Mixed Grounds Coffee

382

472

7 months ago

Their coffee drinks are 10/10. The staff is friendly and offers traditional Vietnamese coffee with their drip coffee, and a dairy free option as well. Any of their non coffee drinks are well made, and they offer a specialty menu. Drinks aside, Mixed Grounds has plenty of events and is a large space to hang out. Street parking only read more

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Mr Fox F.

127

5 months ago

I came here planning to get some work done, but the Wi-Fi made that impossible. When trying to access professional sites like LinkedIn, I received a "Your connection is not private" security warning (NET::ERR_CERT_AUTHORITY_INVALID). That's not just slow internet -- that's a certificate/security issue. It prevents you from safely logging into accounts or doing online work. For a café where many people bring laptops, this is a major drawback. If you're just stopping in for a drink, it may be fine. But if you need a secure and reliable connection for remote work, I wouldn't recommend relying on the Wi-Fi here. read more

Business owner information

Kwa N.

Hello, thanks for the heads up. We are on top of it and fixing it. It…

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Erik L.

10 months ago

Mixed Grounds is obviously a very cool spot. I stopped by on a Saturday and the place was packed--in the best way. They had local vendors set up out front with food, a DJ spinning vinyl, and just an overall great vibe. Inside, I ordered the horchata latte and it was amazing. Perfectly balanced and super flavorful. The staff was friendly, welcoming, and really knew their stuff when it came to the menu. Between the energy, the community feel, and the quality coffee, this is definitely a spot I'll be coming back to. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Horchata latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Giena L.

438

893

1476

7 months ago

A run club meet up started and ended here, so naturally had to try their offerings. Had a matcha and added guava syrup (which I highly suggest). They also have regular music and dancing events. That sunday that I went-- it was a bachata dance class. Definitely more that just a coffee shop read more

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An L.

238

1 year ago

Definitely a super cool spot. The interior was well decorated with cushy couches and high ceilings. The shop was really airy and open. We checked this place out for their Pandan Coffee but were a little disappointed by it. It was a little too sweet and simply did not hit the spot. The shop also hosted local events and has live music on select days so it is a really cool place to check out for the vibes and ambiance. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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karla S.

Elite 26 All-Star

173

1 year ago

Stumbled upon this coffee shop today, we had the Azteca mocha and a pastry stout, both were delicious, they have lots of drink options alcoholic and none alcoholic. The atmosphere is great the baristas are super helpful and nice. Lots of indoor and outdoor seating. They have live music on the weekends, we will definitely be coming back. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Indoor seating - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Live music calendar - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Outdoor seating - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Live music post - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Signage - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Azteca mocha iced - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Stout - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Toni L.

183

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1 year ago

Honestly blown away. Came for the pandan coffee drink, left with an additional matcha horchata drink, the chicken empanada, and the ham jalapeno empanada. All were delicious. The pandan coffee with coconut milk is so savory and creamy, perfect flavor and sweetness, I finished the whole drink in the car before I even got home. Agree with others that they're quite heavy on the ice with the cold drinks, knocking off 1 star for that. The matcha horchata was also delicious, with the perfect balance of zingy cinnamon and nutty matcha flavors. I really enjoyed the empanadas - the fillings were delicious and the crust had a flaky croissant-like texture which was an added bonus. For these 4 items the total was $25, California prices I guess. I'll definitely be back to enjoy the ambiance. Tall ceilings, gorgeous furniture and art, open floor plan, super chill vibes. Folks studying, working on their laptops peacefully. There's much more on the menu I'd like to try including their lychee matcha lemonade and some of their cocktails and mimosas. Very cool to hear they host open mic and DJ nights. Agree with others that parking can be an issue so you've got to time it right. I came around 11:30am on a Friday and snagged a 15 minute spot. I also saw that Mixed Grounds works directly with underserved producers in order to create a more sustainable business model, and coffee is roasted in small batches. Rock on! read more

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Jonathan H.

