MAKE Cafe

4.9 (139 reviews)

ModerateBreakfast & Brunch, Cafes, Vegetarian

Closed • Closed

Updated 1 month ago

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MAKE Cafe - Seasonal Fruit Bowl - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Partial view of the indoor seating - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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MAKE Cafe - Partial view of the outdoor seating - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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MAKE Cafe Popular Dishes

$17.00

Somali Malawah

12 Photos11 Reviews

$17.00

Afghan Chicken Tacos

7 Photos9 Reviews

$9.50

Kids Milk Bread French Toast

1 Photo3 Reviews

MAKE Cafe menu photos

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MAKE CAFE ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

6 Photos

Outside

9 Photos

Moderate noise

Casual

Trendy

Romantic

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Elle T.

it was rly lovely going to the Primas pop-up! they sourced fig leaves from the MAKE farm & incorporated them into 2 pastries. one was a roasted pepper roll (structured like a cinnamon roll, but savory) topped with whipped ricotta & fig leaf oil. the other was a danish filled w lemon poppyseed cake & fresh fig slices, topped w fig leaf-infused flan & more figs we loved the flavor of the roasted peppers. Arely of Primas was rly enthusiastic abt the ricotta sourced from A Mano Cheese - it rly added a freshness, & the texture was like whipped cream but savory. the danish was the standout - the cake was rly moist, the figs were fresh, the flan was creamy, & the tartness of the lemon balanced the richness we rly love the seasonality of local ingredients & the sense of community in how these small businesses support each other. we also enjoyed walking through MAKE's garden & seeing all the amaranth, eggplant, squash, etc. the pastries ended up being a little pricier than usual, but we're happy to support a good cause :)

Emmett T.

MAKE Cafe has moved locations over the years, but they have now settled into a permanent structure in the Normal Heights neighborhood. The concept was empowering immigrant and refugee women to staff the cafe operations. Parking in this area was all curbside as the business did not have an on-site lot. A large patio to the north of the building had several tables with canopies for seating. An outdoor bar was behind the patio where orders were taken and beverages were made. The menu was posted on a stand next to the sidewalk entrance to the patio. Hot and cold drinks made up the left side. The right side featured a list of ten food choices. I ordered a Strawberry Lemonade from the bar, but the worker said only a Peach variety was available. That fruit flavor wasn't even listed. For a lemonade, it had the appropriate ratio of tartness to sweetness I was seeking. I also purchased the Ginger Rice Congee for my order. It was a warm Asian rice porridge with mushroom XO sauce, scallion, and sesame chili crunch. A jammy egg was included and could be substituted with marinated tofu as a vegan option. I stuck with the soft-boiled egg that came as two halves within the bowl. The flavor from the XO sauce really livened up the porridge. My only concern was that for $12, the portion size should have been larger and served in a deeper vessel than the shallow bowl I received. I hope this nonprofit can succeed and also expand its food offerings. The layout with both inside and outside seating was optimal. I sat in one of the two dining rooms which were air conditioned to provide respite from the summer heat. Overall, I gave a four star rating for my weekend lunch at MAKE Cafe.

Ginger Rice Congee Warm rice porridge- with chilli sauce and hard boiled egg. Delish!

Leo C.

Service was good The food even better- beautifully made/ do see pics! Tasty! Decent prices and I absolutely love the non-profit cause. They are doing great work for refugees and immigrants. The garden is very beautiful, they use what they grow and wonderfully too! Cool area too- I hope they continue to do well! Go support this place - you'll like it!

Alyssa S.

EDITED TO ADD: This location just opened on June 28! They are open Thursday to Sunday and closed Monday to Wednesday in Normal Heights just off Adams Avenue. (their old place was on University Ave.) *** Amazing! This is the spot but please don't overrun it during their soft opening. It's a good cause: a nonprofit employing immigrant and refugee women in a café, using produce grown at their farm in Mission Valley next to Snapdragon. It's mostly vegetarian but they have some meat choices. But more importantly, it's an amazing space with fantastic creative food. The chef came from Mabel's Gone Fishing. I came with a big group so we could try a lot. It was hard for us to decide what was our favorite! We got: BANANA CREPE WITH ALMONDS: so delicious. MAKE BREAKFAST SANDWICH: cute little delicious egg sandwich on a potato roll with very delicious homemade chips. The green sauce on the side was the one thing I didn't like. (you can get this with an added chicken patty or vegetarian with the egg GINGER RICE congee with sesame seeds, XO sauce, and soft boiled egg. Super flavorful, comforting, umami bomb. LEMON BAR: I don't like lemon and didn't try this but the people who ate it like it. CRISPY LENTIL KOFTA BOWL: really delicious little salad with falafel type crispy lentil balls FRUIT BOWL: I wouldn't get this by itself, but it was very refreshing and we split it. And all of the drinks were super tasty. We got: --House chai -- house spiced coffee (cardamom etc.) -- strawberry lemonade: kid approved! -- cold brew All the women working here were super nice too. When we got here we were the first customers, but it filled up quickly afterwards. Consider making a reservation online to give them a heads up. anyway, 5+ stars for vibe. 5+ stars for the cause. 5 stars for service And the food is amazing! Other folks can try the dishes we didn't get to and tell us how they are.

Jim D.

This place is very chill but beautifully decorated inside and outside. Here's the workflow. You order from the counter then get your table. The staff will deliver your order to your table. You get your own silverware, napkins and water from this same station. The menu very simple, clean and healthy. There are plenty of seats outdoors and indoors. The decor is patio style seats outside with a few umbrellas for shade. The inside is clean spacious and presents a relaxed vibe. There is street metered parking so be prepared to walk this area is popular. I enjoyed my breakfast sandwich, the cheese was oweey and gooey, the sauce was not too overpowering and the brioche bun was fresh. This dish also comes with fried crispy chips. This was filling and hits the sport. I washed this down with the fresh homemade strawberry lemondae. This would pair well with tequilla but that is for a different conversation. My wife got the Crispy Lentil Kofre Bowl. Fresh, clean and flavorful. It enough for an adult. Fresh, clean and healthy. She washed this meal down with the Hibiscus Cooler, it was very refreshing. Our friend ordered the Spiced Cold Brew Latte, it was very good, not too overbearing and refreshing. I met the executive chef Anchi Mei on the way out. Anchi was very nice and wanted to get my feedback. I let Anchi know I was very impressed with the food experience, and that we will be back. This place is open from Thursday to Sunday. We'll be back. Executive Summary: Service: 5/5 Quality of Food: 5/5 Taste: 5/5 Parking: 3/5 Good for groups: 5/5 Drinks: Unique and healthy.

