Great customer service. Cute spot. Great study or meeting environment. Delicious food and drink. The feta avocado toast is my favorite. I usually get the iced best drink ever but since it's October I decided to try some seasonal drinks- the brown sugar cold brew (not my favorite. Very strong coffee not a lot of brown sugar flavor) and the iced snickerdoodle latte (DELISH get it while you can). Service is great and friendly. I never leave disappointed. The only down side to the location is the parking read more

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Buzzing-: We have been waiting around for this place to open, initially we had no idea that this will be a new spot for better Buzz but recently found out they would open a new joint in Hillcrest which got us all excited. Ambience:- Well located, it's a great place and beautiful decor from inside. Has a nice vibe to it. It's good they 2 register counter coz on busy days it would be easier for customers. Seating was not as comfortable as expected and the only negative point I can think of is that they lack enough power outlets which can be a disappointment for those who sit in coffee shops for their laptops. It's looks huge from outside but when you actually sit inside, it doesn't do justice to seating as one would expect more seating. Have 3 floors but the top floor was not open to public today. Coffee:- Cappuccino and almond croissant was fabulous and would try out other things next time. Staff:- Very helpful and courteous, took out time on this busy opening day to explain their menu and served them to us on our table as well. read more

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I've been here a dozen times or so and haven't had time to post a review, but I love this place. The inside is chic, industrial, yet relaxing. The only problem is parking as there is no designated lot and you have to find street parking. This time I ordered the Hazelnut Delight coffee. Per usual, it was awesome. I like the Honey Latte too.. both are so good. There are other Better Buzz locations around SD, but this one is just cool. read more

Do you guys remember the days when Better Buzz was just a small drive-through window in PB with a line that wrapped around the corner practically every morning?! I do! I think I was late a few times because of that line... but oh well! :) I am so happy to see so much growth with their business. It really has turned into a San Diego staple. I love the space. If I knew nothing about coffee, I would come here for just the space. It always feels so warm and inviting, but also airy and open. It's a perfect space to curl up with a good book and a great cup of coffee whether you are there Sunday morning or Wednesday evening. I have not tried to study here, but there seems to be plenty of space. There's multiple floors, a meeting room (maybe you can rent?? I'm not sure), and lots of space to either study, collaborate on some work, or just hang out. Now to the coffee. I opted for the Rose Water Latte with coconut milk, and it was just perfectly rosey. There were actual crushed rose petals in my drink! Light, floral, and just something different from what you might normally get. I will definitely come back to get some breakfast at some point because the pastries and beet avocado toast look divine (this is why millennial can't save enough for retirement!). The line was pretty long when we got there, but I think it moved pretty quickly. We ordered in line, paid at the register, and within minutes our drinks were called. Friendly baristas, beautiful space, and of course, buzz-worthy coffee. Welcome to the neighborhood! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Beautiful! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

If you're a peets coffee drip drinker don't order their drip because it's just brown water no flavor taste like a cup of Folger.

Their matcha latte is my favorite! Our group came here 3 days in a row during our trip in SD, because we didn't feel the need to try any other coffee shops. I also had their horchata latte, and that was delicious as well! The service was consistently good throughout our multiple visits. It's definitely always crowded (for good reason) and parking might be a little hard, but I think it's worth it. Only true downside is they're not in the OC :( read more

First of all, the employees at Better Buzz Coffee are FIVE STARS. Thank you for your poise under pressure with a line out of the door and thank you to the rather stunning young man (hey, I am over 45 ... ) who offered me water. I love the kids at this place, they are happy and nice as all get out. I don't like what has happened to this historic building. I "get" that you Millenials want a sterile place with Hipster signs offering you 7.50 avocado and feta cheese toast. Bite you Gwenth Paltrow... you can buy a loaf of the same bread at Bread and Cie, Hass Avocados at Sprouts are .48 per avocado right now and eat off of that for a week. I won't be back, I will go up the street to Lestat's and Industrial Grind Coffee. I guess I saw from someone else's review that this place is like an office, I guess I missed that part. If that is what they are going for, they definitely succeeded. By the way, I go to coffee houses to DRINK COFFEE not to buy breakfast. The espresso is decent and they do have soy and almond milk. read more

