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Lestat's Coffee House
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Coffee & Tea, Music Venues [Edit]
3343 Adams Ave(between 33rd St & Felton St)
San Diego, CA 92116
Neighborhood: Normal Heights
(619) 282-0437
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 6 am - 6 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Tue, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- No
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
460 reviews for Lestat's Coffee House
Review Highlights
"Free wi-fi and a great place to work or hang out."
(in 38 reviews)
"They expanded into next door about a week ago."
(in 62 reviews)
"they also do a sweet open mic night."
(in 10 reviews)
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460 reviews in English
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Review from HerJadeness B.
San Diego, CA
2/7/2012
PARKING: free around the neighborhood.
PRICES: just right. Less than 8 bucks for a bowl of soup and half a sandwich.
SEATING: indoor and outdoor. Inside there are tables with chairs if you are in study/reading mode, but there are also couches if you're there to relax.
SERVICE: good. I ordered and sat down, and a nice young man brought my lunch to me. Only once did they ever get my order wrong, but they were quick to correct it.
COFFEE: lots of choices. Personally I get the double Peppermint Patty (less than $4.50) and the barista makes a fancy design. Tell them that your coffee is for here and they pour your coffee into a nice, big mug that you can warm your hands on. Oh! and the also have Italian sodas!
AMBIENCE: I usually go during the day, around 10:30, and it's not crowded or noisy. But I imagine it can get crazy in the evenings, when folks get out of work and don't want to go home. ;)
OVERALL: great place to relax and catch up with an old friend. The sandwiches are big enought to share, and I don't have to worry about parking (like in downtown).
PS: if you come here solo, please don't hog a "four top." -
Review from Stephanie P.
Chula Vista, CA
2/4/2012
Last night they just lost a long time customer that has been going there for 6 years.
While in college, the idea of having a 24 hour coffee shop to go to and study at was very appealing. Although their coffee was nothing special and their food just mediocre, I loved that they offered a menu beyond coffee and offered Italian sodas which became my regular order when I would come in. After graduating from college, I haven't visited as frequently as I used to when I was in school but when I'm in the area or need a place to have a coffee date with friends, I'd suggest Lestat's and last night was one of those nights. Unfortunately, one of the employee's made it my last.
When I came in with my friends, I had earlier eaten at a restaurant and had some food to go with me. When I arrived at Lestat's, I made my usual order; however, the guy working there informed he couldn't make Italian creme sodas with fruit flavors because the cream will "curdle". I have had this drink here 100 times before and it has never done that. I explained that to the guy and he seemed to be annoyed that he had to make it. To make peace, I left a dollar tip in the jar. After ordering, I sat down with two of my other friends who also had ordered drinks in the larger area of Lestat's that often tends to be more quiet. After being there about 15 minutes, my friends and I decided to eat the our food in our to go box (a few pieces of a sushi roll) because we didn't want it to go bad. The guy who had helped me was walking through the area where we were sitting and LOUDLY made and announcement to us "I'm sorry but we don't allow outside food. We will let it slide the first time but we really can't have you bringing outside food in here." The guy embarrassed us in front of everyone sitting in that room. EVERYONE sitting in the room was starring at us like we just killed a fetus or something and then kicked the homeless right after. I was LIVID. Rather than kindly telling just us if next time we could refrain from bringing in outside food, he instead rudely informed us that he will let it slide this one time....what the hell are you going to do if I do it again next time...call the cops? That's fine because I never plan to come back into this hipster infested coffee shop that has no appreciation for regular customers. I will give my business and tips to a coffee shop down the street called CAFE CABARET. Everyone go there! They have better food, better drinks, and kind owners. :D
Oh and guy that works there, the 1980's called, they want their uneven mullet back. -
Review from Jen S.
Updated - 2/3/2012
One of my favorite coffee houses in San Diego.
After getting sick from eating at Filter on University I was done with them for good. NEVER AGAIN WILL I GO BACK. Also, dealing with its owner calling me on the phone and cussing me out over a review I posted and an e-mail to the manager, I thought...man...what tools. Lestat's was better anyway, why did I stop going here?
