50 Best Cafes near National City

“Great place and wonderful staff. Unfortunately it's for military only. If you or somebody you know can get on base I highly recommend a visit. Food is very good and the staff is very polite and friendly. Maybe a bit pricey for some things but the visit is worth it.“

“I had the beef biryani delivered to my place. I wanted it spicy. They did and it was perfect. The food was delicious! I will be ordering from them again for sure!“

“great staff. great food. so far I've had a few of their different plates, and all have been good“

“After eating here I can't help but ask, " where have you been all my life?"
The Oriental Cafe offers generous portions for generous prices and unless you've fasted the whole day you will be bringing home Leftovers.
The staff is friendly and efficient as they tend to the constant flow of customers that filled the humble establishment.
Some may take mark down this Cafe for its simplistic decor; but others, like myself, find it charming. And after trying their dishes, it only adds delight to find a nice whole in the wall that let's their dishes speak for themselves.
I recommend dining in because you will get a serving of their egg drop soup and it is absolutely worth trying. It's hearty flavor reminds you of the soup you wish you had on a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather.
This is an establishment that deserves its business and I am already planning on coming back and bringing more family to experience it themselves.“

“Great food and service. We didn’t have to wait. We were seated right away and I food came out quickly.“

“Very nice environment and outstanding food and entertainment 👌 😀“

“Really cool and unique coffee! I went in and just asked the barista to give me two coffees he recommended and it did not disappoint! We got the black nitro cold brew and the honey lavender and both were delicious! Also got a donut and it was also great. The barista was so friendly! I would totally make this my go to coffee spot when we visit Coronado.“

“Went for brunch with my wife, found parking right outside on the street. No wait when we showed up but the place was far from empty. Loved the plants everywhere and open design. Wife ordered a Greek breakfast with chicken I had the eggs and potatoes with chicken and a cold brew, I skipped the coconut foam, just not my thing. The portions were large and it was a filling meal. The chicken was done to perfection! The house hot sauce of was great and the potatoes were nice and crispy on the edges. Overall a great little spot!“

“Tastylife™️. Would buy treats again.“

“Cannot wait to go back and enjoy the the food, excellent service and ambience of this restaurant. We often each brunch here and their chef events are amazing! I savor every bite 🤤“

“Great food, fun and quirky vibe.“

“Charming atmosphere and wonderful tasting as well as beautiful dessert s.“

“Met Toran at our work event and he shared his story… What an amazing business! Everyone needs to go and try this pudding!!! I will always support a business that supports the community and will always show up when asked! Thanks for the amazing pudding, and for showing up!“

“Highly recommend- tell them it's your first and you get the tour of the menu and art. Great prices, food, drinks and outstanding service. See you there.“

“I would’ve loved to give this place 5/5, but the heat in the store is miserable. I feel extremely bad for the girls working efficiently in the heat. Coffee is good, matcha looks good but not my thing.

I recommend the owner look into getting a real AC instead of dingy fans. I understand it’s a store-front coffee shop, but the heat was circulating in the shop from those fans. It felt unclean, sticky, and muggy inside.“

“Yummy sandwiches and perfect scones! Also has a cute wine selection and great seating. Got the signature breakfast sandwich which was really good, avocado was a bit brown and they forgot my chili oil (that I paid extra for) so that knocked some points down. Suggested to me by TikTok, pretty good for a TikTok rec!“

“The best food! The best steaks, drinks and deserts and popovers! The staff at every level is friendly, helpful and professional. The ambiance is amazing. The place feels classy, but not intimidating or unwelcoming. Chef Deborah knows what she is doing with this successful restaurant. I hope you are always here to come back to!“

“Great fun to be had at Coffee Cycle. Fun people, great coffee and if you ride a bike to the shop you will receive praise!“

“Todo riquisimo muy amables y atentos“

“Love the bakery and matcha latte!“

“This is now my favorite coffee shop. Everything about this spot was perfect. The breakfast panini was delicious and the mexican mocha with oat milk was amazing. Their outside patio reminds me of a time with my family in Mexico . 10/10 would recommend.“

“Nice place to relax and chill away from the house“

“Audrey was the best! We came from Maine and short notice we were able to get a dozen cupcakes ordered for pickup with 2 days notice. They were fantastic and gone quickly!! Thank you again!!“

“I’m a local customer for over 25 years. I love this place every thing is well prepare with love. The owners are always happy to see the customers! One of my favorite is the Mexican Mocha, the breakfast sandwich. To say the least everything on the menu is excellent. I’ve rather support this small family coffee shop, then Starbucks. Thank you so much for caring for you’re customers and the great food. Many Blessings!“

“la nieve muy deliciosa(Gelato) matcha late no esta muy concentrado como ami me gusta, el pan que venden muy rico, la chicas que atienden muy amables, pero sobre todo una vista maravillosa... P.D. precios accesibles.“

“Quaint . Great service and food“

“Always great service and delicious food prepared fresh. Family atmosphere and worth the wait.“

“Love the coffee shop! Perfect lattes with our giant cinnamon roll with cream cheese frosting. Excellent employees! Atmosphere is adorable. Highly recommend 10/10!!“

“The workers are always so kind and ready to greet you with a smile. The restaurant is always clean and has a welcoming feeling as soon as u enter. The dishes are always clean in the mornings, not like other restaurants where you see dirty spots on the cups. It's just amazing service especially on Sundays the busy days. Props to everyone working there. The owner really knows how to manage a restaurant. I will recommend many friends and family to eat here knowing they'll leave satisfied. The young looking guy that's always wearing an apron on Sundays and sweeping, working nonstop is always saying hi to everyone and very kind. He looks like a hardworker.

