Great cafe with lovely spacious ambience and good drinks. I tried their almond joy blended drink which was SO delicious! I will come back just for that drink alone. The music was nice and not too loud. The place is well lit and has lots of seating. The service is friendly. I recommend you try out this place. read more

Went today for a latte. It was just so so, more expensive than SB, but not nearly as good. My 1 Star is for the greed factor....I was going to buy a Perrier to go. Just a Perrier that comes in a small plastic bottle. They are charging $5. The place is just ordinary & charging five bucks for a small water you just grab out of a case is ridiculous. read more

WOW. No words to describe this place. So CLEAN. Lots of seating spaces. Different types of seating options (high stool table, comfy couches, low square tables). Their coffee is dangerously good. I drank my 20oz coffee in maybe 5min? And was back in line for more because it was SO good. After studying for so long I definitely got hungry and was thinking there's no way this place has AMAZING coffee and good food. I was wrong :) the Lox bagel is the BEST bagel I've ever had. So flavorful and made with only the freshest ingredients. I loveeeeeeee this place! read more

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I ordered the lox and bagel because everyone raves about it. When I tried to bite into the bagel I almost broke a tooth . The bagel was stale and rock hard . They had no arugula and the salmon was gross . Will never order this again And they have dogs roaming everywhere.People serving you are feeding dogs as they serve you - gross . Not a good experience read more

I wish there was an option to give this place 3 1/2 stars. Coffee is absolutely amazing and very aesthetically pleasing from the inside. A decent amount of seating but not a ton. My main issue with this place is the food, I've tried getting sandwiches here twice, because I though that maybe I just got the wrong thing the first time. I tried again and still I was left disappointed. 1. Almost every sandwich has turkey in it.,,, why do y'all like turkey so much??? Also they put this peppery seasoning on top of the turkey that is so overpowering you can't taste anything else. Overall though, I really like this place, I would just never get their sandwiches or wraps ever again. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Enjoying a VANILLA CARAMEL! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

Was not super impressed with this place. Very average coffee. The aesthetic inside was a little mix matched and too varied for my taste. On one hand they had modern furniture and then they also had older furniture and horse pictures on the wall with a modern mural above the sugar and cream station. I just found it a little strange. Looked like a nice study spot, but had limited seating. There's a small parking lot out front. Probably won't be back unless I'm nearby. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

Went there a few times without any issues but my last visit was definitely not as nice. It was during COVID, so my mask was on. I wanted to know if they had an idea of when they will be reopen for indoor seating but the employee had a hard time understanding me. I do have an accent but usually have no problem being understood (masked or not). After asking three times, the employee told bluntly to another employee that they could not understand me ("I can't understand him"). Hmm, hello, I am right in front of you. Even the people behind me understood my question and mentioned it to the employee. I had to repeat my order 3 times, for some reason. The constant giggling and not paying attention to my order was definitely frustrating. read more

Went to visit this place in La Mesa and wow . I've never seen such an extensive menu, with everything looking & sounding so good. They truly have something for everyone here! From coffee, tea & smoothies to sandwiches & pastries; they have it all. The staff is so friendly, food is tasty, drinks are delish & the interior decor is so aesthetically pleasing. I wish we lived closer so I could frequent here more, but will definitely stop here whenever we're in the area! read more

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Came in on a Sunday morning with two of my girlfriends after our walk at Lake Murray. Staff was friendly and welcoming and they have a great selection of coffees and breakfast foods along with pastries. I asked who made the pastries and they make them in house which is a great plus. The decor is very comfortable and interesting with Sparkly couches and it's interesting posts on the walls. You have to visit to see. read more

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I recently visited a charming coffee shop that left a lasting impression. The cozy ambiance, coupled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, created a welcoming atmosphere. The baristas showcased impressive expertise, crafting my cappuccino with precision. The menu offered a delightful variety of blends, and my choice exceeded expectations in both flavor and presentation. The staff's friendliness and attention to detail further enhanced my experience. Overall, this coffee shop is a gem for coffee enthusiasts seeking a delightful blend of taste and atmosphere. My friend got chai tea latte and i got latte with oat milk, ohh gosh they were so good. We'll definitely be back read more

The vibe of this coffeehouse is exactly what I have been looking for, the windows with lots of light, plants, cute drinks, great food, not overpriced, not corporate, just a cute lil vibe, this is my #1 coffee spot right now! read more

Lightbulb Coffee - This is the Unicorn Tea with Strawberry and I think mango syrup (suggested by one of the girls) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