Michelle F.

Visited MAKE Cafe over the weekend for breakfast. I had visited previously at their University Ave. location. This location is much more beautiful, the vibe flows a lot nicer with their concept. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating. Something about the space, location, and overall design gives you beach vibes. Cool. The service is great! The staff is very kind and professional. The food is fun! Different flavors, and textures. Nothing here is likely traditional to the items you are used to when you think of brunch or breakfast which is great! I mean they have the classics but with twist. I had one of their lemonades which was yummy. All in all a great place. I didn't see a single dog, so extra points from me on that end.

Sanford P.

I ordered at a counter beautiful garden patio the banana smoothie was good I liked the peanut butter the lentil wrap was large tasty fresh vegetables very good. Very enjoyable experience

Joy G.

This was very nice. Food was pretty and tasty. Staff was friendly. Ambience was nice.

MAKE breakfast sandwich with a chai, and Tumeric chicken bowl with the Botanical Sunrise.

Stacey S.

Such a good spot! I tried the MAKE breakfast sandwich with a chai, and the chicken bowl with the Botanical Sunrise. Everything was really good and flavorful, I especially love the drinks. Definitely enjoyed my visit and would come back to try more of the menu!

Jiansen W.

Second visit, March 2025 menu. 5/5 Crispy Chicken and Blue Corn Waffles: Scrumptious Masienda blue corn masa waffle topped with deliciously crispy fried chicken, chili butter and a sweet, spicy, temperature/hot, berbere-spiced maple syrup

Pauline S.

Located in North Park, MAKE cafe offers a large and airy space with great food from various cuisines and the business supports women refugees and immigrants. We went here for brunch for the first time and we left stuffed and feeling good! Parking: Just like any other North Park establishment, expect to take time looking for street parking. Service/Ambiance: The place is huge and could accommodate larger groups. It has a rustic feel with high ceilings. You order at the cashier and they serve the food to your table. Our food came out very quickly. Food: Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to order a lot but many items on the menu looked inviting. We ended up order the MAKE Breakfast sandwich ($13) and added beef kofta sausage patty ($5). The flavor of patty was amazing and I really appreciated that the milk bread didn't crumble/get soggy-- big must for me. It was a well-made sandwich which I'd get again. Overall: I'd definitely come back to MAKE cafe to try out many other things on their menu!

Kim P.

I came here because this is a mission driven establishment and that really resonates with me. Also, the food was very tasty and really incorporates flavors from the countries where many of the refugees who work there hail from. I tried the trio of dips, chicken tacos and the breakfast sandwich. My favorite was the sandwich, the added beef patty was very well seasoned and the homemade brioche was pillowy. I love that everything is homemade and that many ingredients come from their local farm. Feels good to support an establishment that makes a positive impact in the community.

Jennifer B.

Great and airy place in the heart of North Park to meet up with friends for brunch. We had a large party and a dog, and they were more than happy to accommodate us on their patio outside. They are part of an organization that supports immigrant women and refugees. Plenty of seating even during peak hours (we came on a holiday weekend for brunch). The menu has so many fun items it was difficult to decide what to try. We ordered the beignets to share which came out so warm and soft. Ordered the shakshuka and it was a tad salty but very flavorful! Our waitresses seemed a little inexperienced and mixed up our party's drink orders multiple times, but everyone was friendly and warm. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this place to others.

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Colt M.

3 years ago

Delicious foods from a variety of locations and influences. The pastry people are out of this world.

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M M.

373

2 years ago

Fabulous space and very pleasant service. I had been to the original location (outside by the church) when it first opened. The drip coffee at this location definitely needs improvement. I had the Somali Malawah - cardamom crepe with eggs inside. The crepe itself was fantastic, but the eggs, cheese and hash browns inside (fine by themselves) completely overwhelmed any possibility of tasting the cardamom. It is too bad they don't offer a stack of the crepes with eggs on the side so you could get the [slightly] sweet and savory in one meal but not in the same dish. The babaganoush was different from others I've had and truly excellent. My friend had the lentils and said they were fantastic. read more

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Stacey C.

Elite 21

100

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4 years ago

Delicious food in a lovely setting that supports a great cause, what more could you want? I recently visited for the first time for brunch and my friend and I shared the Somali Malawah and the shakshuka. Both were great and so deliciously seasoned. The first dish is a huge crepe style dish that comes with a really tasty sauce, fresh fruit and cucumber and tomato salad. I don't know what they do to the potatoes, but they were so well cooked. The shakshuka was also very tasty! After brunch we toured the small garden on site where they get their herbs from for the food. A friendly staff member told us about some of the plants and the service was great throughout. I didn't try any of the drinks but they even have beer and wine if you're in the mood. Highly recommend and love their mission! read more

MAKE Cafe - On-site garden - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Somali Malawah with fruit and tomato and cucumber salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - North African Shakshuka and Somali Malawah - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Julie W.

2 years ago

Food was delicious, space was great, but the service was extremely slow. It took over 40 minutes to get 4 drinks.

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Cathy G.

Elite 26

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4 years ago

Unlike any brunches I've ever had--good food and good feelings from supporting a worthy cause. These young people working various stations in the front of the house are charming. One can do nothing but wish them well. The seating is well spaced and shaded. The garden setting delightful. We had the shakshuka this last Saturday--although I am no egg lover, the delicious, spicy (but not hot) chunky tomato and sweet pepper sauce was irresistible. In past visits, the farmer's cheese with that focaccia bread and the fresh strawberries were outstanding, as was the yellowtail filet from our first visit. The flavors are complex and so different than the usual. read more

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Olin H.

