Whether you like to enjoy a full-bodied, fair trade certified cup of coffee now and then, or you wish you could have the brown liquid injected directly into your bloodstream, Downtown San Diego is overflowing with unique coffee shops to satisfy your coffee cravings. Because there are so many options, we thought we’d help narrow down your decisions with a few of our favorites here at 92101 Urban Living.
Elixir Espresso Bar
427 C Street
Named after the elixir of life, a magical potion believed to cure all ills, this coffee bar turns coffee lovers into addicts, with many claiming there’s no better place for a great cup of coffee. Centrally located in the downtown district at C and 5th, the Elixir Espresso bar calls the lobby of the historic Marston building home, giving it a unique vibe that combines the historic past of San Diego with a few modern touches. Aside from their classic espresso based drinks, they also serve up sweet and savory crepes that offer patrons even more incentive to return.
James Coffee Co
2355 India Street
The restaurants and shops in the downtown district cater to a unique urban crowd, and James Coffee Co, owned by the guitarist from Angels and Airwaves, is a prime example. The building itself is an industrial warehouse, offering a trendy, yet casual vibe. Follow the neon lights to find the coffee cart, serving up classic drinks and offering a twist on the traditional by allowing you to flavor your coffee with all natural sweeteners such as honey, cinnamon and almond milk. While the coffee gets rave reviews from both the residents in Little Italy and visiting guests, the building also includes a small shop for leather goods and a full-service barber. Talk about a one-stop shop!
Halcyon
429 Island Avenue
One of the newest players in the Downtown San Diego coffee game, Halcyon is the East Village’s new go-to spot for a great cup of coffee. Along with hot and iced coffees, they also offer tea, shakes and smoothies and a chocolate espresso martini, which is quickly becoming a number one menu item. This coffee house by day and lounge by night promotes a relaxed, community gathering place where visitors can hang out after work, meet-up with friends or share a romantic evening on a date.
Christine’s Coffee Co
6th & B Street
Like to stay local with your coffee? Then Christine’s Coffee Co is the best choice for you. More of a small coffee cart, if you will, Christine’s is a popular choice among businessmen and women who need a little bit of an extra jolt to get their day going. Although the coffee shop isn’t open on the weekends, you can find Christine serving up everything from classic Americano’s to pumpkin soy lattes. And what patrons claim to be the best part? The barista! Christine herself manages the cart daily and serves up each cup o’ Joe with a friendly smile.
These urban coffee shops support the new idea of mixed-use communities, where residential buildings and businesses are grouped closely together so residents are within walking distance of everything they could ever need. We’re excited to see how the increase of people wanting to live in the Gaslamp Quarter, East Village and other downtown San Diego neighborhoods is going to change the local landscape, offering residents more options for dining and entertainment than ever. ')}