Delicious coffee, not overly strong or bitter like how some craft coffees can be. ALL of the pastries are delicious...especially the croissants and sourdough. I'm a professional baker (of 11+ yrs) so I'm rather picky. Prices are what's expected and worth it. The staff are all helpful and it's a nice place to get some work done or to just read. read more

Coffee never disappoints. Pastries are so amazing as well. This location is very nice

I started skimming through 1 star reviews before writing my own - goal of providing objective feedback on a restaurant. I've been to the Lofty locations in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Solana Beach. Most frequented being the SB location since it is a short drive from our vacation condo. How good is this place? Been here 3 times already this week, and will go one or two more times before we leave. Space - each location has very industrial build-out with lots of polished concrete. SB location is on the smaller side I think, but still has a good amount of seating (all shaded, outside). Service - theme of most of the 1 star reviews was around service. I've had ZERO issues with the service. In fact I've found the service to be a higher standard that most coffee joints. Same guy worked the register all 3 visits and after the second one already recognized us and remembered our previous order. By the third visit, he noted "we are becoming regulars". That is attention to customer service. Food - you really can't go wrong with anything here. The bakery items are all very good. If you like Acai bowls, you MUST order that here. Another great option is the hummus & avocado toast - its a filling and very healthy meal. Will we return? Yes - every time we are in the area. read more

Great espresso and house made vanilla syrup! It just took a little long to get my drink. read more

Lofty Coffee - 2 shots espresso, vanilla , and splash of Oat milk in a cup. - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

tried the "cloudy with a chance" drink and realized the "chance" was buying $9 coffee and thinking it would be good. It reminded me of water with a splash of coffee and had to prepare ourselves every time we took a sip. had nice staff tho lol. read more

Lofty Coffee - "cloudy with a chance" coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

Came here with some friends on a Saturday morning after a nearby hike. The location and ambiance was really nice - great colors, pretty shaded outdoor seating (which was full), and located right on the design district strip. The menu looked very impressive and there was a long line to order, so we went in with some expectations. Overall, the line went by quickly and our drinks came out fast, but for the price paid for the coffee ($6) it was a bit watered down with more sugar/milk flavor than coffee. I think it is a cute place to visit if you are in the area, but if you like a strong cup of joe, may not be for you. read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

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I love the atmosphere here, good outdoor coffee shop vibes. Service is quick and you can order from your phone. I'm giving their coffee a 4 star because I just didn't think it was very flavorful. However, their açaí bowl was amazing-best I've ever tried and I've tried a lot. read more

Lofty Coffee - Açaí bowl - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

Super cute coffee, tea and brunch spot. All local and organic. Super fresh. Great outdoor seating area and amazing customer service. Love this little gem and can't wait to visit their other spots. I got the blood orange creamsicle hot and the chicken sausage croissant. Highly recommend read more

Lofty Coffee - Chicken sausage, arugula, organic egg, cheddar and tomato jam croissant - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

One of the best coffee spots in Encinitas. The espressos, nitro cold brews, and lattes are excellent and the staff are incredibly kind and prompt with quality service and customer interactions! read more

DO NOT USE THEIR MOBILE APP!!! Updated: THEY DO NOT MAKE THE DRINK UNTIL YOU CHECK IN After ordering ahead on the mobile app and waiting 20 minutes, I I asked about the order. The reply from the barista, "did you check in when you got here? we don't make the drink until you get here." Twenty minutes earlier, whenI arrived, I ordered a muffin with the cashier, he asked, "anything else?", I replied, "no, thank you, I have a mobile order" Original Review (2 Stars) The good, the bad, and the ugly. The good: their espresso is a personal favorite and I really enjoy just about all their drinks. Thee food from the kitchen is good, including the fresh baked goods. The bad: the prices are premium prices and they only have one size for all drinks. Be prepared to spend over $5 for just about every drink. The ugly: the customer service is HORRIBLE. Specifically, the baristas. We ordered ahead and it was not 9 minutes to receive our order as the app said, but closer to 20 minutes. The two baristas were more interested in chatting with each other while their were 10 people (I counted) waiting for their order. I should mention that the cashiers are always friendly but the baristas are absolutely not interested in efficiency or customer service. In summary, go else where if you want your drinks the same day. read more