6 months ago

Have been to this coffee shop soooo many times and will never get tired of it. The coffee and pastries are always consistent and there is always an event happening on the weekends. Whether you're trying to get some work done, or hang out and join in on their events, there is space for everyone. read more

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Khuong N.

157

1 year ago

Loved my visit to Mixed Grounds--such a cute name and concept, especially with the live DJ mixing tracks inside the shop! The space was surprisingly large with a trendy interior--mid-century furniture and industrial touches made it feel modern and cozy. I got the pandan coffee with oat milk at 50% sweetness. The pandan flavor came through beautifully, though it was still a bit sweet for me. Service was quick and the staff was super friendly. Street parking is tough, but the overall vibe makes it worth it. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Outside store front - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Exterior space - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Interior space - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Pandan Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Isabella R.

6 months ago

I've gone here about three times in the first two times I got the panda and latte. I loved it. I tried a different pan and syrup to other cafés and this one is probably my favorite so far. I really love the jelly that they put in the coffee as well. I did try the pan and Matcha and it was OK. I probably wouldn't get it again. Highly recommend! read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Aztec & pandan latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Pandan latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Carrie S.

1 month ago

I love this place truly, but they've got to fix the WiFi situation. Last 2 times I've gone to WFH the WiFi would not connect and when asking staff they have stated that yeah it's a repeated issue. Hopefully they can get better service or get someone out to fix it. read more

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Briana R.

1 year ago

Don't park in the loading zones or you WILL get a ticket! This cop is making his quota for the day. 3 tickets in the least 2 hours. Also, Love this place! read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Loading Zones popular for ticketing - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Jenna V.

297

153

1 year ago

This spot was a pleasant surprise. I really enjoyed my iced guava latte with almond milk, half sweet. They made me a 12 oz and I had ordered/payed for a 16 oz so I did have to ask them to correct this. They remedied the issue quickly. It is too loud for my taste inside especially for during the day, but I did love the detailed decor and plentiful seating. I recommend going once for the overall experience and unique, tasty drinks. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Event schedule - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Indoor/outdoor seating, very open - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Business owner information

Kwa N.

Hello Jenna, thank you for stopping by! I'm glad you liked the guava…

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Yordana O.

222

1 year ago

If you're looking for somewhere to hang and get some work done, read a book, or just hang....this is the spot. They always feature new food options sold right up front. Everyone is so friendly even when I ask a bunch of questions when it was my first visit. Coffee is SO GOOD! The condensed milk iced one is delicious I drank it way too fast. The furniture here is incredible. I swear I brought a book and was able to relax for hours. Chill yet beautiful aesthetics. Mimosas and cocktails when you are ready to switch from coffee. Music is pure magic. New vibe every day. You can see what the "vibe of the day" is on their monthly posts. For sure coming back. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - BEST SEAT IN THE WHOLE PLACE! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Bob D.

148

7 months ago

Cool vibe and plenty of lounge seating. Parking can always be a challenge in this area of town; but take it from this Filipino, the Buko Pandan Special is to DIE for! Absolutely delish!! read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Buko Pandan Special - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Dan L.

5 months ago

Super cool atmosphere/working space. The open air space makes for a perfect San Diego spot. Great vibes and Vietnamese coffee drinks.

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Mark C.

9 months ago

Love the vibes and music from this place! Really chill and vibrant, with a really great array of coffee!! Parking is a bit of a struggle in this area but wouldn't mind fighting for a spot to come back here again! read more

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Jose P.

129

522

1 year ago

First visit? Rough. Ordered a simple cold brew with vanilla and creamer somehow, that still got lost in translation. The service? Let's call it "interpretive." The place itself? Trendy, hip, and buzzing with the energy of a DJ dropping beats loud enough to shake your caffeine levels awake. If you're here for the scene, you'll love it. If you're here for a quiet coffee chat, bring a whiteboard. But, second visit? Whole different vibe. Turns out, during the week, the place is way more chill lots of open space, plenty of room to think, and no need to yell over house music. I went for the seasonal guava latte, and surprise it was actually really good. Verdict? Mixed Grounds lives up to its name. If you're dodging the trendy chaos of a packed café or the stiff silence of a library-like coffee shop, this spot hits that in-between sweet spot at least on the right day. read more

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Business owner information

Kwa N.

