(updated June 2024)
Java, brew, cuppa, Joe, bean juice, or coffee . . . no matter what you call it, you need to know where to find the best Carlsbad coffee shop! Whether you need a quick caffeine pick-me-up, or you’re a full blown coffee addict, these are the best places to grab a delicious cup of coffee in Carlsbad, California.
If you are searching for the best Carlsbad coffee shop, you will discover everything from family owned cafes to large brand stores. There are diners with robust drip coffee to extravagant barista crafted creations. Regardless of your preference, there is a Carlsbad coffee shop for everyone.
In Carlsbad, California there are coffee roasters that painstakingly craft the perfect cup of coffee. As a Carlsbad resident for over 20 years, I know all the places locals go for the best brews. Keep reading for insider tips about where to get the best coffee in Carlsbad.
The Best Carlsbad Coffee Shops in Carlsbad Village
Below you will find Carlsbad’s favorite coffee shops. You will notice that most of the large chain brands are not included in this list. You can certainly find Starbucks, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Peet’s Coffee in Carlsbad. Yet, it’s safe to assume you are already familiar with their offerings. There are also a variety of restaurants in Carlsbad that serve coffee. However, this article will focus on true coffee shops. Now, let’s get caffeinated!
Want to Know When Coffee Shops in Carlsbad Are Open? Scroll to the Bottom of This Post for a Helpful Chart . . .
1. Steady State Roasting
Address For Steady State Roasting:
2562 State Street Suite G Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For Steady State Coffee Roasting Company:
- Daily 7:00-2:00
Why You Should Visit Steady State:
Steady State Coffee Roasting is a bohemian coffee shop in the heart of Carlsbad Village. Enjoy spacious indoor seating or a quaint outdoor space in this unpretentious corner of Carlsbad.
Choose from Steady State’s traditional coffee house favorites or unexpected flavors that are sure to delight your palate. Grab a fresh bakery item such as cookies or croissants to accompany your morning cup of coffee. For a coffee alternative try their unique Indian Summer chai latte. It has hints of ginger and spices (and it’s incredible)! This is definitely one of the best coffee shops in Carlsbad!
After you taste the delicious coffee at Steady State, make sure to bring some home with you. They sell globally sourced coffee from locations such as Columbia, Panama and Ethiopia. Or, get coffee delivered right to your door with a daily essentials subscription. They also offer a coffee club and canned cold brew for purchase. You know the quality is top-notch when local restaurants serve Steady State Coffee!
Seeking Stamps Tip: Parking is a breeze in their parking lot, which helps in crowded downtown Carlsbad Village.
Learn More About the Best Places for Coffee in Oceanside in This Blog Post!
“Steady State Roasting is an award-winning, small-batch roastery that is dedicated to the craft and care of providing specialty coffee.”
steadystateroasting.com
2. Baba Coffee
Address for Baba Coffee:
2727 State Street Suite #100 Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For Baba Coffee Carlsbad:
- Monday-Thursday 6:00-6:00
- Friday 6:00-8:00
- Saturday & Sunday 6:00-6:00
Why You Should Visit Baba Coffee:
Another top coffee shop in Carlsbad Village is Baba Coffee. Their motto is “Smuggle Some Joy” and the sentiment fits. This cute coffee shop in Carlsbad has indoor or sunny patio seating. If you are indecisive, sit at the bar along the windows.
Baba serves all your favorite drinks with an extensive menu. Blended coffee concoctions and cold brew coffees are made with beans sourced from small farms. They also serve sweetened boba tea drinks, iced and hot teas. Try the prison frappe or caramel macadamia cold brew if you want a decadent treat.
The drink options don’t end there. They also offer kombucha and several varieties of hot cocoa. For something stronger than coffee, they have mimosas, beer and wine.
If you need a bite to eat, Baba has you covered. You can nibble a pastry, or grab a meal. Baba is a family friendly coffee shop too. They have a kids menu and offer puppuccinos on their dog-friendly space on the patio.
If you are short on time, order ahead online. They also sell fresh coffee that is ground weekly for you to enjoy at home.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Check the parking lot near the coaster station- you can usually find a spot there on crowded weekends.
