50 Best Cafes near Rancho Santa Fe

“Charming cottage has the best food and atmosphere!“

“Best Italian coffee as well as matcha I have ever had! It is now a regular stop on the way to SD. 🫶CK 🇺🇸“

“I like Caffe Positano - coffee is good and convenient. They should get a microwave so croissants and muffins can be warmed up. It would improve the food experience immensely“

“I love the coffee here!! 🤤“

“Every dish felt both thoughtful and indulgent — the kind of food that looks beautiful but also delivers on flavor.

We ordered the çılbır (Turkish eggs) and added the hanger steak, and honestly, it was perfection. The steak was grilled beautifully — juicy, tender, and right at medium rare — and it paired seamlessly with the soft-poached eggs. The herbed yogurt added this cool, tangy balance to the rich chili-garlic butter, and the torn herbs gave everything a bright, fresh lift. Every bite had that ideal mix of creamy, spicy, and savory. The toast was golden and crunchy, perfect for chasing down every bit of sauce.

Then came the torrija (Spanish-style French toast), and wow. It’s rich without being heavy — a thick-cut sourdough soaked in yuzu cheesecake custard, topped with pecans, pear, and candied ginger. The textures were layered beautifully: crisp edges, custardy center, bright citrus notes cutting through the sweetness. It’s one of those dishes that makes you stop mid-bite just to appreciate what’s happening.

Manna feels like the kind of place where brunch becomes an experience — cozy, elevated, and genuinely creative. Every plate feels crafted with care, and it shows.

If you love brunch done thoughtfully, this is it.“

“Authentic and genuine staff. Friendly and welcoming. Guided us to new drinks that were the 💣!!“

“I met Marcela and Amina at an industry event recently and they were AWESOME! They have the cutest cart, the most delicious drinks, and best of all - they are just incredibly fun to hang out with! Highly highly recommend for a holiday party, wedding, industry event... seriously anything. Love them!“

“On my first visit I was greeted with an incredible smile and the willingness to get my straight matcha perfected even if she had to add more matcha or more water. On top of this amazing hospitality, I was treated to a beautiful message on my cup. 20 plus years at Starbucks and I have never got a heart. ❤️“

“2025- it's been a while, So Needed this place ! Still in Love w/everything here! #2 Burrito 🌯

- Update! - Cards Accepted; Must Visit and Food is still incredible!!

$ Cash Only! -But SO Worth it! Everything's larger portioned & Delicious! !“

“The epitome of classic Encinitas! The food hits the spot every time—especially if you love a good diner meal. The staff are long-term, friendly, and familiar (I’ve enjoyed this place for 11 years and counting). I always love the art, decorations and environment. Encinitas Cafe is a regular spot for my family! I hope it never changes 🥰“

“If you’re looking for a local gem, this woman-owned café is it! Elissa, the owner, has created a French-inspired menu that’s both comforting and delicious. From fresh sandwiches and crisp salads to daily specials and baked goods, everything here is made with so much care and flavor. The empanadas are an absolute must-try (so good!).

What I love most is the variety—whether you’re in the mood for a deli-style favorite or something with a French twist, Elissa always has something incredible on the menu. It’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a casual meeting, or just treating yourself to something fresh and homemade. If you live or work in the area, you definitely need to stop by—you’ll leave already planning your next visit.“

“Great coffee and convenient. Always pleasant staff. ☕️🌈“

“Grilled Shrimp bowl….delicious“

“Not only does Drew knowledge of coffee exceed your expectations, but the service is always friendly and the product is on point! Not to mention the merchandise is well priced and the t-shirts are super soft. He even delivers so there’s no need to worry about when you’re going to get it! A little joy is exactly what you feel when you’re doing business here!“

“I come here almost daily because I am obsessed with their match Tres leches with matcha boba and egg pudding. It's a combination that lives in my taste buds memory. like the marriage between a matcha frappe with flan. At the family table came boba and a snow cap that easily translates to tantalizing flavors jumping for joy! Then the Bahn mi is packed with the perfect ratio of meat, picked carrots, cucumber, and JALAPEÑOS!!! I love a jalapeño that delivers and these always hit the mark. The fact that the ingredients are fresh and natural are major brownie points.“