363

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3 years ago

Amazing experience. Best cultural experience. Somali, Mexican and classic American breakfast and lunch. Highly recommend.

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Susan H.

2 years ago

This place is great!!! The food is amazing!!! I service was very good!!! And the restaurant and ambiance are beautiful!!! I love that it is run by women and helping women refugees and immigrants!!! I highly recommend this place!!! read more

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Judy B.

3 years ago

Gorgeous spot for a fabulous meal. Great service. Great food. Wonderful mission. Don't miss this local special place. Food grown in local garden. read more

MAKE Cafe - Beautiful spot. Best server ever - Hieu. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Daily special - ahi and grits. Tacos. So delicious - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Carlo M.

2 years ago

Amazing service. Food was delicious. Everyone was so kind. Great mission statement. Only thing was it was hot in there.

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Evelyn N.

3 years ago

I had the pleasure of dining here this afternoon. The food was delicious and the customer service was impeccable! Server Hieu was extremely attentive and explained the menu very thoroughly. Chef Andrew was so friendly and kind! Everyone here made me feel so comfortable and welcomed. The atmosphere was lovely and refreshing. I love the mission statement of this restaurant and it's definitely a place worth supporting and sharing. I will definitely be back! read more

MAKE Cafe - French toast, beignets and hibiscus iced tea! Super yummy!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Jasmine R.

3 years ago

We were so glad to come upon this restaurant! The food and customer service was excellent. I don't tend to leave reviews but this place inspired me to. Their concept was is a cherry on the top! read more

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Edmund D.

3 years ago

Amazing food and service from non profit that's making a huge impact. It's super comfortable and a great date spot and the owners and staff are wonderfully sweet :) plus a huge variety of goof food and vegan options read more

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Bill P.

2 years ago

Love the food and the philosophy! Service was great and the food is interesting and delicious.

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Amy W.

3 years ago

We invited friends to brunch at the outdoor garden/cafe space on 30th. The food was eclectic, and the service and ambiance were delightful! We felt welcomed from the get-go and took our time with a tour of the garden afterwards. Can't wait for their new location to open, and continue to support this organization! read more

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Camille V.

5 years ago

A nice alternative to the busy brunch scene. Make Cafe is an urban garden and outdoor cafe. The service was friendly and not rushed. The food and the selection was good. I loved the addition of edible flowers in the presentation. The hibiscus tea is better than my homemade hibiscus tea. The kids really enjoyed the garden. We will be back. read more

MAKE Cafe - Double flower hollyhock from the garden. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Lauren W.

3 years ago

Really great food! The service wasn't perfect but considering that everyone is training and it's such a great place, we didn't mind at all. Would definitely go back! read more

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Blue B.

3 years ago

It's ok to increase your menu prices to cover the cost of doing business, but it's not ok to hide that cost in a surcharge added to the bill. If you can't price your menu items correctly, you shouldn't be in business. read more

Business owner information

Make P.

Hi Blue,…

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Patt S.

112

133

3 years ago

My daughter & I sat at the bar. Great service. Good coffee. Wonderful scrambled eggs, bacon, sour dough toast & jam. Coffee cake to go so get back to me! read more

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Thanh N.

5 years ago

We made a reservation and came to their cafe on Saturday at noon. We figured it's a non-profit so even if the food was bad, at least we contributed to a good cause. I must say that we were beyond thrilled with everything going on at this place: the ambience, service, and the especially the food. It's one of the best brunch places in North Park and I have been to them all (Breakfast Republic, The Mission, Metl, Son of a Toast, etc.) I mean, all places in North park are amazing but this place stands out. The garden is beautiful and the food was beyond fantastic. My husband got the Tri Tip hash and I got the Somali Malawah. Both were out of this world- fresh and flavorful. We ended up also buying some items to take home from their pantry like the tomatillo salsa and the apple rosemary jam. The tomatillo salsa is super fresh with just the right hint of sourness. I highly recommend this hidden gem. read more

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JR P.

6 years ago

Eat Well, Do Good! Safe outdoor eating in a garden - Saturdays 10am-1pm. Want a safe outdoor treat this weekend? Try the MAKE Cafe! Outdoor seating next to the gardens that supply much of the food served. Tour the gardens, enjoy the creative and delicious food and support a refugee training program for the San Diego area. Learn more at IRCMake.org, make a reservation at https://www.exploretock.com/makeprojects.....and take home some of their delicious Meyer Lemon Marmalade! 3725 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 read more

MAKE Cafe - MAKE Cafe and gardens - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Trish K.

3 years ago

We thoroughly enjoyed our meal here on Sunday morning! Wait staff was courteous and attentive. Food was delicious and the beautiful new space is wonderful. Really excited to support this innovative and creative San Diego restaurant!! read more

MAKE Cafe - The La Mesa Crew!!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Lala L.

3 years ago

Unique experience with amazing food. The outdoor seating is beautiful amongst the garden - they have heaters since it's only outdoor seating. Food is an eclectic blend of flavors from around the world and they have rotating authentic regional dishes from various countries. Service is exceptionally kind and welcoming - but keep in mind this is a non/profit whose aim is to provide job training, so occasionally there's a few minor quirks with the service. But truly...everyone's goal is to provide a great experience so they're all working very hard to make the experience enjoyable and delicious. Drinks are amazing too! If you sit near the back you can watch the kitchen staff cooking in the outdoor kitchen. Don't forget to walk around the garden! read more

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Eileen L.

2 years ago

Great food, service, and cause. Check it out! It's a cafe that helps first generation refugees and their children. Profits go to staying open and educational resources. read more

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Saphyre R.

2 years ago

Delicious delicious delicious. The mission is dope, too. Truly one of the most flavoricious spots in San Diego.

