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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to La Jolla

Coffee spots

Coffee shops that prioritize the craft of the drink but still offer a full menu that goes beyond a pre-packaged pastry.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Parfait Paris image 1
Parfait Paris image 2
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Cozy bakery with authentic French specialties and colorful food vitrines creates a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. Seating is ample, including indoor and outdoor patio options suitable for families. Quiet and calm vibe suits studying or relaxed brunches.

Food features high quality ingredients and shows great intentionality in preparation. Dishes are often amazing and delicious, though some items may arrive cold occasionally.

Cappuccino stands out with a flavor that sticks in mind. Coffee pairs well with almond and Nutella croissants and a caramel latte complements the sweet treats.

People are saying

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

"I found the macarons here to be creative and delicious."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

The prices are quite high, with a croissant costing $10 with nuts on top.

2

The macaroons cost $35 for 12 pieces.

3

The Dubai chocolate croissant costs $11.

02
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 1

Casual, stylish space blends Peruvian-inspired decor with sunny patio and pet-friendly outdoor seating. Warm, welcoming vibe feels homey and family-oriented with easygoing energy. Crowd enjoys unique, flavorful breakfast and lunch offerings alongside curated wine and beer selections.

Fresh food blends Peruvian influence with a modern California feel. Burritos and sandwiches offer unique flavors beyond typical breakfast fare.

Beans deliver a rich and smooth flavor that stands out. Coffee pairs well with fresh squeezed juice and pastries, including a seasonal pumpkin coffee cake with cream cheese drizzle.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and some of the best I've eaten."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito; it's packed with food."

"I loved the rich and smooth coffee here."

Good to know

1

Pepino stays open from 8am to 4pm, which is rare for a bakery and eatery in San Diego.

2

There was plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

3

Pricing at Pepino is very reasonable for everything they offer.

03
Pinpoint Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers outdoor seating with an incredible view and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The vibe is funky and cute, attracting those who appreciate quality coffee and flavorful açaí bowls.

Food includes delicious dishes paired with great coffee. The menu offers consistently good flavors across meals.

Coffee here is consistently high-quality with a focus on pure espresso flavors. Drinks like the dry cappuccino and cortado come out just right, showing attention to detail in preparation.

People are saying

"The coffee here is seriously great and delicious."

"I was surprised by the delicious flavor of this acai bowl."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available near the coffee shop.

2

The shop is small, so seating may be limited during peak hours.

3

They offer a selection of pastries alongside their coffee.

04
Java Earth Coffee La Jolla image 1

Bright, cozy coffee shop with quiet ambiance and outdoor seating offers a laid-back atmosphere ideal for working or relaxing. Friendly, peaceful vibe attracts those seeking a calm start to the day. Light-filled space enhances the welcoming, comfortable environment.

Food comes out quickly and cooked to the right temperature, letting the flavors stand out. Options avoid additives and preservatives, making the meals clean and tasty.

Coffee here stands out for its delicious taste and great variety, including options like cortados and matcha lattes. The shop pairs coffee with fresh breakfast and lunch items, offering generous portions and a laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here are so friendly and remember regulars."

"The smoothies here are so tasty and healthy."

"The food here is amazing."

Good to know

1

They offer many breakfast and lunch options, including vegan and vegetarian choices.

2

They provide milk alternatives, such as pistachio milk.

3

The coffee shop has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

05
Honey Cafe & Store image 1

Cozy cafe with boho decor and pet-friendly indoor and outdoor seating creates a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. Calm energy suits reading or working, while occasional live music adds vibrancy. Unique focus on authentic Turkish pastries and healthy menu options sets it apart.

Food features fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation with a focus on Turkish cuisine. Options include healthy, flavorful dishes alongside fresh coffee and juices.

Coffee comes fresh and rich in aroma with every sip. Unique peanut-based coffee and delicious lattes add variety in a pleasant, cozy environment.

