Best Coffee and Tea shops in San Diego [2023]

Welcome to the sunny shores of San Diego, where the aroma of freshly brewed beverages fills the air. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a tea enthusiast, this coastal city has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best coffee and tea shops in San Diego, where you can savor delightful blends and experience the artistry behind every cup. From cozy cafes with intricate latte art to serene tea houses offering a variety of flavors, get ready to embark on a caffeine-fueled adventure in the best coffee and tea shops in San Diego.

Presotea San Diego

Address: 4343 Mission Blvd #104, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: +1 (858) 356-2038
Website: presoteaus.com
Details: Bubble tea store

Presotea San Diego stands out as an exceptional coffee and tea shop, leaving a lasting impression on its patrons. Beyond being a favorite spot for bubble tea enthusiasts, this establishment offers an unforgettable dining experience. The knowledgeable and attentive staff, with their impeccable service, go above and beyond to ensure guests are well-informed about the wide range of drink options and add-ins. They even provide samples for those seeking guidance in making the perfect selection. The warm and friendly atmosphere, coupled with the staff’s professionalism, creates an inviting space where customers feel comfortable and appreciated.

The quality of the beverages served at Presotea San Diego is unparalleled. Customers rave about the delicious boba, describing it as incredibly soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet. Each drink is meticulously crafted, showcasing the skill and expertise of the staff. Whether you opt for a classic favorite or dare to try something new, you can rest assured that every beverage will surpass your expectations. Notably, the strawberry slush receives high praise for its exceptional texture, leaving customers craving more.

Situated in a prime location in San Diego, Presotea San Diego offers a refreshing haven for those seeking freshly brewed drinks. The commitment to using only the freshest ingredients is evident in their teas, which are brewed to order. This dedication to quality sets them apart from the rest. With a promising future of expanding their flavor offerings, visitors can expect even more delightful surprises from this remarkable establishment.

Presotea San Diego is more than just a coffee and tea shop; it is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. The friendly staff, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional menu selection combine to create a truly memorable visit. Whether you’re a boba enthusiast or simply seeking a fresh and flavorful beverage, this is the place to be. Prepare to be impressed by the outstanding service, impeccable attention to detail, and the sheer delight of sipping on expertly crafted drinks at Presotea San Diego.

Cafe 222

Address: 222 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 (619) 236-9902
Website: cafe222.com
Details: $$, Breakfast restaurant

Nestled in San Diego, Café 222 is a charming breakfast spot that has garnered recognition from the Food Network and Travel Channel. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and efficient service, creating a delightful dining experience. The staff, attentive and friendly, ensures your needs are met promptly. Whether you choose to sit indoors or enjoy the outdoor seating, the inviting atmosphere adds to the overall appeal of the café.

The menu at Café 222 offers a delectable array of breakfast options, sure to please even the most discerning palates. From the mouthwatering pumpkin waffles, which have gained acclaim in Gourmet Magazine, to the classic eggs Benedict served with homemade griddle potatoes, every dish is prepared with freshness and precision. The portions are generous, satisfying even the heartiest appetites. Alongside their remarkable cuisine, the café boasts an impressive selection of coffee, ensuring you start your day with a flavorful brew that surpasses the ubiquitous chain offerings.

In addition to the exceptional food and beverages, the café stands out for its attention to detail and customer satisfaction. The attentive staff keeps your coffee cup filled and is always on hand to address any requests or inquiries. The cozy ambiance, adorned with nostalgic décor, transports you back to a bygone era, creating a memorable and enjoyable breakfast experience. Whether you’re seeking a respite from hotel dining or exploring the nearby Gaslamp District, Café 222 is a hidden gem that will exceed your expectations with its delicious breakfast offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

Chocolat Cremerie

Address: 509 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 (619) 238-9400
Website: chocolatesandiego.com
Details: $$, Dessert shop

Chocolat Cremerie, located in San Diego, is a haven for food lovers seeking exceptional cuisine and delightful treats. The café offers a wide range of options throughout the day, ensuring that every craving is satisfied. From breakfast and lunch to dinner and wine bar, Chocolat Cremerie has it all. The staff exudes warmth and friendliness, making you feel like part of the family. Their genuine hospitality is accompanied by a clean and beautifully decorated space, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.

The menu at Chocolat Cremerie is a culinary delight. Whether you indulge in their coffee and gelato combination or explore the array of flavors, the offerings are sure to please your taste buds. The gelato, renowned for its rich and creamy texture, stands out as a highlight, with a variety of flavors including unique alcohol-infused options. The café also excels in crafting delectable breakfast items, homemade croissants, and filling crepes that leave you feeling satisfied. With a small but impressive selection of menu items, Chocolat Cremerie proves that quality surpasses quantity.