Morning Jose, Thanks for coming back and checking us out on a…

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Matthew B.

Elite 24

117

300

1 year ago

Mixed Grounds Coffee recently opened in North Park. The space is large, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, but parking can be a challenge. Service was quick and helpful. I ordered the guava iced latte (12 oz, extra ice). The drink was enjoyable and not overly sweet, but I couldn't really taste the guava. Perhaps my taste buds were expecting a different flavor, as this ingredient is not commonly found in beverages. I might need to order it again to see if I can taste it more clearly. (I have guava trees at home). The horchata iced latte was good. The balance between the horchata and espresso was well done, and the drink was not sweet at all. read more

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Business owner information

Kwa N.

Hey Matthew, thanks for stopping by and the kind words. We make all…

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Rina K.

447

276

147

1 year ago

Stopped by because I live close - like a 7 minute walk away. Didn't realize this place was already up and running! Very cool spot with an events calendar with markets, DJ sets, live music, I can't wait to check it out. I got the Buko Pandan Special and asked the barista if it was very sweet, so he adjusted sweetness for me and it was perfect! It was creamy and not too sweet with the punchniess of a good espresso shot - I will be coming back for sure. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Indoors - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Calendar of events - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Maria l.

8 months ago

This spacious, trendy coffee shop was exceptional. The staff was friendly, though it seemed they were a bit short-handed for how busy it was. I ordered an Azteca hot mocha and my son had a hot dulce de leche latte--both were delicious. We think we may have missed the first time our drinks were called, since they ended up being lukewarm. I'd suggest they consider adding a buzzer system or a microphone for calling out orders. Despite that, I loved this place and will definitely be back, even though finding parking was a challenge. I 100% recommend it! read more

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Dennis S.

230

323

1 year ago

Wow... I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! First time here and walking in playing some lounge neo soul jams!! Vibe is so chill at 10:30 AM! If I live here I would be here A LOT! Coffees are good food is good but is the vibe and musics that hits it for me! Definitely check this place! I love this!!! If u can't tell! No picture bc see for yourself! read more

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Tyler B.

316

6 months ago

There are things on the menu I'd avoid again for sure ( the tonic one ) however everything else I've had is solid. Expanded menu for lots of unique options which is something I appreciate especially when I want to be out of the box. The service is great knowledgeable and kind people. The place can be a bit loud at times but the other times it's a very calm and relaxed environment. The Azteca is my go to and the empanadas are great as well (jalepeno ham). read more

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Coach Y.

6 months ago

Great environment. Lost of events going on and being held at their location. Staff are very nice and good selection of treats and food vendors. read more

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Jenelle s.

382

181

164

1 year ago

Super cool coffee shop in North Park. Came on a Sunday while they had an event and the mix was excellent. We ordered two Chaga coffees and they came out quickly! Shout out to Alexis for the extra hospitality! read more

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Bianca M.

1 year ago

The best VIETNAMESE coffee around! I used to go to them all the time at their old spot off imperial Ave. for this drink! Then I heard they moved into the neighborhood off 30th. They have this Cafe Molly's so efffin yummy! Like the drink is truly heavenly , it's like my favorite Vietnamese but creamier! The service is friendly and timely! The baristas are amazing they quickly got familiar with my order lol. Shout out Renatta, Alexis, Deshawn and all you other lovelies ! The coolest part of the coffee shop is the live Dj's on the weekends and different curated events throughout the month! read more

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

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Cafe moi - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Soju - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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elizabeth n.

1 year ago

Service is great Ambiance is beautiful I got the horchata iced matcha , definitely recommended ! I want to say thank you for the service , the time and the products that you guys offer will come again read more

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Cassandra B.