I went into Lestats do get a latte, a bite, and do some work. The barista was super cool and cracked a few jokes while making my latte. The vibe was still the same, a nice cool mix of friendly people. Also, it is nice to see people working in a coffee house who don't look like they hate their jobs or who have yeast infections.
There is LOADS of seating and their chairs are clean and they have lots of sofas and soft chairs. Actually, Lestat's has the best seating of any coffee house in San Diego.
Still open 24 hours with free wifi? YES!
The coffee and the food menu here is outstanding, and one of the best in San Diego.Listed in: Top 10 Spots for Coffee
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/5/2010
I drove by this place several times, but I never wanted to go in because I knew obnoxious brooding… Read more »
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Review from Samantha S.
San Diego, CA
2/1/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Great place to go to do homework or meet up with friends, and they're open 24 hours which is really nice. Can get pretty packed on the weekends but it's not impossible to find a seat, especially since they expanded a few years ago. Staff is always pretty cool and their drinks are fairly priced.
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Review from Soojin S.
Cerritos, CA
1/16/2012
24/7! what more is needed to say.
i guess there is. pretty packed, esp. finals week. but it has good coffee and is a big cafe with a lot of seats. -
Review from Tiffie L.
1/3/2012
Meh. Lestat's is just not my style, but that doesn't mean it's not a fun cafe for those for whom it is more suited. Lestat's is quite hipster - from the music, decor and overall atmosphere... it's just a chill place for people to hang out. To me, it's a little grungy and not all that cozy. However, I found it's mismatching sofas and tables kind of quirky and unique.
Sadly, the coffee and food is only so-so. On a plus side. the place is HUGE and there are plenty of tables and seats. My boyfriend and I studied and read there for about 3-4 hours and it got crowded as the afternoon went by. As a result, it does get rather noisy so not ideal if you are looking for a quieter place. -
Review from Amanda S.
Fremont, CA
1/13/2012
Visited: Feb.-July 2011
Service: 4
Venue: 2
Food/drink: 2
They're open 24 hours and they support local artists, but that's pretty much all Lestat's has going for it. I enjoyed the couple of shows that I attended here (Jane Lui and David Choi, both awesome musicians) - it's a small, intimate venue, sometimes with wonky lighting issues but otherwise a fun place to spend a weeknight. The cafe is somewhat less cozy. My first impression was that it looks very much like an all-nighter hangout: dim lighting, old and worn-out furniture, and a slight feeling of uncleanliness. Drinks are average. Though have friendly baristas and plenty of tables and living room-style seating, overall Lestat's isn't really my cup of tea. -
Review from Maricela H.
Chula Vista, CA
12/20/2011 3 Check-ins Here
My go to place for my 3am fix for caffecito while working. I've had food here too it's good when I'm in a hurry or didn't pack lunch. The night time guy is pretty cool. Can't remember his name he is super helpful for being there at 3 or 4 am! Love it!
I like to go study here to when I need tutoring by The Rog himself. HE IS GREAT! I really like this place and prefer it to starbucks or coffee bean. They have nothing on my Lestat's! Order the Jimmy milano it's quite good! -
Review from Natalie F.
San Diego, CA
1/4/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Not bad, not amazing.
The coffee is fine. I never go here for coffee, though. I come here to study, because they are open 24 hours, usually isn't super packed, and has a lot of outlets and big tables.
Good place to study, or to hipster-watch. Other than that...Lestat's....meh. -
Review from Jennifer O.
La Jolla, CA
1/27/2012 2 Check-ins Here
When I know that I can't get any studying done at home, I head out to Lestat's with a couple of girlfriends to study. It is usually packed at night because it's open so late. I like the tea, but the last cheesecake that I ate was not that great.
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Review from kurm just k.
Jamison, PA
1/27/2012
ok I guess
the sound guy sucked
hipster bullshit
smoke wafts inside from open doors -
Review from Kris S.
San Diego, CA
12/19/2011
24 hours? THAT'S SO COOL !!!
Completely Hipster.
Interesting, eclectic and diverse decor.
