Stopped into this adorable East Village neighborhood café for a cappuccino and, while waiting my turn to order, spotted a savory little treasure sitting in the display case that immediately got my attention. It sounds simple enough: an all-beef hot dog wrapped in pastry. Simple? Yes. Ordinary? Absolutely not. The hot dog had that perfect little snap you want from a good all-beef dog, but the real surprise was the pastry. House-made, light, airy and somehow perfectly crisp all the way around as it twisted from end to end. It came with ketchup and what might be its soulmate: stone-ground mustard. Truly the perfect match. This is absolutely an afternoon go-to -- easy, satisfying and way more delicious than it has any business being. It has officially been added to my "order again" list. And again. And probably again. read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Pastry wrapped hot dog - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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DO NOT go to this place. I've lived in the neighborhood for about 6 years and the food and coffee have always just been "decent" but it's close and convenient plus I like to support small and local businesses so I've gone back. Today I was verbally harassed by the owner and it was a pretty shocking exchange. I was picking up my dog's poop from the metal grate that goes around the trees on the sidewalks here downtown when he started screaming that it's his private property and I'm scaring away his guests. It was 3:00p in the afternoon and this is a breakfast place that was closed at the time and the city has sidewalk cleaners that come every morning so even though I picked up the poop, anything leftover would have been cleaned the next morning anyway. Also, I'm also pretty sure the sidewalks are public spaces and he in no ways owns the sidewalk. He then started screaming "do you want to see my permit?!" And when I said "yes please I would like to see it" he replied "well I don't have it". Then the threats came. He started threatening to take my photo and spread it all over the city and social media. I'm unsure who he planned on sending it to but it was a clear attempt to bully and intimidate. He then continued to raise his voice while repeating "GO TO HELL!" at me until he decided to go inside the business. Honestly, if this gentleman would have said "hey would you mind not letting your dog poop here?" it just could have been a completely different situation. No matter what the situation, this business owner is mean, rude, and aggressive to where I didn't feel safe and won't come back here. I would suggest you do NOT come here, whether you have a dog or not, because the food and coffee aren't worth it. read more

I came here recently on a whim, and got a Jalapeno bagel. I was looking forward to it as this is my favorite type of bagel, and not a lot of places have them. Unfortunately I was pretty disappointed. I can honestly say this was one of the blandest bagels I've ever had. First it was extremely thin, it looked as if it might be a wheat bagel, I'm not sure. It had zero flavor, definitely no jalapeno flavor at all. I didn't even see any jalapenos in it, except for one tiny Speck of one on the back. Had I open it to look at it before I left, I would have probably ask for something different, as it was definitely not as described. It was extremely thin as well. They do serve it toasted. Service was fine, they had fresh cookies that had just come out of the oven at the register. I will say I was tempted as they smelled good, but I had some will power and did not get one. There's not really any parking other than street parking here, so I think most of their traffic is from locals, or people that work in the area. They did have a lot of pastries on display that looked very good, but I haven't tried them so can't really say. Honestly I was just really turned off from this experience, and not sure I would go back anyway. read more

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I passed by this cute cafe during lunch time right across from one of the Petco park entrances and ordered their matcha latte it was so good and refreshing! Definitely recommend and will come back to try the pastries. The ambiance was nice they having cozy corners inside and outside seating. Great customer service and they were prompt. read more

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Thank you for your kind offer. Not asking for free goods. Just wanted to let you know how bad our experience was so hopefully it won't happen to anyone else. Quality control so important read more

The family owned business has fresh pastries and excellent coffee. I have been going here for years and they have made a few updates with more outside seating and spacious indoor area. The staff is always friendly. read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Almond Croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

We had a great first experience at Cafe De L' oPera! Lea and Alina were so friendly and welcoming. It's a cozy cafe with colorful tables and a great atmosphere. If you visit, definitely try the iced Caramel Macchiato,it's amazing! The red velvet cupcake was also absolutely delicious. We'll definitely be back! read more

The theme for the summer has been...bakery! After Cako and I finished our walked, I searched for another bakery to try. L'Opera came up and was close so I drove over. Parking can be a bit of a challenge downtown, but we scored one right in front. Friendly "good morning" when I entered. There were three people ahead of me which gave me a chance to look at what they had. There are some interesting baked goods, one being the quinoa muffin. Baking with quinoa can be challenging, and I felt the muffin was dense but lacking moisture, but not crumbly dry. The flavor was good! I also had their crispy and not sickly sweet cinnamon roll. The pasty was a nice golden brown with lots of cinnamon! So good! Perfect plain croissant! The pain au chocolat had the perfect balance of chocolate to pain, and more like dark chocolat. Also loved the lemon blueberry muffin! The friendly worker even gave me a complimentary 4th of July cookie which I appreciated since it was delicious! They have a cozy dining area and a couple of tables outside. If I had more time, Cako and I would've stayed and had breakfast outside. Though she was in the car watching me.... Cako Approves! read more

