Coffee Across Coronado

By LAUREN CURTIS

If my calculations are correct, there are over 30 locations on our little island to get your caffeine fix. From cold brew to hot lattes, espresso martinis to iced fraps, countless options are afoot. As someone born and raised here in Coronado and a years-long coffee enthusiast, I have rounded up just a few of my favorites.

Whether you are well-versed in the local coffee scene, looking to branch out from your comfort shop, or a newcomer to the bittersweet world of caffeinated concoctions, I hope this will inspire you to try something new and, as always, support local businesses!

Coronado Coffee Company

The Coronado Coffee Company cart is located at the Ferry Landing, making it the perfect stop on your bayside walk. Here, you will see people from all walks of life enjoying their coffee upon an unobstructed view of the San Diego Skyline across the bay. Not only does this location come with a view, but it also has a wide variety of coffees, smoothies, bowls, pastries, and even pup cups for your furry friends to enjoy.

Located at 1201 1st Street

Garage Buona Forchetta Walk-Up Window

Garage Buona Forchetta is known for its traditional Italian eats, but just around the corner from the restaurant’s front entrance you will find a hidden gem in the form of a walk-up coffee window. For those seeking a serious caffeine boost, this window serves up some of the strongest and richest espresso drinks I have had on island and also offers an array of fresh pastries. My personal favorite is their signature banana bread, which perfectly balances out each bitter sip of morning brew.

Located at 1000 C Avenue (window is around the corner on 10th Street)

Clayton’s Coffee Shop

I couldn’t compile a list of local coffee shops without including one of the town’s OGs: Clayton’s. For anyone who has lived here a while, you most likely know at least one person (friend, sibling, child, etc.) who has worked at Clayton’s at one point or another, as it is famously a fantastic location for young locals to find employment. This only adds to the small-town feel flowing throughout. While Clayton’s has a classic diner menu with countless coffee options, their specialty drinks, like this Iced S’mores Mocha, set them apart. If you are looking for something a little sweeter and that timeless diner feel, Clayton’s is the place for you.

Located at 979 Orange Avenue

Bay Books Coffee Shop

As an avid reader, I am endlessly thankful for our local bookstore, Bay Books. Being able to shop locally for all my reading needs feels special in today’s “Bezonian” world. And what makes this bookstore even more enjoyable is the coffee shop directly attached. One of my life’s little joys is ordering a coffee, browsing the store to find a new book while I wait, and sitting down on their patio with my new read and fresh latte while Orange Avenue life passes by. There truly is nothing like it.

Located at 1007 Orange Avenue

Tartine

Tartine is described as a café by day and a bistro by night. During those morning and early afternoon hours, Tartine is quaint yet bustling. As a local favorite, Tartine boasts sweet and savory menu items inspired by a café you might find tucked into a cozy street corner in Europe. Beyond its famous pastries and desserts, Tartine also has warm and inviting coffee options to sip on and indoor and patio seating. My personal favorite is their oat milk latte, and while you’re there, a slice of quiche is always a good idea.

Located at 1106 1st Street

Parakeet Café

Possibly the most Instargrammed coffee shop in Coronado, Parakeet Café on Orange Avenue is full of colorful, on-theme decor, including artfully curated gallery walls, quirky wallpaper, and its oft-photographed neon sign telling you they are “glad you’re here.” Beyond its distinctive interior, Parakeet offers locally roasted coffee classics and a full menu of signature sips, matcha drinks, and wellness lattes. While you are there, don’t forget to stop by the Parakeet Juicery attached next door.

Located at 1134 Orange Avenue

For those looking to “amp up” their usual coffee order… *wink wink*

McP’s Irish Pub

If you want to add a little punch to your usual coffee order, there will be no judgment here! It may not be Saint Patrick’s Day quite yet, but it’s close enough in my book. If you want to celebrate like the Irish this month, look no further than McP’s for one of their famous Irish coffees; you won’t regret it.

Located at 1107 Orange Avenue

Tavern

Another option for those looking to combine coffee hour and happy hour is Tavern. Not only is the underground atmosphere one of my favorites in Coronado, but their espresso martini simply never fails to bring me joy. A beautiful marriage of house-infused vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, chocolate mole bitters, Maldon smoked sea salt, and espresso, all garnished with freshly grated cinnamon; what more could you ask for?

Located at 1310 Orange Avenue