Red crushed velvet Vampire couches? RAAAAAD.
Love the artsy-fartsy vibe.
Wasn't impressed with the Barista....seemed arrogant or something.
Chai tea was okay, not bad.
FREE WI-FI!!!!!!!!!!!!! WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!
and AA meetings next door.
Hipsters always milling about outside, front patio.
Also, very warm inside........almost toooo warm.
OH !!!! And the red-velvet cupcakes will make you......Well.......yes, they will make you ;) -
Review from brandon m.
San Diego, CA
12/18/2011
If I'm looking for a spot to hang out this is the spot. Especially if your in school.
Seems to be the place for teens to 20 something's to hang. I can really say nothing bad about it beside the coffee. Ok so the coffee if at least bad I really hate to support the Starbucks name but there is one across the street and if your looking for good or lets just say better coffee Le Stat's is not the spot I really don't understand how a super coll little coffee shop these day's would not have a good cup of joe? -
Review from s h l.
San Diego, CA
12/22/2011
Very artsy hipster eclectic atmosphere at Lestat.
Decor is a lot of mismatch chairs, paintings, etc...
Good place to study if you like to study at coffee shops since they have wifi.
Coffee was pretty good - nice flavor and aroma, wasn't too weak.
Price wasn't too bad either and they're 24 hours, woot! -
Review from Heru-amun P.
San Diego, CA
12/5/2011 15 Check-ins Here
I knew I should have worn my DANZIG skull belt when I went in here the other night after eating @ Zia's...
I've lived in this area since my arrival from the east coast but never really went inside and got coffee, I just like to amuse myself with the throng of gargoyles and street cats that linger outside... Upon further investigation, I realized that this place does not shut down and sometimes when I drive by in the early morn for work, I see the same groovy ghoulies still drinking coffee! Who whudda thunk that vampires like watered down decaf? -
Review from Pancham P.
Irvine, CA
11/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Discovered this place randomly while looking for a cafe that is open late.
Loved the look and the drinks.
Although most of their drinks are very sweet, they are really good if that's what you want.
People come here to study etc. I saw people in their PJ's shorts and tank tops sitting and studying late night. Very casual and fun place to relax and sip some drinks. -
Review from Traci D.
Bonsall, CA
11/19/2011
How is it I haven't reviewed LeStat's? It's really no wonder they have 400+ reviews and a high rating. This place ROCKS.
If your out of town visitors want to experience the "local" life instead of the more touristy stuff, LeStats is your ticket to impress. Open 24 HOURS too, so you never have to worry about when you get there.
ATMOSPHERE
This place OOOZES atmosphere. From the gargoyle statues out front, to the Victorian furniture (I think I saw some of that on Craigslist!), to the public internet computers with picture frames around the monitors and the local artists they feature on the walls, they've got the details DOWN. This place is a FEAST for the eyes. You can't even fault them for the rickety screen doors as it only adds to the charm. I don't know why, but I love the screen doors. Just feels like home when you walk in.
PEOPLE
The clientele also compliments the decor... so many different types hang out here, everyone from nerds to college kids to musicians to the occasional "adults," and c'mon... what would this place be without the vampires? It's hard to concentrate on coffee or work when there's so many interesting people. An observer's paradise, truly. Overall a very mellow vibe and I've never met an unfriendly person there, either employee or customer.
SEATING
LeStat's used to be a bit small to hold everyone, but they've expanded in the last year or so, adding a huge room with tons of seating. Since expansion, I've never had trouble finding a seat, even on a weekend. (Of course, I'm usually alone or with only one other person, larger groups might have trouble sitting together on Friday/Saturday.) They have some tables out front and a large back patio. No smoking inside, so unfortunately the smokers all inhabit the outdoor spaces, which prevents me from doing the same. The back patio looks pretty intimate though with trees overhanging it and not much lighting.