Vegetarian options: They have plenty of yummy vegetarian options. Just let them know what your craving and they will accommodate.

Parking: They have plenty of parking. And extra parking.

Kid-friendliness: The workers are always very sweet and patient with the kids. My daughter loves going to give them hugs.“

“Awesome little coffee shop! Kim's baked treats are to die for. She brightens everyone's day and makes you feel like family. The 1st Avenue neighborhood is lucky to have her.“

“Phenomenal service. Be warned this is cash only, but luckily I carry cash on me usually for these reasons. Cheap coffee and definitely good quality. Nice drive through makes it an easy stop before work as well. Would recommend if you're in the area“

“Always a fun visit. Every location has been great.“

“highly recommend this place! AMAZING coffee, DELICIOUS acid bowls and incredible breakfast croissants. The owner is awesome and the staff is incredibly friendly. I will definitely be returning (:“

“I am new to IB and am just so impressed with Katy's Cafe! They are busy (so you know they're good!), but they get your order out quick. The staff is friendly, inviting and accommodating! I had my dog and daughter and they could obviously tell that I had my hands full and brought my order outside to me without me even asking. I have definitely found my go to local coffee shop!“

“I really enjoy the coffee here, it’s consistently great but the overall experience could be improved. The atmosphere tends to feel warm and stuffy since there’s no AC, which makes it uncomfortable to work for long periods. The music is also quite loud, making it hard to have a conversation with friends. Because of these issues, I’ve stopped recommending the café, even though the drinks themselves are excellent.“

“The two time I have been here, the service is beyond! The food amazing. I do not recall the waitress name, but both times she has been our waitress. She's about 5 1' 52'. Dark black hair speaks Spanish as well. She is such a nice waitress & fast. All the staff is great. Its nice to have breakfast/ lunch where kindness still exists.“

“Great customer service great food Great coffee Highly recommended“

“Patisserie Melanie keeps surprising me with incredible pastries. Their kouignette is absolutely sublime. I usually get my order to go, but everything I have tried has been top quality. In my opinion, it is one of the best pastry spots in San Diego. Prices are on the higher side but totally worth it.“

“I got the soy chorizo burrito with breakfast potatoes and a mimosa. There's some other veggie options like a veg omelette, a wrap, chilaquiles, impossible burger, and some other things. Coffee and drink selection looks good. There's a nice little patio outside I sat in. There's a few 1 hr reserved spots in the parking garage for this place. Definitely a nice morning treat for myself.

Parking: There's some 1hr reserved spots in the parking garage.“

“Exelente servicio y todo de primera calidad súper recomendado“

“Papaleco is a true gem in the neighborhood! Their gelato is absolutely amazing — so creamy, flavorful, and authentic. You can really taste the quality in every scoop.

All of their paninis are perfect, with the freshest ingredients and just the right balance of flavors. I’ve also tried their toasted sandwiches, and they are just as delicious — warm, crispy, and satisfying.

The place has such a charming, local vibe. It’s the kind of spot that makes the whole neighborhood feel cozy and welcoming. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick treat or sitting down for a bite, Papaleco never disappoints.

Highly recommend if you’re in the area — it’s one of those places you’ll want to come back to again and again!“

“Tried:
Matcha Jin Xuan Oolong
Iced - Regular
75% Sweetness

The Oolong tea flavor was stronger than the Matcha but the drink was good.

BA-LA Matcha
Iced - Regular
25% Sweetness

A fruity twist to the classic matcha taste. The guava flavor definitely predominates, so keep that in mind.

Popcorn Chicken
Thigh (Dark meat)

I really enjoyed that Chicken especially with the dipping sauce.“

“Great drinks and food - with fantastic customer service!“

“Heard great things about this place and finally stopped by — it didn’t disappoint! There’s plenty of indoor seating, which is perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends. Street parking is a bit limited, so plan ahead if you're driving.
We ordered the iced caramel and vanilla lattes — both were smooth and refreshing. Also tried the Velvet Knot and chocolate mousse pastries. Not only were they beautifully presented, but they tasted just as amazing as they looked. A lovely spot for coffee and dessert!“

“Amazing cultural events. Ongoing. Something for everybody: music, dance, celebration.“

“Awesomeness had great time“

“Best açaí bowls in California! Love the vibe and the family atmosphere. Felipe sandra & Saulo are the best!!“

“Wow, such great food and awesome service! Had the lobster roll and it was quality lobster and overflowing with actual meat. Everything was delicious.“

“Absolutely LOVE Ultreya! Both locations are top notch. We love it so much that we get coffee beans sent to us in Illinois. Great staff, great coffee, great tea, delicious food and pastries, and amazing owners. If you haven’t been here, you will be in love after you go!“

“Great vibe and crowd! Kava is excellent!“