Cowles Mountain Coffee is an outdoor cafe that serves Acai Bowls, Smoothies, Caffe Calabria Coffee, and locally baked Pastries. AMBIANCE Outdoor café with exterior seating and a view of Cowles Mountain SERVICE Staff were friendly and helpful SPECIALTY DRINK 4.5/5 BANANA MILK COLD BREW Whole blended banana adds sweetness and texture, splash of half n half adds creaminess to this iced cold brew. PARKING Dedicated spots in the lot read more

See all

Cozy little coffee corner. Parking can be rough, as you will probably have to park on a very busy road. This place is more "grab and go", but it has a few places where you can sit. Banana cold brew was delicious! And service was friendly. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Loved discovering Cowles Mountain Coffee and the relief I felt when I found out they were right across the street from Cowles Mtn. I can now easily enjoy a refreshing treat after my hike knowing that they exist. I had a pleasant experience and got some suggestions on what acai bowl to get. I opted for the Kwaay Paay bowl and it did not disappoint. It was loaded with cacao nibs, peanut butter, granola, seasonal fruit, agave, and coconut. I do think it's on the sweeter side so I would order less of the agave, PB, or granola next time. Their smoothies are a fruit juice base of either apple or OJ, and you can sub your smoothies for either of them. We had the tropical smoothie as is and enjoyed that too. I'd choose Cowles Mountain Coffee if you're looking to grab a bite and keep it healthy for your post hike treat! I will definitely be back to try a coffee next time. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Kwaay Paay Acai Bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Dropped dad off at the park to meet the guys, at noon on Friday, and headed over here to work. Found a surprisingly cool spot under a tree at a picnic bench and enjoyed some quiet time. I was greeted by an adorable young lady at the counter who walked me through what an açaí bowl is. Settled on pikes peak paired with a mocha. A bit pricy at $17 for the two but the bowl was huge and very full. Hate to post about this wonderful experience as I don't want it to get too crowded and ruin the experience but...how can I not share! Enjoy and let me know what you think. read more

See all

Great selections of coffee, smoothies, and bakery items. Employees are kind and personable. read more

Had the banana iced latte and açai bowls which were all flavored and good. Definite had better bowls at Northside shack, and better coffee at other shops but this is a good spot especially after a good workout and hike! read more

A few years ago, I wrote a negative review of this place after a couple of subpar, disappointing açaí bowls. Shortly after, I received a personal response from the owner, who explained that he had recently taken over the business and acknowledged some initial challenges. He generously offered me a coupon to return, assuring me that improvements were on the way. I'm happy to report that I took him up on that offer, and since then, I've been a loyal customer. The açaí bowls are now consistently the best I've ever had. A perfect post-hike treat. Thank you for your commitment to quality and for turning things around so beautifully. I'll definitely keep coming back! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Kwaay Paay bowel with no nibs, no agave, extra peanut butter. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Came here to get an acai bowl and was not disappointed. It was delicious and the person working was so friendly and kind.

Best açaí bowl I've had out in San Diego by far. Five Peaks Superfood Challenge is an incredible dish. The flavors all work so well together and give you a great boost of energy to start the day. The honeybee latte is just as good, with the robust flavors it's a great way to start off the day. The lavender adds a smooth satisfying taste. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Five Peaks: Açai base topped with seasonal fruit, walnuts, granola, coconut, peanut butter, honey, cacao nibs, goji berries & bee pollen - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

literaryyyyy best acai i've had in SD, so mf yum and the workers were so nice. absolutely reasonably priced and they loaded it up it was amazing. 100/10 perhaps a little moser fresh fruit would be nice but other toppings def made up for it got the five peaks with no honey and it was perf read more

See all

Gone here twice in the morning by 8a as the hours posted are 7:30a but it is closed. Not sure what's happened. First time we went I got the cottage cheese bowl it was great but the second time I got it was missing ingredients, when I asked the cashier said "oh we don't have that" but this wasn't disclosed before I paid for it so I was disappointed. Not sure why happened here but if hours need to be updated please do so for business and train staff in service. read more

Great customer service paired with great coffee, well I am in! The owner, Cristy if I remember correctly, is super sweet and made me a perfect Cafe au Lait. The coffee was smooth and rich and had great flavor. The kiosk only offers outside seating, and they also make espressos, flavored coffee creations, and a variety of bowls including yogurt bowls. Parking is along the street. They use quality Caffe Calabria coffee products. read more

See all

Their date smoothies are bomb!! I order them way too often but they're so good. I suck them down so fast, too. I live about 5 miles away and they always get to me cold and thick. My only complaint is that I wish they had more variety of food items. Avocado toast or a bagel or something would be wonderful. read more