MUSIC
They also boast a live music venue right next door where you can frequently find the best upcoming artists in San Diego playing for a very reasonable cover price (I've never paid more than $10 personally). Open Mic is Mondays, comedy on Tuesdays, and a writer's group on Thursdays. The rest is music, and there's something for everyone. I've heard pop, rap, jazz... you name it, they seem to host it. You can easily check their calendar online at http://lestats.com - the calendar has links to each band that's playing so you can sample some music before you go. The room holds about 100 people, and they've recently added an A/C for the summer so it's not so stifling anymore.
FOOD/DRINKS
The coffee is well-made and always served with a smile from the counter guys. There are many choices, both hot and cold, for those who prefer a "fancier" version of caffeine. The tea selection is excellent - something for every taste. LeStat's also offers light, healthy fare in the way of fantastic sandwiches (with chips!), quiche, salads, soups, and yummy sweets such as pastries, cupcakes, cookies, and I think I saw cheesecake there as well. I've had a couple sandwiches and salads and they were excellent. The menu is also on their web site. You'll feel like you're raiding the frig with the barista. :) Don't forget to leave some love in their tip jar!
MERCH
In case you want to take LeStat's home with you, they have some merch available up by the counter. Not only can you purchase tshirts and mugs, they have jewelry from local artisans, and most of the paintings on the walls are for sale. There is also a large section by the front restroom where you can leave flyers and business cards, or pick up info on someone else's gig. (There are two restrooms now - one in the middle of the original part, and one at the back of the larger room. Just one toilet each, so sometimes you have to wait, but it's never long.)
INTERNET
Free Wi-Fi, with purchase of course. Connection is pretty good from either room. It's a bit slow at peak times, but mostly they monitor that no one is hogging the bandwidth. If you DO hog the bandwidth, there are dire warnings that you will be pointed out to all the other geeks in the room and they're not responsible for what happens to you after that. They have approximately six? computers to access the internet if you don't bring your own. I think most people have laptops there tho, and I don't know the prices (if there are any) to use the computers. Sorry :( Epic fail there as a reviewer!
PARKING
Only street parking, which is hit or miss, but so totally worth it (and c'mon, our weather is so dependable who can't walk a half a block?). Just believe the Parking Fairy loves you and you'll be fine.
So I hope this has been helpful because certainly this is one of my favorite spots in San Diego, and I live AN HOUR north of LeStat's! I wish they had a location in North County, but alas, I don't have the capital to offer to get into the game. I'll have to wait until they decide to open a location here and hope they'll hire me as manager. :)
Enjoy!Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Larissa L.
La Jolla, CA
11/14/2011
Cute coffee shop with lots of tables to study on. Ambiance is college-y with random artwork across the walls and high ceilings. Can't complain of the free wifi either!
My friend and I tried the chai latte and the Caramel D'lish. Chai latte was a bit watered down and not very creamy. Flavor was very subtle as well. the Caramel D'lish was just wayy too sweet for us.
We also tried their macaroons and they are delicious!!!
Come here if you want to look like a nerdy hipster and if you need a place to study. Bonus points on being a super cute venue that has that open mic/spoken word feel to it! -
Review from Christina T.
San Diego, CA
10/20/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Coincidentally located across from an infamous coffee franchise? I think not!!! Super friendly and slightly eclectic staff that beats any large franchise I've come across.
Special chai latte truly tastes more fresh than the local competitor. 24/7 hours and wifi are extra bells and whistles. Now if only I could figure out what my signature drink would be... -
Review from Madhu R.
12/27/2011
The coffee isn't great compared to some phenomenal places in Portland or New York where I usually like to bask in a cup of perfection, but the vibe is fanastic here. Very young, artistic, and well-read crowd. Nobody would look at you weird here if you don't come in wearing a baseball cap or order your coffee by the gallon to fit in the cupholder of an SUV. Barristas are also really friendly, even if they look a little intimidating upon first sight.
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Review from eileen R.
Chula Vista, CA
11/27/2011
ooH the dracula house.
To my judgement, this was a goth,freak, indie, punk hang out way back when, 2004 i believe.
It has diversified since then, after they opened the space next door. I do enjoy the studying atmosphere now, but i do miss and appreciate the days when it was 'underground' :)
Love the local art, the decor, interesting people. This was a fun hangout w friends. chai tea + conversation.
