Zumbar Coffee & Tea — Restaurant in San Diego

This review is coming from a non-coffee-drinker, so please take this with a grain of...coffee grounds? My coworkers rave about this place. It is apparently an amazing coffee shop. For me, I'm delighted that they carry the absolutely mind-blowing almond croissants from Opera Patisserie, which is nearby, but Zumbar is more convenient. Something for everyone! However. This place is so, so noisy inside. It's also not a great use of space. There are a few tables along the edge and a big open space in the middle, a couple tables outside. People who are waiting for their order are awkwardly splayed about. The machinery is really loud, so you probably aren't going to be talking to someone else much, anyway. I've taken a client here and sat outside and it was still difficult to have an informal meeting here because of the noise and the rickety chairs and tables. I feel like this coffee shop can't quite decide if it is counter service only or if it is trying to be a place people come hang out. What I would likely do, if anyone asked me (they won't) would be to put a thick piece of plexiglass behind the cashier, between him/her and the equipment, which is large and looks vaguely impressive. That way, if showing off said mysterious machinery is important, it can still happen, but contain the noise more. To me, the back area with all the things doesn't look particularly like something one really needs to show off to enhance the experience, but what do I know. In any case, stop by to pick up an almond croissant or other assorted and delightful pastries, and even coffee if you are into that kind of thing, but save your ears and get...

Oh, where do I begin with Zumbar Coffee & Tea? The staff and atmosphere are absolutely top-notch, earning a solid five-star rating without a doubt. The moment you step in, you're embraced with warm hospitality that feels like a friendly coffee hug. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy your favorite brew.

Now, about the latte... sigh Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to the rest of the experience. I must be honest; I was left disappointed with the latte, as it tasted more like 90% milk than the rich, robust coffee goodness I was hoping for. It lacked that strong espresso kick that makes a latte truly memorable. A latte with too much milk can feel like drowning your coffee dreams, and that's what happened here.

However, despite the latte hiccup, I would still encourage you to visit Zumbar Coffee & Tea for the exceptional staff and inviting atmosphere. Their dedication to service and creating a welcoming space deserves all the stars. Who knows, maybe they can work some magic on the latte front in the future. But for now, stick to their other offerings and bask in the positive vibes they effortlessly deliver. Here's to hoping for a better latte...

I had a pretty poor experience here. When I walked inside to order my tea there was a gentleman working on his laptop at the bar to the left with no other available seating inside as their tables still had not been turned over yet at 830am. After ordering my tea I proceeded to sit outside in the sun as there was none available in the shade. 30 mins had passed by and the gentleman at the inside bar had left, I went inside to sit and cool off and then was told there was no inside seating. Mind blowing, so with that being said customer service 0/0

On google it says coffee and tea. This is a coffee shop please do not let that tea in the name fool you. They have 3 options and the staff couldn’t make a good tea if they tried. The tea was incredibly watered down for an iced tea.

This is more just a grab and go coffee spot nothing more. I wouldn’t say it was worth my time or money. If you want a Propper coffee and tea shop I would say go somewhere else. If you’re looking for a quick cup I’m sure this place is fine. There are just a lot better options...