The exceptional food and drinks are complemented by the café’s dedication to customer satisfaction. The friendly staff takes pride in ensuring that guests have an unforgettable dining experience. The coffee, in particular, receives high praise for its quality and flavor. Moreover, the café’s charming atmosphere, combined with the delectable desserts and coffee, makes it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving gelato, a flavorful cup of coffee, or a delectable brunch, Chocolat Cremerie is a must-visit destination that promises to exceed your expectations.

Caffe Italia

Address: 1704 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 (619) 234-6767
Website: caffeitalialittleitalysd.com
Details: $, Italian restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, Caffe Italia is a delightful coffee and tea shop that captures the essence of European charm. With its unassuming and simple exterior, the café surprises visitors with intense flavors and impeccable service. Whether you’re sipping on a perfectly crafted latte or indulging in a delicious pastry, Caffe Italia delivers an authentic European coffee shop experience. The staff takes pride in their work, offering customized ingredients and creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for guests.

The coffee at Caffe Italia is a true standout, with a rich and intense flavor that sets it apart from typical coffee shop offerings. Whether you opt for a classic espresso, creamy cappuccino, or velvety latte, each sip is a delightful experience. Unlike many chain stores, where bitterness often overshadows the coffee’s true taste, Caffe Italia’s coffee is a testament to the art of coffee-making. Paired with a slice of homemade carrot cake or other delectable pastries, it’s the perfect combination to start your day.

The café’s popularity among locals speaks volumes about its quality and appeal. As you relax on the sidewalk tables, savoring your coffee and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Little Italy, you’ll understand why Caffe Italia is a beloved destination. The attentive and friendly staff, along with the cozy European feel, adds to the allure of the café. From breakfast to lunch, Caffe Italia offers a wide range of options at reasonable prices, ensuring a memorable experience for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

The Cat Cafe

Address: 302 Island Ave #101, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 (619) 786-2289
Website: catcafesd.com
Details: $, Coffee shop

The Cat Cafe, nestled in San Diego, offers a unique and delightful experience for cat lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. The café’s clean and cheerful facility provides a welcoming environment for both visitors and the resident cats. The staff, known for their super friendly and knowledgeable demeanor, adds to the positive atmosphere of the cafe. The delicious coffee and the adorable cats are the highlights of the experience, making it a must-visit destination for cat enthusiasts.

With a focus on creating a fun and cheerful environment, The Cat Cafe ensures that guests feel comfortable and have an enjoyable time interacting with the cats. The limited space provides a comforting atmosphere for the cats, while visitors can enjoy the opportunity to spend quality time with the feline residents. Although the coffee may be slightly on the bitter side, the true draw of the café lies in the cat companionship, creating a unique and heartwarming experience.

The Cat Cafe is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, with its combination of delicious coffee and the chance to interact with lovable cats. The café requires reservations due to limited space and offers a drink or food item included in the entrance fee. The cats, ranging from rare Bengal cats to common tabby cats, are well-cared for and easygoing, creating a relaxed and enjoyable environment for visitors. Whether you’re a cat lover looking to adopt or simply seeking a stress-free and cozy coffee break, The Cat Cafe is the perfect destination for an unforgettable experience.

Living Room Coffee

Address: 1010 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: +1 (858) 459-1187
Website: livingroomcafe.com
Details: $, Coffee shop

Nestled in La Jolla, Living Room Coffee offers a delightful and affordable dining experience. With delicious food, great coffee, and scrumptious pastries, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making you feel like you’re in a cozy living room overlooking the sea through a huge picture window. The variety and specialty coffees cater to all taste buds, while the comfortable living room chairs provide the perfect setting to unwind and reminisce to the background music.

Living Room Coffee is a hidden gem for those seeking a tasty meal in a laid-back environment. The menu offers excellent value with generous portions, whether you opt for the veggie burrito, falafel wrap, or the delectable cakes that adorn the display. The café also boasts a cigar lounge upstairs, making it a unique and convenient destination for those who want to enjoy a smoke in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a hearty breakfast, or a refreshing smoothie, Living Room Coffee has you covered with its extensive menu options.