(-) it was a favv hangout until I smelt someone w nasty b.o. on a hot day. And, got totally distracted from studying I had to leave the cafe :p Boo to that but I'm still a fan.Not good w smells.
(+) Have had conversations with people here. They are open to talk w u.
(+) love the staff
(+) love to people window watch. I remember seeing the most random people walk pass the window.(ie A firefighter in costume. hence the firehouse next door. gansta's...etc. Making up stories about passerbyers as we sit and watch
(+) Best chai tea I ever had. -
Review from Eve S.
12/24/2011
Stepping into this place was straight-up pleasing this morning. I love the decor, the Portishead music and the croissant and mocha are both yummy. Awesome amount of space, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Definitely a nice, chill hangout place.
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Review from Borneo G.
San Diego, CA
10/31/2011
I actually like this Lestat's better than the one in University Heights. It is a little less "trendy" than its sister coffeehouse, but that's what makes it so much better. Plus, parking is much more convenient and the neighborhood is more of my scene.
I think each Lestat's serves different food, but this place is just as good.
Definitely a good place to meet with your friends, catch up on emails, and all the while enjoy your latte. -
Review from Kate K.
Newport Beach, CA
11/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
LOVE this place.
If you have something against good coffee, fun environments and the ability to surf the internet in a public setting at any hour of the night, then this is not your kind of scene.
As a student who hates to study at the library 24/7 study room (creepy and can't get anything done) I highly recommend Lestat's
Holler. -
Review from Robin J.
San Diego, CA
10/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Eclectic. Classic Coffee House as a Coffee House should be. Mismatched furniture. Indie art on the walls. 20-somethings behind the counter that you would want to date if you were also 20-something (which I'm not.)
All in all, it "took me back" to that time when (in my 20-somethings) I would lounge at a coffee shop, listen to cool music and be cool... or hip.... or whatever it is they call it these days. -
Review from Trish C.
Vista, CA
If Lestat from Interview with a Vampire created this place, I wouldn't be surprised. I expect Tom Cruise to just pop up with fangs from behind a gargoyle and be like, "Welcome, let's have a drink!" and pounce on my neck every time I've gone.
I like Letstat's because it's 24 hours... the coffee is good/strong; a bit overpowering actually. I asked for an Americano with Vanilla, and I never tasted any Vanilla in there. Though I have yet to try, the confectionaries look devilishly delicious. Free wi-fi is key, but every time I've been here (Tuesday around 11PM) the place is crowded. It looks like all the college kids came here to do their homework... I haven't actually stayed to sit down & experience the atmosphere past getting used to the gothic vibe. If you want normal/commercialized, there's a Starbucks kiddy corner to this place. But I get the feeling that this coffee house is the epitome of Normal Heights.
As Aaron P. mentioned, it's got its fair share of wannabe goths/hipsters with their MacBooks & schtuff. Though I saw a couple of old timers playing chess, for the most part, Lestat's looks like it caters (by no fault of its own) to mainly the college crowd. Maybe two or three years ago I would have mixed in, but since I usually visit right after I get off of work (in scrubs), so I automatically feel old and out of place.
If you're anywhere in 13-16th grade, you'll love it. If you've graduated, are out of school, or are not into "the scene" type of stuff, get your coffee and go.
For now, it's missing that 5th star because the place is not quite my cup of coffee... yet. There will definitely be an update on this place in the future after staking it out -- damn, another vampire pun. -
Review from Alex M.
La Jolla, San Diego, CA
10/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place has an awesome concert venue. Everything is so packed, up close and personal. I"ve come here two concerts in the past year and each time has been great. Parking can be a little hard to come and if you do wander off to the side streets at night I recommend you bring a flash light. Its pitch black outside because SD is too cheap for street lights.
As for the drinks, I like their chai latte, they make an effort to make it from scratch not from powder like a lot of places do. With actual tea bag in your drink and less syrup, I can actually taste the tea flavor come alive.
This place also seems like a decent place to do computer work. Though I wouldn't recommend it for any heavy book reading because the lighting can be poor in the main dining room.