People are saying

"The peanut latte at this cafe is unique and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The coffee here is served by incredibly friendly and welcoming staff."

Good to know

1

Honey Cafe is pet-friendly, allowing customers to bring their furry friends.

2

They offer a great variety of healthy options, including smoothie bowls and avocado toast.

3

The cafe is suitable for both quick bites and leisurely breakfasts.

06
Café Vahik image 1

Small cafe offers a warm, family-owned atmosphere with a chill and cozy vibe. Locals frequent the place, creating a friendly, relaxed environment with quiet outdoor patio seating available. The space feels comfortable and home-like, standing out from other spots nearby.

Food comes with amazing flavor and generous portions, especially the burrito packed with food. The owner shows strong commitment to great food and excellent service.

Espresso beverages stand out with perfect quality and rich flavor. The menu includes blended caramel coffee and pairs well with breakfast items like egg sandwiches and burritos.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great place for breakfast."

"The food here is amazing and super delicious."

"The coffee here feels like a local's favorite, thanks to the friendly owner."

Good to know

1

Café Vahik opens at 6am, perfect for early risers.

2

Expect busy hours, especially during breakfast and lunch.

3

The café offers outdoor seating until 3 PM.

07
The Oasis Patio Bar image 1

Outdoor patio blends vintage style with modern cozy decor and lush green turf. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting, with Afro house DJ and live improv adding unique energy. Space supports work and socializing, featuring a coffee cart, wine lounge, and boutique store.

Food here is consistently delicious with a mix of tasty dishes and drinks. The menu fits well with the unique concept that includes small shops selling trinkets and clothes aimed at a female audience.

Coffee comes from a retro trailer with many unique coffee drinks. Outdoor seating next to the coffee cart offers a great atmosphere for working or relaxing.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was delicious."

"The outdoor patio is so inviting and peaceful."

"The food and drinks here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

The Oasis Patio Bar is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

The outdoor workspace next to the coffee cart is perfect for working or relaxing.

08
Subterranean Coffee image 1

Coffee shop offers a cozy, peaceful atmosphere with an energetic punk rock playlist that sets a unique vibe. It sits tucked away in a charming building and attracts those looking for a quiet getaway with vegan and diverse menu options.

Food tastes consistently delicious and good. The owner often chats while preparing food and drinks.

Coffee here features smooth medium roasts and locally roasted beans with options like honey lavender latte and Vietnamese coffee. Cold brew and oat lattes stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The owner is so friendly, they even adjusted my latte's sweetness."

"I found this spot to be a wonderful hidden gem for breakfast."

"The food here is delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers vegan options alongside a variety of meat dishes.

2

One coffee costs $5, which is reasonable for the area.

3

The menu features a surprisingly large selection of drinks and snacks.

09
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Food features beautifully prepared Mediterranean dishes with excellent flavors and delightful presentation. The menu offers a charming mix of options that consistently satisfy.

Regular coffee tastes good and the honey caramel latte stands out. Drinks include a honey beer but there is no espresso machine yet.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The coffee here is served with genuine smiles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

10
The Kitchen @mcasd image 1

Outdoor dining offers spectacular ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere with light background music and ocean breezes. Seating is comfortable and spacious, featuring big umbrellas and blankets for warmth. The vibe suits quiet conversations and romantic evenings, enhanced by breathtaking sunsets.

Food here is consistently delicious with a spectacular view enhancing the dining experience. Staff remain knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring great service alongside the meals.

Coffee includes a Mayan blend with paprika that stands out. Options cover black coffee, smoothies, and juices, all brewed with care.

People are saying

"I found the view here to be incredible."

"The food here was delicious and incredible."

"The Mayan coffee had paprika, which was a game changer."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for themed dinners.

2

Breakfast is available all day on weekends.

3

The seasonal menu features healthy and vegetarian options.

11
Girard Gourmet image 1

Small bakery with homey vibe and old world style kitchen offers limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels warm and family-friendly, focusing on comfort rather than fancy decor. Frequented for high quality homemade recipes and a wide variety of fresh bakery and deli items.

