The Dojo Cafe

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1 year ago

I love this space because its bright, lively (there wasn't a ton of people here when I came here on a Saturday morning but people were nice and vibrant), and there was a ton of great energy. It's a place for the community and made by them. It's used not only for the coffee but for community building, for local programs and fundraisers, and for bonding. It's bigger than you think and is full of plants as well. There's not really a food menu here. There were a handful of pastries available. The coffee menu isn't terribly long but was really good. A small would run you about 4 bucks and a large about 6 dollars. As they make the drinks, they will chat you up but if you want to step aside and explore, they are super cool with you doing that as well. Tons of street parking. No on site parking. read more

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Paul L.

82

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9 months ago

I cannot say enough kind words about the Dojo. Honestly, the best coffee I've ever had. Add to that, people who remember our names when we return, and just a really cool vibe. I'm stoked they moved to somewhere that's around the corner from where I live. 1000/10. read more

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John M.

123

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3 years ago

Pro: Outdoor venue Community based events Supports Local programs Seasonal Beverage Smaller Menu Friendly staff/regulars Con: Limited menu Subject to weather and early closures ADA: B no easy restroom access Other than a small menu(however, if you do it right, you don't need a big menu!), not much bad about this place. The owner hires local kids and shows them the ropes. What's not to like? Not polished like your coffee bars or fast food chains, but definitely a nice cup of coffee. The space also doubles as an event space. Saw people gathering on the backside of the coffee trailer. I do recommend Dojo Cafe for your caffeine fix. Nice little spot right on El Cajon Blvd. Stop in and meet some locals. read more

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Tammie W.

159

1403

4976

5 years ago

What an amazing community that Dojo has built. They're located on the corner with other food trucks who set up comedy nights, social functions and pig roasting. Dojo has a little bit of everything for tea lovers, coffee drinkers and smoothie enthusiasts. On a hot San Diego afternoon, I enjoyed an Iced Watermelon Sugar High which hit the spot and was lightly sweetened. My husband ordered the Cherry Bomb which was soooo good over ice and landed all the right notes. Both drinks were incredibly refreshing quenchers and I'd like to go back and try the Frosted Ginger Green Tea and Lemango Chili next (think mango black tea, chamoy, tajin and tamarind candy). Enjoy a drink, learn about others and get all the good feels of supporting your local business. read more

The Dojo Cafe - tables and chairs in front of a food truck - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Vianey D.

56

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3 years ago

I was looking for some coffee before an appointment near by. Since I'm boycotting all corporate businesses I went out of my way to find a local community spot. The coffee and pastries were on point. The service super friendly. You can feel the love and community they put into this space. I wish them continued success. #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses read more

The Dojo Cafe - The coffee trailer - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - Entrance for the day of dead - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Queen S.

Elite 25

430

1169

6098

3 years ago

Nice, clean, vibrant, coffee mobile hot spot in the east San Diego off El Cajon blvd. Great ambience, plenty of outdoor seating available, in a beautiful tranquil space. Love!! Love!! Love the outdoor seating. Nice staff. It was our first time, we ordered iced vanilla and mocha latte with extra shots of espresso. Drinks were great. Great quality coffee beans... a nice roast. Unfortunately both of the muffins were over baked and dry. Reasonable prices read more

The Dojo Cafe - the outdoor seating area - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - an outdoor seating area - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Joe L.

583

682

424

5 years ago

COVID review: I seemed to be the only customer when I came here on a Saturday morning. I enjoyed my Americano outside while listening to some 90's (I think) R&B jams. Parking was easy on 44th just around the corner. It's cool to support a business with a commitment to making the neighborhood a better place to live. Personally, I appreciate the fact that they host events like vegan cook-offs and that they assisted startups like Original Herbivore. Grandma's Lulu Table hosted their Breakfast and Wellness Program while I was there, and I fully support their cause, too. I wasn't hungry, so I don't remember what food offerings they had, but they apparently offer vegan pastries and they can veganize at least mocha and horchata latte drinks. Win! BTW, I am neither an M nor an M, but the staff was very friendly and welcoming to me. Thanks, Dojo Cafe! read more

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Mickey T.