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We stopped here for some healthier food options than the ballpark before a game. My wife order their turkey chili soup which she enjoyed during the game even though it had cooled down to warm. A little spicy but a lot of turkey - she really enjoyed it. I had the avocado BLT on focaccia which was also really good. The arugula made the BLT special but the amount of mustard aioli plus house dressing made it hard to eat, just a little too wet - napkins are a must. It's a quiet quaint cafe next to 7-11 right outside Gallagher Square entrance. Highly recommended as an affordable alternative to Petco Park eats. But give yourself plenty of time to get your order. On a Sunday afternoon, it took awhile to get our order. read more

Our server was so sweet and kind. Loved the high chairs as we sat by the window and watched the various dog walkers sipping on our fresh brewed coffee. The almond croissant was flaky and perfect touch of sweetness. Each table had a beautiful pink rose. read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Found my way in here because it was the only coffee shop on a Sunday morning that didn't have a line out the door and yours truly wasn't in the mood to wait for my bean water. The place is simple, clean and had friendly service. The cold brew was smooth but had a nice kick. I didn't indulge in any food but the pastries looked pretty tasty. Perhaps next time. read more

Not a smooth operation. Menus don't match to those online, posted board in the cafe, or the printed menu on the counter. The poor woman taking orders had no idea how to ring up anything. She was not trained, and the other employees or managers were very irritated to have to help her. I felt so bad for her. I ordered my breakfast with an over hard egg. Then my egg came out over easy+, but when I sent it back, it came back nuked in a microwave, half cooked just shy of over hard and the other side unchanged. I had to get up again to ask for a fork and napkin. Fork was dirty. Then I noticed the dark spots on the arugula. I was done. We left. Never again. read more

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This was such an amazing food stop at SD. Their crapes are delicious and drinks are also amazing! read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Birria Benedict crapes and dirty matcha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Stayed at the Marriott next to the Ballpark short hop away & this place was recommended by the staff.... I specifically asked for a coffee spot anti Starbucks crap & this place has BOMB coffee organic taste & the Avocado Toast is legit not heavy just righteous, seriously cute spot & the owner is a sweetheart! read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Breakfast was amazingly good! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

We just popped in for a coffee, but I instantly wanted to come back. They have incredible coffee, the vanilla bean latte tastes like dessert, and so many pastry options, including a few gluten free choices. It's a cute, small location with the kindest people working. read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The American in Paris sandwich is amazing and I also love the macaroons!!! The guy that works here is pleasant to talk to and the store it self is comfortable and nice!! read more

Cafe De L' Opera - The American in Paris is a staple at the restaurant and it is amazing. I recommend going for a bite. And the service is very pleasing. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Location is really great, right next petco park. I come here from time to time to get their croissants. Lots of pastries to try out. It's a good spot that doesn't get too busy and is on the quieter side. read more

Such a cute and affordable place! Amazing service and delicious food - will definitely be coming here again :) read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Pastries - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

My husband and I walked to Café de L'Opera after having breakfast at Cloud 9 Deli. He had spoken to a few locals in regards to where to get coffee in the vicinity of our hotel. He was told to check out the little French café around the corner. So we did. It's theme did remind me of European-style cafés I'd been to. I ordered the Vietnamese iced coffee while my husband asked for a café au lait. Since we had eaten prior to coming here, we ended up not trying anything from their pastry case but it all looked really good. Our coffees were made to order and delicious. I really enjoyed my Vietnamese iced coffee. If you want some good coffee and mouthwatering pastries, check out Café de L'Opera near Petco Park. read more

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food is super mid , owner yells at anyone with a dog and the coffee is nothing special and crossiants taste really unauthentic . this place is never busy for a reason read more

