Everyone seems to love Lestat's, and it makes me WANT to love Lestat's too. But why people like Lestat's is a mystery to me. The vibe of this location is pretty cool, I'll give them that. (Is this the biggest location??) Cool interior, spacious, and they have a giant menu of coffee drinks, a tea menu, plated food, and pastries. Perhaps you fellow Yelpers like that their expansive menu sets them apart from other bougie coffee shops? My biggest knock off their stars is that Lestat's coffee never tastes good. My recent cappuccino purchase tasted bitter, almost like one of those instant coffee machines from a hotel's breakfast bar. I'm more so of a straight coffee drinker, so the sugary flavored coffees didn't intrigue me. I soooo want to like their coffee because I don't always want to go to a bougie [insert any trendy cafe name with plants] coffee shop and pay $7 for 12oz. But you know what, their quality is worth the $7. Last note, please come only when you're feeling zen and not going to contribute to the road rage here. Because parking is a PITA. read more

I decided to leave a review here as my partner and I frequent this place often we need to get out of the house and focus on daunting computer work. I will start with the things I love. I love that there is a ton of space for me to work and I love the community aspect of others working along side by side. I love what I recognize as a sense of inclusivity to all in our community who need to come to this space for a coffee, snack, or to read a book. I love the unique and slightly odd decor conglomeration. The menu is large and in charge and all the items I have tasted I have enjoyed. I could go on however I will leave you with my experience is overall always positive. What I do not consider negative but point out as something to be aware of if you are coming to work for hours... There are not endless outlets. Just be prepared and charged up or maybe have an extension cord? For the most part I have always found a spot near one and people have been extremely friendly in regards to the outlets but be aware every space is not equipped. It was no question to me to leave 5/5 stars but I have seen the other reviews and I do understand this spot might not be for everyone. Should I take a star off because maybe they could do a super deep clean of the place? Eh? I don't think so.. this place doesn't claim to be super sterile and honestly it isn't that bad. It has that cute charm of an cafe. It's not a health hazard. read more

I used to frequent Lestat's a lot before Covid and just recently visited again since moving back to San Diego. I brought my partner along with me to show her one of my old spots, and she loved the vibe of the coffee shop. Plenty of seating, cool decorum, chill music, and a menu with a ton of offerings. The barista was friendly enough when we came up to the counter and as we ordered an iced Irish monkey with almond milk and an iced Vietnamese coffee. Our drinks came out and they were spot on with the flavor! My partner really enjoyed the combination of banana, Irish creme and chocolate in her drink; and the Vietnamese coffee was strong yet balanced, just the way I like it. Lestat's is a must try spot in Hillcrest, whether you're looking for a space to get work done at or if you're looking for some good coffee and food! read more

I like Lestat's because they're open way later than other study spaces, and I come to this location mainly for their second floor, which is usually quiet. I would 100% rate this location 5 stars, except the bathroom situation is HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! filthy, nasty, disgusting, stinky...... idk how else to evoke the visceral feeling of disgust that their "restrooms" bring up every time I have to step into one. It seems like it's an active biohazard. I have to hold my breath and I actively cuff my jeans so that they don't accidentally swipe across the WET (!!!) floor when I need to go in (it's always wet) We've been here almost every day this week, and I genuinely don't think that they've cleaned it once in that time -- I think I've only seen the bathrooms "clean" once, and even then it still reeked. This place has so much potential, but I genuinely feel gross coming in here sometimes (don't get me started about the elevator/area that the bathrooms are located in), and sometimes I opt to go somewhere else just because I don't want to deal with the musty air or haphazardly arranged tables. Again, it's a great community space and the customer service is great for the most part, but the kitschy charm is barely enough for the state of the most important read more

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My go to cafe. Closes late and has free WiFi. Drinks here are really yummy and food never fails to satisfy me. I recommend a Mexican dulce coffee and a BLAT sandwich. Staff is always so kind! Lots of other people like coming here as well so you might have to sit next to someone if you're looking to use a power outlet. For the most part I haven't sat directly next to someone yet. Ambiance is very cute. Cool posters to look at and who ever is on aux should get a raise. 10/10 do recommend. read more