The café’s location in La Jolla makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to the beach and charming atmosphere make it a go-to spot for morning coffee and delightful pastries. With outdoor seating options available, you can sit back, people-watch, and savor your drink. The friendly service and exceptional coffee make it a must-visit place in La Jolla, ensuring that you’ll return for more delicious meals and drinks during your stay.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters

Address: 5627 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: +1 (619) 272-0204
Website: birdrockcoffee.com/pages/la-jolla-coffee-bar
Details: $, Coffee shop

Nestled in San Diego, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is a charming and highly recommended coffee shop. With excellent service and a delightful atmosphere, it’s a spot that won’t disappoint. The shop exudes an adorable charm that adds to the overall experience. Whether you choose to savor your coffee in the cozy interior or on the nearby deck, the quality of the coffee makes it worth the wait in the sometimes long line of admirers.

Known for its hip and low-key vibe, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The top-notch coffee and other beverages make it a must-visit destination. It’s the perfect place to unwind, with just the right amount of people to keep it interesting without feeling overwhelming. The baristas take pride in their craft, and the attention to detail is evident in the exceptional coffee they serve.

If you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere and excellent coffee, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is the place to be. The staff exudes a genuine enthusiasm for their work, adding to the welcoming vibes of the café. Locals highly recommend it, and it’s easy to understand why. From the smooth and rich espresso to the delectable pastries, it’s an indulgent treat that will keep you coming back for more. Don’t miss the Gratitude Journal, which adds a special touch to the experience, allowing visitors to share what they are grateful for.

Overall, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters offers a memorable coffee experience that exceeds expectations. Its commitment to quality, friendly atmosphere, and delicious offerings make it a standout among the sea of coffee shops. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of joe, this local gem should be on your list of must-visit places in San Diego.

Newbreak Coffee & Cafe

Address: 1959 Abbott St, San Diego, CA 92107
Phone: +1 (619) 224-6666
Website: newbreakcafe.com
Details: $, Cafe

Situated across from the beach, Newbreak Coffee & Cafe is a hidden gem in San Diego. With friendly and efficient service, it offers quality açaí bowls and delicious coffee drinks. It quickly becomes a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick takeout or prefer to sit back and enjoy the cozy atmosphere, Newbreak Coffee & Cafe delivers on all fronts.

The staff at Newbreak Coffee & Cafe is known for their friendliness and helpfulness. They serve the best breakfast burrito in town, ensuring a satisfying start to your day. The menu is well-presented and offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes. From freshly made omelettes to flavorful oatmeal and refreshing açaí bowls, every dish is prepared with care. The coffee at Newbreak Coffee & Cafe is exceptional, and their commitment to quality shines through in every cup.

Located in Ocean Beach, Newbreak Coffee & Cafe is a favorite among both locals and tourists. With a quaint and charming ambiance, it captures the essence of the OB culture. The large mugs of coffee and tempting food options, such as the Mexican Mocha coffee and breakfast rice bowls, make for a delightful experience. The service is friendly, and the guests add to the quirky and friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a beach walk and enjoy the vibrant energy of Ocean Beach.

In addition to its beachside location, Newbreak Coffee & Cafe offers reasonable prices and a wide selection of breakfast and lunch items. The menu caters to different dietary preferences, with options like veggie bagels and gluten-free rice bowls. The cafe also boasts an impressive tea wall, providing tea lovers with plenty of choices. The fast and friendly service ensures a pleasant dining experience, and the complimentary WiFi makes it a convenient spot for those who need to get work done in a quiet and relaxed environment.

In conclusion, Newbreak Coffee & Cafe is a must-visit destination in San Diego. With its prime location, friendly staff, delicious menu offerings, and great prices, it has all the elements for a memorable experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing açaí bowl or a steaming cup of coffee, this charming cafe has it all. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere of Ocean Beach while enjoying the delightful offerings of Newbreak Coffee & Cafe.

Cafe Bassam

Address: 3088 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: +1 (619) 557-0173
Website: cafebassam.com
Details: $$, Cafe

Cafe Bassam is a unique and charming European-style cafe located in Banker’s Hill. As regulars at this cozy establishment, we were captivated by the great ambience and excellent service. The cafe offers a delightful experience from morning coffee to late-night desserts or a glass of wine. Whether you choose to sit indoors or on the nice outdoor terrace, the atmosphere is inviting and relaxing.

The coffee drinks at Cafe Bassam are a true delight, with each offering a slight twist that sets them apart. The owner, a character in the best possible way, adds a personal touch to the experience and is known for his generosity. Indoor and outdoor seating options are available, allowing you to enjoy your drink in the setting of your choice. In addition to coffee, the cafe also offers a food menu and a selection of wine and champagne, making it a must-visit destination.

