Horrible iced coffee - it tasted like dirty water. I went back in to let them know and ask for something else to fix it and she just started ringing me up expecting me to pay again. Most places would generally replace it for you but instead here they wanna charge you again for an overpriced drink. The woman was older and extremely rude. Would not recommend. read more

Excellent gelato and service! Great way to end a day at San Clemente right after sunset. read more

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Never again. I've heard the stories about how awful the owners are and have witnessed it myself. Despite that, I gave this place another chance. I'll be fair: the food and coffee are good, and the location is prime. I also understand not allowing non-customers to take up space. However, the owners take this policy to an extreme that is rude, petty, and hostile. They don't allow customers to bring anything with them, even when spending a lot of money. The owners are openly unappreciative and seem to genuinely hate their customers. I once witnessed them shame a young mother for bringing her disabled son's medical diet, even though the rest of her large family ordered full meals and drinks. I've been personally confronted multiple times. Once, I met friends there, everyone ordered food and drinks (including me), but I was yelled at because I had a Bear Coast coffee with me. Another time, we ordered about $100 worth of food and drinks while sitting with our kids. My older daughter stopped by briefly after surfing, but had a slice of pizza in a to-go box, and they came running out to yell at her to get rid of her pizza even though she wasn't sitting with our party and had just briefly stopped to say hi as she was walking by. I had been a regular at that point, but that was the final straw and I stopped going on principle. Fast forward a couple years later to yesterday, I went back because I was hungry after a morning walk. I ordered avocado toast, a fried egg, and a black iced tea and asked ice water. I was told they aren't allowed to give ice water and I would need to buy a bottle of water. I explained I preferred ice water and asked if I could at least have a cup of ice, I was again told no and that I would have to buy a plastic bottle of water to get ice. Even while spending $25-30 plus tip, and even though I was ordering a paid tea drink-they wouldn't budge. I almost paid but stopped myself- I just couldn't bring myself to give this business a dime after that. Before leaving, I told them how ridiculous the owners' behavior is and that I felt sorry they had to work for people who treat customers and employees so poorly. My daughter's friend also had briefly worked there and shared how badly the owners treat staff, so I told these two girls I felt sorry for them and I hope they find better. The audacity is astounding. I truly don't know how people this ungrateful stay in business. I'm considering posting in San Clemente Life to make our community aware of this behavior- especially since this is common knowledge and already talked about among locals and so many people will be able to relate! Sadly, they cater to tourists due to location and give our town a bad name with their entitled greedy attitudes. I've never wanted to cancel a business before, but these owners honestly deserve it. I'd like to mention that after this, we walked over to the French cafe next door, where the owner was incredibly kind and welcoming, brought us ice waters right away without asking, took our food orders, and after we ate offered to give me an iced tea to go since I had ordered one there! So nice and because of her warm hospitality I will continue to go frequent her business and I gave her a 40% tip. Catarinas should take a page from that book! read more

Went to Catrina's with my Mother in law and Wife and as we found a table we were looking at menu when the owner approached us and told us we had to leave for bringing a outside water bottle.As I looked around I seen others with a coke bottle and other tables with outside beverages. Since I'm African American and my wife is Latin American we took it personal.But we chose to leave because the lady was very mean.We went to Frenchies Next door and the Lady was amazing. We hear Caterina has a horrible reputation for being this way. read more

Would give zero if possible. The old woman owner is a power tripping b word and wouldn't let my 2 year old daughter sit on her patio with snacks we brought from home so we could order something from her store. Needless to say we didn't order anything and sat 5 feet away on the public tables not under her awning. Do not support, many other local options in San Clemente. read more

No wonder this place has 3 stars. I don't typically go out of my way to write reviews when places are ok, but after experiencing the older lady at this restaurant to be so rude to me and her staff, I needed to say something. We had already spent $50 dollars at the restaurant and my kids wanted one cup of water. I asked one of the employees and he nicely gave me a water cup. The lady proceeded to come from behind him and say. Did she pay for that? We don't give water or cups out for free. She then proceeded to tell me that legally she didn't need to provide free water even though I was eating in and spent money there. Snatching cups out of peoples hands and no apology? How do you expect to stay open and when tourists are the main people who are supporting you. All the locals clearly go next door. If you look at the other reviews, there's a theme to their customer service and penny pitching quality. read more