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Chris Y.

2 years ago

Soooooo good. Really really loved the food here. Everything we had was delicious and the service was excellent! The ambiance with the wood and the warm lighting just added to the experience. So happy to have this spot in North Park. read more

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S B.

2 years ago

I was very pleased with the food at MAKE. I love the philosophy behind the restaurant. The service was polite, perhaps a little "green" in the training. read more

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Jacqueline L.

2 years ago

Excellent food and service. Ambiance is soothing in a contemporary interior designed space.

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Coach R.

3 years ago

Honestly, such a wholesome concept! The food was brilliant - so incredibly fresh (you can literally see them pick the ingredients from the garden and cook over the open fire). I went for happy hour and dinner, and can hardly wait to come back. This is a place where I truly feel good spending my money to patron. read more

MAKE Cafe - Pickle plate - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Soaked Orange citrus cake - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Michelle Z.

5 years ago

This org is by far my favorite discovery of late. Drop everything next Saturday and reserve your spot at their cafe! Not only are you supporting a local non-profit that provides job training and direct assistance to refugees in our community, but their food is top-notch quality! Bonus experience: ask for a farm tour! And definitely don't leave before you check out their amazing small businesses that are present on Saturdays, ready to sell their high-quality products such as GB Tailoring and Sandrine Beauty. I have also tried their Global-To-Go take out meals during the week - and not only are they yummy but you learn about a different country and their cuisine every week! I can't wait to keep bringing different friends here over the next ye read more

MAKE Cafe - Saturday Cafe! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Sooooo scrumptious... - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Sandrine Beauty - she goes to the lavender fields in France to directly harvest the lavender she uses in her products! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - GB Tailoring - this talented woman has made both a blouse and skirt from material I chose and yesterday I bought these gorgeous products! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - yummmmm - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

MAKE Cafe - Make your Saturday Cafe reservation today! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Jan F.

124

3 years ago

Some friends and I decided to support this very good cause so we met at newly opened Make Project Cafe for dinner. We were familiar with this non-profit that trains refugees for work in the restaurant industry. What a great cause! We did not feel like we were on any kind of charity mission. We were greeted, seated, offered beverages & menus with the efficiency and friendliness that would match any successful restaurant. Here's the important part: the food was good! We ordered different appetizers and main dishes and shared tastes around the table. I enjoyed every bite. I look forward to returning to MAKE Projects again and expect that with more time, I'll enjoy a five star experience. read more

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Virgil T.

151

2 years ago

we were driving by this restaurant and we decided to go into it. There was nobody in there so we were kind of not sure if they had good food or what but when we went in there to order and we ate it was wonderful. We will recommend this restaurant definitely to anybody all the people in the restaurant were very friendly. I met the GM. She was very polite. She gave me the story on this restaurant, the food was excellent. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anybody all the girls and women that worked. There are very polite and courteous. read more

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Laura D.

3 years ago

Incredibly outstanding food in a one-of-kind atmosphere. Went twice during my 1-week stay.

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Corinne M.

5 years ago

Come for the five star food; stay for the mission-driven awesomeness. Seriously, the food is incredible, inspired by the home countries of trainees, interpreted by world-class Chef Andrew. And MAKE trains refugees and immigrants seeking job training. And along the way they build relationships and family. While bringing you incredible food. Check them out! read more

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Chelsea P.

4 years ago

Delicious! Great service and peaceful setting amongst the little garden. Love eating here.

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Anchi M.

6 years ago

Lovely outdoor cafe overlooking a working urban farm. Delicious global brunch menu. And all the proceeds go back to the job training program for the refugee and immigrant women who work there. Super generous with spacing and COVID safety! read more

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Hannon r.

3 years ago

The food is amazing. I really like their mission; in fact, their multiple missions. But their food stands on their own. They have a new brick and mortar location in north park. We went this morning and had a great experience and great meal. read more

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Natasha N.

176

3 years ago

Best shaksuka I've ever had! The picarones were a rare treat and reminded me of my grandma's recipe. Try the beignets -- a crowd favorite and great for sharing with friends before or after brunch or lunch. read more

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Cathy B.

4 years ago

Wow! This was AMAZING!! I had the Somali Xawaash Spiced Butternut Squash Flatbread with the sauce that comes on the side. It was so fresh, so delicious and flavorful! I got it to go, but the garden is so lovely, I would like to eat there. Please go to this place as often as you can. They are doing good things for our neighborhood and our neighbors! read more

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Christina B.

4 years ago

Thanks to a cancelled flight, I ended up with a bonus morning in San Diego. I planned to stick close to the airport. When I Yelped a place for breakfast an ad for Make Projects popped up. I hoped in a Lyft across the city and was soooo glad. It's hard to make an interesting breakfast and Make serves delicious Somali breakfast and mandazis. (I used to live in Kenya so I can vouch for the mandazis). Service was great. I loved the garden. It was a perfect meal. Highly recommend. read more

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Jennifer C.

4 years ago

How could you not love a place that serves up great food, serves rhe community and serves an amazing purpose? read more

MAKE Cafe - Somali malawah. Giant portion of good and yummy. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

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Page 3 of 4

4712 Felton St
San Diego, CA 92116
Normal Heights
Directions
(858) 633-6852
Call Now

Full menu

Hours

What time does MAKE Cafe open?

MAKE Cafe opens at 9:00 AM on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does MAKE Cafe close?

MAKE Cafe is closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.MAKE Cafe closes at 2:00 PM on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Wed ClosedThu-Sun 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Payment methods

Does MAKE Cafe take Bitcoin?

No, MAKE Cafe does not take Bitcoin.

Does MAKE Cafe take credit cards?

Yes, MAKE Cafe takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does MAKE Cafe have catering options?

Yes, MAKE Cafe does have catering options.

Does MAKE Cafe have a drive thru?

No, MAKE Cafe does not have a drive thru.

Does MAKE Cafe have a happy hour?

No, MAKE Cafe does not have a happy hour.

