Best coffee I had in SD all week! Ordered a decaf vanilla almond milk latte and it was incredible! Not too sweet which was really nice and had real vanilla bean flecks in it! Would totally come here again. read more

James Coffee is one of my favorite coffee spots in San Diego. The coffee is consistently excellent, and the staff is friendly. I usually grab my coffee to go, but there are outdoor tables if you want to sit for a bit. Great typical coffee varieties as well as great seasonal special options. I recommend James Coffee to friends. read more

We decided to stop by James Coffee this morning to try some coffee. We got in around 9:30a and there wasn't too many people but the line did form after we got in. I noticed people tend to order ahead here so maybe you want to do that too. We got a Neapolitan and a Coffee Soda. The Coffee Soda was 2 shots of espresso, vanilla and sparkling water. It was definitely interesting. The Neapolitan was pretty good. It was chocolate and strawberry syrup added in to a latte I think. I also had oatmilk instead of regular milk. There is outdoor seating but the shop faces East so the sun is shining down pretty bright in the morning. It was really hot for San Diego today so we decided to take our drinks togo. read more

James Coffee - The Neapolitan - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Ah yes, came here for another photowalk and I was pretty excited going into James Coffee. I have great memories with my dad and friends here. And to emphasize they do not have interior seating only outdoor seating. They have about 3-6 tables and new umbrellas that provide shade to the metal tables & chairs. Everyone shared the tables which was nice! They don't allow dogs inside, unless of course it's a service dog. I patiently stood outside the door as I saw that the interior had a good amount of people inside already (like 5-6 people). After the crowd of people left, I came in and the air didn't feel inviting. It felt tense and I felt rushed by the man at the register. I honestly didn't even read the menu because of his stare and just went with an ($6.50) Iced Vanilla Latte with Whole Milk. He didn't question what size I wanted and I forgot to ask, so I assume they only have one size for iced...16 oz? After paying, I wanted to wait inside but he said to wait outside and they would call our names. I'm not sure how they thought that would work out-- since there's no speakerphone outside where we can hear their voices amplified. And since they wanted the door closed (because of their AC) it is REALLY difficult to hear, you only hear the names briefly when the door is opened (by someone entering). After waiting quite for my name to be called (I heard nothing), I went in and my coffee was sitting at the edge of the bar along with three other drinks. The name wasn't written on the drinks so I wasn't sure which it was, but one of the baristas asked and told me which one it was. By then the drink was a bit watered down, so...it was ok-- at least the vanilla bean syrup had good flavor. Check out my pic from 11 months ago of the vanilla bean latte and then look at the one I got today lol. Brought it out, took some sips and remembered to snap a photo. The one thing I hate is watery lattes. I also want to say that they offer online pickup orders for this location and my friends drove down from 40 min away~ after placing their order and when they got to James Coffee they were told that the baristas canceled the order because of the large influx of people outside. I don't think that was right of them to do, I mean you offer this service and they drove from far away to get their items, and it's canceled? With no warning or heads up-- it was pretty messed up. I know Bankers Hill, is one of their smaller coffee shop locations, but for the most part, we are patient as we realize that most places aren't accustomed to having so many people come by at once. My friend mentioned that the baristas were complaining about everyone in line. Hearing that makes me sad and wish I went to another coffee shop instead. Kindness goes a long way. I usually like James Coffee, I would recommend going to their other locations for better service and quality drinks! I like 30th Street & if they are open by now, Little Italy is lovely as well. If you're in Bankers Hill-- there's plenty of other coffee shops in the area to try. (: read more

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This was a very cute place. I was staying at the inn in the park, which was a few blocks away. I woke up in the morning and wanted some coffee, so I found this little place. I'm glad I did because it's really cozy. It's a small coffee shop with no indoor seating, but they do have outdoor seating, which is nice. I enjoyed a delicious vanilla latte. I also had a breakfast bagel that was flavorful and satisfying. The gentleman inside was very nice. The place was really cool, and I loved the design, especially the owl. So if you're in the mood for a quick coffee to go or a little breakfast snack, they've got you covered. Definitely give them a try. I'll definitely go back when I visit San Diego. read more

