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    Lightbulb Coffee

    4.0 (646 reviews)
    Open • 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

    Order Lightbulb Coffee Takeout or Delivery

    Lightbulb Coffee Photos

    LIGHTBULB COFFEE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Good for kids
    Outdoor seating

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    Recommended Reviews - Lightbulb Coffee

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    Reviews With Photos

    Reuben
    Jade C.

    Menu changed. My roasted red pepper panini is no longer on the menu and prices have gone up. I ordered the reuben sandwich for lunch instead. It was good but I would not pay $15.50 for it again. I think all sandwiches should come with house chips or a bag of chips. The strawberry vanilla smoothie is still good and a fave! Love it:) I like the decor near my table and love that the restaurant is consistently clean, kind service and quiet. I don't like the 2.5% credit card use fee. It's so annoying. I hope they start offering discounts for cash or debit transactions.

    Turkish Hazelnut Coffee
    Joel T.

    Great coffee shop, with a variety of pastry selections, lunch items and of course coffee. I was pleased with the Turkish Hazelnut Coffee-- very smooth, very nutty, and not too sweet. This seems to be a great spot to have a small business gathering or just to catch up with an old friend. I don't think I would recommend this spot to those that are trying to get some work done on a computer or read a book-- this is a very loud coffee shop, just keep that in mind! It was a little too distracting for me to get any computer work done haha, but that shouldn't stop you on trying them out. There's plenty of seating indoor, and some outdoor seating.

    Hard

    Straight the the point 1.The coffee doesn't disappoint especially the coconut 5/5 2. The barista was professional and smiled while carefully monitoring the counter 5/5 3. The cashier/host must have been rushed, hangry or justbin a bad space. He continuesly looked at his watch, didnt even ask for a name for the order. (hence why the barista was watching the counter as I reached for my pastry) 2/5 4. The almond croissant was such a disappointment it was as hard as carton. Must have been an old piece. 1/5

    Lavender matcha
    Mirna M.

    I'm never in La Mesa but had to pick something up nearby and decided to walk around came across this coffee shop. I loved it, it's so spacious and cute inside. Service is great and everyone is so friendly. I got an iced lavender matcha it was so good and refreshing and also got the cheese and zaatar manakeesh it was delicious (also it was made fresh not premade!!!) They were playing all my favorite Arabic hits will be coming back just for this!

    AI

    Not a fan of all the false advertisement with AI food and drink photos being used on their website, posted on their social media, and used for google and yelp photos. All posted and created by them! Prefer a place that uses real pictures of what they have to offer instead of fabricated ones that don't accurately depict their menu.

    Catalina G.

    The service here was really good. The coffee was to die for, there is a Middle Eastern spin off of this place and I'm not sure what type of Middle Eastern it is, but it brings a unique ambience to the environment and the flavors are very good and unique. It's a decent size café and there's good seating and it would be a great place to do homework.

    Strawberry,  banana, pineapple smoothie. Was a struggle to even drink this much. Ended up tossing it.
    Jessica S.

    I'm not sure if ownership has changed but it was definitely a different visit/ experience and quality of drink than I've had before. I frequently visit as I go to Pilates nearby and usually come here for an after class drink. I have gotten the strawberry banana smoothie add pineapple before and it was great. Very flavorful. Today I got it and it was not enjoyable at all. I didn't get anywhere near close to drinking even a third of it. It tasted so watered down and had no flavor at all. It also took 20 mins to get the smoothie. It wasn't that busy and they had a lot of workers behind the counter so not sure why the long wait. The barista who made my drink wasn't super friendly either. Just tossed drink on counter. I'm sad because I loved to visit but I think I may have to find another after class treat now.

    Crumbs of food just sitting here. Nobody cleaning this place.
    Bobby M.

    Like the 3rd time we've been here but this time I had to write a review. We walk in, and order, everything is cool. When we go to sit down there's literal crumbs of food on the benches, food all over the tables, waited 15 minutes for our order even after people got theirs. When we went up to get our order, we noticed like 5 workers just sitting there shooting the shit. It looks like it's run by people who care more about chilling out instead of actually working. I'm

    Elisa N.

    LIGHTBULB COFFEE This place was highly recommend by my friend's mentor, and this place is a hit! The place itself is so wide, spacious, and very welcoming. The pastries at the front are mouthwatering, and I had to get the pistachio crossiant and almond which were a must! Coming to a total at about $7 each, it isn't super bad. I love the strawberry matcha, it was so delicious, however was a bit too sweet but i'd adjust it next time. The flavor was there and it came to be about $7. Service is welcoming, the owner, Naba is extremely kind and nice! She's always there and is happy to help you. Overall, the place was amazing, parking states it is an hour however usually no one checks. Pretty simple and at a plaza.

    Best cookies ever! Hunt up this La Mesa coffee shop in San Diego. Your belly will thank you!

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    2 years ago

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    10 months ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    10 months ago

    Always busy when I go, that's how you know what's poppin. Their menu has variety and the food is delicious.

