Neighborhood Joe: Mostra Coffee in Carmel Mountain Ranch
Mostra, one of the most innovative coffee houses in San Diego County can be found tucked in the suburban heart of Caramel Mountain Ranch.
Neighborhood Joe: OB Beans in Ocean Beach
OB Beans Coffee Roasters, Ocean Beach
Just few blocks from the beach, OB Beans can be found tucked amid tattoo shops, breweries, anique stores, and other local Ocean Beach boutiques that line Newport Avenue. More than a coffee shop, OB is a micro-roaster that works directly with small lot coffee farmers around the world. They donate a portion of their proceeds to non-profit partners to make sure they are doing more than just serving excellent cups of Joe. And their coffee drinks really are excellent. Unlike many of the area shops, OB Beans is open seven days a week, which makes it a go-to spot for locals.
The Space
OB Beans feels like a neighborhood joint, with friendly staff, beachy, natural wood decor, and a pleasant hum courtesy of small clusters of people chatting over their steaming drinks served in locally made Maek Ceramic cups. Seating includes a scattering of round tables for those who are unplugged (or have killer battery life), as well as a hightop counter, a few communal tables, some cushioned seating around the front window, and an outdoor area in the back with some picnic table-style seating. The seats along the wall can take advantage of power outlets.
The Vibe
With decent wifi and a decent number of outlets, this cafe has its fair share of customers hovered over laptops, but there are just as many small groups who are hanging out unwired. The music is hardly noticible in the background, but the low chatter keeps the place from feeling pin-drop quiet. It is such a casual vibe that when they fill up, you won't think twice about sitting down to share space at a communal table. In keeping with their laid-back feels, they are completely dog-friendly.
The Nibbles
The pastry case features croissants and other carby goodness, often courtesy of Wayfarer Bread and Pastry, who regularly have "pop-ups" in the shop's case. The space is also home to Wailua Shave Ice, who sling Hawaiian-style shaved ice made with local fruit.
The Drinks
The namesake, small-batch roasted beans are good, really good, and the menu rightly keeps it simple to highlight them. You won't find a laundry list of flavored lattes here. Choose from classic coffee and espresso drinks, cold brew, and tea. You won't bemoan the lack of wild latte vairants when you try a sip of the super smooth, richly flavored brew.
Plan a Visit
4879 Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach, San Diego
Hours: Daily, 7am-6pm
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