Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Diego

Matcha espresso drinks

Choosing between a bold espresso and a smooth matcha is a dilemma that deserves a simple solution.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
KOS COFFEE CO. image 1
KOS COFFEE CO. image 2
KOS COFFEE CO. image 3
View all
Coffee shop

Modern minimalistic space offers plenty of seating inside and outside with natural lighting and cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Music stays at a comfortable level, creating a calm and relaxing environment suitable for work or conversation.

Espresso here is bold, smooth, and full of depth. It balances acidity and sweetness well and delivers a strong, clean pull.

Smooth, rich flavor stands out in their signature Matcha latte topped with sweet cream foam and pistachios. The pistachio matcha and KOS Matcha offer generous portions and a loaded, tasty experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, especially the peanut butter latte."

"I found the matcha here to be incredible and tasty."

"I experienced the best espresso pull I've ever had."

Good to know

1

KOS COFFEE CO. is pet-friendly and welcomes furry companions.

2

Parking can be tricky due to its downtown location.

3

Expect to pay around $14 for two drinks.

02
Coffee Culture image 1
Coffee shop

Mini outdoor food hall design creates a cute, secluded space with plenty of outdoor covered seating. Warm, inviting vibe blends with a cool mural that adds an artsy touch. The atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, making it a relaxed spot for coffee lovers.

Espresso here is balanced, velvety, and creamy. Double espresso over ice works well, though machine cleanliness might affect taste.

Ceremonial grade organic matcha forms the base for drinks like the pistachio matcha latte and strawberry matcha, both made with fresh ingredients. The matcha is mild yet tasty, consistently prepared with care and generous amounts, avoiding bitterness.

People are saying

"Their matcha is top-tier and generously portioned."

"I'll go out of my way for their delicious matcha."

"The espresso here is super smooth and creamy."

Good to know

1

Coffee Culture is located inside Urban Market, making it easy to explore.

2

Expect a late opening at 9am instead of the 8am listed online.

3

They donโ€™t have any vegan pastry options available.

03
Cafeina Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

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.

Espressos come out bold and consistent here. The Horchata Cold Brew with an extra shot adds a creamy twist when paired with oat milk on the mazapan.

The menu features a Matchata, blending horchata and matcha for a unique flavor. Iced matcha drinks include a strawberry cold foam option and an iced latte that is not too sweet.

People are saying

"I loved the sweet, festive coffee flavors here."

"I loved the matchata, it's a new flavor."

"I considered this place my hidden gem coffee spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky if itโ€™s busy; street parking is available.

2

The cafe is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

The patio is a nice place to work or relax.

04
Achilles Coffee Roasters @ Park 12 image 1

Coffee shop combines clean, modern design with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking a ballpark. Atmosphere stays relaxing and vibrant, suitable for studying or socializing. Space welcomes dogs with free treats and offers free wifi for convenience.

Espresso comes as a medium roast that is generally smooth and not burnt. Options include extra shots in drinks like iced vanilla and hot vanilla cinnamon lattes.

Matcha stands out with excellent quality and great flavor. Options include hot and iced lattes that pair well with breakfast items.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good, especially the cappuccino."

"I personally favored their matcha lattes; they were great."

"The espresso here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $7 for a regular-sized coffee.

2

The coffee shop is dog-friendly, making it a great stop for pet owners.

3

They do not allow outside food, so plan accordingly.

05
Kaffa Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Family-owned coffee shop offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating with calm music creating a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. The vibe is approachable and unpretentious, attracting friends socializing and people working on laptops. The space feels warm and inviting without any hipster airs.

Espresso drinks show complex flavor and consistent care in every cup. The blend of beans creates rich, high-quality beverages with a strong, flavorful profile.

Super vibrant matcha offers a fresh, lively taste. Both coffee and matcha come across as absolutely delicious and fresh.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I'd ever had."

"The espresso here is amazing and full of flavor."

"The matcha here tastes so fresh."

Good to know

1

Kaffa Coffee offers a variety of milk options, including oat and almond milk.

2

The coffee shop features Ethiopian beans for a unique flavor experience.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of coffee and food offered.

06
University Coffee Co image 1

Cozy coffee shop with an open concept and retro 90s style offers a warm, family-run vibe and pet-friendly atmosphere. Bright space features ample seating and a free library for book exchanges. Chill music plays softly, creating a relaxed spot for working or socializing.