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I come here often and will continue to come back because it's a big space, there are always tables available, WiFi is good, the food is decent, and I like the ambiance, especially the ancient Egyptian decor. I have to knock a couple stars though because the coffee isn't great, food is a bit overpriced, and the staff is consistently rude and just kind of off putting... the whole experience would be so much nicer if the staff was more friendly. There's good and bad but just always being able to rely on getting a table and connect to WiFi is enough to keep me coming back. read more

A large cafe nestled on University Ave. Le Stats provides a warm atmosphere for those hoping to work or study in a public location. The area is large enough so noise is not consuming while also allowing for collaboration. In regards to food, I really enjoyed their cupcake and cookie. The frosting is vanilla and rather plain but provides just the right amount of sweetness without being rich or overindulgent. I highly recommend it as an early morning hangout. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Vegan Cupcake, Cookie, and House Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

There's a sassy male barista (dressed with a mustache for Halloween) who seems a little full of himself and acts like he can't stand working there and can't be bothered with orders. He stares at you blankly as you navigate their menu and then sasses you if you don't call their products by their exact name. Kween you know what I mean by coffee crumb cake, no need for the "you mean the coffee cake". Then had the nerve to scream out "Americana" (not Americano) and plop our drink and walk away. Go to Better Buzz or Starbucks if you want great service. The coffee CRUMB cake was worth a star. read more

I like the Mexican Mocha here. There's plenty of seating and workers are nice. They have a good variety of drinks

As someone who's come here a couple times ( giving it another chance ) the bad reviews are here FOR A REASON, please do yourself a favor and save your money and time to find another place to visit. The coffee I've gotten here is really bitter and unpleasant to drink (I couldn't fight the urge to finish it at least halfway) the people I was with were also disappointed in their own drinks that were completely different than mine. We decided to give it another chance but the employee/maybe manager made sure to let us know that if we wouldn't purchase anything from them then we weren't welcomed, we weren't even there 15 minutes before they came up to us for the second time when they kicked us out while we were deciding what to order. I wish there was another place that had many tables and late hours as this one does because we drove over 30 minutes so we can complete our homework in peace. read more

I love this coffee shop. Two stories of caffeinated fantasy and miscellaneous yet somehow connected artwork decorating the walls and odd furniture adding to the charm. They have an extensive menu, most of which I'm certain I've tried in my 5+ years frequenting the establishment, from coffee to smoothies to sandwiches to pastries. In general, average to above average flavors but spiritually satisfactory. If you're hungry or thirsty or need a quiet yet strangely ambitious atmosphere, this is a must-go-to place. The parking is less than ideal, going for streets or metered parking around the area. You'll be fighting for a spot with the other clubs and restaurants in the area and holy guacamole there is usually a TON of people here. Depends on the time of day, but man oh man do people just trickle in and...stay. It's great for working on stuff, whatever your stuff may be and the public expectation to focus, shut up, and just hammer away at your stuff will get you completing whatever pesky to-do list you bring in. read more

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Very seldom do I give anything other than great reviews, but feel it's important to know what you're getting into when you go to this place Went a recent morning and the place is filthy for one thing. Not even one other person inside or in line but the person working made us feel like we were a hassle. We asked for a decaf coffee and she said they don't have decaf but she could make an Americano but it would take at least six minutes (weird random comment). Waited the "six minutes" and went to check on the Joe and it was sitting there a lil lonely on the counter. still the only people there and thought she might've brought it out but it might've been the six minutes that did her in! Won't be going back, way too many other places that welcome my business. read more

Got a chance to visit this coffee shop, got an overpriced tea for 6$:/. And it was a just a tea bag, that is why am telling it's overpriced. And baristas work place was dirty, pitchers were dirty too. Another espresso wasn't made good and fast enough. And selling a tea bag, it is little bit complicated. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Staff stand around on their cell phones completely disengaged from consumers. I can hear the gossip in regards to the mask mandate from my table ! Completely unprofessional! The lack of professionalism of off putting! Makes for a very hostile environment! Never coming here again !! read more

