Café Matinal in California

"This is one of those rare places that feels truly special. I’ve visited twice now, and both experiences have been incredible. The owner, Badr, runs this independently owned coffee van himself, and you can immediately tell how much love and care he puts into everything he makes. Every drink is crafted thoughtfully, the ingredients are fresh, and the flavors are unique and absolutely delicious. My new go-to is the iced lavender French vanilla latte - it’s beautifully made and so flavorful! Nothing feels rushed or generic, and it’s clear he takes real pride in his work. What truly sets this place apart is his kindness. On both visits, he surprised me with a complimentary item purely out of hospitality. It’s rare to experience that level of warmth these days. I’ve brought my dog Toby with me both times, and he made sure Toby was taken care of too -complete with water and a pup cup! It’s such a welcoming, community-centered experience. If you’re looking for incredible drinks made with intention and heart, this is it. I can’t recommend this place enough!"

"A-Maz-ing!! You’ll wait a little bit for your masterpiece, but the line that forms proves that everyone is willing to wait for their reward. This guy is a coffee surgeon. Every step calculated to perfection. Im guessing he’s European. In Europe, speediness isn’t quite the concern. The result is everything, and shows his pride in his craft. I wish him great success!"

"We love Café Matinal! The chalk is so fun for kids too. :) (Sometimes) picky kid approved hehehe. The kids love the smoothies "they're sweet and different" Café Matinal is little yet offers what average cafes in San Diego don't. The authenticity and care is always evident. Badr always offers a little sweet or treat which is a special touch. Perfect stop after being by the water too!!:)"

"BEST BISCOFF LOTUS LATTE IN SAN DIEGO My sister and I were greeted by the owner and ended up have the most lovely conversation with him. The parking is great and free near the coffee cart. He has two tables outside for those who choose to dine-in. The owner gave us little chocolates with our drinks. We watched him make the drinks as well, everything is very clean and sanitized! He himself makes me want to come back everyday to try every other flavored latte. When I tell y’all, GAGGED me with those lattes I actually cannot wait to bring all my friends here. I dream about the Biscoff Lotus Latte. Pls support his business. Also for those complaining about the wait time, it’s the owner normally doing it himself and making those drinks with love, so chill on him and be patient."

"This is THE BEST COFFEE stop in PB or possibly all of San Diego. Every drink is craft made and every item is prepared as ordered, so don't come here on a rush. Badr is an amazing and pleasant barista, he prepares your drink with so much attention to detail and the flavor he serves in his lattes are delicious and unique. The pistachio rose has become our favorite, but I have had his lavender latte, his acai bowls, his banana velvet smoothie, his strawberry smoothie, his cream cheese Danish, his everything bagel with cream cheese & I have not been disappointed by a single item. He offers something on the menu for any type of eater, even pup cups for his furry clients. He has the cutest table set out for you to sit there & eat, but the beach is down the street you so you can enjoy your coffee with ocean views. Just stop reading the reviews & Go support local, just order anything off his menu I swear you will never turn back to the basic lattes you've been used to."

"Hands down one of the best coffee shops around. This is easily a once a week stop for me and honestly sometimes more. The coffee is consistently amazing! My go to drinks are the cinnamon and honey latte and the pistachio rose. Both are incredible and you can tell a lot of care goes into every cup. The food is just as good. The turkey and cheese croissant and the acai bowls are absolutely killer and make this place perfect whether you are grabbing something quick or hanging out for a bit. A huge reason I keep coming back though is the owner Badr. He is genuinely one of the friendliest people you will meet and always makes you feel welcome. That personal touch makes a big difference and really sets this place apart. If you are looking for great coffee great food and a welcoming atmosphere this spot is a must."

"I love a non-chain, small business cafe that is really passionate about their craft. You can tell how much TLC the owner puts into each drink. There were a few orders ahead of us and it did take a while but we didn’t mind waiting. The complimentary chocolates are a nice touch but my hot biscoff latte stole the show. Damn good latte and perfect amount of sweetness. We’ll definitely be back when we’re in the area!"

"best coffee around truly, perfect to grab and walk around to the bay. Usually about a 10 minute wait, sometimes longer (so don’t come in a rush) but it’s well worth it. The time and care taken with each drink shows in the quality. Once you have the Iced biscoff latte you’ll be dreaming of it!"