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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Kearny Mesa

Authentic dessert spots

A sweet treat made with traditional techniques is the only thing that will satisfy this craving.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Finjan Coffee Shop Co. image 1
Finjan Coffee Shop Co. image 2
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Coffee shop offers Turkish theme with elegant decor and traditional sand bath coffee method. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy with comfortable seating and subtle reggae music. Outdoor seating is available, creating a relaxed vibe distinct from typical cafes.

Authentic Turkish coffee and Palestinian Baklava stand out here. The cozy, elegant ambiance features calligraphy and cultural elements that create a genuine Middle Eastern vibe.

Desserts include an interesting knafeh and other delicious sweets paired well with cold brew coffee. Quality stays consistent across desserts and drinks.

People are saying

"I loved the Turkish coffee and walnut baklawa."

"The knafeh here is delicious with perfect flavor and texture."

"The karak tea here is rich, flavorful, and authentically made."

Good to know

1

There is abundant free parking available in a lot.

2

The coffee shop offers unique coffee options.

3

Seating is sufficient for small meetings.

02
Phoenix Dessert - San Diego image 1

Small dessert shop with bright ambiance and outside seating offers mostly to-go service with limited indoor tables. Desserts feature authentic Cantonese flavors and are generally not overly sweet. Freshly cut fruits highlight the menu, creating a casual spot for enjoying Chinese fusion sweets.

Offers authentic Cantonese desserts and Asian street food with genuine flavors. Stays true to traditional recipes and presentation.

Offers an authentic Cantonese dessert selection with a variety of Chinese fusion sweets. Durian desserts stand out as a top choice and the treats are consistently not too sweet.

People are saying

"The desserts here are perfect and not too sweet."

"It's a great spot for Kid Friendly desserts like mango sticky rice."

"I loved the authentic Asian desserts and street food here."

Good to know

1

They only receive shipments from LA on certain days, so popular desserts may run out.

2

The chicken wings are often sold out shortly after opening.

3

This location has limited hot entrees compared to their LA locations.

03
Chaba Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Modest Thai restaurant with laid-back atmosphere and somewhat dark lighting. Regulars frequent the spot, drawn by lunch specials and free desserts offered after meals. The space features simple decor with small paintings and tables for dine-in or takeout.

Dishes deliver authentic Thai flavors with every bite. Staff eating together shows the food's genuine quality and traditional taste.

Complimentary desserts often feature tapioca and coconut milk, creating rich, refreshing flavors. These treats sometimes include cantaloupe balls and ice cubes, served as a sweet surprise after meals.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was the best I had ever tasted."

"They surprised me with a free, tasty dessert at the end."

"I loved the authentic Thai taste and delicious food."

Good to know

1

Parking can be troublesome at times, especially during peak hours.

2

Lunch specials are available for $13.95, offering great value.

3

The restaurant offers a surprise dessert on weekends.

04
Matcha Cafe Maiko image 1
Dessert shop

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.

Matcha beverages taste fresh with no processed powder. Desserts like soft serve and parfaits show authentic flavor and premium ingredients. Snacks impress even those familiar with traditional matcha.

Variety of authentic matcha desserts suits both matcha fans and others. The ube soft-serve stands out with its expected sweetness and unique flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the matcha ice cream had good flavor."

"Their matcha desserts are rich, creamy, and balanced."

"I found the matcha here to be so authentic and premium."

Good to know

1

Ordering is done at a tablet kiosk, and you wait for your number to be called.

2

The cafe does not accept cash; only card payments are allowed.

3

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends when the cafe gets very busy.

05
Mitsuwa Marketplace - San Diego image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store with a food court featuring authentic ramen and sushi creates a vibe like being in Japan. Clean, organized space includes anime-themed shops and a gaming room, attracting those seeking genuine Japanese products and atmosphere.

Food stalls serve authentic Japanese ramen and sushi that taste fresh and true to Japan. The market offers a wide selection of genuine Japanese groceries and snacks not found elsewhere, perfect for making traditional dishes at home.

Various dessert stations offer freshly made sweets alongside a small restaurant. Royce chocolates stand out among the dessert options available.

People are saying

"This grocery store has authentic Japanese ingredients and specialty items."

"I found authentic Japanese groceries and snacks I wouldn't find anywhere else."

"They had a great dessert place inside."

Good to know

1

Parking can be very challenging, especially during lunch hours.

2

Visit early for the best selection of bento boxes and fresh sushi.

3

Prepared foods are often marked down by half near closing time.

06
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Dishes like the beef roll, beef noodles, and sesame noodles deliver authentic Taiwanese flavors. The food tastes fresh and the atmosphere feels welcoming.

Freshly made sesame balls serve as a great dessert option here. They offer a red bean sesame ball as a free dessert with reviews, making for a decent and satisfying finale.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"I found the food here to be really authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the sesame ball dessert; it's the perfect finale."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

07
The Godfather image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale Italian restaurant with old-school decor and dark wood paneling creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Live piano music adds a classic, elegant vibe that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. The setting feels authentic and transports diners with its traditional Italian heritage.

Traditional recipes and authentic ambiance create a genuine Italian experience. The food tastes like classic New York Italian, with dรฉcor and music that reflect true Italian heritage.

Tiramisu stands out as a very good dessert here. Prices stay reasonable even after adding drinks, appetizers, meals, and dessert.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes at these dinner spots are excellent."

"You have to try the tiramisu for dessert; it's the best."

"It felt like a genuine trip to Italy with authentic food."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to a very small lot, but valet service is available.

2

Prices are on the high end, with many dishes exceeding $50.

3

The restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 4/21/24.

08
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - San Diego, CA image 1

Greek restaurant offers a clean, spacious interior with cute furniture and large TV menu displays. Atmosphere combines loud Greek music with a strip mall energy, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment. Seating is comfortable yet intimate, suitable for family or friends gatherings.

Real authentic Greek food stands out here, especially the lamb souvlaki with rice pilaf. The dishes capture traditional flavors clearly and taste amazing.

Desserts include a dessert sampler and a dessert trio featuring baklava that is not too sweet. Rice pudding and baklava ice cream also appear as options.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, especially the flavorful lamb."

"I thought the Greek food here was so authentic and tasted amazing."

"The dessert sampler, especially the baklava, was to die for."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a buy one get one free Gyro sandwich promotion on Tuesdays.

2

There is plenty of free parking available for customers.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

09
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.

Food offers authentic Peruvian flavors with a creative Peruvian-Chinese fusion twist. The aroma and decor blend authentic elements with modern art, enhancing the genuine dining experience.

The churro dessert stands out as a seriously incredible choice. Free desserts add a nice touch, and the dessert menu offers diverse options worth exploring.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

"The food here is authentic Peruvian and tastes like home."

"I thought the churro dessert was seriously incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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