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Came here with friends for some coffee. Parking isn't always easy to find in the area but I was able to find a spot right out front. We sat outside and having the patio umbrellas hide us from the sun was nice, however there was a man smoking his cigarette from his window above the coffee shop. After he finished smoking his cigarette he went back inside but then a homeless on a skateboard under the influence of drugs kept yelling to everyone on the sidewalk and then he began shouting at us so we decided to leave for our safety. It's not the restaurant's fault at all but I personally wouldn't recommend seating outside. There's plenty of indoor seating and the staff was really nice. The breakfast food was really good. My chai latte was decent, nothing extraordinary. overall it was just nice spending time with my loved ones but I don't see myself driving out of my way to come here. If I'm in the area in need of a good breakfast sandwich I know I can come by for great service. read more

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My favorite coffee shop in San Diego. You can get a nice cup of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, pastries, or a breakfast or lunch item. Has free internet to come and study or work. Or just nice to sit and chat with a friend. Has a patio for those days you want to be outside. I highly recommend this spot. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Chocolate dipped cheesecake topped with Heath Bar crumbles - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Love Lestats. The coffee and food are great! I genuinely enjoy the atmosphere. Best cappuccino anywhere in hillcrest!.

I always come here for the double espresso. Wakes me up and reminds me that lestats is not in New York but in Sunny San Diego. Great place to people watch and David and Conner are the most hilarious employees and they are the reason I'll come back. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Been coming to Lestats for over a decade and will gladly pay money to support local businesses over Evil Chain Who Will Not Be Named. Their extended hours make it a great work/study spot. But I do have to say in the past couple years I've noticed a significant dip in the quality of service. Three times now I've waited over 20 minutes for my latte, or had my order completely forgotten. I totally understand short staffing but I noticed the baristas standing around, no line, nothing. I'll continue visiting to support such a big community spot but I do hope they can figure things out. read more

Cozy and welcoming with variety of delicious treats and drinks to choose from. The location has many young adults walking during the weekend. Interior decor is above average... read more

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As the self-anointed Yvonne da Bomb of Hillcrest #Yvonnecrest, I am shocked that I have not been coming here more. As a person that reads another's energy, the vibes here, so far a really good. Customers seem hella motivated and on their grind, and that's the energy I want to be around. Have yet to try their food/snacks but I have had many cold brews and some other coffee drinks that I have read on yelp that seemed yummy to me. Did not disappoint. The guys here are pretty chill and friendly, have only seen men here so far. They have been very helpful especially when I am asking about coffee/tea drinks. My con is: the windows are soooooooooo dirty. I don't know why they are so dirty, because it looks like they have several months of grime on them. "If you have time to lean, you have time to clean"...period. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Because Carrisa E's Review. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

As a study spot, Lestat's is solid but could be better. Lestat's Hillcrest offers a unique and eclectic atmosphere that can be both inspiring and distracting when it comes to studying. The cozy ambiance, dim lighting, and background music may create a comfortable setting for concentration. However, it's worth noting that the noise level can vary, especially during peak hours when the place tends to get busier and noisier. One aspect to keep in mind is the seating situation. While Lestat's provides more seating than a majority of other coffee shops in the area, finding an available spot, especially downstairs, can be a challenge during busy periods. It's important to arrive early to secure a suitable seat for studying, as the upstairs seating area closes at 10pm. In terms of amenities, Lestat's offers reliable Wi-Fi, which is essential for productive study sessions. There is a separate WiFi option for upstairs and downstairs. The availability of power outlets varies throughout the space, so it's advisable to scout for a seat near one if you need to charge your devices. The woman's bathroom also has 2 stalls downstairs, which is great because most places only have a single toilet for everyone. Parking can be a nightmare or miraculously easy. I'm usually a "if I have to parallel park, I'm not going" type of girl. However, you're willing to walk, I'm usually able to find street parking along University near the thrift stores (Father Joe's, Goodwill). While Lestat's Hillcrest can provide a decent study environment, it's important to be aware of the potential noise and seating challenges during peak hours. Overall, it's an average place to study, but there may be better options available depending on your preferences and needs. read more