Espresso here is delicious with a tastefully crafted selection of drinks. Specialty options add a fun variety to the menu.

Matcha offers a nice taste and sweetness without being too sweet. The watermelon matcha stands out as very refreshing, and the lattes blend well with other coffee options.

People are saying

"The Coffee staff here is so friendly and kind."

"This espresso spot feels like a warm, welcoming sanctuary."

"The matcha here tastes nice and sweet, but not too sweet."

Good to know

1

University Coffee Co. offers a variety of espresso-based beverages, teas, and breakfast options.

2

Parking is easy and available near the coffee shop.

3

WiFi is available, making it suitable for working or studying.

07
Fuzz Coffee and Records image 1

Coffee bar inside a curated vinyl shop offers a rock-n-roll vibe with carefully selected music and bright red accents. The atmosphere stays super chill with friendly service and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. Vinyl records and unique pastries add to the distinctive experience.

Espresso tonic stands out as a distinctive drink here. The menu also features strong cortados and a variety of amazing espresso drinks.

Iced and hot matcha lattes come with clean, delicious flavor and are made to perfection even with picky orders. Options include oat milk and pair well with pastries.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was genuinely excellent."

"The matcha latte here is clean and delicious."

"I loved the straight up espresso and espresso tonic."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and paid, with a small lot nearby costing $5 for five hours.

2

Seating at Fuzz Coffee and Records is limited for the level of demand.

3

They offer inside and outside seating.

08
Goldchild Coffee Roasters image 1

Stylish specialty coffee shop with immaculate design and vinyl records creating a laid-back vibe. Friendly atmosphere welcomes those new to specialty coffee, with dog-friendly policies and both indoor and outdoor seating. Hip hop music plays softly, enhancing a cozy yet luxurious environment.

Espresso here stands out for its exceptional quality and perfect balance in drinks like the cortado. Creative lattes and a variety of espresso options deliver consistently top-notch flavor.

Matcha here has a mellow grassy flavor and a warm, smooth texture. It comes as a latte made like in Japan with excellent color and careful preparation.

People are saying

"The coffee here is fantastic and delicious."

"I enjoyed a great espresso with a thick, sweet crรจme."

"The matcha here is expertly crafted and has an excellent color."

Good to know

1

All coffees are roasted in-house for maximum freshness.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

3

Iced lattes are served without ice cubes for a unique experience.

09
Genteel Coffee Roasters image 1

Cozy coffee shop with quiet outdoor garden seating and a narrow patio alley that offers a peaceful atmosphere. Small indoor space includes window stool seats and a small couch, creating a welcoming vibe. Fresh pastries complement the calm, communal setting ideal for work or conversation.

Espresso here has a delightful, fruity, and nutty flavor with a solid Mexico blend. Cappuccinos turn into a chocolate-flavored masterpiece with silky smooth milk, and drinks are consistently perfect.

Matcha here is brewed at the right temperature following all preparation standards. The strawberry matcha stands out as a perfect 10 out of 10 for flavor and presentation.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to have incredible flavor."

"I found the espresso here to be delightful and perfectly made."

"I found the matcha to be delicious and cooked at the right temperature."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

2

The cafรฉ offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

3

They have vegan and gluten-free options on the menu.

10
Torque Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with modern, colorful design and high ceilings offers a chill, inviting vibe. Space includes indoor and outdoor seating with a small number of tables, creating a cozy atmosphere. Unique features include a novelty art vending machine and pet-friendly amenities.

Single origin espressos stand out here, especially the Rubi Marti Espresso and the Banana-Bourbon Latte made with Ethiopia espresso. Baristas prepare drinks with care and let you customize your espresso choice.

Ceremonial Matcha Tonic stands out as a refreshing choice with real deal matcha. The Kyoto Love Matcha Latte and Houjicha Matcha offer solid, flavorful options, with matcha rated highly overall.

People are saying

"I experienced some of the best coffee I've ever had."

"I experienced the best espresso I have had to date."

"I was in love with their Ceremonial Matcha Tonic."

Good to know

1

Torque Coffee supports farmer equity and sustainability in their sourcing.

2

They offer a variety of vegan and non-dairy food options without an up-charge for oat milk.

3

The menu features seasonal flavors and is easy to navigate.