This is a great place for folks who are both OCD and love to work remotely! They have a very spacious and tremendously clean working environment. The baristas are friendly, and provide excellent service. We ordered 3 drinks for a total of about $20. The ICED MOCHA tasted like chocolate milk, but good chocolate milk! BRAZIL POUR OVER was good, but I prefer the flavors of Ethiopia or Kenya. The MATCHA LATTE had good artwork, but the matcha could be better. 5-stars for the overall vibe, working space, and cleanliness of the cafe. Love that it's not the usual pretentious coffee shop that we see all over San Diego nowadays. Cheers Yelpers :) read more

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Coffee is okay, but don't go to this place if you need your coffee quickly. We waited for 42 minutes last time and weren't able to use the gift cards that it previously took us 45 minutes or so to purchase because their system and people are so slow. Good space and music is never playing which makes the place feel sterile. I wanted to like this place, but trust me when I say life is too short to mess with this place if you live in La Mesa. read more

We stopped in this place at about 3:00 pm for some coffee. The person behind the counter was doing something (not exactly sure what) and essentially ignored us. Then another employee came out and walked passed us, saying "I'll be with you in a minute." She finally cane over to the counter and we said we'd like a coffee. She suggested a latte instead because they were out of brewed coffee. Seriously? A coffee shop that runs out of coffee in the middle of the day? And she did not indicate they were planning on making any more. We ended up ordering a latte with steamed milk and a chai vanilla latte. When They brought the order out, I got a vanilla latte and I told her I had ordered a chai vanilla latte. To which she responded, "I'm sorry, but I recall you ordering a vanilla latte." She looked at me as if to say "so that's what you get." I told her I ordered chai, not coffee, and that is what I expected. I finally got what I ordered, and I should have suggested that she lose the attitude. But I didn't. Not going back to this place again. read more

Have been here on a multitude of occasions over a six month period and have always had a great experience. The staff is young, but engaging and kind, and seem to know their product offerings. I have never eaten here, so cannot comment on food quality, but they have an extensive menu and food orders seem to be as common as drink orders. There is always a decent amount of patrons there working and/or socializing. And many regular faces around the cafe. They have a seamless online ordering system to order ahead and drinks are always ready when you arrive (this sometimes beats the line that builds there during rushes). If you place an online order of something iced, they'll refrigerate your drink and even wait until you arrive to put the ice in it so it's not just sitting melting awaiting your arrival - I really appreciate that level of attention to detail. You can't beat a parking lot in downtown La Mesa, making accessibility and efficiency to get in and out quick and easy. They also do not charge a minimum drink purchase or have time limits on the use of their Wi-Fi like some other local shops in the area who I won't mention by name. I'm a huge fan of supporting local businesses and this is one of my go-to coffee shops. read more

I love supporting local businesses, especially coffee shops because I am obsessed with all things coffee. I've been here three times now, so I think it's fair for me to write a review. First, this place is very roomy with nice décor and a unique and clean looking menu. Parking is also quite easy. I ordered the pistachio blend all three times I've been because I have a newfound love for pistachio + espresso, and this is the only coffee shop I've come across in San Diego that offers this blend. Although I've enjoyed my drink each time, I also didn't feel the taste was consistent. One time it was little watered down, the other time I couldn't taste the coffee as much and one time it was perfect. It's like the three little bears storyline over here. Also, all three times I've been here, it's been pretty empty (and I come on the weekends). I blame this on the staff, which seems to be run by teenage girls who don't really seem to know what they are doing and aren't very friendly either. I always feel like I'm interrupting one of their conversations when I walk up to the counter...awkward. Service is HUGE, especially for a new business so they need to step up in this department. This is the reason for 1 less star. read more

got recommended the turkish hazelnut first time coming in and have gotten it every time since then, the food is ah mazing!! haven't had a bad experience :) read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Turkey Bagel + Turkish Hazelnut - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

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Cute little place with great customer service... a nice variety of drinks and food. I got the Iced Vanilla Chai and my boyfriend got the Baja Mexican Spice coffee. Both were great. We got a bagel as well and it was pretty big and they used a good amount of cream cheese. I would definitely recommend this place. read more

