Kuli Coffee — Restaurant in San Clemente

As a local coffee shop lover, I was so excited to welcome Kuli Coffee to town. The vibe here is truly unique, with comfortable sidewalk seating that makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a slow morning or catch up with a friend. I love supporting local businesses, and I genuinely want to see Kuli thrive.

That’s why I’m sharing this feedback with care: the one drink I want to order—a coconut cold foam iced latte—has become an awkward point every time I visit. Kuli offers coconut cold foam (which is amazing, by the way), but only allows it on cold brew, not on iced lattes. I’ve been in three times now: once it was made for me with no issue, once it came with a debate, and once it was refused altogether.

I feel for the employees, who are put in an uncomfortable position when customers request this, only to be told “no” for a reason that doesn’t make sense from the customer’s perspective. Customization is part of the beauty of a coffee shop experience, and it’s confusing to see an ingredient offered but not available as an add-on to other drinks.

Last time, I resorted to an iced Americano, which came out watery with melted ice. I understand new shops need time to work out systems, but this should be a simple drink to prepare well.

To the owner, Jax, I share this because I care: please consider offering coconut cold foam as an option on all iced drinks. Many of us would happily pay for the add-on, and it would make Kuli a spot I could frequent regularly. I also believe it would support your team, so employees aren’t put in the uncomfortable position of saying, “I want to do this for you, but my boss said no, and I don’t know why.”

I want to keep coming back, and I know many locals feel the same. Thank you for taking this into...

The place to have a coffee in San Clemente, it's official. True, there are a few good shops in town, but the layout and ambience in here is fit for a town like San Clemente like no other coffee shop. It's a draw for an older crowd, book lovers and friends getting together. Came in a few days ago and had a coffee. Always have to start with the basics.

If the coffee isn't good, what can you expect from a coffee shop?

Yes, the coffee is great. If you're looking for a solid cup of coffee the old school way--weight in your mouth, great flavor and nothing too overly fancy and citrus-y like many 3rd wave coffee roasters, this is it. Looking at the quality of their espresso machine, I'll be looking forward to having a FLAT WHITE (labeled something else on the menu so as not to offend Aussies) and other espresso drinks made here.

A great plus is that they stay open until 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays--the only other coffee place in town that stays open this late is your favorite World Dominating Woke coffee place. The 2 good coffee places in town close at 3 and 5, respectively. But there isn't quite anything like Kuli Coffee--which is a standalone shop--the first under this name. The roaster is viewable from the front area (yes, they do their own roasting) and there is a very large patio which will probably take off once summer is in full swing in July.

Take advantage of the lack of crowds now. A step above the real estate office that used to be at...

Amazing coffee house! Delicious coffee, friendly, helpful and warm staff, who know their coffees. Huge open and airy venue, with really interesting decor - both welcoming and comfortable. Classy vibe with a metro-beach upscale feel. I tried the short latte (aka Flat White). Bold, rich, smooth. Perfectly foamed milk, gorgeous double heart coffee art and beautifully shaped cup and saucer. Kuli Coffee is definitely a step above. Absolutely delicious and perfectly executed (did you see the pic of the espresso machine?). My husband had lemonade - nice to have non-coffee options available too. Next time we are in town we will definitely stop in and also try some of the pastries (they looked really good). Reasonably priced coffee drinks, comparable to other upscale coffee houses in SoCal. Definitely stop in and enjoy this place. Well worth a trip off the freeway. Lots of merch too - nice gift ideas! Sorry, can’t get my video to upload to GM. PS- great relaxing shaded comfy chairs for people-watching...