Check Out This Post About the Top Things to Do in Carlsbad, California!
3. The Goods Carlsbad
Address For The Goods Donuts Carlsbad:
2965 State Street Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For The Goods:
- Monday CLOSED
- Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 7:00-4:00 (or until they sell out)
- Wednesday 7:00-5:00 (or until they sell out)
Why You Should Visit The Goods:
What goes with coffee best- DONUTS! Yep, head on over to The Goods Donuts for both. The Goods has a smaller menu but serves up the traditional coffee favorites. Drip coffee, espresso, cappuccinos, Americanos, and a couple of latte options are available. You can’t go wrong at this trendy coffee shop and bakery in Carlsbad.
Seeking Stamps Tip: The Goods also sells vegan and gluten free donuts. They now accept online orders and have delivery!
Read More About Where to Find Incredible Baked Goods in Carlsbad in This Blog!
4. Vinaka Cafe
Address for Vinaka Cafe:
300 Carlsbad Village Drive Suite 211 Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For Vinaka Cafe:
- Daily 7:00-8:00
Why You Should Visit Vinaka Cafe:
Vinaka Cafe is a charming spot at the Carlsbad Village Faire Shopping Center. It’s a great place to soak up the sunshine and people watch. Or grab a coffee while browsing Carlsbad Village shops. Just minutes from the beach, get a coffee before you go for a walk along the stunning oceanfront. In addition to coffee, Vinaka serves breakfast items, pastries, ice cream, and sandwiches.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Pay attention to the time you park in the lot. Especially in summer months, the lot is patrolled and tickets are issued.
Learn How Carlsbad and Oceanside California Compare in This Blog Post!
5. Sleeping Tiger Coffees
Address For Sleeping Tiger Coffees:
2906 Carlsbad Blvd. Carlsbad, CA 92008 (Inside Witch Creek Winery)
Hours of Operation For Sleeping Tiger Coffees:
- Monday, Thursday-Sunday 7:00-5:00
- Tuesday & Wednesday 7:00-3:00
Why You Should Visit Sleeping Tiger Coffees:
Sleeping Tiger Coffee is located inside Witch Creek Winery. It’s easy to spot- look for the colorful mural outside. Sleeping Tiger serves fair-trade coffees roasted on site several times per week. Sit among the wine barrels and sip an assortment of drip coffee, french press coffee, tea, and espresso. Also, sweeten your drink with tasty house made-syrups. Sleeping Tiger Coffees has milk options to accommodate any preference. They include almond, coconut, soy, oat, and macadamia nut. Grab baked goods or salads if you need something to eat. In the evening, you can switch from coffee to wine here at San Diego’s oldest urban winery.
Read Here About Live Music In Carlsbad at Witch Creek & Other Venues!
6. Interim Coffee
Address For Interim Cafe:
2943 Carlsbad Boulevard Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For Interim:
- Closed Mondays
- Tuesday-Sunday 8:00-2:00
Why You Should Visit Interim Coffee House:
Interim Coffee is a no-frills place to grab a cup of coffee. What this simple coffee house lacks in size, it makes up with flavor. The California surf vibes here are elevated every 3rd Saturday of the month. Come enjoy surfboards and vintage cars in the parking lot while you sip away. Buy coffee blends from Mexico, Brazil, Peru and Ethiopia to brew at home. Sorry-delivery is not an option at this time.
Seeking Stamps Tip: There is a large lot, for easy parking.
Read This Post To Learn the 25 Pros & Cons of Living In Carlsbad (From a Local)!
The Best Carlsbad Coffee Shops in Southwest Carlsbad
7. Invita Coffee
Address For Invita Cafe:
6790 Embarcadero Carlsbad CA 92011 (near the Poinsettia Coaster Station)
Hours of Operation For Invita Cafe:
- Monday-Friday 7:00-2:00
- Saturday 7:00-12:00
- Sunday CLOSED
Why You Should Visit Invita Coffee:
Invita Cafe is a cozy coffee bar tucked away in the urban Common Grounds workspace. The name for the coffee shop was inspired by the Italian word “invitare”, meaning “to invite”. Born from Italian hospitality, it’s no wonder guests feel at home in this charming space. Invita coffee shop is a great place to meet for a chat. Although it’s adjacent to the Poinsettia Coaster Station, this location is surprisingly quiet.