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Came here in the morning before my wife's dental appointment across the street. I usually come here while she's at her appointments and it's usually pretty pleasant. Monday when we came by the person working must've had a long night or wasn't feeling well, which is fine and understandable. But I wasn't thinking anything until my wife said something and really didn't want to buy anything anymore. It kind of made her not buy anything and I ended up just getting something. So I guess feeling that early in the morning wasn't a god way for my wife to start her day. My matcha was kind of warm not hot and I forgot what type of pastries we got but it was hard. I normally sit out side people watching but wife didn't want to stay there after that. I would've gotten some merchandise cause I have always wanted some from this place but after that experience might not be going here anymore. There's another coffee shop down the street. read more

James Coffee - Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Happy they have glasses to reduce waste, and even metal straws! Prices were a bit high, but the honey cinnamon coffee with oat milk was pretty good. They only have outdoor seating available, but it is nice and was in the shade when we were there. Service was friendly and helpful, and there is street parking nearby. read more

James Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

On a sunny day this is a great spot to swing by for a coffee. On recommendation from the barista we got an iced honey and cinnamon late and it was good. At first I was worried that the honey might be too much since it is a strong flavor but it worked well in the background. Im always a big fan of spices in my coffee so cinnamon was a nice touch. The seating could only fit a few groups but it was pretty empty so it wasnt an issue when we went. Another bonus is that they have glass and metal straws on request. Parking isnt too bad either since the edge of the park has a decent amount. Overall it was a pretty good spot. read more

James Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

This is on me for getting a matcha latte at a coffee shop but the matcha wasn't strong at all. It was very much green tea flavored milk. At least it wasn't sugary sweet. Nice staff and decent outdoor seating. read more

James Coffee - Menu March 2025 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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I wanted to really like it here! The chai is awful! However, the barista was super friendly! I'd give it another shot and try a coffee if I was ever in the area again! Sitting outside was nice too, beautiful day! read more

Came here to grab a quick coffee to-go and got their dirty chai latte (hot). The drink was good, the service was quick, and the space was unique. This coffee store is a coffee stand in the center of the building, with other businesses around. There's ample sitting inside, but it wasn't too busy when I came. I was probably in and out of here in 15 minutes. The staff was nice and helpful, and there is a restroom available. It's located like 15 minutes walking distance from little Italy, so it's a nice walk to do if you want to wander the area a bit. read more

James Coffee - Hot dirty chai latte with oat milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

We decided to stroll around Banker's Hill and my wife was craving coffee so we stopped at James Coffee. She ordered the iced Mexican mocha which was good, but nothing special in her opinion. Was a really trendy and cool spot with outdoor seating which we appreciated. Perfect place to grab some caffeine and walk around the neighborhood to experience the mini mansions and bridges. Highly recommend taking your coffee and walking over the Quince Street Bridge and the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. You won't regret it! read more

James Coffee - Iced Mexican Mocha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

So I LOVE James CO Coffee in Little Italy. Super dog friendly. Unfortunately it's currently closed for construction. Excited to try the Banker's Hill location and saw on the door pets not allowed only service animals. Please don't claim to be pet friendly if there's only space outside. I made a trip specifically because I thought it would be as pet friendly as the Little Italy location. read more

Obsessed with James Coffee! Their vanilla blend is ridiculously smooth and delicious. It's always my daily go-to. I order the beans online by the pound (super easy, super fast) and they nail it every time. Local, flavorful, and just so good. Give it a try -- you'll be hooked! read more

One of the best coffees that I've gotten in San Diego. They have some good speciality coffees, but specifically their cortado & vanilla latte with an extra shot is so gooooood. The coffee is always brewed wonderfully & strong. The baristas are always sweet & this particular location is in a cute area in bankers hill with nice strolling areas especially fifth st. A consistent go-to! read more

We look for a new coffee place every weekend, and this weekend we decided to walk the area around Balboa park. A quick look at the map search found James Coffee. Simple in the very best way. Definitely a place where community members frequent. We were inside for about 10 minutes and 3 regulars walked in during that time. They were known by name and regular order. I appreciate that the people at the business work to create community. Espresso was fantastic. I had the cortado and my wife the hot latte. Very enjoyable. Seating outside was nice. We will be back the next we are in Bankers Hill area. read more

James Coffee - Cortado - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I love this coffee shop, one of my favorites but it's disappointing that you say hours are 7am-5pm but no one is there at 7:10am and it's not even close to being open. read more