From staff to individuals inside everyone was following social distancing guidelines. Place was pretty clean, we did see them clean up a few times as we sat here studying. It was our first time here, so we didn't know what to expect. We did some studying for a few hours, music and overall noise was at a good level allowing us to study. We ordered 2 coconut macaroons, a cherry Bianca and a Hawaiian smoothie. All were pretty great. This is a chill place to come hang out and get some work done. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Hawaiian Vacation Smoothie Cherry Bianca Signature Drink - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I reviewed this place before covid, and for the most part, it's still a great place to check out. They are no longer 24 hours, but they are open until midnight most nights, so I can't complain. The food is much better note than it was in the past; not sure what changed to be honest, but I'm not complaining! I think the breakfast sandwiches are my favorite, but the pizzas always look amazing. One day I'll order one. The drinks are fairly similar as before. I think they may have streamlined this menu, but they have all the classics and some of their own creations. I pretty much always get cold brew with oak milk. But their iced Vietnamese is delicious as well. The seating is not the most comfortable, so if you need that, this might be a problem. I personally prefer uncomfortable seating when I'm studying because it keeps me awake and engaged! If it's too cushy I start to doze off lol Overall, this of a great place to come study, have some coffee, a snack, meet with friends, or just hang out! read more

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Coffee is alright but it's a prime location and a great spot for studying or working, would highly recommend coming here if you got things to do and need a better environment read more

Nice ambiance but I would just go to Better Buzz next time... the coffee is subpar, the service tends to be forgetful and there just always seems to be a problem each time I come )-: read more

Came here today with my girlfriend - she wanted a coffee and to do some light reading. I'm not much of a coffee guy myself, but I figured a morning out with the gal would be nice. Here's the thing - We both brought our laptops intending to do some research / work. I went to the front to inquire about the guest wifi, and the woman working today says "it's for customers only." So... I mean, I guess I get it. The shop is basically empty and I'm here with my girlfriend who is a customer, and could just as easily ask for the wifi and provide it to me... just seemed a bit odd. If that were my only complaint, I likely wouldn't be typing this review. My girlfriend let me know that the same woman, when she took her order, was short with her and rude to her as well. My girlfriend prefers oat milk, she ordered the vietnamese coffee and asked for an oat milk substitute, and the woman just coldly stated "no, that would be a latte." No explanation beyond that, no considerate tone of voice, I don't know... maybe this is me being picky but having spent years in customer service akin to this, you'd expect a bit more, right? And I'll tell ya what... if all this is all that had happened to this point, I would not be writing my review. But then my girlfriend goes to get her coffee, and the thing isn't even mixed. The bottom of the beverage is white, the coffee is super strong, and for $5 and rude service, I guess I'd at least hoped the coffee would be properly made. So all things considered... nice environment, good wifi, cool spot - but poor service and subpar product. ** Props to the gentleman working here who witnessed the rude interactions and swung by our table to provide us with the wifi password, he's the reason this is 2 stars rather than 1 ** read more

I absolutely love this location and the whole Egyptian theme it has going on. I ordered the funky monkey drink which was one of the tastier coffees I've had lately. The upstairs has AC and is nice and spacious, however limited outlets compared to the other locations. Also, the big con I have about this place are the bathrooms upstairs. It smelled super sour/mildewy and it was unpleasant to use because the smell was so off putting. read more

A coffee shop with a fun vibe in a great location. Perfect for people watching inside and out. The coffee beverages and sweets are just ok though. Blueberry Cheesecake: So it's not like a Junior's cheesecake in NYC, but it's pretty solid for California. Seems to have a fork firm baked texture rather than than weird "no bake" mousse texture. A generous amount of tasty blueberry pie filling on top. The graham cracker crust underneath felt a bit too moist and crumby, not really sticking to the cheese portion. Dulcé Mexican Mocha: Wow, I like sweet and this was even too sweet for me. I feel like if you overdosed on real dulce de leche, it'd be ok since the extra sugar would be offset by the extra fat. Since I believe this came from a flavored syrup, you really don't have anything to cut that sugar. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Blueberry Cheesecake - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I think we went on a bad day because all of our drinks were horrible tasted seriously like coffee grounds and water. It wasn't even sweet.

