The 30 Best Coffee Shops in San Diego: written by a local

San Diego is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and thriving food and beverage scene. Among the many offerings in the city are a plethora of fantastic coffee shops, each with its unique atmosphere and selection of high-quality coffee drinks. Whether you’re a caffeine addict, a lover of cozy spaces, or simply enjoying trying new things, San Diego’s coffee shops have something for everyone.

There are constantly new San Diego coffee spots popping up around town. Some are great, others not so much but having lived here for 15 years I’ve visited my fair share of them. That’s why I’ve curated this list of 30 classic new and noteworthy coffee shops to visit in San Diego. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best coffee shops in San Diego, highlighting their distinctive features and what sets them apart from the rest.

Rikka Fika Cafe

“To be an Oasis where anyone can easily enjoy a seriously good coffee experience.” And Rikka Fika is an experience in and of itself. If you’re looking for a little slice of Japan in San Diego, then you must visit Rikka Fika located in East Village. Their space is incredibly cozy and is very reminiscent of the famous chain Arabica from Japan. They have a small menu of pastries and a must-try is their black sesame morning bun – it was incredible.

Address: 810 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101

James Coffee

Starting strong with James Coffee. Pun intended, James Coffee is infamous in San Diego and specializes in producing handcrafted artisan coffee in four locations. Their spots are located in Little Italy, North Park, Escondido, and Bankers Hill. Most of the locations don’t offer single-use cups. So you are going to need to either bring your own or purchase a glass container for an additional $2. That’s the only qualm I have with James otherwise this would be my favorite coffee shop in San Diego because the taste is incredible. But hey, they’re saving the planet one cup at a time.

Address: multiple locations around San Diego

Haven by Communal Coffee

Communal is a creative-minded cafe & shop with multiple locations based in Southern California. They recently opened up their newest shop, Haven, and I have to say it’s now one of my favorites. Not only are there tons of seating options, but the breakfast food and coffee were equally amazing. Along with that, their shop portion has unique and fun items that make for perfect gifts or to treat yourself.

Address: 3381 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Hinar Cafe

Hinar Cafe is the most aesthetic coffee shop of them all. Located in the East Village of downtown this shop took the coffee shop game to an entirely different level. Not only that but they serve some of the best desserts I have ever tried. Get the dulce tres leches and thank me later!

Address: 454 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101

Bica in Normal Heights

2023 was a good year for new coffee shops. Bica is a new Portuguese-inspired shop in the quaint neighborhood of Normal Heights. The decor is very minimal but their coffee was delicious. I loved the orange cardamom latte it was incredible. The ricotta toast was also very delicious but I didn’t love the price tag of $14. Which seemed a bit high for what it was. Aside from that, this shop is another great one to add to your list!

Address: 3569 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116

Blue Whale La Jolla

This new shop opened up in the summer of 2023 and is a new favorite in the La Jolla community. With a cozy surfer aesthetic, you will want to spend hours chilling with the company of great friends or working in this space. Try the pastries and breakfast sandwich (which comes with a hashbrown) the sauce was incredible. I felt the portions could be larger for the price but the food was tasty and did fill me up.

Address: 834 Kline St, La Jolla, CA 92037

Izola Bakery

Although Izola isn’t your typical coffee shop, it deserves a spot on this list for one reason. Their incredible croissants. Having lived in San Diego for over 15 years, I can confidently say Izola makes the best croissants in town. While they are a bit on the pricey side, they’re worth every penny. Plus, with their new spacious location in East Village, you can now enjoy a fresh cup of coffee alongside their pastries.

Address: 1429 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Superbloom – Mission Bay

Superbloom at the Mission Bay Club is one of the best outdoor coffee shops on this list. It’s located right on Mission Bay and has tons of outdoor seating, and a tasty menu including seasonal lattes, juices, and salads. Superbloom even has a working vineyard and the tables are set amongst that. You can come back for happy hour as they serve wine and beer during golden hour. It’s a great spot to visit on a beautiful San Diego day or for sunset!

Address: 2688 E Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

Muri Cafe – North Park

This charming new gem, housed in a beautifully restored craftsman-style home, is more than just a coffee shop it’s a tea haven and dessert paradise too. With ample seating for those looking to work and plenty of spots equipped with chargers (because we all know how crucial that is!), it’s designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making it an instant favorite of mine!

Address: 2528 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Craft Cafe by Mingei – Balboa Park

A new cafe located inside Balboa Park? Sign me up! When the Mingei Museum was renovated they added a small cafe that serves dark horse coffee, pastries, smoothies, and salads. Pictured above are the spinach and feta croissant, plain croissant, and overnight oats – all were great. Finally, there are plenty of small tables surrounding the outside of the cafe. Making it the perfect to post up, people-watch, or get some work done. It’s easily become a new favorite of mine.