Decided to stop here over the weekend after going hiking. The coffee was pretty good! They have some pretty cool items on their menu, their set up and seating area is cute. Their bowls looked really good but I decided not to try one this time around and just do a coffee. My friend tried their açaí bowl and she said it tasted good she especially liked the topping they used. Will definitely be back read more

Perfect location for a cafe, honestly. Right next to the end of the trail head for that post hike breakfast and coffee! Good acai bowl and a solid americano. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Acai Bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Girl working today was in a terrible mood not the best service... She didn't fully blend the green sunshine smoothie either. It was chunky and sour. I'm guessing she forgot to put in a banana based on how sour it was. Big bummer because this place is a nice cozy spot with good reviews but I won't be returning here. I will definitely never order this smoothie. It looked good in other reviews but mine was an unlucky one I guess. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Sour chunky green sunshine smoothie - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The first date smoothie was weirdly sour which I was not expecting. The ingredients were bananas, dates, peanut butter, cocoa powder & almond milk. If you're looking for something sweet, I would not get the first date smoothie. The kwaayy paay açaí bowl is pretty good. The ambiance is peaceful and quiet. If you need a quick snack after the hike, this spot is not so bad. read more

Super convenient location immediately across from Cowles parking lot. Enjoyed coffee and smoothie from here recently after hiking. Both hit the spot and were perfectly timed post exertion. While the vibe is not that of a hipster coffee shop, this gets kudos for the Eli adult and providing a good product. Thanks! read more

The 5 peaks is the açaí bowl I've ever had. The peanut butter and generous toppings really complete the bowl. Great service too.

I love this little coffee spot! After a hike, this is the perfect place to relax. I tried their hot chai latte which was pretty tasty. They also offer smoothies, acai bowls, and baked goods. Try them out next time you're in the area and support local! read more

I love coming to this place for an açai bowl after I hike cowles early in the morning. I popped my açai cherry here, and I've been trying some over the county... but my taste buds are still in love with this spot! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Kwaay Payy - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I've come to the conclusion that their bowls tend to be better than their smoothies - and that their prices are actually lower than their nearest "competitor(s)". Keep that in mind the next time you are in the Cowles Mountain area (wanting something to eat or drink). read more

See all

The two of us came here after a Cowles Mountain hike because it was conveniently located and we were looking for refreshing drinks. The acai bowls looked amazing but we decided to get two iced drinks instead. I got the Lavender Latte and my friend got the Dark Chocolate Coconut Mocha. I loved the subtle lavender taste in my latte and it was really refreshing. The coconut mocha was also great, but pretty sweet. They also have amazing service! The woman working here (I think she might have been the owner) was very helpful and also offered us a free tasting cup of the "First Date" smoothie because she had extra from a smoothie she'd made for an order. It was sooo delicious! read more

I have many food sensitivities so it's very difficult for me to eat out .. they were SO patient and kind, careful in checking all of the ingredients lists and providing me a delicious açaí bowl. Highly recommend :) read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I went here with my girlfriend on a weekday afternoon, and it wasn't very busy which was nice. The employee was friendly and made the order quickly. We got two iced coffee's and an açai bowl. Everything tasted very good. The only reason I give it four stars is because there are no prices on the menu so it can be a shock when you get the total price $$. I would recommend this place and come back! read more

I don't hate waking up in the morning; I hate having to think about stuff once I'm out of bed. Fortunately, my new car has an Autopilot feature that I've set for Cowles Mountain Coffee Company. I just get in the car, hit a button, and go back to sleep, later to awaken to the smell of a latte made with perfectly pulled shots of Calabria-roasted beans. Oh my God, if only wishing made it so. Since I don't actually live in Magic Wonderland, life isn't quite what I'd have it be. But I'm happy that Cowles Mountain Coffee Company is in my neighborhood, as they use Calabria beans, and I'm able to get something very close to my beloved "cinque" just 2 miles from my house. What's more, Cowles Mountain's owner, Tiffany, and her employees, are kind, interesting, pleasant people, who make me look forward to my morning jaunt. They remember my order, and they always make it just right. NOTE: The only problem with the place has nothing to do with the place. It's the parking, which is complicated by the millions of people who hike up and down Cowles Mountain Trail every morning. I don't understand why, if they like to walk so much, they have to drive to the mountain and tie up the parking. But I suppose we have to make room for all sorts in the pursuit of our vices. ****************************** Caffe Calabria: http://www.yelp.com/biz/caffe-calabria-san-diego?hrid=eZcU75CiN0SWxXKrIgtljA read more

See all

Amazing açai bowl!!!! Been looking a perfect one and finally found one! Perfect view and place after hiking also. Nice staff as well as food and drinks. Pets friendly. My barista was Hannah and she made perfect smoothies (too excited to drink so no pictures taken ). They bring a refreshing feeling on such a sunny Sunday. P/s: wish they would extend hours read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