Loved this place! Not only is the coffee and food really delicious, but the space is so cute and big! Having taken over a Starbucks, this spot sort of makes me wish I was back in college so I could come here and study all day and try all of their lattes! I was told the Peanut Butter Latte is the way to go - that's next on my list! For this visit, we tried the Charcoal Mocha, the Acai Greens smoothie and the Pitcraft Turkey sandwich. The Charcoal Mocha was made with super dark chocolate and creamy oat milk, making it not overly sweet - which was perfect for me! Don't be fooled by the black color of this drink, it was phenomenalllll! The Acai Greens smoothie was exactly what I expected - a good mixture of fruity and green-y tasting - you know what I mean! I felt like I was drinking my nutrients for the day, which I loved! Lastly, the Pitcraft Turkey Sandwich was definitely something I would get again and again! I think I would ask for less mayo next time (I just personally don't love mayo), but every other aspect was great! The richness of the cheese, the tang of the pickles and the slight spice from the chipotle sauce were a perfect mix! read more

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Was in earlier today for lunch, the girl at the counter has a terrible attitude and looks a hot mess, looks like she has bad hygiene, her appearances was dirty and unkempt, took them 30 minutes to make 2 sandwiches and the weren't even busy , they only had like 3 customers sitting around who already had their food , the sandwiches were burnt and crispy, not worth $30 for 2 sandwich and 2 drinks, on top of that I now have a upset stomach after eating here, I hope you go out of business, horrible nasty food, will not ever return here and will tell everyone I know not to go here. Will attach a photo of my burnt panini read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Burnt hard crispy panini - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

I tried this place for the first time last week and liked it so much my boyfriend and I came back a few days later. I ordered the lavender latte and it was delicious! Not too floral tasting and perfectly sweet. I also like that they offer oat milk for us lactose intolerants. My boyfriend ordered an americano and I normally am not a huge fan, but it was surprisingly really good. It had notes of blueberry (?) and was overall really tasty. When we came back the second time, they didn't have enough of the nitro cold brew to make a large for my boyfriend, but they gave him a free muffin and $1 back. Very sweet of them to do and I can tell they really care about their customers. I will continue to come here and support a small local business! read more

We drive from Encanto area to get our coffee and sandwich fix here. My favorites, Chicken Muenster and Vanilla Ice Latte. The Vanilla Ice Latte is very better buzzed like, but with its own taste. I've seen some Karen's come in and complain about long wait times, but this is a small family business from what I can tell. I'd ignore all that if you're looking for great coffee and good eats read more

I saw this café advertised to me on Instagram and I'm super happy I checked it out. I got a lavender latte w/ oat milk (on the barista's recommendation) and a veggie hummus bagel sandwich and I was soooo happy with what I got. My friend got a mushroom chicken sandwich, I think, and he loved it as well. The café itself is decorated so well! Definitely of photo ops if that's your thing! I will definitely be returning again and again! read more

This cute, family-owned place has got plenty of potential, but is sufferring from mgmt neglect!! I mean...all the live plants...are dead!! The "Front"'of the place is disheveled and dirty! The coffee & food I had was fine, but pls clean & fix the place up! It deserves it and your Customers will appreciate it! read more

I'm not a coffee drinker but I do enjoy a good flavored latte so this place was a great spot for me to try! They have an extensive menu with coffee, tea, smoothies, and sandwiches! They also have pastries from a local bakery so it's all very fresh! The inside decor is very cute and feels homey, making it a great place to hang out and even study at! Their lightbulb cups are also super cute and make them unique! I'll def be back! read more

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Came here to read a book, chill, get some breakfast. The whole vibe of the place is nice. I love the decor and the set up. There's plenty to choose from on the menu. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Avocado bagel - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

Great lavender latte! Fabulous indoor (spacious) and outdoor seating. This was my second visit and honestly, everything was even better than the first time. Starbucks on the other hand, has been out of caramel at several locations. I love the Iced Caramel Macchiato. The way they have handled it is ridiculous. I've just learned from it to say I'll go somewhere else now. read more

It was my first time trying this place and will be my last . I ordered online because I was kinda pressed for time . I stood at the pick up window for about 5/6 minutes without being acknowledged. So then I walked to the front and asked about mobile orders . The girl rudely said " as soon as I'm done doing this I will help you ." Then told me to go to pick up window where I was already standing . Get it together guys read more

Love the ambience and atmosphere. Staff is so nice and the coffee and pastries are so yummy! One of my favorite cafes to go to!