They should have named this place 'Life Is Better Unplugged'...bc there are no outlets. At all. Anywhere. It is just not study or student friendly. Music is extremely loud for a coffee shop. Seats are uncomfortable, not for long sitting. Half of them don't even have backs-most are stools. Tables were full, people were stading around looking for seats and they didn't even open the upper deck or the conference-looking room. One star for their kick ass decorations. Sorry buzzed, I won't be back until there are more comfortable chairs, MORE chairs in general, lowered music volume, and at least SOME outlets in this digital age... read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - So uncomfortable- Not for long sitting. Surprising for a coffee shop. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Unless you're coming right when they open, I wouldn't bother trying to come here to study lol. I loved the atmosphere & the aesthetics but if you're coming here after 9am to study.. it's not gonna happen. They also barely have any outlets. I ordered: HOT GREEN TEA: It's tea so great as always. BEST DRINK EVER: My friend got this & like all the other locations, the drink itself was great! Next time I'm definitely gonna try their avocado toast cause it looks amazing! CUSTOMER SERVICE: Super chill, down to earth workers. *Goodluck finding parking in Hillcrest! Best bet would be going super early or on a Sunday afternoon for more parking.* read more

Parking here is kind of a nightmare! If you live in the local area it is definitely better to walk to. That being said my favorite drink is the iced lavender latte, very sweet and so delicious! They offer gluten free options too which I appreciate read more

If I were to rate this place on aesthetics it would be a 11/10 soooo beautiful. The atmosphere is great. I could spend the whole day here. Their coffee is ok. Overall if I need a place to study for a few hours this is the place! read more

Came in today to try the buzz about this location !! The parking is the tricky part in this location , so you'll have to maybe drive around or park around the block . Overall loved and enjoyed it! The atmosphere was great and so was the establishment . Very trendy ! The food was delicious ! The adult grilled cheese and the best drink ever was what I enjoyed and loved ! It was very busy but had our drinks and food in no time! I also loved that they were attentive to my puppy , bringing with a bowl of water and checking on him ! Highly recommended read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

A nice and pretty cafe! There are many seating areas but it was still completely packed when we went on Sunday night. I had the orange matcha latte which was amazing! The flavor was really well balanced and unique. Friends had the best drink ever and the chai latte, which were both too sweet for us. Will definitely come back to try more drinks. read more

WOW!!! Who would have thought that Hillcrest/Uptown needed another coffee shop? No one....that's who, except for the owners of Better Buzz Coffee. Boy am I glad that they didn't ask any of us for our opinion! This building had been vacant for quite a while and when we saw signs that a coffee shop was going in I couldn't imagine why we need another one in the area. Some good friends who live around the corner from here asked if I had been here yet. They said they thought it was the nicest coffee shop in San Diego. With that type of endorsement, I HAD to give them a try. I met my friends over there at 12:00 on a Friday afternoon. It was PACKED! I couldn't believe it. I ordered one of the drink specials: rose water latte. The cashier said everyone really like it and it will be very pretty. I started chatting with the barista, Garrett, and I jokingly asked if they were bussing people in from the college. He was super friendly and said that he was so happy working there. My rose water latte was very delicious and different from any other coffee drink I have ever had. (And I've been going to local coffee shops for about 35 years.). The space is designed well with lots of natural light and plenty of work/study space. The tile work is beautiful. I am already looking forward to my next visit. Better Buzz is going to be a great asset to the neighborhood. I hope that they will help the local schools with some fundraising possibilities...hint, hint. read more