The pink umbrellas and colorful tile drew us in. I like the variety of pastries, gelato and breakfast. We both settled on the avocado toast. It was great sitting outside and enjoying the sun, wind and view! read more

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Very friendly service. Great seating area. Super clean with great view. Lots of food and drink options. We got the turkey jalapeño panini and two iced lattes. The sandwich was great but the coffees were just ok. read more

Caterina’s - Turkey Turkey & Jalapeño Panini Cafe Mocha iced Brown butter toffee iced - Gelato Near Me - San Clemente, California

insane homemade ice cream!!!!! location could not be more stunning. A+ across the board for everything except for the price. I understand rent might be high in this location in addition to their quality ingredients, but $20 for a small cup of ice cream is outrageous. We discovered the hack is getting the ice cream cones that are only $12 and seem to come with more ice cream than can even fit in those little cups lol so much that our second time back I asked for a cone half the size of the first and still paid the same $12 and it was perfect lol. Overall incredible just be aware of the prices! read more

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Cute little beachside Café. I would come here for a coffee and pastry, perhaps. Been here twice and, ironically, ordered the same thing both times. It was a French dip. The roll was fine but both the meat and cheese lacked flavor. Perhaps, the meat had no taste because the beef was so lean The au just pulled it together but not enough to make me want to order it again. Breakfast looks promising that might be worth a return visit. It felt like the woman who took our order was doing us a favor and that always rankles me. When I asked for a small cup of water for my dog, she said they had no cups but had a big water bowl for dogs. That they did but I'd rather my dog not drink out of a communal bowl. When my sandwich came, the au jus came in a nice little cup, which was big enough for water for a small dog. Grrr. We might come back for coffees and pastries, which looked fabulous. read more

I've come to this restaurant for many years and have never been treated with such rude service. The person that placed our order said we can only have one cup of ice after paying for Snapple and Cafe Cream brûlée. read more

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They will upcharge you for milk alternative and give you regular milk and a lot of attitude if you question them. Out 50 dollars after treating my child for the day. Go elsewhere save yourself time. Not allergy friendly read more

I need to start checking yelp before eating at restaurants. We just wanted a simple breakfast and to enjoy the ocean view. I did like the fact that the menu was labeled with gluten free options. They did have a nice amount of gf options. We ordered the breakfast tacos and eggs and avocado bowl. Cost was $27.62. You have to order at the counter and they bring the food out to you. The portions were small and served on paper plates and cups. Average cost was $13.41. My "bowl" was probably one avocado and 2 eggs scrambled if that. The tacos were small and had little in it except avocados. The cost was high for the amount of food we received. We did enjoy the view but they do have free public picnic tables a little further down. The tables were clean though. read more

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Nice location, but pretty $$$ for some sandwiches after tip $45 for 2 with a bag of chips. The portions were big enough though! The wait staff is kind enough to take your paper plates to the trash when you are finished. Plenty of options, I'm sure you'll find something you like. read more

Caterina’s - Turkey Avo panini (chips purchased separately) - Gelato Near Me - San Clemente, California

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I'm torn on this review.. giving it 3.5 stars. The shop is cute, we showed up on a weekday and the employees were nice. They let us sample, and were patient with us and our kids. Of course the kids wanted cones. I asked for a single scoop in the cone, but they said "we only have one size for cones." Ok... so I get two cones for my kids. It ends up being massive double scoops for a whopping total of $24!! I was stunned. That's the same cost as a good pint of ice cream! It was good quality but nothing soooooo amazing? It melted so fast too. I was disappointed about the hidden cost, but I know their rent is probably expensive and the gelato was good. read more

Such a good vibe! I loved their s'mores latte so much, that I went four different days to grab a cup. The service staff was extremely kind and always helped with a smile. I loved the ambience in this restaurant/bistro. They also had different sweet treats like gelato, Pastries and chocolates. I noticed usually in the late afternoon they were pretty busy. It's always a good sign when I see a bit of a line! I genuinely enjoyed this place! Can't wait to return. read more

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Love Caterina's!!! The gelato is always fantastic. Also have great sandwiches here. A must visit when you're in San Clemente.