This place is PACKED! Came here around 1 PM. There is background music (pop/punk/alternative) but its not too loud! There are plenty of outlets inside, bring an extension cord. Coffee was good, lots of fun drinks to try! Vegetarian options for food as well. There was a vegetarian breakfast sandwich as well as a pizza. I believe there were more options as well. Overall great study spot or place to get some work done if you dont mind it being a little noisy from other peoples chatter. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Power outlet - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Pros: love the late hours and the people are nice. Lots of seating. Cons: could use more cleaning (feels a little grimy) and wish there were more outlets and plugs for all the seats. read more

You guys have been there for me at 2am when I'm drunk asf coming out of RICHS. You've been there for me at midnight when I'm studying for the first time for my 10am final exam. You've been there for me when I'm trying to do a study group (where we don't study at all), when I need to do a meet up with someone, and when I'm just bored wanting snacks. I miss all the times I had here pre COVID but I'm still ordering on Postmates. (idk if it's coming from this location). I can't wait for things to go back to normal so I can chug 4 Vietnamese iced coffees a day inside. read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - My bird approves - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Got a strawberry, blueberry, banana smoothie that was just ok. Pesto avocado toast was just ok. This place was just ok. Plus side is that it was $5.99 for avo toast whereas most places charge $10+. read more

How can you not like muffins? What I really appreciate about this place is you can get a late night hot coffee. Yes I'm that kinda human. Ambiance is nice, I think it's two stories but I've got absolutely zero idea on how to get up there. Service ranges from "interesting" to good. I'll let you interpret what that means. read more

I don't really like going to cafes because I rarely like the coffee they offer but the dulce Mexican mocha was really good and creamy 10/10 would recommend!! The baristas were really nice too I didn't have my contacts on so I was squinting to try and read the menu and one of the baristas offered me a paper menu and even recommended some drinks! The cafes interior was also beautiful it reminded me of a museum and the upstairs was very quiet. I was even able to get a lot of work done, I will be coming again! read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Dulce Mexican Mocha Signature Drink - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Been reading a lot of reviews about this particular location and people are saying similar negative things about the staff and/or potentially the manager. So here's another one. Staff was rude, one dude in particular after I ordered a drink, made fun of my accent and speech impediment. I thought being queer, that this Lestats location being in Hillcrest (the gayborhood) , would make one feel safe here... but it didn't. Management can do better at making this place feel more warm and welcoming. It failed me on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. Observation: I also saw the trans flag rolled up & bundled on the corner and not hung up in the front as usual, hmm just an observation... know your neighborhood and respect it. I like to reminisce on the dark poetic Lestats I once new on Adam's Ave... what went wrong years later? read more

I used to like this place, it's very aesthetically pleasing and spacious, there is always room and a place to sit. I used to be able to get things done until people started to judge me weirdly or some thing of that sort. I just have faith in God, Jesus Christ. And I believe he loves all his creations. It is us who do not. We shall all reap what we sow. But I find truth in what I have been reading about the staff comments . It really is a hit or miss. I have felt extremely judge multiple times, unintentionally overheard conversations, call intuition if you must. Though I understand it's got nothing to do with me and everything to do with them. I do not care I just thought I'd properly re-evaluate my honest opinion as I am allowed to. Loved loved coming here, until I started feeling and seeing the truth for what it was. Even spoked with the son's manager once, who said to me; "I'd love to offer you a job, but..." idk what he meant I never once asked for a job, I just asked if the staff was always the same since I had been coming to the university location for over 4 years, I'm not interested in working there, never have and never will. "Thanks tho for the unsolicited offer". I love the aesthetics I think they got the right idea but in terms of staff and kindness it lacks the essentials for its full potential. Sincerely, Ángela read more

Lestat's Hillcrest - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

My last two experiences here have been great. The coffee is very good and a lot of college students me included come here as a go to spot. Theres a bunch of graffiti in the restroom which I actually kind of like as a vibe but of course don't go tagging what isn't yours. Lots of seats and outlets. Their theme is very unique I've never seen a coffee shop with Egyptian statues before. I haven't had bad service since I've came the people who served me have been very accommodating my first time here in the afternoon there was only one person working kitchen and the barista so please be understandable if they take a long time. read more

Every time I come unless I see Kahlill (Barista), I have a bleh experience. As a barista myself I know excellent customer service, and this spot is hit or miss with that. Drinks: Again Eh. Nothing I have ever had stands out to where it makes me want to come back. So I will usually just get a loose leaf tea and call it a day. I got a smoothie today that was decent (pre mixed strawberry blueberry banana) it was watery so I wasn't excited but I will say it hit the spot on this hot day. The thing I do like about it is the late hours it offers as there isn't many coffee shops that are able to be open super late. So when I need to be in Hillcrest late I will stop in. read more