This place has THE BEST açaí bowls ever! Just looking at the picture you can tell they use quality ingredients. They have 5 different kind of bowls--named after the 5 peaks in Mission Gorge. The one I got was the Kwaay Pay bowl which included peanut butter! I also tried their Cafe de olla cold brew, and it was bomb! Highly recommend! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Kwaay Pay Açaí bowl! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

5 stars for the açaí! This was a rich, delicious bowl. I loved the goji berries and cacao and PB in it! But 3 stars for the matcha drink- it was really gross, it sounds refreshing with the mint flavor and all but it might just be poor quality matcha read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The staff is always friendly! The drinks are always delicious! The bowls and baked goods are always great too! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - This was a delicious Dulce de Leche latte! I think I may have found my new favorite coffee! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

CMC is still my favorite post-hike destination. The new owner, Cristi, has made many improvements while keeping the favorites like the yogurt bowl, iced blueberry mocha, and acai bowl. Adding a toaster for DIY toasted bagels was brilliant. New muffins like toffee are hard to resist. Cristi had also made the outdoor seating more inviting with new umbrellas. She has great customer service skills, and is always friendly and helpful. I'm here every Sunday, for my favorite double soy latte. New additions to the menu: special croissants stuffed with spinach or veggies. There is even a Margherita croissant with tomatoes and basil! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Specialty Drinks Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Do you like coffee and açaí bowls? Well this cute little place definitely make a very good açaí bowl as well as other snacks besides coffee that you will appreciate after hiking Cowles Mountain. It is located directly at the start/end point of the trail. Nothing fancy but delicious bagel and açaí bowl. We even shared their bowl special which consist of pomegranate seeds, grapes, blackberries, bananas, strawberries, granolas, coconut and bit of honey. Very yummy one bowl can be shared by two people. We also shared the everything bagel with cream cheese and coffee and we were satisfied after that awesome hike this morning. Definitely recommend this place if you are looking to refuel after your workout. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Tropical smoothie is fresh & yummy Also the peanut butter açaí bowl definitely fills & great location it's right across the street from the trail head! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Was looking for an açaí bowl place nearby and didn't find it right away (not using maps, just by memory) and this place caught my eye. Had seen it many times before when hiking Cowles mountain. As I approached, they were welcoming and told me they did have açaí bowls. Both the lady and the girl were explaining some menu items and within seconds I had placed my order. They offered me a nice cup of iced water without me asking - usually it's me doing the asking. Also offered half a cup of smoothie they had leftover from the next order. I got the nutty açaí bowl (added some peanut butter and Nutella) and with all the fruits they added it turned into something great. Definitely happy with my açaí bowl and the overall experience here. Would recommend this place for sure! See pic for the bowl. read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Nutty açaí bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Stopped here after hiking Cowles and ordered the green sunshine smoothie and the Acai bowl, and they were top quality! The smoothie was fresh and delicious, and actually overflowing into the top, and I've never had an acai bowl with so many tasty ingredients; it was the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with the gentle chill of the blended acai berries mixed right in. The is the perfect place to stop and chill after a hot and dusty climb up the mountain. Just make sure you come before 2, as apparently they close kinda early (I wonder why, so many people gonup this trail in the afternoon!) read more

See all

Acai bowl was great! I enjoyed the simplicity of the ingredients and how quick it was made. I would come here again if I'm ever around the area and craving an Acai bowl. read more

My sons, and I stopped in here after coming off a hike up Cowles Mountain. We grabbed some bowl açaí bowls. The staff is super friendly. Ambience is nice. Pricing was great. And food was delicious. I would definitely return. read more

We stopped at this place after a hike at Cowles Mountain and the location is perfect for a post-hike pick-me-up. I love that their menu has so many wonderful options, it was hard to chose! I ended up ordering the banana milk cold brew and it was okay, I think I would have enjoyed another drink more. The coffee flavor itself was really great. Definitely recommend stopping here after a morning hike at Cowles Mountain! read more

Amazing coffee shop located on the corner in front of Cowels Mountain hike. Stopped here after completing the hike and had some cold brew and an açaí bowl. Both were fantastic - I had the starry night I believe that had spice notes in it. The bowl is perfect size and had a variety of fruit through out the bowl. The owner is super friendly, made recommendations and took the time to explain the difference blends. The outdoor only seating is nice, several small tables and plants surround her shop. A must try! read more

Cowles Mountain Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

What a lovely place! Amazing variety of drink choices, knowledgeable barista and delicious coffee. A must stop before or after your hike up Cowles mountain. read more

See all