417

32

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5 years ago

Pros: * Cute aesthetic outdoor area * friendly barista * Fresh smoothies *Excellent play area for kids Cons: * Located in busy area * Limited street parking read more

The Dojo Cafe - They post events happening that month - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Erryn T.

23

8

2

2 years ago

Couldn't tell you how the coffee was because when I got there - no one was at the window. Then an employee comes up grabs her own cup of coffee from the window then tells me know she's on a phone call and walks away. There were no customers here- probably due to service or the lack of parking around. Either way do not recommend. read more

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Daniela O.

404

15

2

3 years ago

Beets Latte was so delicious!! Very unique and good! The setting is very cute and lots of room for space. I highly recommend checking this place out. Support local always :) read more

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M G.

0

31

23

2 years ago

First, I like to say that Tootie was so welcoming and she was so easy to talk to. As far as the coffee, I don't remember which one I ordered, but it gave me the most energy throughout the day and not the jitter kind of energy. It was delicious. I love the vibe And I can't wait to be back. read more

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Courtney O.

1449

2673

5550

7 years ago

This community space is awesome! I love that it was built by the community and can serve so many different purposes. I got the chance to spend time here to attend a suicide prevention training put on by the SOULcial workers. The space is beautiful and so personal. I also love that they have delicious coffee and drink options. I enjoyed a tasty latte! It's right next to the YMCA. There's tons of parking on the street and it's in such a central location. Great space. read more

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Carlos M.

Hi Courtney!…

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Malina Y.

0

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3

2 years ago

The area of the cafe is so cute and clean! The person working there was really nice and helpful. I didn't get anything because I was looking for breakfast and there was just pastries and coffee, but will definitely come back! read more

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Marenda T.

42

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7 years ago

I got the breakfast croissant before and it was easily a 10/10 but I got it to day and they changed the whole sandwich :/ it use to be bacon ,eggs , cheese and lettuce separately now it's like a thick omelette with bacon inside. It lost all its flavor and overall I was disappointed! So I ended up throwing away the whole egg part .Pls go back to the old version. If you look at my photos you can see the old version vs the new one read more

The Dojo Cafe - Vanilla iced latte w/ almond milk Black Forest sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - Vegan sandwich and mango lemonade chill $6 for both and HUGE PORTIONS - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - Breakfast crossiant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Business owner information

Carlos M.

Hi Marenda,…

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Thu N.

0

7

0

3 years ago

Great coffee for a fair price. Nothing fancy but good. Community gathering place with lots of friendships and love.

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Madeline J.

3

24

16

2 years ago

Love this place! Such a local community vibe and low prices to serve the community! The lady serving the coffee was very kind.

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Renee F.

2

24

5

5 years ago

Now open again! The staff is so friendly and passionate about their cafe. The drinks and food were amazing plus the atmosphere is so fun! We'll definitely be coming here regularly! read more

The Dojo Cafe - Açaí bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - Large outside area - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Tim T.

0

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5 years ago

This place is amazing. Outdoor seating, great ambiance, brightly decorated. Staff is super friendly. Coffee and lates were great and açaí bowl was on point. So glad they're back open after covid. Safety measures were in place and we felt very safe. Definitely visit Dojo cafe. It'll be your new go-to spot. read more

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Kaylen A.

Elite 20

96

61

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8 years ago

Great service, and great concept. The dojo cafes combines Coffee, Culture, and Community all in one place. Pros: * inclusive to all residents of El Cajon * great menu options (tried Kaylee's Blend- it was great!) * outdoor area enclosed for kids/pets * pop up shops for açaí bowls, succulents, and other treats Cons: *shorter shop hours on the weekends (Sunday) Be aware of when you go so you don't miss it! Truly beautiful concept to tie coffee to the thriving community of El Cajon Blvd. great space for a farmers market, and a great way to network with our neighbors. read more

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Richard H.

0

28

3

5 years ago

New Puerto Rican food stand, a little bit for everyone in the menu and it is naturally not spicy... but full of flavour! Also tried the Columbian pineapple pop in the name of culture, it was tasty. read more

The Dojo Cafe - Puerto Rican rice & beans, plant based deliciousness with soul. Thank you Ana! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Vanessa S.