Cute cafe, good for studying. I am subtracting one star because of the lack of attention and the outrageous price. $5 for a chai in my own personal 12 oz cup. $6 for a slice of cheesecake!!!!! On top of that, I had asked for no ice in my drink and was served a drink with tons of ice. After feeling bad for making them redo it, i didnt bother speaking up when I was served the wrong piece of cheesecake AFTER the fact they forgot to give it to me in the first place. Maybe it's the fact that none of them speak English as their first language or maybe it was late and they just didn't care. :( read more

First time here. This is such a another good spot to get a coffee around the area. First of all they have a small parking lot in front, it's limited but definitely helps. Second the place is cute! Nicely decorated, plus inside is very spacious in case you wanna hang with computer or friends. I ordered small americano and some pastry to go. They had a variety of pastry looked yummy. The staff was pleasant too. My drink came out in few mins, I noticed all the decoration is neat and also they have some art work on a wall. There were many customers that time, was around 10am on Tuesday. My favorite was the lemon cake there, very tasty! read more

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Great tasting coffee, very clean and quite. I love the simple decor and lots of space. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Mom enjoying coffee mocha - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

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My second trip here. Discovered this gem and their Dirty Matcha on Christmas Eve. Loved the coffee and the vibe so much decided to try this instead of Starbucks on my Sunday morning coffee run. Keep in mind this is more of a designer coffee like place so it's not the rush & bustle of scripted drink recipes being assembled on the favorite line at Starbucks. So if you have a really tight schedule to keep, skip this place and try it when you have time to actually sit on one of their plush couches and enjoy the vibe. I adore and love to support local owner coffee shops and I'm happy this cozy place came about in my neighborhood. Also, a Starbucks occupied the space before this business came about, so it's laid out well too. I just ordered a white chocolate mocha, dirty matcha and a bagel with avocado. Came out in like 10 min and everything is very delish. read more

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They were overstaffed, managed to skip and forget our order extending wait for 20+ minutes during non busy hours. Staff opts to stand around and is aware assistance is needed but is lackadaisical and slow to take action. Poor use of time, lack of awareness within staff, and very poor customer service resulting in 1 star. Would not recommend unfortunately. read more

Good food, pretty good coffee! Coffee has been a little on the sweeter side but we enjoy this place. Staff os friendly and helpful as well!

I love this place I'm so happy they opened. It's the best cafe in La Mesa by far. The staff is super friendly and even comped me when I was having a bad day. The drinks are delicious and they offer an array of baked items and healthy options. The decorations are amazing. Love how they update for the holidays and seasons. It's a must-see if you're in the neighborhood read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Adorable Halloween decor - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

A gem! Im not sure why I hadn't found this place before as I love going around to different coffee shops. I recommend any coffee drink as I have not tried the matcha. Coffee quality is amazing. read more

This is a really nice area to study! At the time of this review, this establishment has been around for about four months. It took over the Starbucks that was in the area. The layout of the building is spacious, with many tables around for you to sit and study, or talk to people. From other places that I have been to similar to this one, the music is somewhat loud, making it hard to concentrate. That is not the issue here- the music isn't as loud, almost fades into the background. Theres also a bunch of places for parking, so that's a plus. It will be a nice alternative to the other places I go to study, and I hope it stays for a while. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Acai bowl. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

I loved my seasonal Ube bowl! It was packed with fruit, granola, and lots of delicious sweetness. The coffee shop music was perfect and the decor felt warm and homey. I could definitely see this as a great meeting or studying spot. read more

Lightbulb Coffee - Ube bowl - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California

It's been a long wait for those of us on the East side of the Village to have a coffee shop that isn't Starbucks! The owner is really nice and is working hard to bring all new staff up to speed. The staff is very nice and social with the patrons. It's wonderful that they have such long hours. No other coffee shop in La Mesa Village opens at 5am during the week! My husband finally has a place to go to grab a coffee before his long commute at 6am, with no giant line of stacked cars like at Starbucks. He and I both like their darker roast drip coffee and the temperature is nice and hot without scalding you. We've also tried their pour over which was good. They stay open daily until 7pm which makes this a place you could have a quick and inexpensive dinner as well. Or just a place to grab a coffee after eating in the Village. I had their chicken arugula panini and it was excellent. The ingredients were very fresh and they didn't drown it in sauce like many places do. They use Bread & Cie which is my favorite local bread company. I am looking forward to trying a lot more of their food and beverages. If waiting in long lines at Starbucks isn't for you nor is struggling to find free parking in downtown La Mesa, this place may be your answer! There is free parking in front of the shop as well as a commercial parking garage inside the building located in the back side of the shop. Welcome to La Mesa Lightbulb, so glad to have you here! read more

Lightbulb Coffee - The chicken and arugula panini - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - La Mesa, California