Address: Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama

Better Buzz – Hillcrest

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters is a San Diego legend and a popular coffee chain. Known for its signature “Best Drink Ever” and a variety of other delicious coffee and espresso drinks, Better Buzz has become a household name for coffee lovers in the area. There are 6 locations scattered about the county and all are known for their insanely good coffee. The constant line out the door is a perfect indicator of that. Also, it’s a great place to work remotely because the aesthetic is so on point and there are tons of options to post up and work. I swear it makes you more creative!

Address: multiple locations check their website for more

The Keep Coffee

The newest kid on the block with the most incredible “viral” cloud coffee. While the menu is simple and there is not much in terms of food (they tend to sell out early on), it’s still a great spot to visit. Their most popular items are Thai Tea, Classic Cloud Coffee, and Matcha Cloud Coffee. On the weekends there could be a line out the door however it goes pretty fast and the cloud coffee is so worth it.

Address: 4913 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111

La Clochette – Mission Valley

La Clochette is another famous croissant space in town and they just opened up a new location in Mission Valley. The space is small but they have a couple of tables inside and out. The croissant is AMAZING and they currently offer a fall menu. The pumpkin spice latte was amazing.

Address: Civita Park, Mission Valley

Mostra Coffee – Bankers Hill

Mostra Coffee has multiple locations in San Diego County and has recently taken San Diego by storm. I have only visited one of the six shops but loved the coffee. The Bankers Hill location is small yet charming and don’t skip out on their signature lattes like the cookie butter. That one is my personal favorite.

Address: 2001 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Grange Garden – Solana Beach

Ever dream of sipping coffee surrounded by bunnies? This charming café in Encinitas offers just that. Delicious coffee and adorable bunnies in one cozy spot. The intimate outdoor space also features a selection of beautiful flowers and unique gifts. For a small fee, you can enjoy 15 minutes in the bunny pen (foot covers and parsley provided), and trust us—it’s worth every second!

Address: 240 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Public Square Coffee House – La Mesa

One of the coziest coffee spots is Public Square Coffee House. Their space is filled with plants, and comfortable chairs, and is located right in the middle of Downtown La Mesa. Their claim to fame is their scones with flavored butter. Just typing this out is making my mouth water. You MUST try them!

Address: 8278 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942

S3 Coffee Bar – Mission Valley

S3 Coffee Bar is a cozy and modern coffee shop located in the heart of San Diego. This family-owned coffee shop is known for its high-quality coffee, friendly staff, and comfortable atmosphere. What makes this coffee shop unique is the atmosphere. It’s 2D inspired which is fun however it is also very warm and inviting.

With plenty of natural light. S3 Coffee Bar also offers a selection of smoothies and sandwiches for those looking for a quick bite. Whether you’re looking to get some work done or catch up with friends, the S3 Coffee Bar is a great spot to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and relax.

Location: 6225 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120

Holsem Coffee – North Park

Super modern, clean design and their coffee is delicious! It’s located in the heart of North Park and is known to be super busy during morning hours. They now have a cute outdoor seating area for prime people-watching on El Cajon Blvd.

Address: 2911 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Communal Coffee – South Park

Communal Coffee is easily the cutest coffee shop truck in San Diego. Who doesn’t love a good coffee truck and boho decor? I was a little taken aback when they said they didn’t have any almond milk and only had oat milk as an alternative milk. Tell me you live in California without telling me you live in California.

Even still, it is one of my favorites in San Diego. Their food selection is small however the ricotta jam toast is to die for. Make sure to order that and check out the cute shop located inside.

Location: 2221 Fern St, San Diego, CA 92104

Garden Coffee Old Town

Garden Coffee is a charming coffee shop located in the historic Old Town area of San Diego. This cozy spot is known for its delicious coffee drinks, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. It is a hidden gem and can be a little difficult to find since it’s set in the back of a shop.

However, the atmosphere and ambiance are the best part of Garden Coffee. It’s set in a courtyard and there are plants everywhere. It is extremely warm and inviting, with comfortable seating and plenty of natural light. They have tons of outlets to choose from when picking a table so it makes for a great working atmosphere as well.

Address: 2611 Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110

Kono’s Coffee

Located on the back deck of my favorite breakfast spot, is a cute little coffee cart called Kono’s. It’s directly across from the beach so I swear that makes the coffee taste better. Finally, their vanilla latte is their claim to fame and if you have time to stop for breakfast, you will not be disappointed! It’s a local jaunt and it’s extremely affordable.

