Coffee shop blends Latin American and SoCal vibes with a culturally rich atmosphere. Spacious, sunlit back patio offers a peaceful spot with a community library and dog-friendly amenities. Space suits studying or relaxing, drawing a neighborhood crowd seeking a calm, vibrant environment.
Mexican-inspired coffee flavors and roasted own coffee stand out here. The cafe offers vegan pastries and pan dulce, making it a cozy spot to work or meet up.
Mazapan and horchata stand out as unique ice cream flavors here. The ice cream offers a delicious variety to enjoy on site or take away.
"I loved the sweet, festive coffee flavors here."
"Their mazapán latte was smooth with just the right touch of sweetness."
"The back patio is a relaxing spot for ice cream."
Good to know
Parking can be tricky if it’s busy; street parking is available.
The cafe is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.
The patio is a nice place to work or relax.
Small gelato shop with retro feel and outdoor streetside seating offers a timeless, classic atmosphere. Customers enjoy a welcoming vibe with a mix of indoor and upstairs seating overlooking nearby views. The space supports local artists and maintains an old school charm despite some wear.
Coffee comes from Cafe Calabria and pairs well with great gelato. The cafe has a cozy, retro feel and sits by a strip of restaurants near Mission Hills.
Authentic gelato stands out here with a good selection of flavors including espresso gelato. The gelato is crafted with care and consistently delicious.
Good to know
Parking is street parking and can be difficult, especially during peak hours.
You can get two flavors in a small cup for about $5.
Prices for gelato and desserts have increased recently.
Small cafe with cozy charm and many seating options offers a wide variety of Southeast Asian desserts and drinks. Atmosphere feels inviting with a focus on ube-flavored specialties like cheesecake, flan cupcake, and halo halo. Prices are generally low, though some drinks and toppings lean higher.
Good ambience sets the tone with many places to sit. The menu features SEA desserts like ube ice cream and mochi churros, plus drinks such as strawberry calamansi and Mermaid tea. Boba is soft and chewy but unsweetened, and prices stay relatively low though toppings can be a bit pricey.
Ube ice cream stands out with a frosted flake topping adding crunch. Halo Halo features jelly cubes, jack rabbit, and ube ice cream for a layered texture and flavor.
Good to know
Prices for drinks and desserts are relatively low compared to other cafes.
The cafe offers a variety of refreshing drinks and desserts perfect for summer.
Toppings can be a bit pricey, so consider your choices carefully.
Coffee shop offers local artwork and a cozy, lively atmosphere with dog-friendly amenities. Space is small but comfortable, with a mix of energetic baristas and a relaxed vibe. Noise comes mainly from drink preparation, creating a bustling yet welcoming environment.
Offers great cappuccinos with a lack of pretentiousness that sets it apart from other coffee shops. Maintains a steady stream of regulars creating a true neighborhood vibe.
They serve Gelato with a standout Mexican chocolate flavor. The ice cream is made by friendly ladies who add a personal touch.
Good to know
Parking can be tricky if the lot is full.
The cafe is located in a small plaza with available parking in the lot and on the street.
Prices at Clairemont Coffee are cheaper than Starbucks.
Small coffee shop with cozy seating and artistic photography on the walls creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Dog-friendly space attracts locals who enjoy bold coffee flavors and fresh bakery items. Outdoor seating adds to the neighborhood cafe vibe.
Small neighborhood cafe vibe creates a cozy atmosphere. The spot offers a cute little setting with excellent coffee in a compact space.
Gelato stands out with a sweet but delicious flavor. Scoops come small and cost around $12.
Good to know
Coffee with a Coach happens every Thursday morning.
Brew Wave Coffee is pet friendly and welcomes dogs.
Prices for coffee start at $3.95 for a small espresso.
Small cafe offers matcha-focused menu with self-order kiosks and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, attracting young people and families who enjoy relaxing over soft serve and drinks. Space fills up during busy times but maintains a calm vibe suitable for casual breaks.
Ceremonial grade Matcha stands out with a rich, earthy, balanced flavor and no premixed sweetener unless requested. Unique Japanese treats like pumpkin spice Dango and green tea soft serve in warm melon pan complement the offerings.
Soft serve stands out with its matcha flavor that tastes authentic and refreshing. Unique options like ube swirl and hojicha floats add variety alongside traditional Japanese treats.
Good to know
Ordering is done at a tablet kiosk, and you wait for your number to be called.
The cafe does not accept cash; only card payments are allowed.
Expect long wait times, especially on weekends when the cafe gets very busy.