1 year ago

Fun and friendly coffee shop in a brand new apartment complex. The coffee is delicious. I've had both the hot honey cinnamon and the iced pandan. The pandan isn't too sweet, which I appreciate! I'm GF so I can't have any of their pastries, but they all look so good and pretty cool that they have options from Patisserie Melanie so you can try them out. I love that this place always has something going on. Whether you want a morning coffee or an evening listening to good music, the workers are so incredibly nice and friendly and the lounge area is super comfortable. read more

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Alex B.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

1 year ago

Yummy food, nice savory options with scones and empanadas. Cool pandan latte. The music is definitely loud if there is a DJ set, but it's vibey and fun. Lots of comfy seating and space. Seems like it will turn into a fun lil community spot! Nice baristas BTW, no complaints at all. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Doggy, coffee, vibes - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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michelle s.

9 months ago

Nice spot Relaxing in morning Coffee spot on Got iced Mexican coffee yummy The barista are very nice and welcoming definitely be back .. read more

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Sergio D.

596

1308

1 year ago

Their unique blends and single-origin options are a game-changer. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about coffee. Only deducted a star because it's a bit pricey, but worth it for the quality read more

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Anton P.

1 year ago

They have a really unique menu, good ambiance, and just overall good vibes and even had a live DJ. However I waited 15 minutes for a coffee that I finished in a couple gulps. The coffee was tasty, but the experience of drinking it was short lived. A lot of ice, and they didn't fill it all the way. I think this place definitely has a lot of potential though. read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - It's all ice! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Business owner information

Kwa N.

Hey Anton, we apologize for your drink with too much ice. Next time…

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V Q.

1 year ago

Excellent costumer service! The staff knew the costumers and those they didn't know, their genuine kindness lead me to feel included in the community. Beautiful apartment building lobby. I saw a well trained puppy, but I'm not sure if it's puppy friendly. Ordered the iced Spiced Chai Latte (almond milk and loose leaf chai?! The best!) and iced Ca Phe Muoi (delicious and lactose sensitive approved). read more

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Israel G.

108

231

11 months ago

A comfy coffee shop nestled in the lobby of the AMP 40 building that showcases quality food, drinks, and arts including live music and comedy from the local community. Mixed Grounds mixes things up with their variety in selection and decor read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Guitars - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Azteca Chocolate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Paintings - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Brianna N.

6 months ago

I got the buko pandan special and it was amazing. I really enjoy coconut in a drink that was executed well, and I feel that not many coffee shops do this, but Mixed Grounds did. The decor and setting were phenomenal, as I love music and a good time. Their live music is something I'd have to come back for. The owner served me and the service was good. read more

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Martha R.

1 year ago

Pretty cool spot with a unique lounge ambiance. Big space for whatever vibe you may be up for ;) Came in for a matcha on the way and was pleasantly surprised to find a hip hop dj playing. Saw they serve drinks, food, offering vegan and gf options (bonus for me). They have outdoor seating, seating inside near a huge window I'm sure is lovely to hang by. Not the greatest pictures sorry, they don't quite justify bc I sat in front of the cafe. Haha read more

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Dj at the stage next to some lounge seating - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Mixed Grounds Coffee - Right side w/the big nice window - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Marlem R.

9 months ago

Buko pandan latte was delicious and not overly sweet. The barista was so helpful, she recommended popular drinks and personal favorites. Comfortable seating and the music was just the right volume to get some work done. Played a wide variety of music from chalino to lowfi in the couple hours I spent there. read more

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Grace L.

1 year ago

Trendy place with beautiful decor and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and lots of coffee options. The honey cinnamon latte is very good. I ordered with oatmilk and was disappointed that they charge extra. Tried the scone and an orange cinnamon roll type pastry and found them both to be dry and not very tasty. I have only been during the week and it's been a great place to chat and work for a couple of hours. If you are planning to work from there keep in mind that outlets are very limited. I heard it's a very different atmosphere in the evenings and weekends so looking forward to checking that out. read more

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Christopher T.

