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. Two of the most popular breakfast items are the breakfast burrito and avocado toast. The café features a modern and clean interior with a small patio for outdoor seating, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee.
Copa Vida offers a wide selection of coffee and tea, making it a go-to destination for coffee lovers. The high-quality drinks and delicious food make it a highly recommended spot. Whether you're looking for a place to work or study, or a place to catch up with friends, Copa Vida is an excellent choice. The café's clean and modern interior, combined with its friendly service, make it a standout destination.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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9. S3 Coffee Bar
Offers a loyalty program for regular customers

Get ready to savor delicious and refreshing handcrafted drinks at this establishment. The menu boasts a variety of options, so there's something for everyone. You can choose from different milk alternatives and even enjoy seasonal drinks.
The staff here are friendly and dedicated to providing high-quality, fast service. They are super nice and contribute to a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance. Moreover, the venue is very Instagrammable, making it the perfect spot to snap some photos and share them with your followers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
10. Moniker Coffee Co.
Known for their nitro cold brew and single-origin pour-overs

Coffee is truly delightful, and the experience is enhanced by the friendly and kind baristas who serve it. The food offered is not only delicious but also varied, with options suiting different tastes and dietary preferences. The Gingerbread Maple latte with almond milk is a current favorite, as well as the Breakfast Bae sandwich or the apple pie chia pudding.
Moniker Coffee Co., located inside the Moniker General building at Liberty Station, boasts a stylish and artisanal decor that complements its surroundings. The cafe features large windows that allow natural light to pour in, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their coffee and meals.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
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11. Better Buzz Coffee Fashion Valley
Open late, cozy atmosphere, vegan-friendly

Some guests have reported long wait times for drinks at the establishment. This has led to a dissatisfied experience for some customers who had to wait an extended period to be served. On a positive note, several guests have complemented the staff for being friendly and nice during their visit.
However, there is a disparity in guest experiences when it comes to the level of service provided by the staff. While some guests have reported positive interactions with the staff, others have noted a lack of urgency or poor customer service. This inconsistency in service may contribute to the dissatisfaction some guests have experienced due to the long wait times for drinks. It is essential for the establishment to address these issues to ensure that all guests have a positive experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Hawthorn Coffee
Rotating single-origin coffees, unique latte art, and vegan options

San Diego is known for its great food scene, and the bagels at this establishment are some of the best in the city. The coffee menu offers a variety of options, including syrups and drinks, and the coffee itself is also delicious. In addition to the great food and drink, the staff at this establishment are incredibly friendly and make customers feel welcome.
One of the standout menu items is the iced vanilla latte, which is reportedly the best one that the reviewer has ever had. The staff, who are referred to as "guys," are particularly friendly and contribute to the overall positive atmosphere of the establishment. Overall, the combination of great food, drinks, and staff make this a must-visit spot in San Diego.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
- Lunch
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13. Influx Cafe
Sustainable and fair trade coffee, unique art decor.

Coffee lovers rejoice! This coffee shop offers tasty and delicious coffee that is enjoyed by customers. The pastries are also highly recommended for those looking for a sweet treat. For those with dietary restrictions, there is a good selection of vegan options available.
One standout menu item is the everything bagel with cream cheese. It's a must-try for anyone visiting this coffee shop. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a great cup of joe, this coffee shop is a solid choice with delicious offerings and options for various dietary preferences.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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14. Adore Coffee House
Sustainable sourcing of coffee beans, House-made syrups and milks

The peanut butter banana dish at the coffee shop inside Solara Lofts, which is part of the kids' menu, is a popular choice among customers. The moving coordinator for Solara Lofts appreciates the presence of this coffee shop as it provides a better alternative to constantly going to 711.
The coffee shop offers a wide variety of dishes and drinks that are both aesthetically pleasing and full of flavor. One of their signature drinks, the Tiramisu Latte, has had a significant impact on the author's life, dividing it into before and after trying it. It is highly recommended to everyone.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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15. Achilles Coffee Roasters @ The Rey
Located in a historic building with a unique, artistic interior.

We had a delightful breakfast experience at this establishment. The menu offered a nice variety of options, and we chose the pretzel bun egg sandwich, which turned out to be an excellent selection. We were pleased with the cozy and charming courtyard setting where we enjoyed our meal.
As for the coffee, we were highly impressed with their cold brew offerings. We highly recommend trying the Dealers Choice Cold Brew or the classic no milk no sugar Cold Brew. In our opinion, they serve some of the best cold brew coffee in San Diego.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
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16. Fisher's
Housed in a historic building with unique decor.