All in all its your cozy kitchy neighborhood coffee house with a great concert venue next door. -
Review from Richard Y.
San Diego, CA
12/23/2011
Exterior and branding looks quaint, but it's actually a really big cafe with a nice elegant interior. Roomy with lots of tables and solid Wi-Fi--and really friendly baristas--this is going to be one of my go-to cafes if I'm going to be up late or just need a day to read and catch up on things.
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Review from Justin L.
Carlsbad, CA
11/6/2011
You really can't ask for a better coffee shop then Lestat. I'm a bit of a coffee house junkie and this is probably the best one that I been to. The atmosphere and ambiance has a very hipster/hippie type feel to it and just adds to its overall awesomeness.
I had the tuna sandwish which was freakin delicious. Whenever I came to visit somebody in San diego they almost always take me to Lestats. Now that I am able to come here and soak up the atmosphere, I can now see why.
5 stars! -
Review from Lynda S.
El Cajon, CA
12/21/2011 10 Check-ins Here
Love this coffee shop. Always have great coffee, food, and music.Also all the baristas are awesome and super nice.
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Review from Jez R.
8/31/2011
After coming here, I have such a high bar for coffee houses, it's ridiculous.
Between the enormous space, the huge old over-stuffed couches and love seats to crash on, the FRIENDLY crowd, and their enormous menu offering really crazy and exotic coffee drinks, I wish wish wish this was local to me.
They have a ton of local fliers, two bathrooms, local artwork, lots of games as well.
Their baristas weren't terribly friendly but the clientele made up for it. As soon as I walked in, a group of them asked where I was from, chatted with me, and were all smiles. Such a pleasant surprise, at midnight to boot.
I hung out for four hours and most of the others hanging out there were pretty stationary. Free wi-fi and lots of internet chat going on.
24-hours, had a lot of exotic coffee drinks to offer that I was so excited to try.
Across the street from Starbucks, which made me laugh.Listed in: Houses Built on Java
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Review from Jonathan V.
San Diego, CA
9/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Thor's Hammer. If there ever was a drink that could encompass the might of Mjolnir, I found it here at Lestat's. One thing I like about Lestat's is the atmosphere. It's vibe carries a melting pot of artsy, hip, and study hall chic that makes it a great place to just have fun or dig in and get some studying in. The food is pretty good especially if you're there for an extended period of time.
The only thing I that I can say about it that is bad doesn't really have to do with the place rather that finding parking on Adams at night is a pain in the ass. So go to Lestat's. It's worthwhile. -
Review from Lisa C.
Pasadena, CA
12/21/2011 3 photos
LeStat's is nestled in the Normal Heights gateway, a great transitionary zone with patios abounding in smokers, wi-fi hoarders crammed into couches indoors, and food that is bar-none amazing. I came to aid a friend with putting some artwork on the walls and was pleasantly surprised. Not only is LeStat's open 24/7, but it has a great collection of local art and a relaxed vibe. The eclectic mix of customers, the velvet-lined Victorian furniture, the statues, the books, and the hand-crafted delights on display in the pastry case really put this place as an overall must stop spot in SD. Next door they feature a music venue as well for local and traveling talent to show their skills. It has a little something for everyone accommodating to early birds, night owls and the punks in-between!
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Review from Seneca G.
San Diego, CA
12/10/2011
Good for coffee and comfortable but its always TOOO hot!!!!!! Everytime I go, rain or shine, its boiling!!! Definitely not as hot as the Lestat on Park but they both are pretty much unbearable.
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Review from Svetlana V.
San Diego, CA
Starting yesterday, it is by far my favorite coffee shop in San Diego!
Good food and drinks. Free Wi-Fi.
They have 2 rooms. One of which is like a library, dedicated to those who really need to study. It is pretty quiet there too.
So many tables and power outlets!
They really did a good job putting all those things together!
They even have board games :)
They do not use AC, I think. So, on a hot day, it's not hot and not cold; they just open doors and have the breeze take care of the ventilation.