Does MAKE Cafe serve alcohol?

Yes, MAKE Cafe serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does MAKE Cafe allow dogs?

Yes, MAKE Cafe allows dogs.

Does MAKE Cafe have TVs?

No, MAKE Cafe does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does MAKE Cafe have bike parking?

Yes, MAKE Cafe has bike parking.

Does MAKE Cafe have outdoor seating?

Yes, MAKE Cafe has outdoor seating options.

Does MAKE Cafe have parking?

Yes, MAKE Cafe has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Is MAKE Cafe wheelchair accessible?

Yes, MAKE Cafe is wheelchair accessible.

Does MAKE Cafe have free WiFi?

Yes, MAKE Cafe has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

At MAKE Cafe, we promise more than just a meal. Our dishes are crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and infused with vibrant global flavors, offering a unique culinary experience that connects you to cultural traditions and the inspiring people behind them. By dining with us, you're not just nourishing yourself—you’re making a meaningful impact on their journey toward stability and belonging. This is food that feels good and does good.

History

Established in 2018.

Anchi Mei is the Founder/Executive Director of MAKE Projects, a San Diego social enterprise focused on empowering refugees and immigrant women through food, agriculture, and community. With extensive experience in social change and program development, Anchi connects culinary arts to economic stability, helping underserved communities thrive. Andrew Gerdes leads the kitchen as the Executive Chef at MAKE Cafe in North Park, where he blends culinary arts with community empowerment. With a background in international cuisine from the French Culinary Institute, Andrew creates menus inspired by the diverse traditions of program participants. His approach emphasizes learning through cooking, fostering connections through food, and sharing the stories behind each dish. Passionate about inclusivity, Andrew helps program participants gain valuable skills while celebrating their culinary heritage.

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Morning Glory

4.0(5.1k reviews)

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For the first time ever there was no one waiting (Due to temperature being 95 degrees)…read moreWent to get out of the heat and had a delicious Mocha Latte. Service is always excellent.

Morning Glory is a trendy, fast-paced brunch spot with a high-energy vibe--whether that's a plus or…read morea minus really depends on your mood in the morning. Seating & Wait: Be prepared to wait! As a party of two, we put our name on the waitlist and were seated at the bar after about 30 minutes. The restaurant is on the second floor, and if you're seated at the bar or near the outdoor edge, it gets quite windy, so definitely bring a jacket! Food & Drinks: We ordered the famous soufflé pancakes--they were light, unique, and delicious. The latte was also solid. Overall: It's a fun spot to visit for the overall experience and ambiance

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4.3(429 reviews)

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Really delicious food but the portions are so tiny! So just a fair warning. Quite busy on a Friday…read morenight but we luckily made reservations and got seated maybe ~10 minutes after checking in. Food: - Flat iron steak: delicious and super tendy with a nice crust. Came with an arugula salad - Fish of the day: today was rock fish with a creamy panang/thai sauce and it was DELICIOUS - Duck: my table's favorite dish. You can make your own tiny tacos and the macha chili was seriously the best thing ever - French fries: nice horsestring fries, cant go wrong - Tuna crudo: super light and citrusy and flavorful, but only like 5-6 pieces - Chicken skewers: this honestly fell really flat. Would not recommend, i'd say it's the worst thing on the menu and surprisingly fell short. Doesnt feel like it belongs on the menu. - Brussel Sprouts: really good and unique with a peanut butter sauce - Mac and cheese: yummy but nothing special Overall was a great experience but I'd probably only come here on special occasions. Their drinks were also fantastic - the cantaloupe was super tasty. Shoutout Ola for being the best waiter!

New breakfast spot for me! Super cute decor. Love the vibe here. Bar seating looks cozy and open…read more I love the books & records they have displayed. Patio seating also very cute. Lots of inside seating. Our waitress Allie was super friendly. We had the short rib hash & the florentine Benedict. Both were delicious and the presentation was great. Visited on a Sunday morning and they weren't terribly busy. Looks like they have music on Saturdays. Not a huge menu but good options. We found parking on the street. Try it! Super cozy here.

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Family-owned & operated

Cocina 35 is one of my favorite places to eat in San Diego because it has delicious Mexican food…read moreand a fun atmosphere. The restaurant looks aesthetic and nicely decorated which makes it a great place to take pictures and enjoy your food. I ordered chilaquiles, and they were really good and flavorful. The people who work there were also very nice and friendly. The prices are okay and reasonable for the food you get. One thing I don't like is that they close really early, so it can be hard to go later in the day. Overall, I would give Cocina 35 4 out of 5 stars.

I had recently went to this restaurant a few days ago and loved the service. I had the server, Mr…read more Victor, and he had the most welcoming and the funnest energy ever. He had recommended the corn tamales and quesadilla de cholorio, which was amazing by the way, and the jamaica's. Having service like this makes me want to come back even more!

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Hash House A Go Go

4.1(8.9k reviews)

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Six of us went here on a friday, late morning, 9/18/26. Got seated right away, clean, friendly…read moreservice in what looks like a neighborhood restaurant. Lots of seating for our group, we ordered mostly "breakfast" items. I shared a Sage Chicken & Waffle Tower - which was excellent. We didn't notice much sage in the chicken coating, but it was delicious and extra crunchy. Great waffles too, with crisp bacon baked right in. The place was quiet enough to have a conversation. Would return.

I received more than a few recommendations on this place. To end my Mother's Day trip, we dined…read morehere prior to departing SD. The portion size is very large. The texture and taste are all pleasurable. I had the banana pancakes, with two over well eggs, crispy bacon, with potatoes. I couldn't complete it all, I took my leftovers with me. The orange juice tastes as if it's fresh squeeze! The service was kind. The feel of this restaurant is home. I adore the restaurants that were once a house turned into a place of business. Something about it spiritually makes me feel a bit grounded into history. I love the fresh rosemary they place in the dish as well. Such a unique touch of earthy-love I'm just glad it wasn't a hour wait or longer how I was repeatedly warned. We got seats right away. Could've been due to the construction on the street near by. I'll definitely return whenever I'm in town.