Cafe Bassam stands out with its vast selection of teas from around the world. The owner creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. We were pleasantly surprised when the owner discovered it was our birthday and offered us little macarons to celebrate. The boutique is clean and filled with tasty cookies, adding to the overall experience. Whether you’re planning a visit to San Diego or looking for a special place to enjoy coffee or tea, Cafe Bassam is truly worth a visit.

Better Buzz Coffee

Address: 1909 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: +1 (858) 270-2899
Website: betterbuzzcoffee.com
Details: $, Coffee shop

Better Buzz Coffee is a delightful coffee shop that offers a unique and satisfying experience. The staff provides great customer service, ensuring that your order is accurate and paying attention to the details. The atmosphere of the shop is charming and cozy, making it a perfect place to enjoy your breakfast or a cup of coffee. The menu is filled with delicious options, from the Better Breakfast sandwich to the avocado toast, acai bowls, and more.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID, Better Buzz Coffee continues to deliver fantastic coffee drinks and food options. The powered Vanilla Lattes are particularly noteworthy, offering a delightful twist on traditional flavors. The quality of ingredients and freshness is evident in the breakfast items, such as the Avo Toast, Almond Butter and Jam Toast, and Breakfast sandwich. Whether you choose to dine in or grab your food to go, you can expect a top-notch experience.

Better Buzz Coffee has gained a reputation for its outstanding coffee and welcoming atmosphere. The expansion from a tiny drive-through kiosk to actual shops has not compromised the quality of their coffee. It remains as delicious as ever. With locations in Pacific Beach and Garnet Ave, you can expect great customer service, amazing coffee, and a relaxed environment to unwind. Better Buzz Coffee is the go-to coffee spot in San Diego, offering an array of options to satisfy your caffeine cravings and enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Azucar

Address: 4820 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107
Phone: +1 (619) 523-2020
Website: iloveazucar.com
Details: $, Pastry shop

Azucar is a charming Cuban bakery and café that offers a delightful experience for coffee and pastry lovers alike. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home. The atmosphere of the shop is cozy and inviting, with gorgeous desserts on display that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. The menu boasts a variety of delectable treats, from the cheese rolls to the scones, pastries, and savory pies.

The coffee drinks at Azucar are exceptional, with the Cuban coffee receiving high praise from patrons. The coffee is smooth and pairs perfectly with the pastries. The variety of options and flavors available ensure that there is something to satisfy every coffee connoisseur. The Cuban style sandwiches are also a hit, offering a taste of authentic flavors that transport you to the heart of Cuba.

Despite its small size, Azucar is a hidden gem in Ocean Beach. The service is friendly and fast, ensuring that you receive your coffee and pastries promptly. The bakery is known for its extraordinary delicacies, baked with love and served by a dedicated staff. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an afternoon treat, Azucar is the perfect spot to indulge in Cuban flavors and enjoy a cup of quality coffee.

Te Mana Cafe

Address: 4956 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107
Phone: +1 (619) 255-9233
Website: temanacafe.com
Details: $$, Restaurant

Te Mana Cafe is a beloved spot known for its delicious breakfast offerings and variety of coffee drinks. The café has a charming island-themed patio where guests can enjoy their meals and relax while reading the morning paper. Families particularly enjoy visiting Te Mana, as they offer hot chocolate with sprinkles and umbrellas that delight the younger ones. It’s a perfect way to start the day in a paradise-like setting.

Located just blocks away from the Ocean Beach district, Te Mana is a breakfast and lunch destination. The café offers fantastic breakfast deals, such as the egg and bacon special, as well as a range of delectable coffee options. The tropical island vibe adds to the overall experience, whether guests choose to sit inside or on the enclosed patio. The service is quick and the owner and staff are friendly, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel like dining with friends.

Te Mana Café not only offers great food and coffee but also hosts live music performances on weekends. The cozy interior, along with ample patio seating, provides a relaxed setting to enjoy their island grinds, including acai bowls, bagel sandwiches, and more. The café’s dedication to friendly service and fresh, tasty food makes it a highly recommended spot in the Ocean Beach area. Visitors can’t help but appreciate the owners’ warmth and the welcoming environment they’ve created, making Te Mana a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Lava Java

Address: 3999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: +1 (858) 539-8669
Website: catamaranresort.com/lava-java
Details: Coffee shop

Lava Java is a delightful coffee shop with an amazing environment and delicious coffee. The staff members, such as Denise and Humberto, are friendly, sweet, and provide exceptional service. The café offers a range of breakfast and lunch options, including burritos and tasty deli selections. Guests appreciate the cozy ambiance and the opportunity to enjoy their coffee on the charming patio. Lava Java, located at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, is known for its outstanding service and quality menu offerings.

