I love coffee. There’s nothing like a cup to start your day, or a cup in the afternoon for a quick pick-me-up. And in San Diego, more and more great coffee shops have been opening! Here’s a list of some of the best places to grab a cup of joe in Carmel Valley and Del Mar.
Philz Coffee in Carmel Valley
Philz Coffee is located in the Del Mar Highlands Town Center, between the Tilly’s and Mendocino Farms. When you go in, you’re greeted with a counter of baristas, each making custom order pour-over coffees. Just line up at the bar and place your order, before heading to the cash register to pay. Try their Tesora, a medium roast, if you’re looking for something hot. Or, their mint mojito will turn anybody into an iced coffee fan.
Joe & the Juice in Carmel Valley
Located at the One Paseo shopping center right off the 5, Joe & The Juice is a juice bar and coffee shop! With large tables both inside and outside, it’s a great place to grab a drink and relax while enjoying the San Diego weather. They also have some great sandwiches, making this place is a go-to for brunch.
Blue Bottle Coffee in Carmel Valley
Blue Bottle Coffee sells some of the freshest coffee. Also located at One Paseo, Blue Bottle Coffee is a bright and airy store perfect for getting coffee to go or sitting down and getting some work done. At Blue Bottle, less is more. Try their cold brew, or for something hot, their espresso made with Hayes Valley beans is one of the smoothest I’ve ever had.
Birdrock Coffee in Del Mar
Is there anything more quintessential San Diego than sunny weather and an ocean view? Birdrock Coffee by the Torrey Pines Beach lets you enjoy some fresh coffee with an ocean breeze from its prime location. Named one of the Best Coffee Roasters in America by Forbes in 2018, Birdrock always offers a high-quality cup. I recommend their lattes; the macadamia nut latte is a favorite! Click here to get directions.
Swell Coffee in Del Mar
The ambiance at Swell can’t be beat, and since they roast their own coffee, neither can the coffee. Swell is a great place to sit down, order a drink “for here,” and just relax. For something different, try their matcha lattes. Their cold brews are also a great way to beat the sunny heat. Click here to get directions. Swell Coffee is also located next to my favorite yoga studio, CorePower Yoga.
These are just some of the best coffee shops I’ve tried locally, but San Diego has so many more wonderful spots. What are your favorite places to grab a cup of coffee? Let me know down in the comments!