Love this place! Ended up going here this past Sunday as I have been wanting to try this place since there is always a long line wanted to see what all the fuzz was about. Let's first start with the line, we went there an hr after they opened since we knew it was going to be packed if we waited the line was not too long but it definitely went by super fast. The staff there is so nice very happy and looks like they enjoy being there. I got the iced Vanilla and the Feta avocado toast it was sooooo good. The coffee hands down the best vanilla iced coffee. I love how they have a nice little seating area with cushion seats perfect for the little one to by comfy and sit still. Definitely going back! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Nice seating area especially for the little ones! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Ever wonder what the buzz about this place is all about? Well, continue reading through my fellow Yelpers reviews (and my own :D) and check out pictures and you may find yourself here loving it too (: This location keeps my love for their coffee consistent, or makes it even greater! The fact that they now have this location with indoor seating + food just makes me happy. Why? It makes for a great place to hang out and chat with friends along with some good coffee and pastries. Or if you are little hungry they offer small eats like Avocado Toast. As far as studying, I suggest bringing headphones/earphones because it can be fairly noisy unless you don't mind that. Also be mindful that it's a nice study spot, so space can be limited even with the additional floor. Only thing is, there's not that many outlets. Been here multiple times and baristas have been super nice and accommodating to any requests you may/may not have. The people working the front always have positive energy to keep the place lively. Love it. Overall: Great coffee now with a great spot to enjoy it at. Definitely give it a try! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Geez, this place has only been open for 8 or 9 days and I'm already the 31st review? Shame on me for not being FTR as I had been following this location's progress since I heard it was going in. Finally made it in today, and the space is great. I found a seat right away after ordering and was able to move to a more comfortable seat a few minutes later. Wifi was great (forgot to do a speed test). Looks like a lot of novels are being written here! Frankly, I was a bit disappointed with my batch brew coffee. Perhaps it's my fault since it wasn't on the menu and I inquired if they had it. The price was right at under $3 for a huge mug of it. But it just lacked the flavor profile I expect for a coffee out. Maybe I just had a weak batch, or perhaps Better Buzz just concentrates on their other drinks. I'll have to give it another try, but if it wasn't for the great interior, the coffee would not make me return. Also props to the friendly staff. Obviously they're trying to provide great service since they're new, but it's working. Everyone seemed happy, and I had a nice conversation with one of the workers from the Ukraine. If the coffee is better next time, I'll be going here more often. read more

Perfectly executed concept and delicious coffee to boot! Love the cute hexagon tables and chairs. The service is amazing, and it's easy to figure out. The upstairs doesn't offer as much seating as you'd expect bc most of it is office space. There about 15-18 seats upstairs. Lots of small hexagon tables seating 2 or 3. The downstairs has plenty of group seating (for six) or smaller tables for 2. There's also a good mix of bar height seats and traditional height seats (good for accessibility/wheelchair use). I got the "best drink ever" which is a vanilla americano with some milk (super delicious). I also got a standard drip coffee (very good). read more

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Came here today to get my coffee and i had a terrible experience. I waited longer than expected. I understand that there is social distancing and ordering may take a while but i noticed that the people behind me were getting their orders before mine. I asked one of the staff to follow up on my order. She just told me that they have issues on their ticket printer. Didn't bother to ask what is the name on my order or what i ordered. BAD CUSTOMER SERVICE! I felt ignored. Orders after another were coming out for the people that ordered after me and i was wondering if they lost my ticket order so i asked a different staff and told her the name on my order and what i ordered. She followed up with a little attitude and after 3 minutes i got my order. No ticket no name on the coffee cup. I wasn't sure if it was my order or not but i am 100% sure that the coffee didn't taste right. Also, the cashier didn't even offer to give my receipt. I left feeling disappointed. read more

Better Buzz Coffee Shop is newly opened for months now. It's a super cute shop to where you can come and have a bite to eat and a delicious hot or cold beverage. The staff is extremely friendly and greet every guest with a warm smile. You will always feel welcome. read more

The coffee here is really good and it's quirky and cutely decorated! Great for the 'gram! I ordered the honey latte with almond milk and an açaí bowl and both were yummy! However, it is not the best place to work or study as there are virtually wall plug ins to charge. There is a lot of seating both downstairs and upstairs though. Service was friendly! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Honey latte and açaí bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Coffee was great buuuuut... Bathroom had no toilet paper and no soap! Also, tables were filthy and no one was going around cleaning. Noticed multiple people on break yet no cleanliness. A place like this should be run much better. Way too lax. read more

Love this coffee shop! So cute, trendy with great breakfast foods...which is why the line is always out the door (seating can be tricky). Luckily I'm an earlier bird so I've never waited more than 10 minutes in line (arriving before 9am). Parking is kinda a pain too but on Sundays you can park next door at the Bank of America lot. Food: The honey latte is sweet, but delicious! breakfast sandwich (see pics) are scrumptious and big enough to share. The Feta Avocado toast is fuego!!! And my little one enjoyed the yogurt bowl w granola and fresh berries! read more

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Really do love the food and drinks but damn.. would have been nice if we were told we'd only get 2/3 of our drink when we ordered with light ice. Would have gotten a hot drink for $5.50. Is this the norm ? read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Iced Vanilla Bean Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Went two Saturdays ago around 8:30 in the morning for breakfast. We had been wanting to eat here for a while, since they have decent coffee at the Fashion Valley location...we were greatly disappointed because after being in line for a few minutes, the person at the register said they were not offering breakfast at that time because they were "backed up" (???) They literally had at least 5 workers in the front and not too many cuatomers at the tables. I don't know how a location that serves breakfast and has its menu out the front entrance is "backed up" at 8:30 am on a Saturday. Awful first impression for a place that looks nice and inviting from the outside. The owner should take a good look at how the place is operating. We're past "covid struggles" as an excuse phase. read more