9 months ago

While I like the couch and the open space, I find the area loud with music and noisy doors being used frequency and disturbing the quiet moments. The coffee is extremely basic and not that good. I won't be coming back. read more

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Back

Page 2 of 3

4555 30th St
San Diego, CA 92116
University Heights, North Park
Directions
(619) 228-9698
Call Now
Visit Website
https://mixedgrounds.com

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Hours

What time does Mixed Grounds Coffee open?

Mixed Grounds Coffee opens at 7:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Mixed Grounds Coffee close?

Mixed Grounds Coffee closes at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Mixed Grounds Coffee closes at 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMFri-Sat 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee take credit cards?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee serve alcohol?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee allow dogs?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee have outdoor seating?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee has outdoor seating options.

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee have parking?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Mixed Grounds Coffee wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee is wheelchair accessible.

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee allows outdoor smoking.

Does Mixed Grounds Coffee have free WiFi?

Yes, Mixed Grounds Coffee has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Founded in 2020, Mixed Grounds Coffee started out as a passion project-an idea toinfuse coffee, art, and Hip-Hop culture into a mixed-use community gathering place for everyone. Today, that passion is continued with multiple coffee shops in San Diego, California, along with a micro roasting facility where we roast in small batches to ensure quality and freshness. The coffee we roast are carefully curated specialty coffees from around the world. We believe that the farms we benefit from are underserved in this industry, and our goal is to work directly with these producers to create a more sustainable business model for everyone. Thank you for your continued support. We hope you enjoy our coffee. Mixed Grounds Coffee is a Vietnamese-ownedand operated company, and our team is a diverse group of people representing different cultures, genders, backgrounds, and beliefs.

History

Established in 2020.

More Info

Health Score

Ask the Community - Mixed Grounds Coffee

Is there a parking lot?

Unfortunately no. There's usually parking around the surrounding streets.

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VIP bar on the second floor. You can order food from the West Coast Tavern menu here.

Inside

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Decent small venue for up and coming artists/bands. However, zero parking, hard to get a view, and…read morebring your ear protection! Bartenders are nice and efficient, two unisex bathrooms available, seating is first come first serve. The show I attended was great, supposedly sold out, but the people sitting on the side of the bar where the booths were located were SO loud. Like if we all paid to see this show why are you talking over the artist? Heard some Shhh's that didn't fix the problem, not sure if they were regulars or didn't care for the concert. Either way, since it's a small area, it definitely affected the experience.

This is such a great venue!! The size of the venue makes every show feel like VIP and you get to…read moremeet the bands at the merch tables too! With the intimate setting, I definitely recommend ear plugs because it can get extremely loud. The seating throughout the venue is first come, first served, so make sure you arrive early. The staff are all friendly, security too. The only downside is there are no food options, but there's a pizza place across the street and an Ethiopian restaurant a few doors down. They have a full bar and the bartenders are quick and responsive. Overall it was a great experience and I'm definitely going to try to catch more shows here.

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The Office Bar

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Pretty cool neighborhood spot…read more Drinks are well priced and happy hour is a good deal! We stopped by right as they opened up around 7/8 I think on a Monday and had an old fashioned and a gin hibiscus cocktail I think Bartender was super cool about us getting there so early lol

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Great whisky cocktails. If you're a whisky lover, this is definitely a place you'd want to check…read moreout. It's in the main stretch of North Park, but easily missed because of its muted external decor. The service is alright. I've had times when they're friendly and others when they're more standoffish (but not rude). It doesn't bother me. I'm there to spend time with a great glass of whisky and that's what I get every single time.

One of the best tasting gins I've had

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Old fashioned and neat whiskey

The Casbah

Cool club everyone should try at least once. I have been a few times over the years. Parking can be…read morea challenge. Lots of smoking outside. Drinks and music. We watched the Alan White band! What an honor to be so close to so many legends! The place is vrwat for some up close, loud AF, music. Sounded really good last night.