0

4

0

2 years ago

If I can give it no stars I would. I went with a coworker to grab a coffee and the staff member began to remove the coffee from the portafilter with his bare fingers and proceeded to make my coffee. He did not wash his hands prior to making the coffee. I paid for the two coffees and left but did not drink them. I felt sick to my stomach the entire day. read more

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Elia G.

119

14

18

8 years ago

This place is great and good prices! Great customer service and just had the best Dirty Chia! I've worked at multiple coffee shops therefore I'm extremely picky with which coffee I like and this place is great. Very clean they adjust the grinder to get that perfect golden espresso that indicates great coffee. Definitely recommend this place. It's also a non-profit which I'm all about and they're dedicated to helping other non-profits! read more

The Dojo Cafe - I couldn't even wait to take the picture after my first taste of this Dirty Chia! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Cheryl Kate L.

60

16

32

7 years ago

I usually don't do yelp reviews although I eat out a lot and take photos of everything I eat and drink but I felt like this place deserves one. There's a reason why this place is 5 stars. Wonderful people, amazing coffee and great location (plenty of parking). I highly recommend this place. read more

The Dojo Cafe - Dojo Cinnamon Kick Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Business owner information

Carlos M.

Hi Ck,…

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Camera P.

Elite 21

165

116

1136

9 years ago

I went there for their grand opening today and I would have to say that the energy and vibe of the place was all positive and just made you want to smile. The food, drinks, music, and activities they had set up was definitely made to bring people of all various backgrounds and lifestyles together. They are a great part of the community and it was nice seeing so many people there showing their support. The drinks they had were hand crafted and delicious. I got their iced Vietnamese coffee and it had just the right sweetness and caffeine in it to give me a boost for the day. It was my first time trying the Penole drink anywhere and I have to say I am now a fan. If you're ever in the area definitely come check out the newly opened Dojo Cafe. Especially if you want to be around good people, drinks, and conversations. read more

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Akeela B.

12

125

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7 years ago

Awesome coffee truck in the perfect setting! Music that rocks and espresso that's super tasty ! read more

The Dojo Cafe - Music that rocks! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Dannie Z.

0

3

1

3 years ago

The Horchata Latte is always a wonderful treat to have, I come there from time to time & the one Barista Zuleyma is very personable & hard working! The overall tone of the place is welcoming & I will be continuing to come back. read more

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Paris S.

0

2

3 years ago

horchata iced latte is 10/10. it's outdoors and has a funky vibe w fun music and lots of seating to choose from! definitely recommend:) read more

The Dojo Cafe - a person holding a drink - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Annette M.

47

10

0

5 years ago

Great coffee, danishes, and atmosphere! I'll definitely be back to try the açaí bowl and check out some of their monthly events. They have plenty of shaded outdoor seating and yard games like giant Jenna and Connect Four. There is lots of street parking nearby. read more

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Bryan M.

1

150

0

5 years ago

If you have kids, this place is definitely 4 stars. The dojo spice latte was meh and the croissant wasn't crunchy/flakey at all but they have a tooooonn of kids toys and games available. And the space is super cute too. read more

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Lakna D.

132

9

7

3 years ago

Great tasting coffee. The barista is friendly and always gets my order perfect. Lots and lots of outdoor seating. Coming here is always the highlight of my weekend. read more

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Elizabeth C.

157

28

3

8 years ago

I come here every chance I get when making coffee at home seems like a chore hehe :) I usually get the cold brew or an americano to start a productive day! The coffee here is great, the owner Carlos is a hoot, great guy! Support your local businesses! read more

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Maxine M.

5

18

22

8 years ago

First Time customer up the street from me! The owner Carlos is the coolest guy great personality love my coffee. I ordered the vietnamese ice cold coffee to go! read more

The Dojo Cafe - Let's try it out... - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

The Dojo Cafe - Vietnamese ice cold coffee to go so far so good Happy 4th of July Cool people Cool Spot thank you Carlos I'll be back! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Alexa K.

0

11

1

8 years ago

I loved this space. I came for some breakfast and coffee, and met the owner. He was very very nice and his mission inspiring. My toddler had fun running around and playing with the building blocks. The coffee was great and the açaí bowl too. We came back the next day and the staff was very friendly again. Very neat little place , wish I could've attended a community event. Highly recommend! read more

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Vaughn L.