This is one of my favorite places for coffee. They have a nice open air setup with seating outside and nice coverage. They serve delicious crafted coffee. I low their mocha. Not too sweet, the right amount of chocolate, and nice design:) We ordered the egg with toast and advocado and arugula. Toast had choice of butter, jam or hummus. We had the hummus which was nicely spread on the toast. People also brought their dogs. Friendly spot :) read more

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I came here to catch up with my friend (we grew up in San Diego and returned back for Christmas). This little shop was a nice place to relax, eat, and drink. Ironically, I didn't order a coffee. The server was patient with me, despite a huge line behind me. (I was asking her about the different food items.) I had the Ancient Grains Salad, which was as you'd expect...grains and salad. I wouldn't say it was a game-changer, but it was still healthy and tasted good. The open-air seating was refreshing, although I was inadequately prepared for the chilly morning. The sun hits certain tables, so it was nice to be warmed up. Parking was on the street--majority parallel parking (eep for me). But I found a spot pretty easily. Will come back here if I decide to catch up with people in SD! read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

A cute coffee shop walking distance from the beach! Parking is a bit tough but I was able to find street parking about 5 blocks away. I was there on a Thursday morning and it was packed! I love the variety of seating options, it's all outside so the breeze feels amazing, and there are good drink and food options. I got an iced salted caramel latte which was the perfect level of salted caramel, sweetness and coffee but there way way too much ice in the mason jar so it tasted like water the last half of my drink. It is a little pricier but that's probably expected for the area! read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

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Hands down one of the better coffee shops which explains the long lines. Well roasted, smooth and paired well. read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

I live in the city but come up to north county frequently. I've been to Lofty before so I decided to work here for a bit because I'm in Solana today. The place is great, it's all outdoor but there's also a lot of shade which is awesome for working. The coffee is also really good. It's a bit expensive, but it makes sense considering the location. I feel obligated to buy something when I work at a coffee shop (as all remote workers should) so I got a cortado. I then set up my spot and started working. When my laptop battery started getting low I went to plug in my charger and noticed a lock on the outlet. I went to ask the girl working what the code was and she mentioned she did not know it and she did not know why they were locked. I guess the owners don't want people staying for extended periods of time. I find this a bit strange and rude, considering people go to coffee shops to work and/or charge their phones when they're out and about, it's a part of modern coffee shop culture culture, especially for a place that is priced like this. For how expensive the drinks and good are, this convenience should be available to customers. It was my bad for not checking the outlet situation first but I've now just wasted $6 on a cortado I would not have bought had I realized they were permanently locked. It's good coffee, but don't come if you plan on working or charging anything. read more

What an amazing find! I'm visiting from Boston-and man have I been missing out. The cashier was very friendly and helped me to order the best French toast I've had in a while. The café provided outdoor seating which allowed me to enjoy the ocean breeze, while I sipped my hot, freshly brewed lofty coffee. Thank you for the experience, Lofty ! read more

Lofty Coffee - Organic French Toast - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

I really like what Lofty is doing these days, not just because they have expanded a little bit, but they continue to provide great coffees, and simple yet effective quality eats. At this location, I ordered a drip coffee and some avocado toast made from their excellent multigrain bread. The coffee was bliss and had that strong and robust yet smooth flavor. They certainly know how to roast and brew coffee here. The Avocado toast was very nice. They serve the avocados sliced on the side and sprinkled with a freshly ground quality black pepper and sea salt. The avocado was at a creamy ripeness and easy to spread. Although the multigrain toast was unevenly toasted, it still was quite good, but I recommend they be careful with that, because a portion of the bread was crunchy and the rest soft. I usually ask for a re-toast, but they were so busy I decided to go with it. They do get very busy during peek hours and seating fills up fast. They are few concrete round picnic tables around back as well. Customer service was top notch at the counter and with the servers who brought out the food. Careful on that toasting! read more

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5 stars all the way for this particular Lofty. Service is awesome, the product served is absolutely delicious and even the lunch dining options are fantastic. My go to with Lofty is the Iced Caramel Latte, it's delicious and I'm not really a coffee drinker. Pair the awesome drink with a delicious panini and it makes this outdoor eatery a little gem in Solana Beach. Overall, I love Lofty in Encinitas and absolutely love Lofty in Solana Beach. Pros- Location Coffee Sandwiches Menu Service Outdoor seating Pet friendly Decent parking for the area Cons- What happens if it rains? No seating... A bit pricey read more