Fisher's restaurant is situated on the western edge of Little Italy, offering a spacious indoor dining area and a charming outdoor patio. The Happy Hour from 4-6 PM features an extensive food menu, with raw oysters at just $1 each, known for their freshness and delicious taste. Other standout dishes include clam chowder, fish and chips, shrimp tacos, Caesar salad, and Peruvian ceviche, all offered as happy hour specials. In addition to the discounted drafts, wines, and cocktails, Fisher's provides a dog-friendly environment, with staff offering water for furry friends.
At Fisher's, customers can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and a menu focused on fresh seafood, such as oysters, shrimp tacos, and flavorful fish dishes like salmon and sea bass. Although occasional staffing issues may arise, the attentive servers are dedicated to ensuring a pleasant dining experience. With an emphasis on bold flavors and a diverse cocktail menu, Fisher's is an excellent choice for sharing plates and enjoying a meal, whether indoors or on the patio, making it a place to visit again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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17. Coffeentalk
Eco-friendly to-go containers, cozy atmosphere, sidewalk seating

Coffeentalk, a coffee shop in San Diego, provides a cozy atmosphere and enjoyable dining experience for its customers. While the service can be slow at times, it is generally good and the staff is friendly and welcoming. The coffee offerings at Coffeentalk are highly praised, with popular choices being the iced white mocha and the iced pistachio honey latte.
I recently stopped by Coffeentalk for a quick break between appointments and ordered the Honey Pistachio Latte. The sweetness of the honey was well-balanced and not overpowering, and the pistachio flavor was distinct and complemented the rich espresso taste. The friendly and welcoming service of the staff made me feel right at home.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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18. Genteel Coffee Co.
Cozy atmosphere, Sustainable coffee practices

I discovered a coffee house during my stay in San Diego, just two blocks away from my Airbnb. The establishment is spacious and unassuming, yet tastefully decorated with plants, creating a relaxing atmosphere. In addition to serving coffee, they also sell various items, making for an interesting and unique shopping experience within the large warehouse-like space. While they don't offer a wide selection of food, the coffee is exceptional and the baristas are friendly and authentic, providing a refreshing alternative to franchise coffee houses. With large tables available, it's the perfect place to work or study.
During my exploration of downtown San Diego, I stumbled upon a hidden gem of a coffee house. The coffee is freshly pressed and has a unique and delicious taste, providing a welcome alternative to big-name coffee chains. The establishment offers a new adventure for coffee lovers and serves as a reminder of the rich and diverse coffee culture that exists beyond major franchises. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this coffee house is certainly worth a visit for a fresh and flavorful cup of coffee.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
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19. Scrimshaw Coffee
Cozy atmosphere, Local art displays

Scrimshaw Coffee is a restaurant that is known for its delicious and high-quality coffee. The coffee offered at this establishment is praised for its great flavor, which keeps customers coming back for more. In addition to the tasty coffee, Scrimshaw Coffee also has a cool and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.
The staff at Scrimshaw Coffee are friendly and helpful, often recommending unique and interesting drinks to their customers. One such drink is a cold coffee with a twist of rosemary and orange, which has become a customer favorite. The restaurant also offers comfortable seating, making it an ideal spot for customers to sit, relax, and enjoy their coffee. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a comfortable place to hang out, Scrimshaw Coffee is the perfect destination.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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20. Peet's Coffee
Hand-roasted specialty coffees, sustainable sourcing
Peet's Coffee has a great location with a generously sized parking lot offering customers 60 minutes of free parking. The interior and patio seating provide a welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere. When it comes to their coffee, Peet's is known for consistently delivering a high-quality product. The coffee is brewed strong, with a dark and rich flavor and an abundance of oils that give it the appearance of having a pat of butter dropped in.
Moving on to the food, Peet's has a variety of options available, such as pastries, sandwiches, and oatmeal. The pastries are fresh and tasty, while the sandwiches make for a satisfying meal. The oatmeal is also a popular choice, providing a healthy and filling option for those on the go. Overall, Peet's Coffee offers a great selection of food and drinks in a welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Lunch
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21. Rikka Fika

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
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22. Humble Bean Cafe
Local roaster, organic and fair-trade beans, latte art

Humble Bean is a quaint, unassuming coffee shop in San Diego, reminiscent of a 90's college café. Despite its low-key appearance, the shop offers high-quality coffee and a cozy atmosphere that makes it an ideal local spot for work or relaxation. The menu is limited, but the Toffee Nut and Vanilla Lattes are standouts, made with quality coffee and delicious flavors.
On my second visit to Humble Bean, I was impressed by the quick service and the variety of items on the menu, including sandwiches and baked goods. I tried the Honey Cinnamon Latte, which received rave reviews, and I was not disappointed. The right amount of sweetness and cinnamon made for a delightful drink. The Mocha Pecan Scone, while not dry, had a faint flavor, but the café's offerings are worth trying overall. I would love to return and sample more of their menu items.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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23. Margaritaville Coffee Shop

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
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24. WFM Coffee & Juice Bar
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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