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4.1(1.8k reviews)

4.4 mi•Gaslamp

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This place is incredible for breakfast…read more The art deco style is amazing and the interior is very clean and welcoming with plenty of seating and you really need to walk around and take a look at all the little sayings on the walls everywhere, very cool ! The food was served, hot and well presented, and I look at it this they make their own twist on foods, which is very unique. Our food was incredible. I absolutely love it and now when I go back to San Diego, this is now a must stop. Service was friendly, welcoming, and made you feel at home and they are very attentive as well. You really need to try the churro French toast, oh my God, is it off the chains !!!!!!!

Excellent breakfast/brunch spot in the Gaslamp. There's usually a wait, so wear comfortable shoes…read more Service was friendly and prompt, thank you Alexis! Food-wise, they knocked it out of the park. Huge portions, decent prices, and everything was delicious! Loved their house potatoes so much! I'll be back!

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This place gets a lot of hate. NONE of it is warranted or true. Great watering hole with friendly…read morestaff and clientele, and 70 pints on draft!! Check em out!

The Drafthouse has always been one of my favorite neighborhood restaurants. However, my visit after…read morework yesterday was disappointing. I felt rushed throughout my meal. The server repeatedly asked how I was doing, but the interactions didn't come across as warm or caring. Instead, they felt rushed, matter-of-fact, and as though she was trying to wrap up my visit. She took my plate while I was still eating and offered me the check before I had asked for it. I left with the impression that the table was needed for something else, and I didn't feel welcome to relax and enjoy my meal. I hope this was just an isolated experience because it was not the level of service I've come to expect. 3 stars because I really love couple of items on the menu.

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4.0(4.5k reviews)

4.4 mi•Downtown

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Loved that they have this location after frequenting the La Jolla one…read more There is still a wait, but the line moved fast. Service was quick and friendly. We were seated outside and had a great view of the bustling street. As always, loved their hash and coffee.

Went here with a few friends for breakfast Sunday morning. It was around 9 am so thought there'd…read morebe a wait but we were seated after only a few minutes. I got a mushroom and havarti omelet because I love fungi and pecan pancakes. And a side of sausage patties because I was feeling greedy. The food came out quickly even though they were pretty busy. My food was sooooo delicious. Omelet was nice a fluffy and so cheesy. And the mushroom sauce on the said...yummo. The pecan pancakes were delicious as well. Oh and fresh squeezed orange juice to round it out. Definitely recommend. In fact I enjoyed my meal so much that hubby and I went to the La Jolla location the next day!

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Malibu Farm

4.5(2.4k reviews)

4.7 mi

I had the best time at Malibu Farms San Diego , thank you Tanner and all the staff for such an…read moreamazing dining experience and especially thank you to the bartender and cooks my cockney ceviche was so good and my cocktails were fresh and delicious . Will be back!!

I've passed by this restaurant many times and I finally decided today was the day to take some time…read moreto sit down eat and enjoy the view on my day off. Great decision can't believe I haven't stopped here sooner!

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4.2(2.9k reviews)

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We came here for a celebratory post-race dinner and first sat outside around a fire pit, but when…read morewe heard happy hour was in the bar-area only, we quickly pivoted. Thank goodness there was room too, because wow oh wow. It has been three weeks and we keep talking about that happy hour. LOL I appreciated that their happy hour menu wasn't all snackable appetizers; there were smaller-sized dishes for those less hungry, too! I ordered the Kiwilango slider + fries, my mom got the HH fish & chips, and my dad got the wagyu smash slider. Plus $10 beers, of course. Everything came out quickly and beautifully portioned, which made getting dessert (magpie ice cream cake) a no brainer. Delicious!!! I didn't stray into their full Kiwi-based dinner menu, but I can fully vouch for their happy hour, the cozy, charming vibes, kind and attentive servers, and flavorful dishes. Would absolutely recommend and will be coming back next time I'm in town!

Been here many times and the service is always top notch, that never changes, and always a lovely…read moreambiance. However I was a bit disappointed with my meal this last time. I got the shrimp salad. The quality was great but for five small shrimps and minimal avocado it was lacking in any kind of Yum Or Wow. It was mediocre at best which was surprising as everything else I've had in the past, burgers, fries, salads, I always had really enjoyed myself. Anyway, I do recommend their happy hour, everything on that menu is top notch, and this is a lovely place to bring your pupp to! Ask for a treat at the front! And again, 5 stars for their service. Service has always been nothing but incredible.

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Breakfast Republic

4.1(2.6k reviews)

4.1 mi•East Village, Core

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We stopped by Breakfast Republic for breakfast while we were in town for Comic-Con, and it quickly…read morebecame one of my favorite breakfast spots in downtown San Diego. My wife ordered the sampler plate, and I had the Eggs Benedict. Everything we tried was fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Don't skip the specialty lattes--they were outstanding and easily one of the highlights of the meal. The prices were also very reasonable, especially compared with many of the restaurants near the Convention Center. The combination of great food, fun atmosphere, and good value makes this place an easy recommendation. I heard they're closing a few locations, so I'm really hoping this one stays open because it's a total gem. We'll definitely be back the next time we're in San Diego!

I was visiting SD for the Padres game and a little R&R. We found this nice little place. My first…read moreimpression, wasn't that great. We visited this established on a Sunday, I expected the wait to be a bit long. There was a lot of confusion about, where stand to check in. The host wasn't as helpful with where to stand, as he allowed others to jump in front of us in line. I didn't care for the outdoor seating area. I believe it's too close to people walking around. Once in side, our waitress was AMAZING, which caused my irritation to calm down. The food was delicious Overall great experience .

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Bar area.

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Alexandra S.