Came here for a show and loved the vibe!!…read more Very small stage, nice and intimate. The drinks were strong and decently priced! This was my first time here and the layout was a little confusing at first but once you make your way to the bar it's fine lol. Outdoor-ish area with seats if you need air but don't want to leave. Fun vibe, I'd definitely come back!

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Black Cat Bar

So I do like this bar, but one of the male bartenders that works here. He's pretty rude. I don't…read moreknow his name, but like every time you go back to the bar to get a drink. He will say to you to bring your glass up and say sometimes I will say like, oh, I'll bring it later. He goes, can you bring it now? Okay dad! You should not talk to customers like that!! He goes Oh, we're trying to be green here can you bring your glass. He won't even serve you until you bring the other glass back up!! Then you give me the same cup with the same ice that was left in there all remains watered down. That's not a good way to give service to customers. Especially when it's slow, even if a few people left their glasses laying around, you're just standing behind the bar doing nothing. Just simply not okay.

Have you ever just wanted to go to a bar and just sit and relax?…read more A bar where you just drink and have light conversations with the people around you or the bar staff. A bar where if you want it to just doom scroll you can and nobody would bother you. A bar where you can watch one of 20 DVDs that they have available. A bar where most of the seating are comfortable and you can just relax. A bar where you can bring a small group of friends and laugh well into the night. A bar where it won't cost you an arm and a leg. A bar that keeps the light low and doesn't have all of those frills and thrills. That's why black cat is dope. You walk in and you see what you get. Good people. 7 to 8 drafts. Two pool table. Seating for maybe 50 to 60 people. Guaranteed solid night all around.

Bar with cute black cat decorations

Booths and pool tables

Pool shark

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Space Bar

Stopped by for a quick study sesh for the first time in years and love the transformation of this…read moreplace! Such a nice vibe and charm, owner was friendly and welcoming. Ice latte was great & my sis loved her smoothie, going to try some food items the next time I visit. Great location for small events/gatherings too, will be back soon!

This place is super gritty and divey. You walk in and it's super low lighting with funky music…read moreplaying, the sounds of multiple group chattering and laughing and very odd movies playing that you won't be able to look away. There's a few booths as soon as you enter and a handful of high top tables. Theres more than enough room to dance if you choose to and there is a pool table in the middle of the bar. There is a back area and the door to exit to it looks like you'll set off the alarm. But you'll be fine. There's about seating / standing room in the back which can fit about 20-30 people comfortably I think. There was about 10 people there when I went on a Thursday night around midnight. Lots of locals and some of them introduced themselves when they saw our group and knew this was our first time. Didn't eat here. Don't know if they serve food. Maybe during the day they do. I'd come back again. It wasn't the strongest of drinks and the well drinks tasted terrible but... vibes were on point and friendly people and that's half the reason why I go out.

Ash Reiter of Sugar Candy Mountain.

Me with James Elkington

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Park & Rec

Pretty good place, lots of open air so it doesn't get too stuffy. Helpful staff and good music…read more(lots of early 2000s and today's pop). They did run out of water cups pretty early on in the night though.

Very fun spot with a great layout. I love coming here for hickies and dry humps (it's been my fav…read moreevent since the el Camino days) but the last "day party" was a bit of a bust in my opinion. The bathrooms were covered in throw up and the staff solution was to just close the door - I'm talking my multiple stalls and sinks. There were a lot of college kids who couldn't hold their liquor unfortunately. I think event maintenance could use a lot more work as they typically draw large crowds here now that the downtown scene has declined. Lines can be very long and wrapped around the building so if you're one of those people who waits an hour after an event start time to head over (like me), be prepared to wait again. Parking can be rough so be prepared to circle the block a few times unless you get lucky :)

Interior - picture frames hanging up against a gold damask patterned wallpaper.