I look forward to studying there on cold days too, as it won't be cold, like in other coffee shops.
Did I mention that they also have a front and back patios? Oh yeah, they do!
All baristas were so nice too! -
Review from Christal B.
San Diego, CA
9/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
Finally got to use my groupon for Lestat's a couple of days ago.
Being around midnight on a weekday, the crowd was studious one.
Laptops open + a sea of school hoodies =definitely a college kid spot.
I liked the overall vibe of the cafe.
Really eclectic furniture and awesome art on the walls and tables
We played a game trying to match a piece of furniture to the type of owner it would have. (i.e. the naughty french maids. You'll know it when you see it. haha)
As for goodies, I ordered a chai tea latte.
I also got to try the razzle dazzle.
For 25 cents more, I got the peanut butter cookie.
Pretty decent.
Have a school deadline or suffering from insomnia?
Lestat's is your spot. -
Review from Mike H.
El Cajon, CA
9/10/2011
Wow. Epic Fail. Who taught these guys how to make drinks ?
Girl walks up to the counter. "My drink is way to sweet"
Guy behind the counter to his co-worker "Dump some of this out and add milk" ??? WTF
Make shit right the first time around. My freakin drink tasted like warm chocolate milk.. -
Review from Deborah K.
Chula Vista, CA
7/29/2011
I LOVE this place!
It's the perfect place for any late-late night studying you have to do pre-finals week (it doesn't tend to get very crowded, so watch out for that) and the unique goth feel with the second-hand yet comfy furniture, interesting artwork for sale hanging on the walls -
OH and did you know there's a comedy night every tuesday (9-11pm) right next door?!
The first time I went, I was completely blown away by the level of talented comedians a seemingly small establishment and name like Lestats can get. Last time they had someone from "Last Comic Standing" come in and give some jokes, but my favorites are always the headliners.
Beside that, I have to say "Lestats coffee is [definitely] better" - (taken from their wireless network name).
I love the varied seating arrangements that allow for large groups to come in! I've brought my friends from Student Government here just to study and enjoy some amazing coffee brewery (I don't know if that's a term, but heck, Lestats has upped the game so much I just call it that).
It does carry a bit of that grunge feel for those of you that like wide, open, clean spaces like Starbucks, but honestly - I don't mind it and I kind of like it since pre-finals week most of us haven't really showered or slept so the zombie feel is pretty ubiquitous at that point. And the guys I know who work here are just so amicable and customer-oriented!
And their other food/beverage selections like their sandwiches, pasta salads and chips are shockingly savory and delicious! Definitely not what I would've expected from a cafe that boasts the greatest coffee (you would think their resources are focused on building their rep on that) but nope, they're just full of surprises, pairing that delicious coffee with really tasty sandwiches! Haven't tried the pastries yet!
If you still think Starbucks coffee tastes good, you are having it with way too much milk, sugar and whipped cream. The coffee by itself is truly bitter and unflavorful - unlike the coffee they serve here at Lestats! I choose the light brew.
Be careful not to bring a starbucks coffee over here ;) One of my friend unfortunately brought one over and did receive some reprimanding (albeit it was playful)!
I wish they would branch out to Chula Vista! Where nothing is open past nine pm! :) -
Review from Rachael C.
San Diego, CA
9/26/2011
I will keep it simple
Open 24 hours: plus ++
Parking--hit and miss
Inside: Plenty of people watching from normal folks to freaks
Prices: reasonable, good portions and free wi-fi
Expanded: Thank god cause this place was cramped before. It lost some of it's dark side when it got bigger but it was sorely needed
Staff: Hit and miss. Some of the guys there are nice, some of them can be dicks, but whatever
Lots of intesresting art, good music
It can get way to busy, but it's still a cool place to chill and hang your hat after a long night... -
Review from Joshua M.
11/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's essentially the dirty twin hippie of the Park Blvd location. It's not going to win any cleanliness awards, and a good number of the patrons look like they may have escaped from a psychiatric facility earlier in the day. Still it's a place you can sit down and leech some free wifi, they have Mexican hot chocolate AND Judge Wapner rootbeer.