I passed by this place a few times when it was closed and on my way to another cafe this morning, I decided to reroute and try this place out. It's got a cute rustic French charm with a decent amount of indoor seating for its size. There's French music playing in the background to add to the atmosphere, and a variety of baked goods and pastries, along with a hefty sized breakfast menu. I wanted a latte and chocolate croissant, the latter of which they didn't have. Couldn't tell if they were out or don't sell them (which would be odd for a French influenced cafe). So I opted for the cinnamon roll and a vanilla oat latte. Unfortunately, neither was good. The latte, though perfect temperature, tasted like diner coffee with vanilla creamer. The cinnamon roll was painfully artificial in its flavor and I wasn't sure if it was the dough, the filling, or the icing that was that artificial taste. Kind of a bummer because it's such a cute place in a prime location near Petco Park but with what espresso drinks and pastries are going for these days, I prefer and expect better flavors for the price. read more

If you've read any of my other reviews, you realize that I am eating my way around California. And boy am I loving it. This is my first time at this lovely San Diego establishment, on December 30, 2024. As I was driving to San Diego from Monterey, I stopped in at a bakery and had opera cake, so it seemed appropriate that I stop into an opera café, don't you think? Many numerous lovely pastries to choose from, I had an outstanding tuna salad sandwich., and a wonderful fruit tart. Decor is casual. Staff is friendly and accommodating. Prices are reasonable. Very highly recommended and it's in a great part of this lovely city. I can't comment on parking, because I walked here from my hotel. read more

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A fun little coffee shop with some nice breakfast food and baked goods. The open early so it was convenient to get something before the day really got going. Service was friendly and efficient. read more

Ok this little French bakery and coffee shop is one of my favorite coffee spots in East Village! I am amazed to have found it open since it's been maybe 7-10 years since I had visited last. I used to go here to study during law school and going now as an attorney was very nostalgic -- nothing has changed, still cozy, still inviting, still serving delicious drinks and small baked goods. I've always found a place to sit even on days where it appears busier than others. It feels like a little bit of France is in San Diego! Check them out! read more

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Great little place near Petco park. Had a delicious croissant breakfast. You really do get Paris vibes there.

I just purchased a "vegetable" quiche, no vegetables to be seen here! the dough is very friable and the quiche is filled with just egg mixture. Major disappointment!! read more

Delicious coffees, wonderful croissants (we left a trail of crumbs) and very good service. Highly recommend!

Cafe De L' Opera is quietly one of the most special cafes in San Diego. A wonderful little hole in the wall where you will always find regulars peacefully enjoying good coffee and sensational pastries. The owner is a magnificent baker who constantly turns out new delicious treats. My favorites are the cinnamon roll, the Cronut (croissant donut), and pistachio cake. If it's busy, patience may be needed, but be respectful and this family-owned cafe will treat you as family. read more

This place is a hidden gem! I walked past this place for a year never realizing what was inside. The signs don't scream appealing or exciting! I finally went in last week and I've already been back 4 times! Their iced coffee is so good! Their pastry selection is great! I love the guava pastry puff! Everything is reasonably priced! I think the iced coffee is 4.95 or something around that which is great! They do charge more if you add syrups read more

I visited this place for the first time with a coworker who's been a regular. I ordered their espresso, which really packed a punch. The service was good, although the initial welcome could have been warmer. The spacious seating area was a plus, especially during the early morning hours. I'll definitely return, considering it's conveniently close to my workplace. Next time, I plan to take advantage of their deal: order food and get a complimentary coffee? read more

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Cute and casual cafe located in the heart of East Village. Great place for intimate parties. I've had the dirty chai and blueberry cheese croissant and they're great! read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Blueberry cheese croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Server was working by herself. Place was a mess and limited baked goods available. Seems to be under staffed. Baked goods are so so.

Every time I come here there is a new server and the quality of service is worse than the last time. I don't think I'll come here again after today's experience. The guy at the cash register seemed only interested in charging the already steep prices with zero attention to what the customer actually wants. I told him my order was for here, but he still handed me a paper cup. I asked for a mug and he gave it to me, but why should I have to ask twice? The coffee was cold and stale like it was brewed yesterday. There was only one croissant left which also looked like it was baked yesterday. I ordered a breakfast sandwich and asked if he could add some feta cheese -- he checked with the kitchen and they said yes, but for an extra $5. Given the prices were already through the roof, that stung, but I paid it and said thank you. When the sandwich arrived, there was no feta cheese on it at all. I was charged $5 for something that never even made it onto my plate. Well, there was no plate either! The sandwich came in a to-go box with no silverware. This is not a fast food place, it's not like it's McDonald's. After eating, I cleaned up my table and got up to return my coffee mug to the counter and throw away my trash. Dude watched the whole thing from behind the counter and suddenly yelled "TRASH!" I held up the mug and said -- what, do you want me to throw the mug in the trash? He said no, he meant the to-go box. I said yes, I'm returning the mug first and then throwing the box away. He shook his head like he'd just prevented a crime. I asked if he had any other orders or commands, and he apologized. Still, it was genuinely rude and unnecessary. I really hope management spends more time on maintaining good service standards. Being charged for an ingredient that never arrived, served cold coffee, and treated rudely is not acceptable at these prices. This employee was clearly not suited for a customer-facing role, and it's a shame because it ruins what could otherwise be a decent café experience. read more