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Growing up around so many cafes; there are many that are great. Lofty is consistently just good coffee and food. Pricey, but good ingredients and people that actually know how to make coffee. I grew up studying at lofty coffee and still go there to do work stuff. Great surroundings and great servers. read more

Lofty Coffee - Yogurt bowl w/so much fruit cesear salad, and turkey avo croissant (my personal fave). Hot matcha, iced americano w/splash of oat - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

My mom and I stopped by here some weeks ago after I picked her up from the train station. They have parking in the back. The outdoor seating was pretty full and there was a line out the door to order. I guess that must be a sign that they make good coffee here right. The prices aren't cheap but the quality & presentation is worthy. We ordered: French toast $8.50 - there are two thick slices of bread per order and it's topped with bananas/strawberries/maple syrup. We thought the bread tasted dry but the fresh fruit and thick syrup helped Service Earl Grey $2.50 - my mom ordered this because it was one of the cheaper drink items on the menu. The presentation was beautiful with a clear small tea pot and clear tea cup. She was even offered free hot water refills after she was finished drinking the tea. Latte $5.00 - ok so $5 bucks for a latte seems high. They charged me extra to make it breve. But gosh, this was a GOOD latte. And I'm a sucker for foam art on top of any latte. The latte was smoooooth and oh so creamy with the foamed half n half. It was richly caffeinated and I definitely felt the caffeine jitters while I was in the car. Service was fine but busy. There's a buzz about this place that's intriguing. The patio had a variety of customers : families with babies, couples with dogs, singles reading paper, etc. I'd definitely come back if I was in the area and try another coffee. read more

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This place kills it. I have been to their location in Solana beach and in Little Italy numerous times and they just kill it. Super friendly staff. Great Coffee and really great food! I really love the atmosphere. I call it a bit industrial but the bottom line is that it is a comfortable place to get good coffee and some breakfast. I look forward to the next time I am near either of these locations. read more

The customer service here is horrible! I ordered food for dine in and the guy gave me a number and said the food would be out soon. I was waiting at a table for 20 minutes before going back to the register and having to flag down one of the five employees standing around laughing/talking to each other to ask where my order was. Then the guy said it was on the end, in a to-go box. The box that was labeled "Andrew" which is not my name. Then he said "oops sorry they wrote the wrong name, if it's cold we can remake it" I just left. Like no dude, I don't have another 20 minutes to wait for food when I'm on my 30 minute lunch break. (Looking at other reviews, it seems like this happens a lot) I have been to this location several times and the employees are always dismissive and seemed annoyed that they have to take your order. I would suggest going anywhere else on Cedros for coffee/food. read more

Really good food and coffee! Lots of seating. There is no indoor seating so dress accordingly.

This new location of Lofty coffee co is all about outdoor space. The cafe has very large patio where you can enjoy a cup of your favorite coffee/espresso beverage, soak up the sun and do some people watching :) So far i've tried their regular latte and Aztec mocha, both drinks are totally different. Latte is strong and flavorful (they put 2 shots of espresso). Aztec mocha is packs a very robust punch with cayenne pepper and cinnamon. Lofty doesn't have different cup sizes. Just one, i think it runs as a medium size. They do have some breakfast items, but i would say its mostly snacks, like slice of bread with some boiled eggs and small sides. Check it out! read more

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Great experience. Nice energy, staff and clientele. Simple menu but done well. Very adorable spot! Thanks for a great respite ! Cappuccino tasty ( and pretty) eggs perfect, gluten free bread yummy, everyone enjoyed their various eats. read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

Lofty is simply amazing! I Love that we have one in Solana Beach. Everything that we have ordered has been delicious. They make their own almond and hazelnut milk both of which are delicious. The staff is super friendly as well. The only downfall can be the long wait times and only one cash register but it is always well worth the wait. Favorites: Eggs and toast with avocado and arugula. Gluten Free Toast Gf cookie is like a mini cake...so good! Arugula salad Almond milk latte Cold brew You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu! read more

Pretty disappointed by this spot. We ordered 3 things and they messed up 2 of them. They ultimately brought us a replacement for one of the items after we asked. Overpriced. People without masks ordering. Just not worth it given the large number of other coffee options in the area. read more

dirty chai was absolutely disgusting . taste really sour like lemonade (made me pucker my lips). my friend even said it tasted like a spicy tuna roll and she was right on the money!!! would i come back here again?? HEAVENS, NO!!!! You know, i'm not religious but the price made me drop to my knees and beg for the lord!! 7.25, ohhh mahhh, im not aliveeee, for that 7.25. read more