2

6

2

8 years ago

This is perfect for the neighborhood! Come check it out. The people in charge are great gentlemen and doing good work for the community! Not to mention the coffee is DELICIOUS! Try the VIETNAMESE COLD BREW or the HORCHATA LATTE if you know what is good for you. Thanks Dojo! read more

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Jackie D.

1

44

74

7 years ago

This is a total one man show. The wait to get atte ded to was ridiculous so we left. A total bust.

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Gloria M.

896

31

8 years ago

Owner Carlos is a super cool guy very welcoming and friendly and you seem to be instantly included as a friend! That's what I call community! And this place is about, COFFEE, COMMUNITY and CULTURE! I told Carlos that I was staying away from caffeine for a bit and he had a great choice of refreshing drinks! I love the urban cultural feel here,.. Go check them out! read more

The Dojo Cafe - Owner Carlos is a super cool guy very welcoming and friendly and you seem to be instantly included as a friend. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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Moni S.

80

15

7

6 years ago

In the middle of a busy neighborhood very cool aspect coffee was okay over all great idea but is missing something

Business owner information

Carlos M.

Hi Moni,…

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boogiedown b.

7

124

287

9 years ago

Attended the soft opening a couple weeks ago with some friends and had a lot of fun. I had the coffee on nitro, my friend had a Vietnamese coffee and we purchased some baklava. Loved loved their mission and business concept. Constructed to give back to the community by providing a safe training place for underserved residence who are motivated to learn a new skill. I love that their plan is to serve drinks and pastries catering to those in the community of City Heights. Awesome addition to the neighborhood! I'm looking forward to attending their grand opening on October 14, 2017 at 10am. read more

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Inez R.

130

4

17

9 years ago

This is my favorite place to get coffee !! Not to mention they are a great asset to the community. Super friendly staff ! The Iced horchata latte is my go-to !! read more

The Dojo Cafe - Iced horchata latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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J.B. R.

27

23

2

7 years ago

This is a real gem in the heart of City Heights/Talmadge. Right next to the YMCA in an open lot with lots of outdoor seating and toys for the kids to play with. The baristas are friendly, and the coffee is great. Come support a locally owned and operated small business that deserves your business and gratitude! read more

Business owner information

Carlos M.

Hi J.B…

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More info about The Dojo Cafe

4350 El Cajon Blvd
San Diego, CA 92105
City Heights
Directions
(619) 949-1584
Call Now
Visit Website
http://thedojocafe.com

Hours

What time does The Dojo Cafe open?

The Dojo Cafe opens at 7:00 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.The Dojo Cafe opens at 8:00 AM on Sunday.

What time does The Dojo Cafe close?

The Dojo Cafe is closed on Monday.The Dojo Cafe closes at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Sat 7:00 AM - 3:00 PMSun 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Payment methods

Does The Dojo Cafe take Bitcoin?

No, The Dojo Cafe does not take Bitcoin.

Does The Dojo Cafe take credit cards?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does The Dojo Cafe have catering options?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe does have catering options.

Indoor Amenities

Does The Dojo Cafe allow dogs?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does The Dojo Cafe have bike parking?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe has bike parking.

Does The Dojo Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does The Dojo Cafe have parking?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is The Dojo Cafe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe is wheelchair accessible.

Does The Dojo Cafe have free WiFi?

Yes, The Dojo Cafe has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

We offer unique coffee and unique experiences: The Dojo Cafe empowers people through coffee by hosting free community events highlighting the diversity and hidden talent within the community =)

History

Established in 2017.

We had our Grand Opening Saturday October 14, and are just get started!

Meet the Business Owner: Carlos M.

Born and raised in San Diego. Worked as a Social Worker since 2006 and decided to start a social enterprise with the goal of changing the way help happens. After being in people's homes throughout San Diego, especially City Heights, it was apparent that underserved communities are full of untapped talent. Carlos put together a team of 4 additional awesome individuals committed and passionate about helping those who are often overlooked. Tayari, Peter, Nancy and Kristina help make this dream a reality and are very special souls.