11
TapShack Kombucha & Coffee image 1

Small tiki-style shack offers locally brewed kombuchas, coffees, and matchas with vegan pastries and acai bowls rich in fruit. The atmosphere is chill and island-inspired, featuring cozy nooks and outdoor seating. Street parking can be tricky but the spot remains a popular refreshment stop with a sustainable vibe.

Cold brew and espresso drinks stand out with great flavor and incredible selection. Banana espresso offers a unique twist, best enjoyed half sweet to balance the taste.

Excellent matcha drinks stand out with options like the blue vanilla dream matcha. The menu pairs matcha with locally brewed kombuchas and coffees for variety.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee, especially the banana boom boom latte."

"I enjoyed the amazing espresso and cold brew."

"I thought the matcha was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky as it's mostly street and residential.

2

You can sample up to two flavors of kombucha for free.

3

The coffee takes a minute to prepare, so expect a short wait.

12
Jaunt Coffee Roasters image 1
Coffee roasters

Stylish interior with natural skylight, high ceilings, and green plants creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating offer comfortable spaces for conversation. Music stays at a level that supports easy talking, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Espresso comes with a side of water and sometimes a second shot on the house. The yield is adjusted for a typical pull.

Matcha here comes in good quality with no dirt taste. Creative drinks like the strawberry matcha with cold foam and the winter Bunny Kitty Cold Brew with matcha foam show variety and care.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be exceptional and roasted to perfection."

"The espresso here is seriously well-prepared and delicious."

"The mushroom and goat cheese empanada was amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is easy to find.

2

During busy times, the line could be out the door.

3

The only baked good left was one jalapeรฑo bagel.

13
Ocean Beach Coffee and Plants image 1

Space fills with lush greenery and plants for sale, creating a cozy, welcoming vibe that invites lingering. Seating spreads across indoor and dog-friendly outdoor patios, blending comfort with casual charm. Coffee pairs with vegan pastries, supporting a relaxed, plant-focused atmosphere.

Espresso here stands out for its refreshing specialty drinks like raspberry and pomegranate blends. The strong lavender syrup contrasts with the espresso, which many find great and flavorful.

Strong, high quality matcha shows in the vibrant green color and bold flavor. Unique options like lavender matcha offer smooth, comforting tastes alongside classic favorites.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be great and delicious."

"I found the matcha latte to be of good quality with a strong flavor."

"I thought the espresso here was great."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a loyalty punch card where buying four drinks earns a free small plant.

2

Street parking is easy during the week, but challenging on weekends and evenings.

3

The coffee shop is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

14
Barrio Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with inside and outside seating creates a welcoming, community-focused vibe. Local art decorates the walls, adding a homey, studio apartment feel. Friendly energy fills the air, with fresh coffee aromas and casual passersby visible outside.

Espresso here stands out for its precise technique and strong flavor. It forms a solid base for drinks like lattes and espresso tonics, showing consistent quality.

High quality matcha stands out with a dulce de leche cold foam topping adding a unique twist. Both matcha and coffee taste amazing, though the matcha latte can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, not too sweet."

"I thought the matcha here was super delicious and made with care."

"I found the espresso here to be the best."

Good to know

1

Barrio Coffee offers a selection of baked goods and mini breakfast burritos.

2

They provide a dairy-free alternative for drinks.

3

Street parking is available near the coffee shop.

15
Ultreya Coffee and Tea image 1

Small coffee shop blends cozy indoor and outdoor seating with a local micro art and apparel shop. Atmosphere feels inclusive and welcoming, with strong Wi-Fi and outlets for working. Offers unique bagel selection and a gift shop featuring candles and merchandise.

Espresso shines in drinks like the mac nut latte made with macadamia milk and no added sweetener. The Golden Hill blend mixes cinnamon, mushroom, honey, and optional espresso for a unique flavor. Roasts include half caff, decaf, and espresso, all solid choices.

High quality matcha stands out with every sip. Drinks like the Butterfly Matcha and Marigold matcha deliver rich, delicious flavor that consistently impresses.

People are saying

"This cafe has a lovely, laid-back atmosphere."

"I thought the matcha here was really delicious and smooth."

"I thought the espresso was excellent and well made."

Good to know

1

Ultreya Coffee and Tea hosts community events regularly.

2

The cafรฉ offers a selection of vegan options.

3

They sell day-old pastries at a discounted price.