It was so quiet this morning (around 8:30 a.m.) that you could hear a pin drop. The cashier was nice but reserved, and I wish I'd been asked what kind of serve ware I wanted because I assumed I'd have to say "to go" and was planning to eat on the patio. I got the Ham and Cheese Bear Claw and a Chai Latte, both of which were incredible. The pricing is good as well, which is nice given the location. There isn't any indoor seating and there are about 4 small tables on the patio. It's peaceful and I imagine would be conducive to focused work or reading, though it isn't overly comfortable seating. I like that this company is rated ocean friendly by Surfrider and that disposable serve ware is compostable - even the coffee lid. read more

James Coffee - View from the patio - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Went for Sunday morning. I got a latte. Pretty good latte with a good ratio of espresso to milk. My friend got the honey cinnamon. It actually wasn't overwhelmingly sweet. I saw somewhere that they only have glass containers but we got plastic cups. They have outdoor seating. We saw a lot of pups. Parking is street. They have one bathroom. read more

Coffee was great, hence the 3 stars. But unfortunately my bagel had pieces of paper inside :( read more

James Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I stumbled upon this place after a trip to the airport and fell in love! I am never in downtown because parking is the hugest pain but I got super lucky and found a parking spot on the street nearby on a Friday around 1pm. Busier times and weekends, parking is probably going to have you circling a lot before finding a spot. At first I was confused when finding the place as it's kind of in this small indoor plaza with other venders but once walking in you will find it as it's right in the center. There is some seating available but not much. I wouldn't recommend studying here. I love this place though because of their jars. They use both plastic and glass bottles. They don't charge you a arm and a leg for the glass jars though as do some other places which is nice. I'm not too sure if you can bring it back and reuse it but I would come back regardless. They also give you a little cup holder thing for your glass jar! read more

James Coffee - Cold brew - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I'll start the review by saying the chai that I got was great and the barista was good. The vibe was not for me - the space itself is incredibly small with no indoor seating which made for a crowded space on a gloomy day. There is a small glass case with baked goods and on the day I happened to be here there were about 5-6 options with no labels. I asked the cashier if she could give me a quick run down even of just the fruits in each option and she was visibly annoyed. I thought perhaps she was having a bad day but then spent several minutes chatting with a regular. Honestly between the small space and the ease at which I annoyed an employee, I won't be back and will instead frequent one of the other coffee shops in the neighborhood. read more

Love the quality of coffee here! Me and my friend stumbled upon it on our walk, and it was a cute little coffee shop with really nice people working behind the counter! There's no seating inside, but there is a cute outdoor area to sit at which is nice! It's located in a quiet neighborhood area! read more

If you want to go to a coffee shop that doesn't make you feel happy to be there, go here. After the reviews, we were excited to go here but quickly felt so unwelcome by the barista. We asked about the bagels and asked for a recommendation for a spread and she said she wouldn't give us one in saying "no" (?). Then said rudely to wait outside and I'll call out for you. We waited on patio and the barista never came out and called? Just really weird energy. Good coffee and a good bagel but a really bad vibe and attitudes. Go down the street to another shop who'll be happy you are buying a $6-$7 latte from them. read more

James Coffee - The coffee shop with the bad vibe barista - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Basic drinks for high cost. The big killer is they use Spit House bakery (they use margarine) for pasteries and I was hungry. So had to walk to miche where they use real butter read more

This is a micro operation here. They make a great cup of coffee. Strong and tasty. Support local! read more

James Coffee - Good morning San Diego - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

This is one of the 4 other James Coffee locations in SD. It's right next to Extraordinary Desserts and is much smaller than the one I've been to in Little Italy. There's limited space inside leaving the outdoor patio space the only option for seating. The menu remains simple and at reasonable prices. My boyfriend got their coffee + soda and I got a vanilla latte. It was made well although I didn't taste much vanilla. The pastries looked delicious although I didn't order any. More of a quick stop for coffee, however, they have all your essentials for your caffeine fix. Overall, nothing too particular stuck out to me. The staff was super friendly and welcoming! read more

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Review for service only, did not order: Come on hipster baristas, speed it up! Only one person in front of t of me, waited..and waited...The real annoyance was seemingly no effort to at least increase from super slow to just kinda slow? Too many good coffee shops in area to wait, walked 3 mins to Iconic - bomb, no wait, pour overs available in a mug! And super nice barista not wearing g all black.d read more

James coffee never disappoints. James coffee is like an OG coffee go to spot in San Diego. I've asked multiple friends that know about coffee and multiple baristas and James coffee always pops up in the conversation. Doesn't matter the location. The locations are nice and the ambiance as well. I usually go to the little Italy location but I believe it's closed. The baristas there are always helpful. read more