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

    I used to love this coffee shop when I was in the area but the service is really slow and the coffee has been subpar.

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    6 months ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    3 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    1 year ago

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    6 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    3 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

    We appreciate your support and feedback thank you

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    4 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

    Thank you so much!

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    4 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

    Thank you!

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    3 years ago

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    6 months ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    1 year ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    1 year ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

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    6 months ago

    My go-to spot in La Mesa; Cali pistachio coffee is a can't miss. The pastries are good too.

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    3 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

    We appreciate your support and feedback, thank you Derek

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    1 year ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    4 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

    Thank you very much!

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    1 year ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    1 year ago

    Excellent service, menu and pastries. Wide selection of coffees, smoothies and food, great atmosphere.

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    Ibrahim F.

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    2 years ago

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    Ibrahim F.

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    8 months ago

    the best coffee of sdsu campus! There matcha is so good too, everyone is so kind, and great place to get some work done:)

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    1 year ago

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    3 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    7 months ago

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    Page 3 of 17

    Ask the Community - Lightbulb Coffee

    Do they still have the light bulb cups? When I've been there they were not given to us.

    Hello, The light bulb cups are not given with every drink it is a separate purchase that we put the drink in. We give it upon request. We will have them in about a month!

    Are the Light a bulb cups reusable?

    Yup

    Do the have outside sitting?

    Yes They have a few outdoor tables

    Do you sell food all day, such as the paninis? Or do you stop selling them at a certain time?

    We do everything throughout the day

    Are there outlets available?

    Yes, there are many outlets! As you're coming in, there are side tables lined on the left side and there should be outlets nearby each one. At the couch/high table area, there is one outlet as well.

    Do they have sugar free flavor options?

    Yes we have a many sugar free flavor.

    How much is the light bulb cup?

    A double espresso is $2.25. Their coffee is NOT the usual burnt Buck coffee.

    Are dogs allowed?

    They appear to be allowed.

    Do they have any vegan pastries?

    No just gluten free pastries

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Great bottomless service, our waitress filled up my glass as I drank which was amazing lol. I…read moreordered the chicken and pancakes which all together I rate a 6.5/10. - Comes with 3 THICK pancakes and three southern fried chicken tender with "hot" syrup. - Syrup tasted like regular syrup mixed with hot sauce which I wasn't really feelin. I think it would've been better with hot honey and syrup on the side? - Again these pancakes are THICK and flavor was "meh" so you prolly won't even finish them all and you might need to ask for extra syrup (like myself) I honestly think the chicken and French toast would've been a better option and I might ask for that accommodation next time if I order the same thing (I prolly won't, I like to try new tings hehe). Overall pretty restaurant with great natural Lighting but it still needs to prove itself in the flavor department.

    I was surprised by this spot!…read more Part of the Toasted Gastrobrunch group, Toasted has several other locations, including those in Imperial Beach, Oceanside and Del Mar. This particular location is a stylish, full-service restaurant. And, overall, the restaurant prices itself on its modern take on breakfast, brunch and dinner. Some of their go to items are Eggs in Purgatory, the Smoked Salmon Toast, the Stuffed French Toast and their mimosas, which change regularly (and you can get the bottomless mimosas for $25). I am a super fan of their potatoes, Eggs Benedict options and gently cooked eggs. The ambiance is cozy and cool, and even though it gets very busy, it doesn't feel crammed or overwhelming. I appreciate the attentiveness and thoughtfulness of the team here. They appear to have planned comfort over everything, because even the tables are crammed next to one another too close that you can hear your neighbor breathing. Plus, the space is bright and open with a clean and modern feel. I love that the large windows let in plenty of natural light and, when it is cooler out, a lovely breeze. Given the food, ambiance and service, it really is a perfect spot for brunch. Other food options include (and are sometimes on rotation): roasted salmon, duck tacos, short ribs, burgers and wood-fired pizzas. They also serve wine, beer and craft cocktails. They also have lots of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

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    Toasted La Mesa
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    Curbside Eatery & Drinkery

    3.9(473 reviews)
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    Great place to stop by for an early weekend lunch. Since it was early, I decided to go with the…read moreAngus sliders, which were better than your average sliders. The caramelized onions and bacon jam make a huge difference and make it worth getting sliders. Heads up - if you have tots, they do have high chairs for both high top and regular tables but they don't have a kids menu.

    Right off the bat, the host just seemed blunt and monotone. Our waitress tried to vouch for her,…read moreabout busy morning.. We were seated outside, 5mins later I was trying to ask for a table change from 1 corner to the other due to the sun. I went to get back in line at the host stand, but the family before me asked for the corner table& I feel like because we were there first, my issue should've been addressed 1st, esp when the mother of the family was making faces and making a big deal. I mentioned to the host another table left in the same area, she said she'll clear it, problem solved. Just off to a horrible 1st impression on a little issue, and that was just at the face of the initial interaction. *The host did come over and apologize about whatever feelings she thought I had still though* I had the chilaquiles, it was good, it just wasn't AMAZING. I swear I read on the menu it said fresh tortilla strips.. unless I read that on another menu. Everything else seemed like basic breakfast/lunch. It was something new to try& we tried it.