“Best food i have had in my life. Nice people and good service. I have ate there so many times and order diffrent things every time. Best café in all of rb“

“I love this place! You can stop by and get everything always with all the attention of the employees and taste the best things 😋♥️“

“We go to Donutopolis a couple times a month and they are always so friendly and the donuts are delicious! ❤❤“

“Everyone there is so nice and helpful.“

“the coffe and the pastries. i need to go back and try more delights from the menu.“

“I love this place and the sweet people who work here! My favorite meal is the trifecta of a basil chicken wrap, naked salad, and the best carrot ginger soup ever! It’s not on the regular menu anymore, but can be requested as it’s still in their computer listing. The new back grass patio dining area beneath giant old pines is a hidden treasure that opened during CoVid.“

“I love the vibe at Lofty. The coffee is great, food is delicious and the staff is very welcoming, helpful and professional! I frequently to the the one in Carlsbad, because I can charge my Tesla at the charging station, but also go to Encinitas at least twice a month as well! Lofty is my favorite coffee in N. County San Diego!“

“Hidden gem in Del Mar! Tucked behind a charming Spanish-style hacienda, this café has the coziest ambience with gentle water drizzles. The panini was the best I’ve ever had—perfectly grilled and flavorful. Their soups are incredibly delicious too. A must-visit lunch spot for great food and relaxing vibes!“

“Amazing coffee! Wonderful Baristas! Will absolutely be back whenever I'm in San Diego!“

“Great venue and Great service“

“The very best Indian food I have ever eaten in all of San Diego county.“

“delicious food, lovely atmosphere, great service“

“Incredible folks out here at James. Really a locals-only gem in Escondido. Pastries can't be beat; the cortado gives me hope. ☕️🥐“

“"Cat & Craft - Cafe" good“

“Hands down the best breakfast spot in Solana Beach! Excellent service and a great variety of tasty & healthy menu options. Some of our favorites are the Crispy Burritos, Huevos Rancheros, Banana/Blackberry Pancakes and Green Heart Quesadilla. 10/10 would recommend, much better than Claire's IMO.“

“My order was wrong, so the young lady said she would remake it. She started to just dump some and use some of the original drink until she saw me watching, and then she remade it from scratch.

She then gave me a card good for a free drink, and I thought that was very nice until I realized that it had multiple footprints on the back. Now I'm just grossed out. 🤢“

“This place is great! We tried a few other coffee places in the area and this was by far the best coffee (not too sweet and great flavor). Everyone was super nice and gracious. We had the açaí bowl, toasted quickie, and flower child. All were top notch. Salted caramel latte was yummy as was the Turkish latte and regular latte.“

“April Cardenas is the skill behind the scenes/in the kitchen. 100% respect to her commitment to this long standing little gem of Leucadia. The personal touch she infuses in everything she does cannot be quantified in dollars nor words. And the beautiful women at the counter are professional and nice.“

“I love coming to this café! The lattes are always perfectly made, and the atmosphere is so cozy. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, which makes every visit a pleasure. It's my go-to spot for a great cup of coffee. Highly recommend!“

“Came in here to work for a couple of hours, it’s a lovely spacious,airy place with lots of natural lighting and high vaulted ceilings! It’s definitely a hidden gem cafe. The lunch was really good too, and the staff are really pleasant and efficient. Also, the Wifi is free and pretty good.
For food: we had the Latte, Breakfast Burrito, Bread Pudding and tomato soup.
Parking: There’s free street parking.
Lots of outlets for charging.
Indoor and Outdoor seating available.“

“Everything I’ve tried has been delicious, filling, and healthful. Sometimes I grab a smoothie or coffee after working out so I don’t have to settle for overpriced fast food while I’m on the road. I order ahead and it’s always ready!“