5 years ago

I think I'm officially addicted to their breakfast potatoes, they're AMAZING!! Every week they have new specials based on what's fresh and every time it's delicious. Plus, they're a non-profit job training program for refugees and immigrants living in San Diego. It's a win-win and so fun to meet people from around the world while you're there! read more

MAKE Cafe - breakfast_brunch - Updated October 2026

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Good Measure might be the best hidden gem I've discovered in San Diego…read more Good Measure is tucked in an alley behind a laundromat and I almost missed it! The staff were friendly and helpful with any questions we had. The have a gluten free bun for any gluten free friends who crave a bacons egg and cheese breakfast sandwich. Overall the food was well priced and delicious. I definitely recommend this casual brunch spot

What a little hidden gem. If you miss their sign you might walk right past them, as they are ticked…read morein a walkway behind the laundromat. It's a cool and hip little spot. All the staff were friendly and made you feel like a friend and jovial. It has a cool outdoor seating area with a wall of board and card games. The order: Yogurt and fruit cup (non-dairy) for son son Turkey club for daddy,, maynnn the sandwich was loaded, roasted turkey, bacon, arugula, white cheddar, and funky black garlic aioli that took it over the top. Add in the funky pickle and I am sold. Hasherole & iced coffee for mommy - this is a winner. Cheesy has brown casserole with herb aioli. Wow what a home run, cheesy, crunchy, gooey, and a sauce that takes it over the top. The best part is we stayed at an air BnB right next to this cool spot. We'd come back again.

Sahara on Adams

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Sahara on Adams was a pleasant surprise to find during our stay in Normal Heights…read more The area we live in in Michigan has lots of amazing middle eastern restaurants so we feel qualified to review the cuisine. The ladies working the counter were super friendly, you you place your. order and pay at the counter across from where the food is made The sandwiches are very tasty, with some of the meat being cooked on the spit, and although we didn't try, they have an amazing selection of dessert options. They have some outdooor seating and they also have lots of beverage options too.

I've been here a few times before, and the food is actually pretty good. It's a little pricey, but…read moreI knew that already and that's why I keep coming back. The only reason I'm leaving 3 stars is because of my last experience. I stopped by about 10 minutes before closing to grab a bottle of water and one of the pre-made meals they already had ready. Before walking in, I even asked if they were still open. The guy said yes, but from the way he talked and acted, it really felt like I wasn't welcome there. He immediately asked if I was paying with a card, and the whole interaction just felt off. I don't usually leave reviews like this because, at the end of the day, it's not a huge deal and I'll probably still come back. I just wanted some food for work the next day and a bottle of water. It was just one of those moments where better customer service would've made all the difference. Shit happens.

Bica

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Hole in the wall coffee and breakfast spot…read more Super fresh tasting house cured lox. The tartine has everything you'd expect out of a lox bagel but instead of a bagel it's their delicious, thick cut bread. You can buy the bread by the loaf. Salted honey latte was tasty. There was a line at 9am on Sunday morning but it didn't take long to receive my order. I'll be back to try their sandwiches and wines. Worth the stop!

If you're in Normal Heights and want some good coffee + a little snack, check out this place…read more This cute little spot has great coffee, teas, and seriously good food. I've already been twice in two weeks The squash salad is light, fresh, and perfect for a hot day -- especially with their iced oolong tea with a little sugar. They're known for their sandwiches/tartines, and my bf loved the tuna tartine. Very messy, but very good I was sad they were out of the smoked salmon sandwich bites, so I got the avocado toast instead. Still SO good with a little tanginess and seasoning that made it anything but boring. Definitely coming back to try more!

Grains

4.7

(706 reviews)

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Came here looking for healthy restaurants and was not disappointed. I ordered the Khee mao noodles…read moreand I LOVED the flavor. It didn't feel heavy on my body and it still filled me up pretty good since it's a really good size. Ordered the Mojito Mocktail and it was sooo fresh and yummy. My wife ordered the Yellow Curry and it was filling, warm, and tasty. Service was great, very kind. You come into the restaurant and order at the counter before you choose where to sit down. The ambiance of the place is relaxed, clean and inviting. Will definitely come again!

Food was fantastic! Great service with a variety of food to choose from. We went there twice in…read morethe same week; it was that good! I had the Banh Mi the first time and the fried mushroom sandwich the second time. Both were delicious. I highly recommend.

Jyoti-Bihanga

4.3

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It is real! I have heard about the neatloaf for years but I never really made the effort to try it…read morebecause yeah honestly I was a little skeptical about how good a meatloaf, especially a vegan one, can be. How wrong I was. This is the queen of meatloaf. I'd take this neatloaf over any other meatloaves. Meatloaves need to learn from neatloaf!

Let me say, I'm not a vegetarian but this place is wonderful. I had the chili and cornbread and it…read morewas delicious. It was flavorful and mild on heat. I'm sure if you wanted more heat they could add some. My friend had the peanut coconut daily soup and that was tasty as well. I ordered the carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and it was very good. But the star was the apple pie, it was like eating my grandma's. The crust was thin and flaky, the apples sliced and spiced just right, not overly sweet with a little tartness and baked to perfection. I'll say the neighbor table ordered the Japcee (sp?) looked amazing. I can say, I would gladly go back to try other dishes. The service was excellent and attentive. The ambiance is calming. My ONLY thought is that inside can get a little noisy, if you're trying to have a conversation. There is outside seating and is dog friendly too.