16
Kind Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers cozy, inviting atmosphere with vast, comfortable seating and dog-friendly spaces. Bright, clean interior features cute decorative plants and a chill vibe ideal for relaxing or working. Views overlook the bay, enhancing the calm, laid-back energy.

Espresso here stands out with excellent pour-over and straight espresso options. Drinks like the Americano and Espresso Tonic offer unique flavors. Bags of coffee are available for home espresso experiments.

Ceremonial grade matcha from Holy Matcha in North Park forms the base for drinks here. Options include plain no sugar ceremonial matcha and a strawberry matcha latte that blends well with coffee.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be fantastic and delicious."

"I really enjoyed their matcha latte; it was delicious."

"I found the espresso here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers both inside and outside seating for guests.

2

Kind Cafe is dog-friendly and provides treats for pets.

3

They serve a variety of espresso-based beverages and baked goods.

17
Caffรฉ di Talya - Coffee shop image 1

Courtyard with large outdoor patio and comfortable seating creates a relaxed, lively atmosphere. Groups chat in Italian, adding to the authentic Italian vibe enhanced by a nostalgic Vespa. Evenings bring wood-fired Roman-style pizza, complementing the coffee and pastries served all day.

Espresso here comes from one of the oldest roasters in Italy, known for its smooth and non-acidic profile. The spot serves authentic Italian espresso and coffee drinks with a well made quality.

Offers a variety of matcha lattes, including a cold Italian version that stands out. The matcha drinks pair well with light pastries like croissants.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is a large, beautiful patio to relax on."

"I enjoyed great, authentic Italian espresso here."

"I had one of the best Matcha Lattes Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available.

2

Caffรฉ di Talya has wifi available for customers.

3

There are plenty of tables available for working.

18
Easy Does It image 1
Coffee shop

Wide, open layout with minimalist Korean-inspired design creates a spacious, calm environment. Seating includes comfy sofas, flexible chairs, and outdoor camping chairs, supporting study and group work. Atmosphere shifts from quiet mornings to lively, crowded afternoons, fostering a community feel.

Espresso here features high-quality beans and careful preparation that highlights bold and subtly sweet flavors. The yuzu espresso tonic stands out as a surprisingly tasty twist on classic espresso drinks.

Hand whisking creates a smooth, velvety texture in the matcha. The flavor stays well-balanced, not too sweet or bitter, with a traditionally made quality that stands out.

People are saying

"I thought the matcha here was so good and smooth."

"This place is work friendly, with tons of seating available."

"The espresso here is the best I've had, made with such care."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-20 minutes during peak hours.

2

They offer lactose-free milk and vegan treat options.

3

The cafe is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

19
PorchLight Coffee image 1

Bright, airy space filled with real plants and mid-century design creates a welcoming, relaxed vibe. Music plays loudly, making it lively but less suited for quiet work. Dog-friendly atmosphere with power outlets and wifi supports socializing and casual productivity.

Espresso here is rich and perfectly balanced, working well for quick shots or slow mornings. The menu includes classic espresso and creative drinks like the hot pistachio latte with house-made syrup.

Matcha here stands out for its high quality and authentic syrups made in house. Options like the iced ceremonial matcha latte with honey and the matcha with oat milk offer smooth, vibrant flavors with creamy textures.

People are saying

"Their coffee is superior, especially the almond pistachio latte."

"The espresso here has such great vibes, it feels effortlessly cool."

"I found the matcha latte to be the best I had in San Diego."

Good to know

1

A Cortado costs $5.66.

2

They do not list prices on their menu.

3

The only drawback is that they do not accept cash.

20
Adore Coffee House image 1

Small coffee shop shares space with a floral and gift store, filling the air with a spring scent and natural light. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with tasteful decor and charming touches. Outdoor seating offers a sunny spot to relax, while the vibe stays warm and welcoming throughout.

Coffee beans roast just right for espresso and cortado lovers. Espresso offers amazing flavor notes and stands out among usual choices. Drinks like espresso tonic and rose cold brew add variety.

Creative matcha drinks like Sakura Matcha latte and caramel matcha latte stand out with strong, flavorful matcha. Floral and sweet notes add unique twists to traditional matcha offerings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be delicious, rich, and nutty."

"The Sakura Matcha latte here is divine and tasty."

"The espresso here has amazing flavor notes."

Good to know

1

Adore Coffee House is dog friendly.