“Absolutely the Best and most welcoming Coffee shop Ive enjoyed! To know that it's Mission oriented is so pleasing to the Lord♡! Great salads and of course coffee too!“

“I would recommend the Belgian waffle, grilled veggie salad with grilled chicken and the salmon with roasted potatoes. Yummm“

“This spot is definitely gorgeous for a coffee break. Awesome view and clearly a local student/staff favorite. They grilled our egg salad sandwich in the panini maker and the iced matcha latte was delicious. The crew here helpful And warm. Also very quick. I only wish there was more “bar style” seating for those who tend to linger for hours on their own instead of taking up a whole table. It’s been super crowded with no seating the last few months bc people tend to stay for hours working. Which I totally understand. But for a UCSD alum like me, I may just wanna sit for half an hour maybe an hour at most and often there is no seating. That’s my only suggestion. Add single person searing. But I’ll definitely be back and hope to come before a “rush”. The line can get very long. (I get it. I used to work in a cafe at the Price Center and it was crazy there). Also would Love if they stayed open later. One can only hope.“

“Excellent spot in Solana Beach, right on Main Street. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Since I went on a weekend, the line to order was quite long, but because many people were ordering to go, I was still able to find a table. It’s a great place to study or work in Solana Beach, and the latte and bagel were both good as well.“

“love ❤love.... only get out this way once a year but we have fallen in love w Encinitas and we come back here every time“

“The owner, Isabelle, is friendly, helpful, and works very hard. I obviously love this bakery as I have been going for years. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is like being in a small town. I highly recommend going to Isabelle's often ❤“

“I simply do not understand the other reviewers saying the food and/or service was subpar. My husband and I were there on an anniversary trip from Atlanta and this was a SUPER fun lunch stop as we were out walking Solana Beach. There’s even the tiniest view of the ocean from the front porch bar seats. The customer service was INCREDIBLE. We were served our food quickly even though there were several other customers at the same time. Food portions were very generous. The owner took time to talk to us personally and was incredibly friendly. Seriously one of the highlights of our trip. It’s a “shack” and that’s the vibe they are going for and it totally works. Great atmosphere. Great food. Great service. Not sure what else you could ask for from a fast food establishment. Don’t pass by! Definitely give it a try! It’s something unique. Not just another burger, taco or chicken sandwich. And be sure to talk to Sindi if she’s there. She’s just lovely to chat with. Recommend 10/10!!“

“great smores and also a strawberry and nutella crepe today. great size. flavor on both. will be back for sure.“

“First come, first serve. It’s a nice place. kind of tight to back into as you’ll be backing off of a small somewhat busy road. two docks, one truck unloading/loading at a time. fast crew though. you’ll be able to find parking on the side of the street, which is a nice plus.“

“Delicious healthy food. Coffee is amazing. Shelley’s homemade granola with cinnamon bark essential oil is to die for. The staff is always friendly and attentive. They always ask me how I liked everything. They really care about their customers!“

“Tried this spot on a Saturday before driving down to SD. We got a chai latte and strawberry scone. Both were delicious. I am not big on scones, however, the nice young lady at the counter let me know they are made in house by the owner. No joke, had to be one of the BEST scones I’ve ever eaten. Wow! Ambiance is nice too. A must try cafe in San Marcos.“

“Found parking -it's free!
There was a line out the door which made me think twice about going but because of time i choose to wait.
They had St Patty's theme drinks which were very creative including a Thin Mint Cold brew with Foam, a matcha drink, and can't remember the last one.... 😓

I got a Chacoinno .... a mushroom, cacao, plus more mix. It was such a good coffee I would Definitely“

“I ordered the breakfast sandwich served on a pretzel croissant, and it was sublime! Eggs were cooked perfectly. The croissant just added an extra flavor profile I am hooked. This is a little hidden café, literally in front of the library entrance.“

“A nice little Cafe overlooking the view. I feel like the Cafe is more for people who work here rather than open to public but you can still definitely get something. No coffee though, you can get coffee from thecoffee stand in front of the institute instead.“