Food here shows freshness from the farm and clear care in preparation. The menu offers a wide variety of homemade, healthy dishes like pot pies, soups, salads, sandwiches, and tarts, all consistently delicious and reasonably priced.

Coffee here stands out for its rich flavor and consistent quality. The iced caramel lattes and hot cappuccinos come highly praised and are served with a friendly touch.

People are saying

"I loved the freshly made salads and sandwiches at this lunch spot."

"The food here is amazing and tastes even better."

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

Good to know

1

Girard Gourmet is open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Street parking can be tricky; plan accordingly.

12
Wayfarer Bread & Pastry image 1

Bakery with passion fruit vines shading a small outdoor patio featuring bench seating and a half-moon shaped bench. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with a local, relaxed vibe despite limited seating. Long lines form as it focuses on quick service rather than lingering.

Food stands out for its high-quality ingredients and delicious flavors. Every bite feels rich and satisfying, making it the main attraction here.

Honey latte stands out as one of the best lattes here. The cold brew is also phenomenal, with coffee that tastes delicious and creamy.

People are saying

"The chocolate croissant here is amazing!"

"The coffee here is really good and creamy."

"The food here made me see colors and forgive people."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like catered brunches.

2

Pizza night on Saturdays limits menu options to what's left from brunch.

3

Expect long lines, especially on weekends; arrive early for the best selection.

13
DODO BIRD Donuts image 1

Donut shop with green-toned walls and round tables offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is trendy and cool with a stylish bar counter adding to the vibe. Donuts feature unique flavors and cute designs, creating a fun and pleasant environment.

Food offers delicious flavors with smaller portions that match a higher price point. Donuts and meals for breakfast and lunch stand out alongside great coffee.

Coffee here stands out for its house made syrups and a La Marzocco espresso machine. Options include Mexican latte, matcha latte, and Vietnamese coffee, all made with quality ingredients like Straus milk.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee and lattes here were outstanding."

"I found the donuts to be amazing and yummy."

"I loved the donuts and food, both breakfast and lunch."

Good to know

1

Arrive before 11:30 am to have a chance at fresh donuts.

2

Expect limited donut availability, especially on weekends.

3

Prices are high, with sandwiches costing around $15.

14
Bird Rock Coffee Roasters image 1

Coffee shop offers authentic Neapolitan pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven by expert pizzaiolos. Atmosphere feels modern and laid-back with both indoor and outdoor seating, though air conditioning can be very cold. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic vibe that contrasts with the cozy setting.

Food pairs well with coffee and offers a great atmosphere. Options tend to be unhealthy but consistently good.

Coffee here is consistently fresh and delicious with a strong, flavorful espresso. Lattes like the vanilla bean and French vanilla offer smooth, balanced flavors without being overly sweet.

People are saying

"The Neapolitan-style pizza at this Coffee spot is amazing."

"The pastries here are incredibly delicious and offer a nice variety."

"You have to try the pizza; it's seriously good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to ongoing construction in the area.

2

The cafe closes at 6PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect it to get busy on weekday mornings, making seating a challenge.

15
Dunkin' image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop features self-service kiosks and seating areas with a notably cold dining space. Donuts vary from fresh and good to sometimes overpriced and reheated, while breakfast sandwiches offer a healthy, crispy bacon option. Operating hours are limited, closing early in the morning.

Food arrives fast and very hot. The menu offers delicious options, though some find it just alright.

Coffee tastes like pre-made garbage at times, though a pumpkin spice latte matches the real flavor. The espresso machine sometimes breaks down, affecting the quality.

People are saying

"I was so happy the sandwich turned out perfect."

"The sourdough breakfast sandwich here is delicious and felt healthy."

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

Good to know

1

Dunkin' closes at 10 am, which may be inconvenient for some visitors.

2

A doughnut costs $2.32 each.

