San Diego Buzz: The Horchata Slushie at Modern Times Invigatorium Downtown
The Horchata Slushie at Modern Times Invigatorium in Downtown San Diego is not to be missed.
San Diego Buzz: The Black Sesame Latte at Public Square Coffee House in La Mesa Village
This La Mesa cafe is all about coffee, culture, and a cause.
In their original Kickstarter video, Public Square Coffee House co-owner and founder Aaron Henderson outlined the historical significance and importance of public squares, which were community gathering places to “see and be seen, hear and be heard, serve and be served.”
That mindset, coupled with a desire to provide high-quality beverages and bites in a part of town not typically known for trendy eateries, is what led Henderson to open his coffee shop in the heart of La Mesa Village.
Revitalization in the area has been more of a slow tide than tidal wave, but nearby indie boutiques like Small Batch and crafty restaurants like Farmer’s Table have all helped pioneer a new era of East County living.
On any given day, the patio of Public House is brimming with patrons holding guitars, puppies, and children. Inside, college students clack away at their laptop keyboards and small groups of entrepreneurs talk business over lattes.
The food menu is surprisingly robust; I’m always partial to the “Butter Flight” option, where you can choose three or six house butters the likes of cinnamon, fig & honey, maple-cayenne, and blueberry, to accompany a scone.
Regrettably, butter flights are only available on the weekends, but they’re worth a special trip.
The drinks menu at Public House features all the coffee shop classics—cappuccinos, Americanos, pour overs—along with specialties like seasonal lattes (pumpkin spice for fall, obviously), various teas, kombucha, and kefir sodas.
One of the specialty drinks that caught my eye most recently was the dark and mysterious black sesame latte.
Available both hot (12-oz) or cold (16-oz), the drink is made with homemade black sesame, coconut, and maple syrups and steamed milk (oat milk and almond milk are available for an extra charge).
A lot of kitschy lattes go overboard with wacky flavors and additives, but Public House’s remains a restrained, flavorful, and an original approach to a specialty drink. The first sip is creamy and savory. The coconut emerges as a lovely supporting note accentuated by a sweet little kick of maple on the back end. The hot latte’s mouthfeel is quite thick, so this is a drink best saved for colder weather days.
Visit Public Square Coffee House
8278 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7am-6pm; Sunday, 7am-5pm
*Pro tip: Public House hosts many community events, including open mic nights, art shows, Soul Sundays, and other late-night gatherings. Follow the Instagram account Public Square After Hours to find out what’s on in the Village.
More Weird and Wonderful Coffee Drinks in SD County
San Diego Buzz: Lavender Thyme Iced Lattes & Idyllic Neighborhood Vibes at Hawthorn Coffee in Normal Heights
Hawthorn offers inventive lattes and an inclusive atmosphere on Adams Ave in University Heights.
San Diego Buzz: The Matcha Latte at Communal Coffee in North Park
All about The Matcha Latte (and other delights) at Communal Coffee in North Park.