Address: 704 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Communal Coffee North Park

The same owners as the one in South Park (2 miles away) but this one is a little more classic with the same great coffee and cute aesthetic. The flower shop inside the coffee shop adds to the unique vibe of Communal Coffee, with beautiful blooms and plants available for purchase. The shop is also decorated with local artwork, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In addition to their coffee and flowers, Communal Coffee also offers a variety of baked goods and sandwiches for those looking for a quick bite. The outdoor patio is also a great spot to enjoy your drink on a sunny day.

Location: 2335 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Portside Coffee Downtown San Diego

Portside Coffee is a small walk-up window located on Harbor Drive. It’s part of the Portside Pier which houses multiple restaurants and casual eateries right on the water. The views are marvelous and I was surprised at how much I loved this coffee. Hands down it’s a new favorite. Get the vanilla iced latte and thank me later.

Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Little Italy

Known for its ethically sourced coffee, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is another shop with multiple locations. The original was located in Bird Rock (hence the name) but my favorite has to be the Little Italy location. It’s a prime spot for people-watching located directly on the corner of Kettner Blvd. They occasionally have “cupping” demonstrations. A technique they use to evaluate coffees and get to know their flavors and aromas.

Location: 2295 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Moniker Coffee Liberty Station

Moniker General is unlike most other coffee shops. It has coffee, bikes, cocktails, and geometric tiles galore. They have tons of couches and just completed a brand-new outdoor area. It’s the perfect place for studying, catching up with friends, or grabbing a cocktail for happy hour. Finally, there is a cute shop that sells women’s and men’s clothing. It’s one of my favorites on this list that can’t be missed. Finally, make sure to save time to explore Liberty Station while visiting.

Location: 2860 Sims Rd, San Diego, CA 92106

Coffee & Tea Collective North Park

Since 2010 Coffee & Tea Collective has been serving up some amazing coffee. It’s a hidden gem and the coffee is nice and robust. The shop on El Cajon Blvd also doubles as an art gallery. If you’re a die-hard coffee aficionado, you have to check out C&T!

Location: 2911 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104

Lofty Coffee Little Italy

Give me a good pun and I’m all set! Lofty Coffee is a cute indoor/outdoor spot that is a staple in Little Italy. They also have multiple locations scattered about San Diego. The Little Italy location is prime though. It has delicious menu items and is the best for a remote work session. They have a fair amount of outdoor tables and they are always pumping good jams!

Location: 444 W Cedar St, San Diego, CA 92101

Holy Matcha North Park

If you’re not in the mood for coffee, then check out Holy Match for the best matcha in San Diego. Matcha is all the rage these days and Holy Matcha’s pink and green vibes and minimal aesthetic combine for a great place for an afternoon pick-me-up. Not going to lie, I’ve tried Matcha and it is NOT FOR ME. But they do offer a small coffee menu.

Location: 3118 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Holy Matcha East Village

Holy Matcha East Village may have a better decor than the North Park location but it’s the same great matcha. this spot closes early (2 pm) but the vibes are immaculate! Finally, the cold brew coffee was just ok. I would strictly visit for the matcha, don’t expect much from the coffee!

Spill the Beans

Location, location, location! This small coffee shop located in Seaport Village is known for its coffee and great bagels. They tend to sell out of bagels quickly because they are that good. Make sure to visit early if you want their iconic bagel sandwiches. The coffee is delicious as well and it’s situated right in the water so it has amazing views. Finally, it is in a high-tourist area so parking can be difficult and you will have to pay to park in the Seaport Village lot. Or you could visit their more central location that just opened up in Mission Valley.

The Invigatorium

The Invigatorium is easily the most unique coffee shop on this list. Located downtown and owned by Consortium Holdings, the decor of this place is so unique. I mean what other coffee shops do you know of that have dinosaurs and a disco ball? Not only that, but the coffee is very tasty. I tried the brown sugar oat latte recently and it was to die for. Don’t skip out on the breakfast menu!

Location: 631 Ninth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Dark Horse Normal Heights

Last but certainly not least, Dark Horse micro coffee roasters are rounding out the list. It’s my husband’s favorite coffee shop and since he was born and raised here, he knows a thing or two. They have four locations in San Diego but the original Dark Horse coffee roasters are located in Normal Heights. Finally, they sell their roasted coffee beans for you to take home.

Location: 3794 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

So there you have it, you now know “The 30 Best Coffee Shops in San Diego, California”. This was one of my favorite posts to date well because, of coffee. Please drop your favorites in the comments below so I can do some more research. And if you’re looking for more food recommendations don’t miss my San Diego Ultimate Restaurant Guide.

XO,

Courtney

pin this post for later!