Italian-style cafe features sleek design and cozy seating both indoors and outdoors. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a friendly, positive vibe. Outdoor seating offers a charming spot to enjoy coffee or gelato while watching downtown activity.
Italian coffee spot stays open late, offering convenience beyond usual hours. Espresso quality stands out, with a better food selection than nearby cafes and restaurants.
Gelato stands out with flavors like vanilla, chocolate with almond cookies, and lemon. Prices stay reasonable, and pairing gelato with espresso is common.
Good to know
Paninis are half price on Wednesdays.
Parking is available on the street and can be either free or paid.
The cafe opens at night, which is convenient for evening visits.
Cafe offers busy and loud atmosphere with an interesting decor and pleasant vibe. The air carries the scent of fresh waffles and crepes, creating a cool spot to sit and chat. Free wifi and low waste practices add to the experience.
Offers great coffees, including a standout caramel latte, alongside a variety of sweet and savory crepes and gelato. The cafe has a cute vibe with pleasant decorations and free wifi.
Black sesame and pistachio stand out as distinctive gelato flavors. The ice cream includes real matcha green tea and cookies and cream options, all tasting better than the cafe's simple look suggests.
Good to know
Parking in the area can be tight depending on the time of day.
Prices are steep, with all crepes costing $10 and up.
There are no gluten-free options available.
Small cafe with colorful outdoor seating offers spectacular skyline and sea views. Atmosphere blends cozy charm with a mix of upscale marina visitors and casual beachgoers. Limited indoor space focuses energy on relaxed outdoor enjoyment.
Coffee quality stands out, matching well-known West Coast shops. A gelato selection adds a unique twist to the usual coffee shop offerings.
Gelato offers rich flavors and a creamy texture with a variety of sorbet and gelato options. Portions are generous and prices reasonable, with choices like mudpie gelato and waffle cones available.
Good to know
Portside Coffee and Gelato opens at 6am.
The small gelato size costs $5, the medium $6, and the large $7.
Seating is available outside the shop.
Bakery with Parisian-inspired decor and both indoor and outdoor seating offers a cozy, lively atmosphere with French music playing. The space feels clean and inviting, creating a peaceful yet vibrant vibe. Accessibility features include a ramp with extended bar handles.
Parisian vibe shapes the cafe with authentic pastries and friendly staff who add charm with a French accent. The setup and service create a cozy, organized space that feels like a slice of Paris.
Gelato stands out with hazelnut and mango passion fruit flavors offering balanced taste and gooey texture. The French pudding with ice cream pairs well as a dessert option.
Good to know
Parking can be difficult to find nearby.
Expect to pay around $11 for a pastry.
The kitchen closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Low-frills dessert shop with quiet, cozy vibe and jazzy music creates a calm atmosphere. Tables with outlets at nearly every seat attract many students studying. Desserts appear visually stunning and come in cute glass cups, enhancing the aesthetic experience.
Tables include chargers and outlets, a rare find in coffee shops. The spot has a jazzy cafe vibe and stays open late.
Cotton candy ice cream burrito stands out with its unique combo and sweet flavor. Strawberry ice cream tastes decent, while taro shaved ice includes two scoops but lacks fresh taro chunks and has syrup on ice, giving less texture variety.
Good to know
The café closes earlier than advertised, so check hours before visiting.
Expect to pay 50 cents for a cup of ice upon request.
Plant-based milks are available for drinks.
Cozy cafe with indoor and outdoor seating offers a wide variety of chocolate-based treats including smooth gelato and savory crepes. Atmosphere ranges from lively and fun to occasionally affected by noise and outdoor activity. Spacious interior features plenty of tables but some furniture shows wear.
Authentic Italian gelato stands out here, offering a sweet, chocolatey treat that feels genuine. The cafe has a warm vibe and serves as a great quick stop for desserts downtown.
Gelato stands out with its Italian approved quality and wide variety of chocolate flavors. The ice cream is smooth and rich, offering decadent options like chocolate orange and mint chocolate.
Good to know
The happy hour special, $5 beer and $6 wine, goes until 10pm.
The restroom is not available for customers who haven't made a purchase.
They add a 50-cent fee to use a credit card.
Coffee shop offers phenomenal waterfront views with seating on an upper deck overlooking the marina. Atmosphere stays chill and breezy, capturing a California coastal vibe with occasional loud music. Regulars come for delicious coffee and homemade syrups, often waiting in line due to popularity.
Lines move quickly with a shorter wait than other spots nearby. The cafe feels cozy and quiet, with a cute vibe by the marina.
Scooped ice cream and gelato come with homemade cones. Options include sorbet alongside baked goods and drinks.