Invita uses Vergnano coffee beans from Italy to brew their flavorful coffee. Try the house favorite crema caffe, tiramisu latte or lavender matcha latte. Invita also offers breakfast, salads, sandwiches and more. You really can feel the love put into the food and drinks at Invita!
Seeking Stamps Tip: If you have trouble finding the coffee shop, park near the obelisk and walk towards the coaster station parking lot.
(permission for use grated)
“We use Espresso as the magnet that unites and brings the community together.”
-Sara De Luca Founder & Creator of Invita Cafe
8. Origen Coffee Roasters
Address For Origen Coffee:
2131 Palomar Airport Road Carlsbad, CA 92011
2175 Salk Avenue Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours of Operation For Origen Coffee (both locations):
- Monday-Friday 8:00-2:00
- Saturday/Sunday CLOSED
Why You Should Visit Origen Coffee Roasters:
Origen Coffee Roasters is a peaceful place for coffee near McClellan Palomar Airport. Without searching, you would never know this secluded location exists. Origen Coffee is inside a business park, but is very serene with the sounds of a nearby waterfall. If you need a zen place to get away from it all, visit Origen Coffee.
The Best Cafes in Carlsbad Near Bressi Ranch & La Costa
9. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Carlsbad
Address for Bird Rock Coffee Roasters:
2656 Gateway Road #150 Carlsbad, CA 92009 (Bressi Ranch location)
There are several Bird Rock Coffee locations in San Diego including Encinitas and La Jolla.
Hours of Operation For Bird Rock Coffee:
- Daily 7:00-4:00
Why You Should Visit Bird Rock Coffee Bressi Ranch:
Bird Rock Coffee in Bressi Ranch is a coffee spot in the suburban niche of Bressi Ranch. This Carlsbad coffee shop is just minutes from our house. We often sneak off to grab a coffee here on weekend mornings. Check out Bird Rock Coffee Roasters menu. They have tasty options such as granola and hearty breakfast burritos.
Situated in a busy shopping center, you can grab a coffee and go to yoga, grocery stores or dine at nearby restaurants. Bird Rock has a large outdoor patio with a cozy firepit that is suitable for a group.
Find the Best Coffee Shops in Encinitas, CA in This Blog Post!
10. La Costa Coffee Roasting
Address For La Costa Coffee Roasting:
6965 El Camino Real, Carlsbad CA 92009
Hours of Operation For La Costa Coffee Co:
- Daily 7:00-6:00
Why You Should Visit La Costa Coffee Roasting:
The smell of roasting coffee is enough to entice you to stop by La Costa Coffee Roasting Company. This is one of the Carlsbad coffee roasters to visit for fresh coffee, right out of the roaster! La Costa Coffee has been a family-owned cafe in Carlsbad for over 30 years.
While you’re there you can buy beans or a quick pastry. This friendly coffee shop sells coffee beans from around the world. Exotic beans originate from Latin American, the Caribbean, East Africa and more. You can buy dark roast, decaffeinated coffee, and custom blends of coffee beans. Relax indoors, or outside on the large patio.
11. Chapters Cafe
Address For Chapters Cafe:
1775 Dove Lane (at the Dove Library in Carlsbad)
Hours of Operation for Chapters Cafe:
- Monday- Saturday 8:00-3:00
- Sunday CLOSED
Why You Should Visit Chapters Cafe:
Chapters Cafe is a little coffee nook located outside of the Dove library. Nothing goes better with coffee than a great novel, right? This quiet cafe has a large area for outdoor seating where you can sip your coffee shaded by large trees.
Choose from items such as blended mochas, matcha, hot cocoa, smoothies, cold brew, espresso and cappuccinos. You can also grab bagels, cookies and other treats.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Delivery on Grubhub is available.