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Elevated

5.0

(14 reviews)

0.8 mi

Okay, the photo does not do this place justice. It is the perfect stage for any poet, musician,…read moreetc. who wants to share that magic in their mind. I went for a Thursday open mic night and it was beautifully hosted and all of the people who performed were super amazing. The audience was super receptive and very welcoming to new comers! Will be back for sure!

We love this place! We've eaten here 3 times now Took our dog here once (outside only I think)…read more Food is greAt atmosphere excellent. Service was fantastic. All around thumbs up!

Open mic and featured poets

AntBlack

Rudy Francisco

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Cinema Under the Stars

4.7

(229 reviews)

2.5 mi

I went to Cinema Under the Stars a few weeks ago when they were showing Pulp Fiction, and overall…read moreit was a really fun experience. It's a pretty cool concept and a nice change from a traditional movie theater. One thing that surprised me was that it was actually a little more covered than I expected. Based on the name, I thought it would be more open air and exposed to the elements, but the setup was cozier and more sheltered than I anticipated. They have a selection of snacks and beverages available, which was nice, although I do wish they were able to sell alcohol. A beer or glass of wine would have been a great addition to the experience. Overall, it was a unique and enjoyable night out. The atmosphere was great, the movie selection was fun, and I'd definitely go back for another showing.

Wholesome, and independently run. San Diego needs more places like this wonderful theatre. Support…read morelocal theaters!!

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Some Like It Hot

THE LOT La Jolla

I really enjoy the experience of The Lot, but between this location and the one on Liberty Station,…read morethe service always leaves something to be desired. Each visit (three separate occasions), something I've ordered was either forgotten or brought out very late. On this particular visit (Fri, July 3rd), I went to see a movie for my birthday. Unfortunately, due to public transportation, I was unable to make it to the theater as early as I wanted. My movie started @ 1:30, but I didn't make it inside until about 1:40 or so. The trailers were still playing, but the lights were off inside and the other guests seemed to already have their food/drinks. So, I attribute some of the mishap to that. However, there were less than ten people in the theater. So, keep that in mind as well. I ordered poke nachos, a popcorn, and a soda. Pretty simple order, right? My "host" brought out the popcorn + drink pretty swiftly. The popcorn tasted stale, just like another time I'd visited. Even though I'm pretty sure their 1:30 movies are their first showing. About halfway through the movie, I pressed the call button because I still hadn't received my nachos. The host said, "They might be ready now. Let me check." Translation: "I forgot them." That was pretty annoying. Especially as this is the third time something like this has occurred at The Lot. And I've only been three times in total. Luckily, the popcorn was free because it was my birthday, which I had to remind the host twice before he tried charging me. Do not order it unless you enjoy stale popcorn. The nachos and ginger ale were tasty, though. Overall, the vibe/setup is nice for viewing films. I only which the service and attention to detail was better.

My boyfriend and I recently caught a movie at The Lot in La Jolla, and overall it was a great…read moreexperience. We arrived around 6 p.m. and had no trouble finding parking in the garage, which was a huge plus. Even better, parking is validated when you see a movie there. The theater itself is beautiful, with a restaurant, bar, indoor-outdoor lounge area, and a cute concession stand that makes it feel much more upscale than your average movie theater. After scanning our tickets, we went straight to our auditorium where we could order food either through a waitress or by using a QR code. I appreciated that they offer both paper menus and digital ordering options. The ordering app was incredibly user-friendly and easy to navigate. While some menu prices felt a little steep (around $20 for a hot dog or kids meal), the food itself was delicious. I ordered the BBQ chicken pizza and a Coke Icee. The Icee was a little more slushy than icy, but that was my only minor complaint. The theater was extremely clean, spacious, and comfortable. The reclining seats were great, and there was plenty of room between guests so you never felt crowded. One tip: bring a sweater or wear pants because it gets chilly inside, and the leather seats can feel a little cold and uncomfy against bare skin. Overall, The Lot delivers a premium movie-going experience, and I'd definitely recommend it for a fun date night or a special trip to the movies.