More Info

Health Score

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1.1 mi•Normal Heights

"We barely remember Who or what came before this precious…read moremoment We are choosing to be here right now Hold on, stay inside" Boy, howdy, I am buzzing! I just enjoyed a cup of Parabola's Abuelita/Dark Blend. I made it pretty strong. My wife prefers lite-med so she drinks Kenya/Heights. We brew pour overs at home. Parabola is a cool place if you want to enjoy coffee in-house. I like the serene atmosphere inside, and the outdoor patio is nice, too. Baristas are personable. I'm not sure why they upcharge for nondairy milk, though. I met Maynard once. Does he drink coffee? I think he would like Parabola. "This body holding me reminds me of my own mortality Embrace this moment, remember We are eternal, all this pain is an illusion"

STEPH JUDGEMENT: Cute clean place with local art, handicrafts, and 80s/90s nostalgia decor…read more Stopped in for a hot latte while in the neighborhood. While waiting for my drink I took in the 80s movie posters (hey, Thrashin'!) and the artsy skate decks. Named after a Tool song, mad props. The latte was a touch more bitter than I would've liked, but overall was fine. The service was friendly and experience pleasant--would definitely return!

Honey Almond Latte- raw honey, almond extract + espresso. Iced or hot!

Mint cold brew

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A latte in the hand is better than two in the bush.

Lovesong Coffee

4.4(678 reviews)

1.8 mi•North Park

My friend and I stopped by Lovesong Coffee for a much-needed caffeine boost before heading out to…read moreexplore Balboa Park, and I'm so glad we found this place! The shop has such a nice little vibe inside, and the baristas were friendly and welcoming. Their latte flavors are definitely bold and interesting, with combinations you don't see at your typical coffee shop. My friend and I each tried one of their specialty lattes and really enjoyed them. It was the perfect stop before a day of exploring San Diego. If I'd had more time in the city, I could definitely see myself coming back, grabbing a latte, and hanging out here for a while.

Find parking in the streets nearby, be mindful of timed parking. Otherwise, go a little further and…read morepark in residential. Got an espresso and chocolate croissant and even though I accepted the sparkling water, it wasn't there when I got my drink. The chocolate croissant was a bit bland. Overall, espresso tasted nice though. There is plenty of seating and an interesting stacked corner. The aesthetic is clean but does get a bit shadowed by worn out/dirty pillows back rests. It's a beautiful place with a lived in feel, nice and airy with plenty of outlets.

Bodhi Boy (lavender matcha)

Old West Latte

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Bodhi boy matcha and evergreen!

Saigon Coffee

4.8(951 reviews)

1.8 mi•North Park

While I was in the neighborhood, I saw someone holding Saigon Coffee cups and asked her where she…read moregot the coffee. She pointed out Saigon Coffee, so I followed her recommendation. I love egg coffees, so I ordered Hanoi Egg Coffee. The drink was refreshing, especially in warm weather. The coffee was bold and strong, but the egg cream added sweetness to the drink. Service was quick. The baristas were friendly and welcoming. Overall, I enjoyed my visit to Saigon Coffee. The price was reasonable, and the quality was great. I will definitely come back here if I am in the area.

Been wanting to come here forever and every time we tried to come, the lines were crazy long and…read morejust didn't have the time nor could we find parking. Well, I finally went this past May for the first time and luckily, the line wasn't too long and was able to find parking on a Saturday morning. I can see why everyone hypes this place up because wow, they're so good!! The line does go by fast considering that they keep their menu limited. The staff are very friendly and are very quick with their orders. if I remember correctly, we were only waiting in line for 10, maybe 15 minutes tops. CONS: it's at North Park lol. location is terrible, parking is tricky (depending when and what time you go. We parked a block over but the walk wasn't bad) no restrooms and limited indoor seating so it's best to just take your drinks to go. Are they worth it? Hell yeah they are. I've been craving it ever since so I need to visit soon!

IG: happyfoodietown

BANANA CLAUS ! 7.8/10

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10:30ish am on a Sunday morning... the line does move fairly quickly.

Delah Coffee

4.4(224 reviews)

1.7 mi•North Park

Coffee excellent, Service fast and friendly, ambiance is amazing and owner is really fun and…read morefriendly.

Been so many times: Great atmosphere, amazing drinks, and wonderful service. Always a blast!read more

Milk cake

Pastries

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Rose milk cake

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3 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Joshua M.