3

The store is clean and well-maintained.

16
Hermosa Surf image 1
Surf shop

Open, airy space blends mid-century Americana with surf culture in an artsy, boutique setting. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, attracting a local crowd who enjoy stylish clothing and unique surfboards. A café area offers fresh acai bowls and drinks, creating a versatile hangout spot with a chill atmosphere.

Food tastes really good with fresh flavors. Some orders need careful checking because modifications often get missed, especially for food intolerances.

Matcha lattes stand out with rich flavor. Hot lattes come out very good. Cold brew tastes weak and watery. No espresso machine limits coffee options.

People are saying

"I thought the early bird smoothie was delicious and fantastic."

"I found the coffee here to be a treasure trove."

"I thought the food here was really good."

Good to know

1

If someone has a notable food intolerance, they should double check their order upon receipt.

2

The shop offers drinks and acai bowls.

3

I visited around noon on a weekday and there was no wait.

17
Philz Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with a large area and beachy murals creates a relaxed vibe despite occasional loudness. Busy spot where people chat, study, and work online, with some seating like couches and a patio for meet-ups. Known for great pour-over coffee and a variety of quality pastries.

Food includes a great selection of coffee choices and various options. Some items taste good, but many lean toward junk sugar food. Heating requests may not always be fulfilled properly.

Coffee here is smooth and flavorful with a great selection of creative drinks like the Iced Coffee Rose. Staff provide exemplary service and the place attracts a diverse crowd.

People are saying

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

"It's a great work-friendly spot with lots of outlets for your laptop."

"I found the food and coffee to be good."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially on Saturday mid-mornings.

2

Parking is usually difficult, but this location has plenty of parking.

3

You can order ahead to skip the line.

18
Tous Les Jours Cafe image 1

Modern bakery with cozy indoor seating and relaxed outdoor vibe offers a wide selection of fresh pastries and coffee. Atmosphere suits both casual chats and focused work, often busy with people using laptops. Space feels clean and well-spaced near transit, though seating can be limited during peak times.

Self-service pastries and bread fill the counter with many cakes and some deli foods. The food includes good matcha lattes and generally delicious items, though there is a risk of food poisoning.

Shakerato stands out as a top pick for coffee lovers. The menu also features Tiramisu latte and iced americano, paired well with fresh croissants and pastries.

People are saying

"This bakery is amazing, truly a slice of heaven."

"I loved all the coffee and pastries here."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 8 pm and is closed on Sundays.

2

Expect crowds during morning and brunch hours.

3

Limited indoor seating makes finding a table difficult.

19
Living Room Coffeehouse La Jolla image 1

Large space combines cozy coffee shop with vibrant hookah lounge and live music stage. Atmosphere shifts from chill and relaxing during the day to lively and elegant at night. Ocean views and outdoor patio add to the inviting environment.

Great coffee pairs with light food and desserts. The menu offers good quality drinks and food with a variety of choices and reasonable prices.

Coffee here stands out for its outstanding quality and variety, including Chai Latte and classic lattes made with care. The spot pairs coffee with desserts and light food, creating a relaxed, all-in-one vibe.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, quiet spot perfect for getting work done."

"The coffee here is outstanding and excellent."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday night entertainment.

2

Parking can be difficult but is manageable.

3

Live music occurs on Friday and Saturday nights.

20
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining overlooks a golf course and sea view, creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere with live music and a bonfire area. The setting feels comfortable and scenic, especially during evening hours. The place attracts golfers, families, and friends gathering for casual meals and drinks.

Food here features delicious ceviche and comforting Roma tomato soup with grilled cheese. Meals pair well with perfectly chilled red wine and satisfy with great flavor.

Coffee here comes with excellent quality and options like cappuccinos and double espresso. Free refills come in a carafe, making it a practical choice for those wanting more than a small serving.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The avocado toast with salmon and espresso is phenomenal food that's phenomenal."

"I thought the coffee here was just a thick piece of meat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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