Cute and welcoming French-themed coffee shop in the Gaslamp district. Pastries galore. My Apple turnover was flaky and scrumptious, and my Mexican mocha was perfectly made with cocoa. Great spot for people watching since it's in a busy area. Highly recommend. read more

Been coming to this downtown cafe for years and can't get enough of the relaxed European atmosphere and delicious food and baked goods. Definitely our favorite breakfast spot in town. read more

Cafe De L' Opera - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I enjoy going to as one of my lunch spots during the weekend. The panini's are delicious!

This cafe is right across the street from Petco Park. Came here on a Sunday morning ~830 and was helped right away. Got two croissants, one pain de chocolate, and a guava cheese pastry with an iced latte and strawberry smoothie. No sugar added to the drinks. The bread was airy and crisp. French music was playing in the background. Overall, not bad cute spot. read more

I absolutely love Cafe De L'Opera. The pastries are incredible. Their croissants are UNBELIEVABLE--all of their pastries are. And they have delicious breakfast wraps too!! On top of all of that, they are just lovely people. When I first moved downtown, I started coming in a couple times a week for a chai. They remembered me and my order after just a few visits!! Stopping in is always such a wonderful part of my morning. read more

So the two items I had are 5/10. Nothing exceptional. Not bad but with so many places to eat in the area I would not make a second trip. The ham and cheese croissant was heated, but not sufficiently. The apple turnover was very light on filling and had little flavor to it. read more

I've been in San Diego most of my life and only discovering this place. I was walking past and the menu outside looked tempting so I wanted to see if the food was as good as it sounded. My first time here I just wanted something for breakfast and ordered the Feta, Spinach and Egg on a bagel (I got the jalapeño bagel). To drink, I had an iced tea. For starters... the tea! They serve a black tea with a slight hint of a passion fruit and if I'm not mistaken, they use a local company called Café Moto for the tea leaves. Incredibly fresh and delicious! We are off to a good start. They brought out my egg sandwich and everything was hot and you can tell, freshly made. I can't say more than to just say it was amazing and every bite was just as hot as the first bite. I love it when my food stays hot instead of going cold halfway through as you are eating. It was very satisfying but didn't make me feel overly full. The next day, I had to come back and try something from the lunch menu as well as have that delicious tea. On the menu is a "Smoked Turkey Triple Decker" and I'm a huge fan of a club sandwich. The sandwich came with a mustard aioli sauce and I'm not a fan of aioli. Fortunately, the lady helping me didn't mind at all when I asked to substitute the aioli for just plain mayonnaise. It comes with a side salad or chips (potato chips). I debated the two sides and settled for the salad. Just a tip... make sure to order the salad! It was a small spinach salad with some feta, tomatoes and I think a vinaigrette and was simply fresh and amazing! I know I'm keep saying "fresh" and "amazing" but everything genuinely was. The sandwich was on grilled sourdough with fresh sliced turkey. thick pieces of bacon along with fresh tomato and lettuce with cheese. It also comes with avocado but I had this one without. One bite into the sandwich and I have to say this was one of the BEST club type sandwiches I've ever had! They pile the meat up thick and the sourdough bread was toasted to perfection. And as my breakfast the previous day, it was very satisfying but I didn't feel overly full. Because they looked amazing, and the food I had was incredible, I ordered a croissant just for a dessert. And just like all the other food I had tried, it was fresh and probably the best croissant I've ever had! It was late in the day and they didn't have any of the flavored pastries but I went ahead and bought two more croissants just to have later in the evening and without question, I'm getting up early the next day to get some of their fresh pastries right after they have been baked. The only downside to this great discovery is I am leaving San Diego and only now discovering this place! So, if you ARE in San Diego, whether you live here are you are visiting, if you want to have one of the freshest, most delicious meals of your life, you need to come here! read more

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