The coffee at better buzz is very good. One of the best iced mochas. Today we got the mocha buzz which is a blended mocha which had a solid drizzle and tasted like blended chocolate milk. Although I think that the iced mocha is better than the blended. We also got the feta avocado toast. The avocado was perfectly ripe but I think they forgot to toast the bread. The lady sitting next me asked me if my bread was toasted because hers wasn't either. We didn't know if this was an accident or if this is how they make it but I prefer it to be toasted not avocado bread. read more

I recently found out that this Better Buzz location opened and I was so excited for my first visit (plus, it's the closest location from where I live, yes!!). It definitely exceeded my expectations. I love aesthetically pleasing coffee shops and since the "best drink ever" is my favorite drink, it was a win win for me. When you enter the shop, the coffee bar is in the middle of the first floor. You can order there and they serve different coffee/drinks. They also offer snacks like muffins, scones, toast, sandwiches and more. The decor inside is just wow! So many spots to take cute photos. All the seats are ranging from tall tables, short tables, tables with sofa cushion seats, or just small intimate tables for two. Did I mention that it has two stories? Yup, plenty of seating. The reason why I'm giving it 4/5 stars is because it closes early, sadly! I would love to hangout here or study after 8pm. Also, there weren't any plugs on the wall (or I just didn't see any from where I was sitting) so if you were going to study here, charge your laptop or whatever before coming here. Other than that, everything was great. Prepare to wait 5-10 mins for a seat since everyone is still coming in and checking out the place. I came on a Sunday at 3pm and it was packed but when I left at 6pm, there were some empty tables. The coffee here is amazing. Like I said, my favorite is the "best drink ever". I've tried other drinks like the blended vanilla and caramel buzz and it had the perfect amount of sweetness and coffee on both. I can't wait to try other drinks! Here, if you dine in, your drink is served in a glass mug unless you prefer the to-go cups. Now, service... It was spectacular!!! The staff were all so nice. They really want you to get the coffee exactly the way you want it. They even inform you what is in the drink you're ordering. Asks you if you have any questions about the menu. You come in and they're there smiling and ready to take your order and that made me feel really comfortable. So all in all, you'd definitely be seeing more of me here, lol. read more

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Better Buzz has been on my mind ever since the building started renovation. Getting more awesome coffee joints in Hillcrest is always welcome! We came here on opening day, and were (of course) greeted with a small line. Operation was smooth though; they have 2 registers and a full complement of staff. Everyone was incredibly friendly and willing to explain the menu options to us. We got the Best Drink Ever + the Iced Horchata Latte, and both the vanilla and horchata flavors were made in-house. With these two drinks plus an Adulting Grilled Cheese, the total came to $21 - a little pricey, but since everything is handcrafted, I won't complain. The building is b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l. Greenery, ambient lighting, on-theme decor, and a ton of seating. Sadly, this place is not meant to spend very long in - the seats are uncomfortable, and there are very few (if any) outlets for laptops. I won't be able to work from here, which is disappointing. Overall, a great place to get a drink in Hillcrest, and I can't wait to come back and try more! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Inside (before official opening, may be messy) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Food: I read food blogs to find out where the most tasty and beautiful food in town is when I travel. Take out your camera folks, Better Buzz Hillcrest is Instagram worthy. The avocado toast looks like it was the winner of the toast beauty pageant, and the coconut bliss coffee is out of this world. We did stop in to get a carbonated ice tea drink after a long walk through balboa park and it was awful, but overall I have had many wins in my two trips here with friends and family. Atmosphere: Looking for a fun place to take your out of town guest to show them just how trendy and fun we San Diego people are? This is the spot for you. If you are looking for and stunning not so little coffee shop to grab and trendy bite and and decent cup of coffee (or fancy espresso concoction like I like) than look no further. It is clear the little drive through coffee shop I used to live across the street from in PB is doing quite well for themselves. This place is stunningly beautiful, Service: I went here for the first time on my birthday and my lovely out going friend made sure to tell the person we were ordering from that. You had to be a part of some special program to get a free coffee, but he smiled and said mine was on the house. The second time I went a friend asked what the best flavor of cake was and when she took the recommendation of the staff member he told her to come back if she did not like it and he would give her a new one. All these signs point to great service in my book. Pro Tips: *They ask if you want it for here or to go, but both times when I said for here it was still served in and to-go cup while my friend's was served in a class. If you are trying to eliminate your consumption of plastic or just want to enjoy your drink it one of their pretty glasses then I would suggest being very clear about what you would like when you order. *The rose water latte was my friends and she enjoyed it very much. Just be sure you like the taste of rose flavored things. I always order them as I like they way they look and sound, but hate the flavor. Try not to be fooled too much by pretty and make your friend get one instead. read more