I got sick the last time I ate here. Then, my daughter and her friends all got sick together immediately after they ate a pizza here!!! On top of that, because they had fruit bowls from another restaurant as well, a woman there yelled at them and told them they could not sit there!!!Even though they ordered a pizza! All the girls got sick!!! Never eat here. I am also angry with them because another time I ordered my daughter gelato here and they told us to leave because her friend had an icecream from another shop! We aren't allowed to be there because of the friend not ordering. This restaurant is EARNING a bad reputation for making people sick from the food and bad attitudes towards customers. This restaurant needs a visit from the health department! I am very angry with you for treating my daughter so disrespectfully AND making her sick! I will NEVER waste money at your restaurant again. read more

The food here is good and they have some fun coffee flavors however they are so strict and will not let you bring a coffee from next-door to enjoy while you consume one of their burritos or baked goods and are often rude about their patio even when I only had to sit down for a moment to organize my bag when the patio was completely empty. The young kids that work here are excellent and it seems to be the owners or managers that are sticklers and very unwelcoming. Such a bummer as that is outside of normal San Clemente culture and what we would expect from a local company. read more

My wife and I were in San Clemente Pier area for an hour. She ordered an $8 grapefruit juice and within 30 minutes of sitting at a table, the owner asked us to leave. There were maybe 4-6 other customers at the property, and nobody else had ordered food. There were at least 12 open tables. The management is extremely disrespectful. Expensive, rude, poor management. Go next door. read more

Terrible service, extremely rude staff and overpriced items. Food is bland. Paid $8 for a small bottle of grapefruit juice and was asked to leave the outside sitting area because I'm not eating - even though there were other seats available and other people with empty coffee cups and no food. If I could give a 0, I would. Terrible. read more

This spot was perfect for a snack or breakfast on the beach. I picked up a couple gelatos while we fished on the pier and it was the perfect snack to cool us off. The small size was more than enough and at just under $7 it really hit the spot. read more

Food was okay. They nickel and dime you. No cups for water. Went back to ask for a little balsamic vinegar for my bland avocado toast and the rude lady told me it would cost me. I spent $40 for two avocado toast plus 20% tip they asked for up front and they wouldn't even give me a cup of water or a little vinegar for my boring toast. read more

It's pretty comical that this place is only three stars. Fantastic sandwiches at reasonable prices along with really good ice cream and some chocolates. If you're at the beach, try it. read more

My wife and I have been coming here since it opened in 1990, it has always been decent and we would choose it because it wasn't as busy as Bear coffee next door. Saturday 1/24/2026 the food and service from the young lady was great; however the coffee was dish water, I had to get a coffee from next door. On 1/25/2026 we went back for breakfast I ordered food and a hot chocolate for my wife and after yesterday I had my wife get me a coffee from next door. The elderly lady who is the owner or a relative felt it needed to tell me I could not have coffee from another establishment there. That was incredibly rude to say the least and most definitely put me off. We were polite but will now go up into town where they have courteous owners. The coffee was atrocious and the owner should know better than to alienate customers who have purchased their food. Serve better coffee and you won't see cups from other establishments read more

Cute place right on the beach. Yet we ordered a coffee and it tasted "old and burnt", when we tried to return it and get another coffee, the owner abruptly said get back inline and buy another coffee. She wouldn't subtract the price of the original coffee essentially paying for both. Not recommended. Go to Bear Coast next door instead. read more

