Best Coffee Shops in San Diego, California

San Diego’s coffee scene offers everything from specialty roasters to cozy neighborhood cafés. Whether you’re after a strong espresso, a smooth cold brew, or a unique blend, the city has plenty of options to explore. Here’s a look at some of the best coffee shops in San Diego.

Kind Coffee

Kind Coffee in San Diego
Credit: Guy M

Website: kindcoffee.us
Location: 703 Ash St, San Diego, CA

This small but mighty coffee shop focuses on quality over quantity, delivering smooth espresso and rich lattes with expertly sourced beans. With friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where regulars feel right at home.

Spill The Beans Coffee and Bagels

Spill The Beans Coffee and Bagels in San Diego
Credit: Kelly Lee

Website: spillthebeanssd.com
Location: 813 W Harbor Dr Unit C-7, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 230-5130

Known for serving both handcrafted coffee and delicious bagels, this spot combines a great breakfast experience with high-quality espresso drinks. Their cold brew is strong and refreshing, perfect for a warm San Diego morning.

Goldchild Coffee Roasters

Goldchild Coffee Roasters in San Diego
Credit: Hanna Scott

Website: goldchildcoffee.com
Location: 240 Broadway, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 885-7413

Goldchild takes pride in its high-quality roasts, offering a smooth, full-bodied coffee experience. Every cup is brewed with care, and the minimalist interior lets the coffee be the star.

Dunkin’

Dunkin' in San Diego
Credit: Chris

Website: dunkindonuts.com
Location: 225 Broadway #100, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 202-6739

Dunkin’ keeps things classic with a variety of brewed coffee options, sweetened iced lattes, and signature donuts. If you need a fast and familiar coffee fix, this spot gets the job done.

Blue Bottle Coffee

Blue Bottle Coffee in San Diego
Credit: Kent W

Website: bluebottlecoffee.com
Location: 180 Broadway Suite 101, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (510) 661-3510

Blue Bottle Coffee delivers high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee with a smooth, balanced flavor. Their pour-over coffee is one of the best in the city, offering a clean taste that highlights the unique characteristics of each bean.

Portside Coffee & Gelato

Portside Coffee & Gelato in San Diego
Credit: Jessiz

Website: portsidecoffeeandgelato.com
Location: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 719-4964

This waterfront café combines expertly brewed coffee with homemade gelato. The espresso is bold, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to sit and enjoy the harbor views.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters in San DIego
Credit: Timothy Huang

Website: birdrockcoffee.com
Location: 1420 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 272-0203

One of the best specialty roasters in San Diego, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters emphasizes direct trade and sustainable sourcing. Their espresso is smooth, their pour-overs are rich, and their commitment to quality shines through in every cup.

Chiefy Cafe

Chiefy Cafe in San Diego
Credit: 黃凱

Website: chiefycafe.com
Location: 777 Sixth Ave STE 105, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 501-8458

With a modern and stylish interior, Chiefy Cafe offers top-tier espresso drinks and a solid selection of pastries. Their oat milk lattes and matcha drinks are local favorites.

skybound coffee + dessert lounge

skybound coffee + dessert lounge in San Diego
Credit:Ram Kumar

Website: skyboundmelrose.square.site
Location: 181 W Market St, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 255-6515

Skybound Coffee provides the perfect mix of strong espresso and delicious desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for a cappuccino or a slice of cake, this café has something for everyone.

Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels

Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels in San Diego
Credit: Reza Nickmanesh

Website: spillthebeanssd.com
Location: 555 Market St, San Diego, CA
Phone number: (619) 233-3836

The house-made bagels here are a standout, and the coffee is strong and flavorful. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, satisfying breakfast and a caffeine fix.