San Diego's coffee scene is very impressive and dark horse coffee roasters definitely plays a part in that. The coffee was perfectly tasty, such great quality. My husband had the nitro cold brew and absolutely loved it! I had the salted maple latte, I asked for it half sweet and couldn't taste any maple and still loved it, which says a lot about the quality of the beans/espresso. Next time I wouldn't adjust the sweetness, I'm sure that will take it up yet another level. Service was good overall! read more

STEPH JUDGEMENT: Cool little coffee place with fun decor. I'd never been to their old location but this new one was actually more convenient to where I was staying. It had a fun western-themed decor and nice staff. My Matcha latte was a bit on the sweeter side, but good. Would definitely try them again! read more

I tried their iced honey cinnamon latte and it was so good. Good service, small place definitely a grab and go. Clean inside and they sold some coffee and merch. They had some unique syrup flavors. read more

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Great coffee and seating inside on a weekday morning. The mural and music playlist when we were there was 5/5. We were greeted upon entrance and ordered quickly. Drinks came out quick too, no complaints. Would come back again and again to Dark Horse. Street parking in the neighborhood from what we could see. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Mocha and Cortado - Aug 2026 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Awesome place for solid coffee. I got the haupia cold brew, it tasted great wasn't too bitter. The service is also friendly. There are a couple seats inside and a bench outside. I've had their avocado toast before and it's also good. You can't really go wrong with Dark Horse, if you're gonna go out and spend money on a coffee, why not spend it somewhere you know it's gonna be good? read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Haupia cold brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Solid coffee! This was one of our stops during our trip to an art fair in the area. Tried the Champ iced latte (honey cinnamon) which tasted good and gave me the energy boost I was looking for. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - The Champ iced latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Dropped in on a Thursday morning to get some work done and enjoy a coffee. There were plenty of open tables, great WiFi, and delicious cold brew to fuel my day! The space is cute and cozy, perfect to bring a book, catch up with friends, or sip on your beverage. Love the new space in normal heights! read more

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I've been here about 3-4 times, and unfortunately I haven't enjoyed the coffee on any visit. I stopped by today to try again because 50% of the proceeds were being donated and I wanted to support. I ordered an iced vanilla latte, but it tasted like mostly milk with just a hint of vanilla, which was disappointing. The space itself is very small, and there isn't a clear area to wait for your drink, so people coming in aren't sure where the line is or where to stand. The staff is friendly, and I appreciate that, but the coffee and overall experience haven't been enough to make me want to return. read more

Had to check out the new Dark Horse. Located just down the block from the previous location next to the Post office. The service is still reliable, fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. The food looked good, but I usually come for a dirty chai or a Capp. This visit was the DC. Thank you forever dark horse. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Dirty Chai Tea Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The new location has a lot more room and more food items which is great. I'm not doing pastries or donuts right now but the parfaits are very good and my cold brew was perfect. The staff is always friendly and the coffee is never bitter. This business has been very consistent over a the ten years I've lived in the neighborhood. read more

Cute shop to visit in Normal Heights that had a wide variety of roasted coffee beans for purchase. I ordered a cappuccino and it was too bitter for my taste. I'm sure other palates would enjoy this drink more than I did. Prices were reasonable for an artisanal coffee shop and they also sold a variety of teas and kombucha for those who don't want coffee. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I went to Dark Horse Coffee yesterday and had a bit of a mixed experience. I ordered a regular latte and, honestly, it just wasn't my favorite. It had a weird bitter taste that I couldn't quite get past. On the flip side, my boyfriend got the salted maple latte and absolutely loved it. He kept saying how good it was and finished it in record time. One quick FYI for anyone planning ahead. This is totally on me for not checking beforehand, but they don't have outdoor seating. I had brought my dogs thinking we could sit outside, so that part didn't work out. Not a knock on the coffee shop at all, just something to know before you go. read more

Dark Horse roasts coffee the way I like it: avoiding both the burnt bean policy that Starbucks employs, and the tendency of Third Wave roasters, especially here on the West Coast, to roast so lightly that their product resembles nothing so much as coffee-flavored tea. For purposes of this review, Dark Horse's coffee is carrying all the weight, as the shop's space isn't quite as comfortable and accommodating as I'd like. read more

Love Dark Horse. They offer great coffee and at their new location a good variety of food. The new location has a few tables inside to sit. The staff is always super nice. They also have seasonal flavors (pumpkin). Definitely my top pick for coffee in Normal Heights. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing coffee, in a great area. There was a line when we went, but it's definitely worth it. I got an iced maple oat milk latte, which was absolutely delicious. The food didn't jump out at me as amazing looking, so we stuck with coffee. But super high quality coffee, would come back for that! read more

The new location which opened in late December 2024 is located less than two blocks east of their old spot in the heart of Normal Heights. The interior is small but has four tables with a long bench seat that can probably seat 13 people. I came in and ordered an iced chai latte with almond milk. It was delicious. The cinnamon and cardamom were prominent. Be careful when picking up your order. I wasn't paying attention and didn't see that mine didn't have a top so I spilled some on the floor. After my embarrassment wore off, I cleaned my mess and enjoyed my drink solo. It was nice sitting quietly listening to the new wave music as it was a Monday morning and no one else was in the shop with me. $6.25 for a 12oz chai latte is more than I am used to paying for a drink but I did enjoy it. Coming here often would be an expensive habit but I can see indulging every now and then. read more