When we first arrived, the kids wanted pizza, so we ordered from a nearby restaurant. After that, we walked to Canterina's so my husband could order a sandwich. We sat at one of the tables in front so the kids could eat and my husband could finish his sandwich. Suddenly, an older woman approached us and brusquely told us that we were not allowed to sit there and eat. My husband hadn't even finished half of his sandwich. She then rudely added that they sell pizza at her restaurant as well, if we had known, we would have ordered there. Not wanting to be confrontational, we gathered our things and left. What was upsetting, though, was that there were other people sitting there with the same pizza boxes, yet they were not asked to leave. Perhaps we were an easy target because we had kids, or perhaps we were the only minority family there. Who knows. Regardless, this experience left a bad impression, and we will not be giving this restaurant our business the next time we visit. Edited: no Tim, the other pizza were from the neighboring pizza place. I can tell from the box. Regardless, I encourage you to reflect on how you treat your patrons. Customer support is essential to any business, and a negative attitude like this can seriously impact your long-term success. read more

We've had mixed experiences at Caterina. On our first visit, my mother ordered a cappuccino which was not to her liking, it was very bitter no sweetener at all. She politely asked to exchange her drink which she had only took a sip from and the older woman at the counter (cashier) refused and said she had to keep what she ordered. It felt unnecessarily strict and dismissive. We gave the place another try later in the day and came back for ice cream. Thankfully, we had a different server this time who was very polite and welcoming that was a refreshing change. However, the original cashier/server was there again, and her attitude toward us still felt cold and uncomfortable, almost like we were being profiled. We want to support local spots and appreciate good service when we see it. One staff member made us feel welcome, but the inconsistency in treatment really stood out. Hoping Caterina takes this kind of feedback seriously. read more

2 - Great gelato, poor attitude from owner We're new to the area and were excited to try this place after hearing about the gelato. The location is great, the staff (especially the person behind the counter) was friendly and helpful, and the gelato was delicious. Unfortunately, the experience was spoiled by the owner's attitude. We walked in in a good mood, and everything was fine until the owner came over to take our order. He didn't greet us, make eye contact, or show any basic courtesy just very cold and dismissive. I asked about getting a half-sweet latte, as I usually do at more artisanal coffee spots where drinks aren't overly sweet. He couldn't (or wouldn't) explain how sweet their drinks are, and I ended up with a latte that was overly sweet anyway. It wasn't the mistake that bothered me--it was the lack of professionalism and attitude that made the whole experience uncomfortable. When you run a business, especially in customer service, basic friendliness should come standard. Sadly, we won't be returning. read more

The Gelato had many good flavor choices (I had a decadent Caramel Popcorn) and was really SWEET. I think they hand make all the product on the premises. Of course, the location is absolutely prime. I see many negative reviews re. the owner, but she was very kind to us, when we kept coming back for samples, and also asking why we heard no trains all day; she took the time to explain the whole situation to us, even though it was late (close to 7 pm on a sleepy Wednesday) and she was trying to sweep up. We actually really appreciated her kindness. We'll be back! read more

Caterina’s - Pizza and gelato overlooking the pier. Fun & romantic! - Gelato Near Me - San Clemente, California

Great service ! Best vegan Bavarian cream almond croissant and vegan pizza was delicious . Plenary of vegan sorbet options .LOVE the seating off the pier and great music 80s vibes ! Very chill low key place . read more

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Ordered two different lattes and 2 chocolate truffles... tasted both coffees and honestly tasted burnt and just not drinkable asked to just get a refund as we were not going to even drink them.. was told I need to speak to owner (Tim) who first ignored me... than turns around no apology nothing with just a blank stare and "no" not a can we make something else for you I apologize nothing just no. Surprising how unfriendly they are with a location that has so many locals/ tourist come! Fix your faces and attitude it's a bad look... also the older women scolding the cashier on how to hand back cash was quite awkward also.... sad because the view and location are top tier but man that attitude and horrible customer service won't get you far... read more

This place is extremely hostile and rude. I've seen them treat customers so differently based on their race. The owners are super rude and don't know how to treat their employees or customers. read more