Visitors have had great experiences at Lava Java, whether it’s starting the day with a satisfying cup of coffee or grabbing a quick breakfast. The café offers a variety of grab-and-go items, including frozen treats like crescents and muffins. The menu also includes sandwiches, salads, and fresh fruit, providing convenient options for those in a hurry. Guests appreciate the efficient service and the friendly baristas who ensure that their coffee and snacks are prepared quickly. Lava Java stands out as a reliable and affordable choice for delicious coffee and tasty treats.

The café’s location within the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa adds to its appeal. Guests enjoy the convenience of having Lava Java right on-site, making it easy to satisfy their coffee cravings or grab a quick bite throughout the day. With reasonable prices and a variety of menu options, including refreshing smoothies and satisfying lattes, Lava Java exceeds expectations and provides a delightful café experience.

Portside Coffee and Gelato

Address: 2614 Shelter Island Dr Suite B, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: +1 (619) 814-8081
Website: facebook.com/PortsideCoffeeAndGelato
Details: Cafe

Located in the heart of San Diego’s tourist district, Portside Coffee and Gelato offers a delightful experience with affordable prices, excellent cappuccinos, and a relaxing waterfront atmosphere. Visitors highly recommend this charming café as a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a cup of coffee. Even coffee connoisseurs from Missoula, MT, are impressed by Portside’s quality, rivaling their hometown favorites.

Nestled next to Ketch Grill & Taps on Shelter Island, Portside quickly becomes a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With its inviting ambiance, this coffee and gelato house provides something for everyone. While coffee lovers are thrilled with the exceptional brews, non-coffee drinkers can indulge in delicious Chai Tea or hot chocolate. The menu also boasts tempting breakfast sandwiches and pastries, satisfying both hunger and taste buds. With friendly service and reasonable prices, Portside Coffee and Gelato ensures a memorable visit.

Many guests consider Portside a hidden gem worth discovering. Its proximity to the marina makes it a convenient stop after a sailing trip or a leisurely stroll along the water. The café offers a cheery outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching or simply enjoying the scenic views. Whether you prefer their tasty drip coffee or the wide variety of gelato flavors, Portside is a must-visit destination. With quick counter service and an inviting alley-like setting, Portside Coffee and Gelato promises an excellent coffee experience and a delightful culinary adventure.

Skybound Coffee and Dessert Lounge

Address: 181 W Market St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: +1 (619) 255-6515
Website: skyboundcoffeedessert.com
Details: $$, Coffee shop

Located in San Diego’s Gaslamp area, Skybound Coffee and Dessert Lounge is a must-visit spot for breakfast or a quick coffee break. With an array of menu options including avocado toast, breakfast burritos, açaí bowls, and a variety of sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. The iced Vietnamese coffee is a standout choice and receives high praise from customers. The staff members are personable and attentive, ensuring a positive and efficient experience. In fact, the service is so quick that customers have shared stories of enjoying their meal and coffee before others waiting in long lines at nearby restaurants were even served.

Skybound Coffee and Dessert Lounge stands out for its friendly atmosphere and dedication to quality. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious croissant sandwich or a perfectly brewed cappuccino, this café delivers. The attention to detail extends to the coffee beans, which are sourced locally and roasted on-site, resulting in a delightful cup of joe. For those with dietary restrictions, the café is known for accommodating various allergies, ensuring a pleasant and inclusive dining experience.

Customers also rave about the excellent customer service they receive at Skybound. Baristas are not only skilled but also friendly and personable, making each visit enjoyable. The café’s bright and welcoming atmosphere adds to the overall appeal, providing a pleasant environment for guests to relax and enjoy their coffee or desserts. From the delectable desserts to the high-quality espresso, Skybound Coffee and Dessert Lounge is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit.

In conclusion, San Diego offers a diverse and vibrant coffee and tea scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From cozy local cafes to trendy dessert lounges, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur, tea enthusiast, or simply looking for a cozy atmosphere to relax and savor your favorite beverage, San Diego has it all. So, the next time you find yourself in this beautiful city, be sure to explore the best coffee and tea shops it has to offer and indulge in a delightful caffeinated experience.