Elite 21

16

340

164

1 year ago

The Dojo Cafe on El Cajon Boulevard is truly a hidden gem in the heart of City Heights. This unique spot combines a vibrant atmosphere with a strong sense of community, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. The outdoor seating area is inviting, with colorful decor and a laid-back vibe that sets it apart from your typical coffee shop. The coffee here is fantastic--smooth, flavorful, and brewed to perfection. Whether you're grabbing a classic latte or trying one of their specialty drinks, you can count on quality with every sip. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your experience is enjoyable from start to finish. It's clear they care about their customers and take pride in what they do. What makes The Dojo Cafe stand out is its mission to bring people together. It feels more than just a coffee shop--it's a space where culture, creativity, and connection thrive. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this place is definitely worth checking out for great coffee and an unforgettable atmosphere. read more

Brandon M.

0

9

1

9 years ago

The positive vibes of The Dojo Cafe are second to none! The cold brew is smooth and strong. The Vietnamese coffee was perfectly sweet. Chatted with some people who were there about the mission of the Dojo to bring the community together and provide a meeting place for residents. The mission, the vibes and the vision are something I'm proud to support by grabbing coffee there. read more

Jeremy T.

13

1

0

8 years ago

Amazing place to grab a refreshing beverage! The employee's are so kind and always happy. I'll will be back.

The Dojo Cafe - coffee - Updated August 2026

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GEM Coffee

4.8

(106 reviews)

I've been wanting to go forever and finally had the chance to go on Sunday. The space is actually a…read morelot bigger than I thought, as they have both outdoor and indoor seating. There's even a restroom. They have pastries & their coffee menu is small but they do it well. I ordered an $6.89, Iced Lavender Latte. First sip & it was delicious! The espresso was strong and there wasn't too much milk. The lavender flavor was so fragrant & you can tell it is quality lavender. 5/5! Dog friendly space. I highly recommend coming here to try them out.

Literally, what a GEM! This lovely coffee spot on Euclid serves up some tasty coffee in a…read morecollaborative community. So cute too. . Hot and cold options in crafted coffee with great balance. Located in a newer building with a unique round design and a sweet patio space. The owner is involved and takes great care of her staff. She even fought to get a short term space you can roll up for to GO orders. #LocalCommunity #GEMCoffee #SanDiego #RollUp

Playground Art + Coffee

4.4

(28 reviews)

I really thought this was a daycare for kids but this is a cafe really for adults to bring out…read moretheir playful side (kids welcome as well). Super cute cafe that's catering to a more childhood reminiscent aesthetic that I liked with lots of bright colors, plushy cushions, and overall a fun vibe. The staff were super welcoming. I ordered an iced Pistachio Whipped Latte which is their most popular drink item at the moment. It was perfectly sweet and creamy with a bold coffee flavor coming through and subtle notes of pistachio. A MUST TRY! I want to come back for their weekly events from their vinyl night, coloring pages workshop, boho flower workshops, etc. Come check out this adorable gem in the heart of North Park

This coffee shop was such a fun and cheerful place! From the furniture to the layout, everything…read morewas thoughtfully designed and absolutely adorable. I loved that they had books and board games available, it makes it a great spot to hang out with friends. At first, I thought it was geared toward kids, but it's definitely a cozy space for adults to relax and enjoy. One thing I really appreciated was that most of their menu is house-made, which is always a huge plus for me. The service was outstanding. The girl who took my order was so welcoming, friendly, and genuinely sweet. I ordered the iced salted caramel latte. It was good overall, but I was hoping for a stronger salted caramel flavor since I could barely taste the salted caramel. Even so, I'd come back for the atmosphere, the house-made offerings, and the excellent customer service

Yohed Coffee

4.7

(56 reviews)

Cute local Ethiopian coffee shop; we got an iced coffee (5/5 on flavor, good size 14 or 16oz) a…read morecappuccino (not recommended; 3/5 super milky no foam) and a chornake puff bread pastry which was a delicious treat to share. The person behind the counter was really friendly and the walls had lots of cute art, there was plenty of seating inside and a soccer match on TV. Also nice is a 15 minute parking spot outside for grab and go.

