I had one of the most embarrassing experiences of my life at this café on Saturday, Nov 8, 2025, around 10 AM. I brought two of my close friends who were visiting Del Mar, and we decided to stop in before heading back to Monarch for dinner that evening.
I ordered three black coffees (with light cream on the side) and two muffins, which I kindly asked to be warmed. The muffins came out cold, and the coffees were overly creamy and barely warm. When I asked for the muffins to be heated, one of the girls said, “We use a toaster or something like that — it might not warm them enough,” which was odd since I had only asked for them to be warm.
When I went back to address the issue, another staff member — who seemed to be the manager — told me angrily to throw the coffees in the garbage myself. As we were sitting down and deciding whether to leave, the same manager or another worker — I’m not sure which — slapped the coffees off the counter in a mafia-style manner. We heard a loud splash, like a big drop, as the drinks hit the floor. My friends and I were completely shocked and embarrassed. The experience ruined what was supposed to be a simple morning outing, and we decided not to go to Monarch for dinner afterward.
After checking the café’s Google reviews, I noticed another customer mentioned a similar experience with staff attitude. As a business owner myself, and with both of my friends also being business owners, I felt it was right to share this publicly. I had already tipped at the register, which made the entire situation even more disappointing.
arlene dayrit
the service was so amazing ◡̈ the baristas were so amicable and helpful. they made great recommendations! and the drinks were sooo yummmy !! honestly perfection ◡̈
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Mindi Lyons (Mindi Lyons)
My daughter and I discovered this place and when I saw they were women owned and advocates of women’s empowerment, I couldn’t wait to try it! Milan greeted us with such friendliness and we chatted it up while she made our selections. I couldn’t get over the pink heart shaped straws. 🤩 You can’t beat the views or the kind service…plenty of places to sit and the outdoor area has WiFi access also!
Wish they had a rewards program cuz I’ll definitely be a regular. ☕️ ☕️ ☕️
Kacey
I’ve always had a wonderful experience at Kini Coffee — great drinks, cute location, and friendly service in the past. However, today I had an unpleasant encounter with a barista on the bar who had a passive-aggressive attitude when I politely asked if my order was made with the correct syrup. It was disappointing, especially given how positive my previous visits have been. I hope she can learn to give their customers more patience and a lot less attitude next time.
Service: 1
Rouin Oskoui
Jena and Milan are fantastic , friendly with a smiley face all the time 😊
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Paige Thiermann
This is family’s favorite coffee spot in Del Mar! The drinks are perfection! We particularly love the golden girl and matcha. My son is always asking for strawberry milk. The service is outstanding-everyone is welcoming and knowledgeable. Gemma is our favorite!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Pet Peevs
cute little shop, variety of coffee flavors available
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Marcia Horstman
The owner, who served me, was very pleasant and friendly to deal with. She was helpful and knowledgeable. The dirty chai latte was delicious and I LOVED the pretty cups with bright pink lids and bright pink sleeve. I’m impressed that the business is women owned and operated. I highly recommend it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Dominic Wild
Incredible staff and amazing place, couldn’t recommend it more!
This place is awesome! All the staff are extremely friendly, and the coffee is great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Branon McCain
One of Del Mar's hidden little gems... great coffee, great view, and great customer service. Perfect spot for a quick break!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Defne Sağlam
Best coffee I’ve had in a while!! Not only is the view absolutely amazing, the baristas are also the nicest! If you are in Del Mar, this place is a must visit!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kieran Hilditch
Love this place. Always great coffee and great staff. I come here to do some work outside of the office. Gemma is my fav, always has a big smile and warm greetings. Recommend anyone to in the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kat M
This is one of my go-to coffee shops! All of the staff are super sweet and always have new recommendations if you can't pick a drink. It's so beautiful and beachy up there and the shack is decorated so beautifully! Definitely recommend coming here, you won't be disappointed :)
I had one of the most embarrassing experiences of my life at this café on Saturday, Nov 8, 2025, around 10 AM. I brought two of my close friends who were visiting Del Mar, and we decided to stop in before heading back to Monarch for dinner that evening.
I ordered three black coffees (with light cream on the side) and two muffins, which I kindly asked to be warmed. The muffins came out cold, and the coffees were overly creamy and barely warm. When I asked for the muffins to be heated, one of the girls said, “We use a toaster or something like that — it might not warm them enough,” which was odd since I had only asked for them to be warm.
When I went back to address the issue, another staff member — who seemed to be the manager — told me angrily to throw the coffees in the garbage myself. As we were sitting down and deciding whether to leave, the same manager or another worker — I’m not sure which — slapped the coffees off the counter in a mafia-style manner. We heard a loud splash, like a big drop, as the drinks hit the floor. My friends and I were completely shocked and embarrassed. The experience ruined what was supposed to be a simple morning outing, and we decided not to go to Monarch for dinner afterward.
After checking the café’s Google reviews, I noticed another customer mentioned a similar experience with staff attitude. As a business owner myself, and with both of my friends also being business owners, I felt it was right to share this publicly. I had already tipped at the register, which made the entire situation even more disappointing.
the service was so amazing ◡̈ the baristas were so amicable and helpful. they made great recommendations! and the drinks were sooo yummmy !! honestly perfection ◡̈
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
My daughter and I discovered this place and when I saw they were women owned and advocates of women’s empowerment, I couldn’t wait to try it! Milan greeted us with such friendliness and we chatted it up while she made our selections. I couldn’t get over the pink heart shaped straws. 🤩 You can’t beat the views or the kind service…plenty of places to sit and the outdoor area has WiFi access also!
Wish they had a rewards program cuz I’ll definitely be a regular. ☕️ ☕️ ☕️
I’ve always had a wonderful experience at Kini Coffee — great drinks, cute location, and friendly service in the past. However, today I had an unpleasant encounter with a barista on the bar who had a passive-aggressive attitude when I politely asked if my order was made with the correct syrup. It was disappointing, especially given how positive my previous visits have been. I hope she can learn to give their customers more patience and a lot less attitude next time.
Service: 1
Jena and Milan are fantastic , friendly with a smiley face all the time 😊
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is family’s favorite coffee spot in Del Mar! The drinks are perfection! We particularly love the golden girl and matcha. My son is always asking for strawberry milk. The service is outstanding-everyone is welcoming and knowledgeable. Gemma is our favorite!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
cute little shop, variety of coffee flavors available
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
The owner, who served me, was very pleasant and friendly to deal with. She was helpful and knowledgeable. The dirty chai latte was delicious and I LOVED the pretty cups with bright pink lids and bright pink sleeve. I’m impressed that the business is women owned and operated. I highly recommend it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Incredible staff and amazing place, couldn’t recommend it more!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great views
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
This place is awesome! All the staff are extremely friendly, and the coffee is great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
One of Del Mar's hidden little gems... great coffee, great view, and great customer service. Perfect spot for a quick break!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best coffee I’ve had in a while!! Not only is the view absolutely amazing, the baristas are also the nicest! If you are in Del Mar, this place is a must visit!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Love this place. Always great coffee and great staff. I come here to do some work outside of the office. Gemma is my fav, always has a big smile and warm greetings. Recommend anyone to in the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is one of my go-to coffee shops! All of the staff are super sweet and always have new recommendations if you can't pick a drink. It's so beautiful and beachy up there and the shack is decorated so beautifully! Definitely recommend coming here, you won't be disappointed :)
Dietary restrictions: They have dairy free milk!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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