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They could occasionally clean tables, benches, sweep and empty the trash. It is excellent coffee but a cleaning is overlooked. I've been twice this week and it is the same story. read more

I don't drink coffee but enjoyed their chai latte! There is nice seating inside and they have a variety of hot and cold breakfast items, though I did not try them. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Chai Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

First time visiting Dark Horse Coffee Roasters I tried a cappuccino. The espresso had a smooth finish and was on the lighter roast side which I like. Several varieties of roasted beans were for sale. The shop only had a few small indoor tables and the service was friendly. Worth a stop in if you're in the area. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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So excited for this new location in Normal Heights. There are 4 tables for indoor seating and dogs are welcome inside. They have dog treats at the counter! Coffee is always excellent and well worth the price--for most of their lattes order 50% sweetness and you're set. Shoutout to the staff who were friendly right at 6:30am read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Street view of front entrance - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Small place with a few chairs. Prob 7 inside and 2 out. Vibe was chill with good coffee. Bench seat is quite high not ideal for work or studies here. read more

Super cute little place near our Airbnb in San Diego. Assortment of coffees & teas as well as a variety of milks to choose from. It's a small place, standing room only but the coffee was delicious. Service was speedy and they make many of their own syrups which is always a plus. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Didn't love my coffee here but perhaps it was an off day. The coffee either tasted burnt or overextracted - quite bitter and it didn't blend with the steamed milk as one texture experience. The latte art also unfortunately left more to be desired. Adding sugar helped but I usually don't like to add too much to my espresso-based drinks. Either way, would give this place another shot for their desserts since people really seem to like those. The staff however were super friendly! The place is a small spot selling some merch as well. It's strange because I see this place on more than a few lists of best coffees in the area. So perhaps it really was just an off moment. Would consider coming back for sure, even though I'm not exactly close by. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Delicious ice cream cones a cinnamon flavoured! - brownie ice cream and my chocolate chip was bomb! Customer service was great Ambiance was cute Nice place to come by to go on a date read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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This location recently moved to the next block right next to Studio 67 hair salon this weekend. I'm glad because it's now in a bigger location and has indoor seating! I love coming here for my iced vanilla lattes whenever I'm in the area. The baristas now recognize me and are always friendly. The service here is quick and friendly. Since they just moved locations, the shop seems a bit empty except for murals that they have inside. I can't wait to see the finished product! read more

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Small space but does not feel overly cramped, plenty of space to walk in and order with benches outside to sit and sip on your drink! Prices are reasonable and the flavor is soooo delicious, you can tell from that first sip that the coffee is gonna be good We ordered an oatmilk matcha latte and soy vanilla latte, can't wait to try them again! read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Vanilla latte and matcha latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I decided to come here because it holds a lot of memories for me. And the last time I went they had indoor seating while I really liked. Sadly when we arrived I learned they extended the coffee making area and cashier spot so there's no seating inside. (-) Only 4 benches outside. I personally really liked how they utilized the space 3-4 years ago, hopefully they will return it back to normal. Other than that, the iced s'maple (salted maple) was spot on and delicious. It was smooth, not bitter or acidic, and very tasty. 10/10. The woman working asked us questions to be sure it's to our liking: what size cup, what milk is ok, etc. My aunt ordered a cappuccino. Which has a standard size (pretty small). But you can choose if you want the standard or something bigger. My aunt asked for caramel, which they don't have. And the barista recommended the salted maple which is made with real maple syrup by the way! I think they added a little bit less to hers because she seemed unsure about the syrup. My aunt did enjoy it though. We also shared one of the pastries in the window case. It was a croissant muffin combination but was labeled under a cinnamon roll muffin. It had cinnamon sugar on it and a great caramelization to the middle spiral of it. But since it wasn't warmed up or anything, I think it's one to skip for next time. I usually order an "eat skinny donut" -- churro flavor but they only had chocolate today. (Vegan) Something to note is that their straws are really thin and easy to "splinter". I opened mine and sat down and the first sip I took the straw stabbed me in the lip. It was really sharp so I went in to grab another~ the barista mentioned about the straws and apologized for it. So it seems like something that happens often with their straws! That's not good. (-) Next time I'll have to remember to bring my own if it happens again. The service was quick and they were pretty nice. The music was different than I expected for Dark Horse Coffee Roasters, but the artwork inside was pretty cool. (Maybe they can play some Nothing But Thieves, CAS, or Friday Pilots Club?) Pick up your drinks on the small table to the right of the tablet. Mine was ready on that table but I didn't know until she pointed it out. 3-4 stars. I know sitting outside is a nice thing, especially with the sunshine we have. But it's so close to the road that it's not as enjoyable for me. I really hope they do indoor seating again (even though they only had three small circle tables at most, seating two per table). read more