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    Curbside Eatery & Drinkery - Super clean restroom

    Super clean restroom

    Curbside Eatery & Drinkery
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    We just finished eating breakfast here, and it was an excellent experience from start to finish. We…read morewere seated quickly, the food was outstanding, and the service was amazing. The ambience was family friendly and welcoming. They serve Farmers Brothers coffee. If you have not tasted this coffee, you must try it. There is no bitterness to it and it's very smooth. I love when restaurants serve this brand of coffee. I ordered the vegetarian omelette. It was baked, generously portioned, incredibly filling, and absolutely delicious. My nephew had the strawberry waffle which looked very delicious. I also want to commend the entire staff for their exceptional service and hard work. They were attentive, friendly, and kept everything running smoothly throughout our visit. It's clear they take pride in providing a great experience for their guests. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great breakfast!

    Delicious pancakes, friendly staff, fresh OJ, and a great atmosphere. The staff are so attentive…read moreand there's a lot of seating. The patio is also dog friendly! (For dogs under 40 lbs). They even brought out a water bowl for her, so kind. My family visits once and month and it's a great time every time. I order the pigs in the blanket every time with a plethora of fresh syrup options. It's delicious. My wife always changes her crepe every time and they're all delightful. Fresh homemade whip cream does it every time for her.

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    Sunshine Pancake House
    Sunshine Pancake House
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    Casa Gabriela - Como Una Flor Cocktail

    Casa Gabriela

    4.2(870 reviews)
    0.3 mi
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    This was our second time here, this time for brunch! We got the burrito and the queso fundido…read more OMG!! The queso fundido was sooooo amazing! I definitely want to get it again in the future. The burrito was so good as well. I was not too fond of the agave syrup drizzle as I don't like mixing sweet and savory, but if that's your thing, go for it! Eventually I only had room for the filling, so that was nice and savory. The cafe de olla was delicious as well. I REALLY commend this restaurant for not using AI graphics. The signs and menu looked like they were designed by a real designer. Great job! My only complaint was that the table next to us had an iPad kid with loud volume. I feel that restaurants should impose policies of not letting personal devices be so loud as to not bother other patrons.

    We had a 6pm restaurant but still wound up having to wait until 6:15 for our table to be ready…read more Which was no big deal, because they were very busy that night and they had a nice little waiting area. The host was very nice and personable so we didn't mind waiting at all. The decor/ambiance was nice throughout. Sadly we got seated at one of the bar height tables on the patio that had EXTREMELY uncomfortable tall metal chairs that had an unusual tilt to the seats leaning down towards the back (all 3 people in our party were super uncomfortable and left with horrible back back and numb legs). So just a tip, make sure you request to sit at a normal height table, they seemed fine in comparison as far as we observed. On a positive note, our waitress was very friendly and attentive, unfortunately we were not able to change tables when we asked but we understood because they were so busy. We were determined to make the best of it though because we were all really looking forward to the food and drinks after reading so many good reviews. We all ordered different specialty drinks which were fine, a little to syrupy and overly sweet for our taste but I could see how some might like that, the presentation was seriously lacking compared to the photos on their website though, again we just chalked this up to them being busy so no big deal, just a bummer because we wanted to cute tasty drinks for our ladies night out. The biggest bummer though was the food... We ordered everything our waitress recommended, so perhaps the kitchen was just having an off night because they were so busy.. It did take well over an hour to get served after ordering, but we are troopers and wouldn't have minded waiting so long if the chairs hadn't been so uncomfortable. But we were seriously disappointed with every dish, everything was "fine and edible" but lacked any real flavor. These are the dishes we had: Appetizer - Tabla de Antojitos (presentation was okay) platter included: Chicken barbacoa empanadas (very bland) Sweet potato, caramelized onion & chipotle taquitos (flavorless and used regular potato not sweet potato) Mini queso fundido (was literally just cheese and beans with no chorizo or seasoning at all) Bacon wrapped jalapenos (these were okay, just nothing special) Entrees - Enchiladas Marisco Suiza - Presentation was good, it was a pretty dish thanks to the sauce and looked promising, but unfortunately the food was very bland, seriously lacking in the flavor department. Birria de la Abuela - Presentation was lacking it looked like someone just threw the food on the plate, and it was edible but not good. Crispy Carnitas - This we all agreed was the most edible thing we got. Presentation was lacking, but the beans and carnitas had good flavor and was cooked just right. It still wasn't "great", but it was better than everything else we had ordered. Overall we were pleased with the staff we encountered during our visit all very friendly, but very disappointed in the food. We left in agreement that we could've spent a fraction of the cost at just about any of our local friendly taco shops for the same or similar dishes and had much better tasting food.

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    Casa Gabriela - Chicken Tinga Empanadas

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    Lightbulb Coffee - breakfast_brunch - Updated October 2026

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