Staying close by and wanted to enjoy a coffee. James Coffee opens early so I stopped by and enjoyed a cup of coffee that the barista said was a single-origin. Enjoyed quite a bit. Felt almost like a pour over, which is usually my go-to. This place definitely has an appreciation for good coffee and I was definitely in love. I also grabbed a sparkling water. The barista was very welcoming and friendly. We conversed for a bit and she gave me recommendations, which I appreciated as a local. I will be back! read more

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Cute little coffee shop close to Balboa Park. This is a good place if you want to grab a cup of coffee on the go, but it's not really made so you can bring a laptop there to study for a long time. It's outdoor seating only and the chairs are pretty hard. I find their house black coffee too acidic for my taste but when it's in a latte form, it's better. Parking can be a nightmare since it's paid parking only. read more

James Coffee - Honey Cinnamon Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

omg the iced vanilla latte with oat milk here is H E A V E N L Y! It's such a smoooooth coffee and not overly sweet. I've ordered both decaf and caffeinated espresso shots in my lattes and legit it tastes the exact same. There is no difference in taste which is a plus! There isn't seating here, it's more like a grab-and-go coffee shop. I personally would grab coffee from here and enjoy a walk around balboa park or somewhere else in the area. They have a glass exchange program where you pay for a glass mason jar (they don't have paper cups) and you can bring it back and get a new glass each time you go. The problem is if you go here spontaneously and you don't remember to bring your cup, you have to pay for a new one each time lol. The customer service here is great, the baristas are super friendly and quick. Overall great place for a great cup of coffee! read more

James Coffee - Iced vanilla latte with oat milk - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Saw the ratings and hype and decided to give this place a try. Location is near Balboa Park, so parking is a bit of a challenge. Limited outside seating is available and the interior is just for ordering (they want you to go outside to wait for your order, they want the door to stay closed, and they yell your name out but it's still difficult to hear so you wait for the person who ordered ahead of you). The coffee is nothing special...I saw comments about the amazing Mocha. IMO the mochas at Lofty-Philz-Starbucks are all superior and the price is at Lofty levels without the Penn experience. read more

Fresh , bold and delicious coffees and pastries. This is my new favorite as I couldn't wait to try this establishment for years being a fan of David from AvA and Boxcar Racer. The staff is welcoming ; friendly speedy service and comfortable area to relax. read more

Drinks: Iced Latte was great with the oat milk with good ice (that matters!). It was a good roast. I want to support small businesses and this is a great coffee shop. FYI, they have this new glass program. You pay for a glass, and then you exchange it each time you go there (they give you a new clean glass). There's no option for paper/plastic cups. Parking: As of 2/2021, there's a lot of construction going on, so there is parking but more limited. Depending on when you go, there are metered parking so you have to pay. Ambience and Decor: Not that it matters too much since this review is written during covid, but it's more of a order and go type place. No seats. It's a small shop. read more

James Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

THE best coffee!!!! Just wish it was closer.. I love trying their seasonal coffees. You can't go wrong with getting anything here. The baristas are super friendly. On the street parking so be prepared. read more

James Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Those people were so rude. I had questions about their menu. They didn't wanna help me. I love trying new coffee, shops, and getting a feel of new places. This is the first time I ever wrote a battery view and I will never come to those places because whoever worked today, July 18 were the rudest people I've ever met. read more

" Review for coffee only " Customer since 2014 ... James beans are by far superior then anything thing In San Diego . Their lattes are amazing iced or hot , their cold brews has flavorful notes that anyone can enjoy. Pastry's are always delicious. I'd say this is the best thing San Diego has and I'm a local so I know a thing or two about my city . read more

The lattes are not overly sweet compared to a lot of other coffee shops in San Diego. I highly recommend their espresso beans as well. I will buy their espresso beans to make my own lattes at home. Service is well, they feel very welcoming. The inside is small and have no room for seating but they do have small tables outside if you like to sip your coffee. read more

While in San Diego for the weekend visiting friends, we came to James Coffee to get our morning caffeine fix. I absolutely love the concept behind this place. Putting down a deposit for reusable glassware, a lid, and a Cousy. I am all for this! But enough about their super awesome, eco-friendly approach to caffeine - the drink itself. I ordered an iced latte and it was delicious. This is the kind of place where you can tell they use a high quality coffee bean. I would definitely be a regular if I lived in the area. read more