2

There is free 2-hour parking available if you head up the hill one street and turn left into the little lot.

3

The drink menu at Adore Coffee House is unique.

21
Kakawa Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers lively atmosphere with DJ performances and good tunes. Space feels warm and welcoming, with limited seating and a grab-and-go vibe using paper cups. Crowd includes interesting people enjoying a chill, friendly environment.

Espresso features a unique blend of high-quality beans with a smooth nutty flavor. The Kakawa Latte offers a flavored espresso option made from these beans.

Coconut matcha stands out as a refreshing and sweet option with a strong following. Oat milk matcha also draws attention for its rich flavor. Some find the matcha occasionally watered down and lacking flavor.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be truly exceptional."

"I thought the espresso here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"I loved their coconut matcha, it's so refreshing and sweet."

Good to know

1

Kakawa hosts community events to bring people together regularly.

2

DJ performances occur on select mornings, starting at 9am.

3

There is no restroom available for customers at Kakawa.

22
JAVA GARDEN image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy cafe filled with live plants and a beautiful floral canvas creates a relaxing, neighborhood vibe. Both indoor and outdoor seating include a peaceful patio under trees, supporting quiet work or casual chats. Regulars appreciate consistent quality coffee and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Coffee shop serves very good coffee with well-made espresso-based beverages. Espresso stands out as done right and consistently strong.

Quality, non-sweetened ceremonial grade matcha forms the base of a well-balanced latte. Creaminess hits just right, with no bitterness and a perfectly balanced rose flavor adding subtle sweetness.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious, and the staff are super nice."

"The espresso here is served by incredibly friendly baristas."

"I thought the matcha here was the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking available outside the coffee shop.

2

The coffee shop roasts its own beans on-site for freshness.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for purchases.

23
Immersion Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small storefront with limited seating and a bright, modern atmosphere creates a cozy, relaxed vibe reminiscent of Portland or Brooklyn. The space features carefully crafted drinks using high-quality beans and unique recipes, attracting a steady line of patrons. Outdoor patio seating expands the experience beyond the compact interior.

Espresso here offers a bold flavor without bitterness and a masterful balance of acid and bitter. Single origin shots reveal notes of pineapple and apple, delivering a unique and exceptional taste.

Matcha here has a deep green color and bright pigmentation showing its quality. The flavor is smooth and vibrant without bitterness, with options like strawberry matcha and matcha cream top that taste great.

People are saying

"Their coffee is really good and expertly prepared."

"The espresso here is smooth, bold, and has amazing fruity notes."

"The matcha here is smooth, vibrant, and not too bitter."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available and free near the coffee shop.

2

Seating is limited inside, but outdoor patio space is available.

3

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

24
Art of Espresso image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee cart with outdoor seating offers a breezy atmosphere from nearby shores. Space invites slowing down with affordable prices and quality coffee distinct from other campus options.

Espresso here stands out for its great flavor and pairs well with pastry options. Prices stay affordable, making it easy to enjoy both espresso and brewed coffee.

Shockingly good matcha stands out with a rich, grassy flavor. The Matcha Latte is smooth and strong enough to drink without any syrups or flavorings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best on campus."

"I thought the matcha here was surprisingly good and rich."

"I found the espresso here to be the best."

Good to know

1

Art of Espresso is a privately owned cafe on the UCSD Campus.

2

The cafe offers affordable prices for its drinks.

3

It is not widely advertised, so look for it on campus.

25
Marta image 1
Coffee shop

Bright, airy space with plenty of seating and natural lighting creates a charming, vibey atmosphere. Both indoor and outdoor areas offer a clean, well-designed environment suitable for meeting friends or working quietly. The energy stays ambient and chill, balancing social and work-friendly vibes.

Espresso here is mostly nice and enjoyable with a really good flavor. Some drinks like the latte show a slightly burnt taste in the espresso.

Matcha here is exceptional and well balanced, never bitter. The strawberry matcha offers a lightly sweet and fruity twist with a strong earthy tea flavor. It's a perfect treat any time of day.

People are saying

"It's a great Work Friendly spot with a calm, comfortable atmosphere."

"The matcha here is exceptional, sweet without being bitter."

"I enjoyed their really good espresso."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

The coffee shop has WiFi and plenty of seating available.

3

The menu for drinks and pastries is currently limited.