Extremely rude staff (older woman). Sat down with my work computer and a coffee from a different restaurant, was going inside to buy food and was told that I can't bring "outside" food or drink and that this is "not an office" so I had to leave. Even when I said I was going to buy food...horrible customer service and probably why they have such a poor rating read more

They don't offer free water with food purchases (against the law). Force you to buy a bottle of water. Update: it is, in fact, a law. "According to California Civil Code Section 114376, restaurants in California are required to offer free, fresh drinking water to their patrons. This law to all establishments, including chains, restaurants, and trucks. Must provide water to customers request, and cannot charge for it." read more

Such a cute spot! The decor was so cute and well thought out. They sell gelato, lunch and breakfast foods. We sat outside on the sidewalk area and was a perfect spot to people watch and enjoy the outside. The counter in a few feet inside and you order at the register. The Caterina toast was AMAZING - wow. So much flavor and stacked!! It was so filling while also being light and was perfect for what I needed. I got it on the sourdough, but there was 3 different options to pick from. The burrito was a made on a panini grill which was so yummy and kept it warm for a while. The lavender caramel latte is a MUST. Soooo delicious - I've had a few different lavender drinks and this is absolutely one of the best. I got it iced. This is definitely a place to stop by! read more

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Probably one of the worst places. The lady was super rude and was kicking so many people out because they had an item from the local place next door. I talked to the people being kicked out and they said they were ordering as well. There's no sign that says that they don't allowed outside food, all the people who the lady kicked out were outside the business. Please do not come, Go to the place next door and get a coffee with better service . read more

I absolutely adore this place! As a coffee & sweets lover this place is perfect! Everything from being across the beach, to the stunning decor, to the amazing coffee and more! The drinks are pricey but worth it! Every drink I've tried so far is delicious & much better than the businesses next door! They reserve their patio seating for customers only with comfy chairs, couches, and a gorgeous plant wall! Most importantly I appreciate that it is 100% handicap accessible! While visiting San Clemente it has been hard finding spots that are accessible for wheelchair users, and I appreciate this business for making their space accessible to all! read more

Caterina’s - Patio area - Gelato Near Me - San Clemente, California

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Nestled close to the beach boardwalk, Caterina's Gelato Bar offers a charming small beachside bar feel that perfectly complements its seaside location. My recent visit left me thoroughly impressed, thanks to its delightful ambiance and delicious offerings. I decided to try their turkey and avocado panini, and it was truly a treat. The combination of tender turkey, creamy avocado, and perfectly toasted bread was simply delicious. It's definitely a must-try for anyone visiting. And let's talk about the gelato - it was absolutely amazing. Creamy, flavorful, and made with high-quality ingredients, it was the perfect sweet treat to end my meal. I highly recommend the Almond and Tiramisu flavors! Overall, my experience at Caterina's was extremely positive. The friendly staff, great food, and charming atmosphere make it a standout spot near the beach boardwalk. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Only reason I didn't give it a 5 stars is because they do not offer a simple small plastic cup of water with your meal, you would have to buy bottled water and those prices seemed way off. So had to go next door and get something. read more

Caterina’s - Cute entrance - Gelato Near Me - San Clemente, California

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DO NOT SUPPORT THESE PEOPLE*** I strongly advise against visiting this establishment. I recently had a very disappointing experience here. The food is overpriced for the quality, and the treatment from the owner (old angry bitter woman) was unacceptable. After purchasing food, I sat down at a table waiting, my husband walked up after buying an iced coffee from Bear Coast next door. Instead of welcoming us, the owner ran up and approached us (mid eating) with a hostile attitude, scolding us for having the coffee and insisting we couldn't be there even if we were HER CUSTOMERS. Her comment, "I don't care, Bear Coast doesn't pay our rent," was shocking and unprofessional, especially as we were paying customers. This kind of behavior towards patrons is beyond comprehension. I do not know how they can stay in business with this mentality. I will not be supporting this business again and will be sharing my experience with others in the community. read more