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The coffee here is stronger than I expected, and the cups are smaller. But it's definitely higher quality than your normal Starbucks. It's not watered down or anything. I'll also say that the area is nice and walkable if you want to go in for a quick coffee. It's located very far from the door though so it's a bit hard to read the menu and you're awkwardly greeted by the service from afar. The place is cozy and narrow. I wish there were more spots to do work though read more

Love this lil location off Adams! Kind workers, super cute and vibey interior, has a superb vanilla latte and some bomb lil protein treats for you to choose from (parfaits, acai). read more

Dark Horse is one of my top favorite coffee shops in San Diego! It's definitely small, so don't plan to hold up here to study or catch up with friends. However, if you're looking for a yummy coffee to go, this place is for you. I personally love the iced Salted Maple and the iced Champ. Additionally, their baked goods are to die for! The finally have donuts back!! I can't believe the donuts are vegan--they are my favorite donuts in all of San Diego! I've also had their cinnamon roll and that was incredible as well. I typically skip the pastries at coffee shops--except here! This place is quaint and cute! A servers are always friendly, and my coffee and treats are always dependably delicious! read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Do you ever visit a shop that just makes you feel good spending your money with them... this is one of those gems. The product being coffee is exceptional. Consistent. Delicious. The people are incredible. They make it what it is. And I'm thankful. Being able to stop somewhere like this that's close to home is a treasure. Thanks Danny and All. Highly recommend. You won't be disappointed. And the donuts are back! read more

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One of many coffee shops on this busy street. They had a nice selection of beverages and vegan baked goods. I ordered their salted maple latte and was hoping for a sweet drink but sweet it was not. The coffee is really strong, it definitely woke me up. For two drinks my total was $11, fairly reasonable for San Diego. It's a very small space, so grab your coffee and go! read more

I have been getting coffee here twice a week after my boyfriend introduced me to Dark Horse on a random day in November. Their drinks have never disappointed me. As of recent, I got hooked on their matcha. Although I miss their skinny donuts so much! I hope they are able find a kitchen soon. Customer service has always been superb. The staff are always so friendly and cheerful. They remember my order (even the changes in my order). Today, Evette took great care of me. She included my name with my boyfriend on the cups which is so so so cute and a great touch on the experience. Thank you so much for making my day. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Kindest girls working. I got the chocolate donut that was a cake donut with the yummiest frosting. Drip coffee get it was great and had so much more flavor than any Dunkin' Donuts or Starbucks anyday! read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Sadly we were very excited to try dark horse BUT honestly the customer service left something to be desired. We were not greeted with a smile or even a hello. Additionally, they were out of 8oz but didn't inform us until we went to order. We will try another location. read more

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters - Salted Maple - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

It's been awhile that I have had Dark Horse coffee (somehow manage to want coffee when they are closed LOL). Just so happened that I was strolling and saw Dark Horse coffee opened. My sign to get a drink. Initially I wanted coffee, but decided to try the lit chai latte as I hadn't tried their chai latte. I did not add the espresso shit as I just wanted to try their chai latte. I ordered warm (cold day) with oat milk. They were really quick with making my drink (luckily the line wasn't long). The chai latte smelled like a Christmas drink due to the cinnamon. I tasted the cinnamon more than anything, but I love cinnamon so that was not an issue. I also appreciated that it was not burning hot so I didn't have to wait for it to cool down. I was able to immediately enjoy my warm drink without having to cool it down myself either. Since I was walking around parking was not an issue, but I can see parking being an issue if you are just coming for a drink. Staff is nice and helpful with questions. Def recommend and I do plan to come back to try their dirty chai latte (chair with the espresso shot). read more

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I usually stop here when I take my dog to the groomers down the street. The baristas are always very friendly and the coffee is pretty good! The whole beans in the bag are amazing to buy and make at home. It's a pretty small place and parking can be a little difficult in that area but it's a cute spot. read more

Reviews looked promising. Got a flat white and it was very bitter and too milky. The lady at the front couldn't be bothered to smile. Very unimpressed. Nobody was in there , not surprised just a super blah, lazy/indifferent vibe. Usually when you get a little coffee drink at one of these speciality places, they do that little art work thing w the foam. Just a tiny little touch that makes you feel like they give a crap. They just did a blob / lazy effort even w that. Very lame read more

Happy Hour drip coffee?! Hell yeah! They have Guatemala/Ethiopia mix and it's good, I recommend! Will pick up a bag of their beans once I have my set up. read more

DECAF JUNKIE I am not sure how I've gone living in San Diego for a few years and not make a sip stop at Dark Horse. I always saw crowds infront of every coffee shop they had around the area and never had the patients to wait and try. Well, that changed, today. - No line, quick preparation - Average price for espresso - Believe the hype, good sips THE CHAMP - Aka Honey Cinnamon Latte. Decaf for me. Their Decaf - Colombia beans are Swiss Water Processed. My first sip was delightful... very smooth, bean flavor profile - strong chocolate notes and hint of hazelnut, and I am thankful to not have latte breathe afterwards (LOL). Added this place to one of my top coffee shops in San Diego. Jaba approved. Until the next review... read more

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