26
Muri Coffee & Dessert image 1

Cozy cafe with modern Kurdish character and vintage furniture creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating includes a greenery-covered patio that offers a restful space. Occasional live traditional music enhances the calm, friendly vibe.

Bold and flavorful espresso stands out here, matching the quality of the pastries. The small Kurdish espresso cup size is notable, and the iced americano highlights the top tier espresso quality.

Ceremonial grade matcha served unsweetened offers a fresh taste. Pastries complement the matcha well, and iced lattes maintain that clean flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the pistachio cheesecake at this cafe; it's amazing."

"I thought the matcha here was just okay."

"The espresso here is bold, flavorful, and top tier."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge.

2

Expect to spend at least $20 per person.

3

The cafe often gets crowded with people working.

27
Chiefy Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small, no-frills cafe with limited indoor seating and a vibrant outdoor patio featuring sidewalk tables and a walk-up window. Atmosphere feels lively and pet-friendly, with dog treats and water bowls available outside. Music often includes funky bossa nova, creating a relaxed and enjoyable vibe.

Great espresso drinks come with excellent quality and rich flavor. The espresso pairs well with other items like the Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie, which can be enhanced with a shot of espresso.

Smooth texture and high quality matcha stand out, avoiding any grassy aftertaste. The Super Matcha and iced matcha with oatmilk offer distinct, tasty options.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and bagel sandwiches."

"The matcha here is so smooth and high quality."

"I enjoyed the excellent espresso here."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $60 for two breakfast sandwiches and two smoothies.

2

The cafe closes and stops taking orders 30 minutes before the listed end time.

3

There is not much seating inside the cafe, making it cozy but crowded.

28
Portal Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers modern decor with ample outdoor seating and excellent downtown views. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, suitable for working or relaxing, accompanied by a loud music playlist. Space attracts a mix of people enjoying specialty coffee and pastries in a dog-friendly setting.

A custom Slayer espresso machine shows serious coffee craft. Espresso shots come out smooth and flavorful without any burnt or rushed taste.

Hot and cold matcha drinks come with options like almond or oat milk and rose syrup. The matcha lattes blend smoothly and taste refreshing, with hojicha also available for variety.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their flavorful coffee and lattes."

"The espresso here is smooth and flavorful."

"Their matcha latte is so well blended and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Live music happens on select Saturdays at Portal Coffee.

2

Breakfast items often sell out by 10:00 AM, so arrive early.

3

Parking can be tricky, so consider alternative options.

29
Paradis image 1

Cozy coffee bistro with airy outdoor patio and lush botanical decor creates a whimsical, artsy vibe. Patio offers dog-friendly seating and occasional vinyl DJ sets, blending chill and lively atmospheres. Indoor and outdoor spaces feel bright and relaxing, perfect for studying or casual meetups.

Rich and well-balanced espresso delivers a robust and smooth flavor. The cortado stands out with espresso cutting through the microfoam with precision.

Freshly milled matcha creates a ceremonial grade drink with grassy and creamy notes. The pistachio matcha with oat milk offers a high quality and well-balanced flavor.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is a charming, airy courtyard."

"The espresso here is served in a beautiful, airy space with lush botanicals."

"I loved their pistachio matcha with oat milk."

Good to know

1

Street parking is readily available near the cafรฉ, making access easy.

2

Prices are reasonable, with most items under $10.

3

Paradis hosts live music events, including jazz performances on weekends.

30
Bica Coffee Shop image 1
Coffee shop

Courtyard patio with shade sails and outdoor seating creates a chill and welcoming vibe. Space suits hanging out, working, or meeting friends, often lively with live performances on weekends. Friendly atmosphere blends cozy charm with community energy.

Espresso stands out with exceptional flavor and great pulls that impress regularly. Drinks like the espresso tonic and iced mocha highlight the quality of the espresso used.

Matcha here has very good quality and comes in lattes that pair well with seasonal food. The matcha sometimes arrives cooler than requested, but the matcha and tuna sandwich is a common choice.

People are saying

"This cafe is my favorite spot in San Diego."

"I thought their espresso was exceptionally delicious."

"I love their matcha because they host so many great events."

Good to know

1

Bica Coffee Shop hosts a monthly dinner with tapas, music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

2

Starting at 4 on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, they offer Portuguese tapas-style share plates.

3

The food items sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide
Loading Map...