If you're looking for legit "small batch" coffee, this is it! Dave is one of the most welcoming…read morebaristas around and very kind hearted. Their coffees are imported straight from Ethiopia and he roasts them in-house. Small batches at a time, you can even watch him doing his magic on some visits. If you really want to enjoy the coffee and its notes and flavors, please drink it black. Don't add sugar or milk please....its disrespectful to the coffee roaster Swing on in, have a good chat and sip away!

Cuppa Cuppa Coffee Lab

4.5

(71 reviews)

A neat coffee shop on the corner of an apartment complex. There is limited parking in the front and…read morea parking lot behind the apartment complex that is a quick walk away. The cafe has an intimate vibe with tables close to each other and a bar seating. This place has one of the best smelling dining areas because of how close you are to the brews. It is also convenient to study here as there is free WiFi and outlets to use. The baristas are super friendly and I have amazing conversations with them. Shoutout to Nick! I got the Thin Mint Mocha Blended, which I saw on Instagram. The drink itself was a bit dilute and had more of an ice taste rather than the traditional mocha taste. 2.5/5 I am, however, more optimistic to try their specialty items as I believe that this was a seasonal option. If this place stayed open longer, I could study here all day!

Located on the first floor of Vora apartment home. Next building over is Chase bank…read more Parking is all residential street parking with one 30 min green zone in front. By far this is the worse coffee I've had. We got the Macchiato and honey lavender. I took a few sips of the honey lavender and threw it away. Barely detected the coffee flavor. It was majority milk and watered down espresso. Quality was just bad and bland. They sell baked goods and the Banana nut bread made up for the drink. It was cold but tasted delicious. Not too sweet, not too bland. 2 stars for the coffee, 4 for the bread. We will not return here again.

Lemon Grove Coffee

4.4

(118 reviews)

Parking 5/5 -Good amount of free parking spots in front of…read morethe coffee shop. Service 5/5 -Friendly staff and efficient service Drink 5/5 -Medium iced americano, good quality espresso. For $3.25, it's cheaper than Starbucks and I will support a local business like this one any day over big chain coffee shops :-) Ambiance 5/5 -Air conditioned, cool interior design with a lot of seating options. I also like that they have a lot of local events posted, good space for working or studying and community-centered.

The café offers a great variety of specialty drinks, including fun seasonal options like the Funnel…read moreCake Latte, Kettlecorn Chai, and Brown Sugar & Cinnamon latte, in addition to the usual coffee, tea, and smoothie selections. The space itself is also a plus--it's bright, airy, spacious, and has plenty of seating. Unfortunately, the overall experience was overshadowed by cleanliness and service issues. Many tables were left covered in crumbs and empty cups, yet employees made no effort to bus or wipe them down. We watched one employee throw away a leftover drink from a table, push the trash can back against the wall, and then return behind the counter to attend to a customer's drink order and then use her phone without washing her hands first. That was concerning from a sanitation standpoint. We ordered the Lavender Bliss Iced Latte with oat milk, which costs an additional $1.00. The drink arrived with barely any milk, so I had to return to ask for a splash more. If customers are paying extra for a milk alternative, the drink should be prepared properly the first time. We also had the Honeycomb Latte, and the latte art was severely lacking. While latte art isn't the most important part of a drink, it's often a reflection of the care and craftsmanship that goes into its preparation. A little more attention to presentation would elevate the overall experience The restroom was also in poor condition. There were visible stains on the toilet seat, toilet paper scattered across the floor, a full trash can, and an unpleasant odor. Regular restroom checks would go a long way toward improving the customer experience. What made the experience especially frustrating was seeing employees on their phones during slower periods instead of taking the opportunity to clean tables, tidy the café, or check the restroom. Those small tasks make a big difference in creating a welcoming environment. When service and basic care are lacking, it also makes it hard to feel comfortable leaving a tip. We did tip, but afterward regretted it. The drink menu and atmosphere have a lot of potential, but the lack of cleanliness and attention to detail made it difficult to enjoy our visit. I hope management addresses these issues, as this café could be a much better experience with stronger housekeeping and customer service.