Good to know
The coffee shop opens at 8 am daily.
There is always a line and a wait, especially during peak hours.
The restaurant does not take reservations.
Spacious dessert shop with mango tree seating and modern cute decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Free WiFi and charging outlets at most tables support a chill vibe for work or socializing. Noise levels rise when busy, but seating remains ample and inviting.
Huge portions and creative options stand out here. The cafe has a cute vibe with a mango tree centerpiece and offers great service.
Mango flavors stand out with mango ice cream, Mango Sundae with butterfly ice cream, and mango pudding. Unique Asian-inspired options include shaved ice, smoothies, and a mango sago featuring coconut milk and salty jelly.
Good to know
The last order on weekdays is at 9:30 PM.
MNGO cafe does not accept any cash.
The cafe gets extremely crowded on weekend nights after dinner.
Japanese-style bakery offers bright, airy space with indoor and outdoor seating and archway shelving adding architectural depth. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and inviting to loud and lively, supporting socializing and casual dining. Hidden speakeasy and sushi bar add unique features beyond typical bakery settings.
A quaint cafe with a wide selection of Japanese lunch and dinner plates and warm pastries. Offers cafe moto coffee and a cherry-flavored Sakura tea in a stylish atmosphere.
Soft serve features Hokkaido milk with a rich, creamy flavor that matches what you'd find in Japan. Chocolate soft serve is also rich and creamy, while the ice cream overall feels refreshing and different.
Good to know
Their baked goods sell out before 2pm, so it's best to go early for the most options.
The Naruto pastries sell out by 12 noon and are not made again after selling out.
ASA Bakery is cashless, so customers need to bring their card or use mobile payment methods.
Brightly lit dessert spot offers a casual hangout with board games and claw machines enhancing a cozy vibe. The atmosphere stays fun and inviting, often lively with many students gathering. Plenty of seating and chill music create a relaxed social setting.
Brightly lit and clean, the cafe offers a cozy vibe enhanced by board games and claw machines. It serves drinks like the taro Oreo milkshake and desserts such as brownie pie, making it a popular spot for study and socializing.
Honey Brick Toast pairs well with various ice cream flavors like strawberry and Nutella. The puffle waffle with ube ice cream offers a balanced sweetness. Other options include vanilla crepe cake with green tea ice cream and brownie pie with cookies and cream ice cream.
Good to know
Parking is available on the street if there is nothing available directly in front of their storefront.
The kitchen closes at 10:45 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
Expect parking difficulties in the Convoy food district, especially during peak hours.
Harborfront setting offers panoramic water views and dock seating that create a relaxed atmosphere ideal for starting the day or working. Seating includes various table sizes with umbrellas, enhancing comfort in a cozy, peaceful environment. The spot draws a casual crowd enjoying the unique waterfront vibe.
A casual harborside spot offers a great view and stays open into the early evening. Coffee comes from a local roaster, adding to the relaxed vibe.
The gelato offers affordable prices and a decent portion size. Flavors like cookies and cream and lemon sorbet stand out, though the texture can sometimes lack creaminess and have an odd taste.
Good to know
You need to order your food and drinks at the kiosk in the front.
Parking isn't the best, and I should expect to park far away and pay.
They accept some credit and debit cards as an additional payment method besides cash.
Quaint building with high ceilings and an open layout creates a bright, easy-to-move-through space. Atmosphere feels cozy yet energetic, with a warm vibe that keeps people alert and ready to work. Limited seating and a steady flow of people give the place a strong pulse without feeling crowded.
Located in a lively neighborhood with places to eat and shop, the cafe lacks a posh ambiance and does not offer a relaxing, modern vibe.
Ice creams come in vegan options and various great flavors. Prices run around $8 for two scoops, similar to gelato shops, and the shop works best during low-traffic times for takeout.
Good to know
Seating is limited, especially on weekends when it gets busy.
They are open late, making it a good evening stop.
Prices for ice cream are steep at $8 for two scoops.
Small interior offers a clean and calm atmosphere with a cute design. The cafe draws a steady flow of people looking for a quiet spot to relax. Thick, creamy soft serve with unique toppings stands out as a signature feature.
Small indoor space offers a good selection of coffee, Boba, smoothies, teas, and Haikaido soft serve ice cream. The cafe is more known for its soft serve, though the overall vibe feels limited.
Soft serve ice cream is thick and creamy with a toasted marshmallow flavor standing out. Sweet cream pairs well but extra toppings can distract from the core flavors.
Good to know
Street parking is the only option available near the cafe.
The cafe is located on University Avenue, making it easy to find.
It's within walking distance of popular local attractions.