12. Lofty Coffee Carlsbad
Address for Lofty Coffee:
7740 El Camino Real Carlsbad, CA 92009 (Lofty Coffee La Costa)
2742 State Street Carlsbad, CA 92008 (Lofty Coffee Carlsbad Village)
Hours of Operation For Lofty Coffee Company:
- Daily 7:00-4:00
Why You Should Visit Lofty Coffee:
Lofty Coffee has modern interior and open-air patio space. They have two locations in Carlsbad and several locations throughout San Diego.
Both Carlsbad locations offer fabulous coffee and customer service. Try a house favorite- the salty/sweet salted caramel latte. For a unique coffee beverage, try the cardamom spiced Turkish latte. For something spicy enjoy an Aztec Mocha with cinnamon and cayenne.
If you need something to eat try one of their flavorful bowls, poached egg sandwiches, or acai. You can also find organic pastries and muffins made from scratch. Lofty has gluten free options too.
Bring your children and furry friends to Lofty Coffee too. Children will love the kids menu and beverages made of steamed milk and syrup of their choice. Dogs are welcome on their outdoor patio.
Make sure to take some Lofty coffee home with subscriptions for whole bean coffee. Options from world wide regions include Guatemala, Honduras and Ethiopia.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Save time by ordering ahead online.
13. The Lullabar Carlsbad
Address For The Lullabar Carlsbad:
7750 El Camino Real Suite 5145-5150 Carlsbad, CA 92009
The Lullabar Hours of Operation:
- Daily 8:00-6:00
Why You Should Visit The Lullabar Cafe:
The Lullabar is the newest wellness cafe in Carlsbad. For busy parents that need coffee and childcare in one, this is a one stop shop!
At this adorable location, you can get hand crafted coffee creations, and so much more. Drop the kids at the baby gym, take classes, or spoil yourself with a mani/pedi at The Lullabar nail salon. I certainly wish I had a nearby mom cafe like this when my kiddos were little!
While this Carlsbad cafe caters to parents, anyone can drop by for a cup of coffee. The modern space has a bohemian vibe with a large communal cafe and sunny patio. They offer espresso, matcha beverages, and probiotic milk steamers for children. Salads and snacks are also available. I tried the strawberry matcha and highly recommend it!
Seeking Stamps Tip: Walk-ins for coffee are welcome. Reservations are preferred for childcare, classes and the nail salon.
I Was Named a Local Expert by Redfin. Check Out the Article: 7 Expert Need-To-Know Tips for Creating a Home Coffee Bar
Additional Restaurants Serving Carlsbad Coffee
If you are looking for spectacular places to eat breakfast that also serve coffee, read the linked blog post covering all the details about these restaurants.
- Shorehouse Kitchen
- Cafe Topes
- Naked Cafe
- Daily News Cafe
- Cafe Elysa
- Carlsbad Danish Bakery
- French Corner
- Swami’s Cafe Carlsbad
- Beach Plum Restaurant
Check Out This Post for the Best Mexican Restaurants in Carlsbad!
Recently Relocated & Closed Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, CA
Sadly, Carlsbad has lost several fabulous places for coffee in the last several years. These coffee shops in Carlsbad have relocated or are CLOSED for business. If they reopen, I will update them in this post.
- The Succulent Cafe– New Oceanside location just recently opened at 306 N. Tremont Street, Oceanside CA 92054 at the Brick Hotel. It’s open 7:30-2:00 daily and closed on Tuesdays.
- Copa Vida– The Carlsbad location remains temporarily closed. The closest location is in San Marcos at 250 N City Drive Suits 1, San Marcos, CA 92078. It’s open on weekdays 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.
- Cafe Ground Up- Permanently closed
- Leap Coffee- Permanently closed
Read About the Fascinating History of Carlsbad Alkaline Water in This Blog!
Carlsbad Coffee Shop Opening Hours Chart:
Best Coffee in Carlsbad: Final Thoughts
Whether you are a coffee connoisseur or need a quick caffeine jolt, you have a ton of options for coffee in Carlsbad, California. Travel to North County San Diego and check out the wide selection of Carlsbad coffee shops. From trendy cafes to humble coffee houses, Carlsbad has plenty of amazing places for coffee!
