California - The Golden State
Acento Coffee Roasters in San Diego is a serious spot for anyone who loves the science behind the bean. You can watch the entire roasting process happen right in the middle of the shop while you wait for your order. The Spanish Latte is a good option with its creamy and perfectly balanced taste without being too sweet. You should know that the industrial vibe is cool but the roasting machine can get loud when it is running. The seating is very limited so do not plan on camping out with your laptop for a long time. It is the perfect place to grab a bag of fresh beans and a high quality espresso.
Number and Street:
3145 Rosecrans St
Abode Coffee in Wildomar is the perfect escape if you want a trendy yet cozy spot to get work done. You have to try their homemade syrups because they change the game completely. The seasonal Campfire Latte is a winner. It tastes exactly like a s'more without being sickeningly sweet. The shop connects to a cute boutique called Solsara so you can browse while you sip. It feels like hanging out in a stylish living room rather than a busy business. Just so you know the bathrooms are not located directly inside the shop. You should grab a spot on the patio if the weather is nice.
Number and Street:
32395 Clinton Keith Rd
Find this hidden gem tucked away in Paradise Hills because it is hands down one of the most unique coffee spots in San Diego. The vibe is incredibly homey. It's like walking into a friend’s artistic living room filled with quirky decor and stickers (and bicycles!). The Mexican-inspired specialty drinks are nice especially the Oaxaca Mocha which is perfectly balanced and not overly sweet. Just so you know, it is a bit of a hunt to find the entrance. Google Maps might take you to the side, so look for it next to the Mexican restaurant. The owner, Eduardo, is a total pro who pulls excellent shots. You can tell he puts heart into every single cup. It’s the kind of place where you want to sit, sip a Crema de Olla and just soak in the creative energy.
Number and Street:
2335 Reo Dr
If you are searching for an authentic European coffee experience in Oceanside, look no further than 1022 Cafe & Gelateria. This place is honestly in a league of its own when it comes to quality and attention to detail. You have to try the Pistachio gelato because it actually tastes like real nuts rather than artificial flavoring. The owners Connor and Erik are super passionate and will happily guide you through a tasting of their house-made flavors. I love that they take their coffee just as seriously as the dessert with options like anaerobic pour-overs and perfectly pulled ristretto shots. The vibe is sleek and uncluttered which makes it a great spot to relax with an affogato. It is easily some of the best gelato you will find outside of Italy.
Number and Street:
602 Mission Ave