Lofty Coffee - dirty chai - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

I love Lofty's and I wanted to leave a review on this location during Covid. They are very mindful and careful with saniter stations scattered and they had the tables 6 feet from each other. Normally, I have been mobile ordering for quick pick up but today I wanted to grab beans and went earlier in the morning to avoid potential crowds. I ordered a london fog and my favorite turkey and avocado crossiant sandwich to go. Since it was still quite relaxed, I sat down to quickly sip my tea and take a bite or three of my crossiant. So good! Please continue to support your local establishments! read more

Lofty Coffee - Picking up some beans and a tea. Look at how cute they made the tea even though it was to go! - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

Always slow, long wait. Espresso drinks are almost always served too hot to enjoy. Don't think ordering through the app will save you time: my order was a 20 minute scheduled wait but I got my order about 20 minutes after that. And the order didn't include all the ingredients I paid for. This has been my typical experience for the past few years. PS the app asks for permission to receive text updates of your order. Lofty makes you wait in earshot instead. read more

Staff was super friendly. The iced salted caramel latte is the BEST - the perfect amount of sweet !! Very nice, clean, modern atmosphere. read more

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I decided to venture further and check out this place that has been on my radar for a while. They had a seasonal menu at the counter that offered Kyoto cold brew or Lofty fall latte. In the spirit of the holiday season, I chose the fall latte. They didn't have soy; just almond and coconut milk. They brought out my drink with a beautiful latte art. The first sip had a very very strong taste of cayenne and cinnamon. I took another sip to reaffirm that I wasn't a fan. I brought it back to ask for a regular latte and they graciously remade it for me especially since the fall latte is more than a regular one. Overall, the ambiance is nice and there were lots of people coming and going. read more

Lofty Coffee - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

Always been a fan of Lofty Coffee. Probably my favorite location, just because I like the vibe here. I had the iced salted Carmel latte which was heavenly and this prosciutto and cheese croissant, whoaaa my taste buds were certainly happy :) The one thing that I would suggest is to go early so you can get a good table, the place does get packed. read more

Food is great, prices are a bit steep service is lovely and ambience is very chill. Definitely recommend for studying or quick coffee break

Ordered a latte at 9:41 (on my receipt) and got it at 9:59. 20 minute wait is a bit long, I get that it's the weekend, but still. I've had them forget orders multiple times as well. read more

Love this place! I always get the iced vanilla latte and avocado toast. It's sometimes hard to find a place to sit during the busy hours but it's a great location and easy parking lot! read more

Oh Lofty Coffee- where to begin? The Iced Salted Caramel lattes here will literally change your life! Not only will the caffeine give you jolt of energy straight from Zeus' lightning bolt - but you will also savor the addicting salted caramel flavor as soon as it hits your tongue! Now let's talk venue. The patio is pet friendly (woof!) and the front of the shop is completely surrounded by a rectangular bar with plenty of barstools. There are larger tables in front as well as a couple hidden gems in the back! Worried about getting too much sun? Have no fear! The entire patio is shaded overhead. To top it all off, once you've been here two or three times the baristas remember you by name :) read more

Lofty Coffee - If you're a first timer, the Iced Salted Caramel Latte is A MUST! It's a GAME CHANGER! - Cafes Near Me - Solana Beach, California

I had Aztec mocha with almond milk Yum~Unique combination of Rich chocolatey mocha flaavor with a kick of cinnamon and spicy. High recommendation read more

Don't tip up front!! We ordered a salad and a sandwich. It took 23 minutes for the food to come out. The salad was wrong. I said I didn't want to wait for it to be reordered. I was refunded the money for the salad. The sandwich was on the incorrect bread. I paid $13 for a bad sandwich, $4 for an ice tea. Plus tax And $5 for a tip I should never have given $23 ridiculous. Lost my business read more

The best coffee in San Diego! Lofty Coffee is everything you could want in a coffee shop: friendly service, great beachside location, (relatively) easy parking, and quality coffee. I highly recommend the iced salted caramel latte with oat milk. Lofty Coffee + Solana Beach = the perfect San Diego afternoon or pit stop along Highway 101! read more