University Coffee

4.9

(79 reviews)

Found this cafe a few months back just driving down University. They have a simple menu with…read moredelicious coffee. We have had Angel's landing, Chai latte and the Mexican mocha. All drinks have been wonderful. The cafe is a medium size with lots of sitting area, restroom, a mini community library. A good place to work. The service is always delightful.

Welcome to the neighborhood! University Coffee is a new local coffee shop with plenty of street…read moreparking and a great corner location. The coffee quality is solid, and they offer pastries and some food items as well. I love that they have a community board and different seating areas to choose from. The workers are super friendly, which always makes the experience even better. A cute, easy neighborhood spot to grab a drink and hang out.

Moniker General Outpost

3.9

(55 reviews)

Really nice coffee shop right off university. Definitely a great place to come get a little work…read moredone. Good mix of indoor and outdoor seating. Didnt try food this time but my Americano was pretty solid. Will come back to try more beverage and food. Parking is going to be street parking only and you'll have to find in the surrounding neighborhoods.

I think I'm frustrated because I am comparing this location to the Liberty station location which…read moreis waaaaaay different than this one. It's a tiny little building, most seats taken up by people working on their computers. They don't serve food after 1 pm on the weekend, even though they are open until 6 pm?? I just feel like that is not reasonable. They were also out of cold brew. The coffee was good and the staff was nice but given those aspects I wouldn't come out of my way to come here.

Ultreya Coffee and Tea

4.7

(296 reviews)

I'm surprised it wasn't more crowded! Although I did go mid week, perhaps that's why. This coffee…read moreshop is everything! The chairs inside are so comfortable. I like that the shop isn't extremely cluttered with plants. Just enough that it feels open and bright. You know with nature, you just breathe better. (; Anyways, the interior murals are such a warm and lively color - it just makes me happy seeing it. I love the artwork on the walls because it matches their specialty lattes. The outdoor seating space is also quite nice. The colors of the tables are pastel pink and pastel yellow-- you can sit in semi shade or shaded area. It's really lovely! To drink, I decided to get one of their specialty lattes-- $7, Iced 12 oz, PEAK SEASON with whole milk. This is an iced blueberry latte with coconut condensed milk. It was so delicious! I would highly recommend this. It wasn't overly sweet either-- which I can appreciate. I highly recommend coming to Ultreya Coffee & Tea! The drinks are superb and fairly priced. They have a few food and pastry options as well. ...lol just read my past review and I basically had the same exact thoughts as this time around! Hilarious.

Great coffee, great service, and cool vibes. The coffee here is really good. The cortado was really…read morewell balanced with the macadamia nut milk. It was my first time having one with macadamia nut milk. I usually do almond milk. Their specialty drinks aren't too sweet either. They are more coffee forward in my opinion. I haven't tried any of their pastries, but they look good.

Mixed Grounds Coffee

4.5

(87 reviews)

Came by recently since my daughter was participating in an event at this shop. I decided to get the…read morebuko pandan in decaf and it did not disappoint. It had the right amount of sweetness. I was afraid it would be too sweet but I'm so happy it had a good balance. Shop is clean and staff is friendly. Street parking available. It appears they have pop up food vendors as well. I will definitely return if I am in the area again.

Mixed Grounds Coffee isn't just another coffee shop, it's much more! It's a popular, locally-owned…read moreroastery and cafe located in the North Park neighborhood of San Diego. Known for its Hip-Hop music theme, cool merch, and specialty drinks like Vietnamese Iced Coffee, Aztec Mocha Iced Latte 10/10, Horchata Iced Latte, and the house-made MG Signature Drink (pandan syrup and coconut cream). I was surprised to see they also serve craft beer, wine, soju cocktails and seasonal drinks on the menu. When we arrived, the atmosphere was lively with music pulsing through the coffee shop. They also had foosball tables, checkers, and a deck of cards for patrons to enjoy. I ordered the Aztec Mocha Iced Latte- it blended bold espresso and rich chocolate with warm cinnamon and a spicy pinch of cayenne pepper for that warm kick at the end! My wife ordered the Horchata Iced Latte- it was sweet and creamy with a nutty taste! Lowkey, it reminded of an arroz con leche pudding 10/10! We also ordered the Cinnamon Roll- it was nice and warm (just the way we like it). Overall, we had an awesome time with friends!

De Corazon

4.9

(54 reviews)