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Hands down one of the nicest coffee shop EVER! Oh what a beautifully designed space! I've been here twice and I'm still discovering more pretty corners/decor/design. You want an Instagram worthy photos -- this is the spot!!! Let's talk about their coffee, this is a coffee shop after all. Nothing but yummy drinks. My fave will always be their Best Drink Ever. Loved their rose water latte and honey latte. Try their blended Buzz with espresso beans - especially on a warm San Diego day. I will definitely be back. read more

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I visited Better Buzz Coffee a few months ago and left really impressed with the entire experience. I used to live in Orange County and did a few trips to SD each year. I don't know how I missed out on Better Buzzed. I ordered the Best Drink Ever which is the go-to here. It's a classic americano with vanilla. Better Buzz's spin on this drink is very well-done. It's not too creamy or sweetand in a way, reminds me of a light vietnamese coffee. I'm a bit of a coffee snob and am very skeptical of chains but Better Buzz's coffee does not disappoint. With so many locations in SD, I know I'll be back to try some of the other drinks and food. read more

Loved this local coffee shop!! I was looking forward to trying my friend's favorite coffee here which is the iced "best coffee you've ever had", however they had no way of knowing whether the powder mix they put into that coffee was GF or not. I took the cautious route and had the vanilla bean latte with coconut milk instead which he assured me was GF. Delicious!! The decor and atmosphere here is also so warm and well thought out. I could easily bring my laptop and sit here for the day for work. read more

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One of the best coffee I had. The atmosphere is so amazing. You can have a meeting with friends or coworkers. You can enjoy a good book or just enjoy your coffee and enjoy the aesthetics of the environment. I had my coffee extra hot just how I like it. read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Ordering - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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I could not get enough of their coffee! Delicious and smooth. I didn't have time to stay and hangout but the store was so cool! The staff was so friendly and the croissant is chef's kiss!!! I wish I lived closer so I could frequent it much more. read more

The iced vanilla latte was great and so smooth! We also got a hazelnut divinity which was really good but very sweet so I'd get it half sweet next time. Also got one of the breakfast sandwiches which was good but it seems like it had been sitting out for a while before we got it. I'd love to try it again next time I'm in the area. The interior of the building is so cute too, looks like a great study or work spot. read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Hazelnut divinity, iced vanilla latte, breakfast sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Five stars now because look at that sandwich!!! Also, I wanna give Casey a shout out. He literally always has a smile on his face, even as he's cleaning up around the place, and is very welcoming and helpful! read more

Better Buzz Coffee Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I know this place is all over social media so whenever in San Diego, people always try this place out. As such, I needed to know what the hype was about. First off, I got the "best drink ever" and I thought it was really good! I'm not an avid coffee drinker and I still thought it tasted really good. A friend of mine got the dirty chai latte and I thought that tasted better than the best drink ever. It had the perfect amount of cinnamon that just made the drink so tasty. read more

I love the vibe of this coffee place in San Diego! From its aesthetics to its workers; the place was vibin' for sure. I really wish we had these kind of coffee venues in Hawaii! The barista that helped my sister and I recommended the "Best Drink Ever" and it is theee best drink ever! I would definitely come back and kick it here! read more

Best Drink Ever is actually the best drink ever if you like sweet drinks! the pistachio croissant was a pleasant surprise, it's like baklava in croissant form - definitely get it! the feta avocado toast was really good too! the bread is soft but plentiful and goes well with the toppings. overall, cute place with good coffee and snacks. read more

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Nice place, drinks and muffin were very good. Great space, but I don't understand why they would reserve the top deck for 'Executive Offices'. As I was told when designing my place, "put your desk in the closet - devote every available sq foot for packing in more customers". Lack of parking makes this a no-go during mid-day unless you live local. read more