My favorite cozy coffee shops in San Diego

Some people say San Diego doesn’t have seasons, but I have to say I disagree! The days are getting shorter and the crisp fall air has me reaching for a jacket every time I leave my house. Fall is my favorite season and while San Diego might be known for its sunshine, it also has an impressive lineup of coffee shops that bring hardcore #fallvibes. Whether you're looking to sip on a spiced latte, curl up with a good book, or just embrace the cozy ambiance of the season, these local spots provide the perfect blend of warmth and community. Here are some of the best cozy coffee shops to visit in San Diego this fall.

1. Cafe Bassam 

If you’re into an antique, parisian-style aesthetic with tons of character, Cafe Bassam in Banker’s HIll is the spot for you! This cozy neighborhood cafe checks off all the boxes - from morning coffee and teas to late-night desserts paired with a glass of wine for a more sophisticated feel. I ordered a dirty chai latte and snagged a seat near the window to take in the whole scene. Surrounded by vintage furniture and an array of quirky trinkets, it truly felt like I’d left San Diego and transported into a magical treasure trove. The highlight? Their stunning collection of tea leaves, beautifully displayed in vintage glass bottles—I’ll definitely be back for those. 

2. Lestat’s on Park

This article would be amiss if I didn’t mention Lestat’s, a San Diego staple when it comes to cozy coffee shops. My go-to is the Park Boulevard location, open 24/7 with moody lighting and plenty of seating spread across two spacious rooms. If you’re looking to really settle in, they’ve got some well-loved couches, but I grabbed a pumpkin vanilla latte and claimed a corner table to get some work done. Pro tip: this latte isn’t on the menu, but the barista was kind enough to make it when I mentioned I hadn’t had a single PSL yet this year. 🥹

3. Muri Coffee and Cake 

Muri Coffee and Cake is a newer addition to North Park’s coffee scene, and it’s already a favorite with locals! The shop has an interesting backstory—its founders, two Kurdish students from UCSD, were inspired to create a space that connects them to their culture and shares the rich history with the San Diego community. 

Both the menu and the shop’s design are thoughtfully curated to reflect Kurdish influences. A cozy indoor-outdoor setup includes a gorgeous patio, comfortable seating nooks accented by bohemian lighting, lush greenery, and warm, earthy tones. I loved that they had the heat turned up, making it the perfect spot to settle in with a book or work on a creative project. I’ve been here a few times and have tried the Kurdush cold brew tea and Kurdish decaf coffee – both were delightful and full of unique flavors!