Awash Ethiopian Restaurant

4.5

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TL;DR 5/5 Awash is a family run restaurant serving authentic…read moreEthiopian cuisine as well as selling home goods and groceries you might not find in your daily store. The food is a great intro to the cuisine, but the flavors are a bit lighter than I expected. Service and friendliness are peak, and the ambiance is suitable for a chill lunch with friends, or a culinary excursion! Food: a friend and I picked Awash to try Ethiopian for the first time. If that's what you're looking for, Awash has you covered! We ordered the veggie and meat combos which allow you to sample an array of meat and veg curries (unsure of the proper term) along with the signature Injera, classic Ethiopian flatbread with a light spongy texture and sourdough-like tang. This is perfect for the culinary adventurer like ourselves, but their menu hosts a wide array of Ethiopian dishes we'd be excited to try in the future. I found the Injera to be delightfully unique in texture and flavor with their surprisingly light and delicate body. And eating with hands, as is traditional, is a fun experience. The curries were wide in variety and flavor, but I felt each one lacked a real depth and umami punch that you may find in other cuisines. Since I've now only had Ethiopian food once I don't have a frame of reference to compare, but I prefer to err on the side that this simple taste is a quality of being home cooked food, clearly prepared by the wife of the owner, and not of the cuisine as a whole. I would love to try other dishes to see if I can get that complexity, but if you come expecting the "wow" punch of comparable dishes from say Indian cuisine, don't. This is home cooked food by a family that has been running this shop for many years. Not a chef, not a kitchen, just a pair that is making their way and sharing with the world their culture and cuisine. Service: Being a family restaurant, the husband and wife pair were the ones to serve us on the quiet Saturday afternoon we stepped in. The husband has better English, and was happy to recommend dishes, teach me how to eat with my hands, and check on our experience throughout our meal! Extremely welcoming, and I could feel his joy at being able to share his culture with me. That in and of itself makes this a 5 star meal. The restaurant is also patronized by members of the local community, lending to a casual and friendly atmosphere where the husband will sit in the dining area with his friends when it's quiet, where they will chat, and he will occasionally call out to me casually to see how I liked the food. Very sweet! Again, this is a family and community institution. Do not expect on hand waiter service, DO expect owners that will come and happily help if you call, and do expect authentic smiles and excitement if you're a first timer. Ambiance: Awash has a lovely and welcoming exterior ripe with culturally inspired colors. The open layout interior from the dining area to the grocery store is clean and orderly. The decor itself is sparse, but you can really get the vibe that the husband and wife who own Awash have started, sustained, and built a life out of this quaint shop. It's great for dining with friends, family, or dates if you're coming specifically for the food. If you're trying to get to know someone, though, save Awash for when you're already together lol. Overall, I can't give awash less than a 5/5 for the excellent introduction to Ethiopian cuisine, the homey and sweet owners, and the casual friendly vibes. Will definitely be back to try more!

Coming in, the restaurant is small, but has a charming and homey quality to it. The servers are so…read moresweet, and would check in on us throughout our meal. We ordered the meat and vegetarian combo platters, and the food was very delicious. The portions were sadly a little small compared to the amount of injura we got and the price we paid, but delicious nonetheless. Unfortunately, the day after my friend and I both got food poisoning from this restaurant. I want to love this place since the food and people were great, but from sifting through Yelp reviews, it seems like food poisoning is a common thing guests experience.

La Clochette

4.0

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This was such a sweet surprise and a brand new place for me. I had friends in town so picked a…read moremidway point with pastries per their request and this little gem was awesome. Their coffee and house made strips were amazing and the pastries were fabulous. Staff were friendly and it had a good dog and kid friendly vibe but folks could also lounge or work. I inhaled my breakfast egg and bacon w avocado croissant-switch so sorry ya'll will just have to go get one of your own. This is a newer area and development but the seating was cute and there were clearly locals who are regulars and on to something!

Cute bakery in the Civita area. Pastries are $6+. They have a revolving food menu. Don't trust food…read moremenu photos for longer than a few weeks as they change often. Check their socials for specials. They have inside and outside seating. There is limited timed parking in front and they also have a garage. Dog friendly. Pick up is at the very far side of the counter at the back of the cafe. It's a bit hard to hear when calling names and a very small walkway to grab the drinks. They have 2%, whole and almond milk. Tried: Strawberry matcha $6.75 - staff pushed hard on the $2 upsell for their ceremonial matcha. Just got their normal matcha which still had a good grassy flavor. Strawberry puree was okay not too sweet. Vanilla latte $6.50 - good, their vanilla was okay. They said they make their syrups in house. Disappointed they do not have any sugar free options. Breakfast sandwich $13 - wasn't a fan of the French chili espelette aioli. It was pretty spicy and there was a ton of it dripping off the sandwich. Egg was nicely seasoned. Brioche bun was just okay. They offer croissant bun instead but I believe it costs extra.

Olympic Cafe

4.5

(1.2k reviews)

•$$

Absolutely love this place, have enjoyed it for decades. Great portions, delicious and fresh every…read moretime.

Open on Memorial Day!…read more I cannot say enough great things about the food prepared here! My go to meal is the chicken kabob platter. Slow roasted chicken with a savory smoky flavor on the chicken. First timers I recommend the saganaki! Executive summary: Service:5/5 Flavor:5/5 Good for groups/5/5 Drink menu:5/5 Quality:5/5 Kid friendly:5/5 Parking:3/5 Easy to find:5/5

De Corazon

4.9

(56 reviews)

•$

I had some leisure time this morning, and ofc I wanted to try a new coffee place…read more De Corazon is not hard to get to, it's right off of El Cajon Blvd, and across from Woodrow Wilson Elementary. There was plenty of parking on the main street as well as the side streets. It is tucked away behind an automotive shop, but you can easily find it by the sign/banner that says "Coffee!" I was greeted right away, and perused the menu. I decided to get the old fashioned cold brew, with a breakfast burrito, all totaling $11. The space is comfortably decorated, with oldies playing in the background, artwork on the wall, healthy, happy plants, a bookshelf for bookworms like me, and even a vending machine with healthy snacks! My first time trying a cold brew with citrus - it pleasantly surprised me. Very refreshing. The border style breakfast burrito hit the spot with eggs, potato, and two kinds of flavorful salsa. I asked the gentleman behind the counter how long they had been there. He said it will be almost 2 years there. I liked everything about this space. I hope they stay for another 2 years and beyond. Consider giving De Corazon some love, too!

Really nice spot, tucked off El Cajon next to some auto shops - just look for the coffee banner!…read moreStaff is warm, welcoming and aren't rushing customers. I paid about $10 for a cold brew old fashioned (orange is nicely present, bitter in the right way with a touch of sweetness) and a pork tamale (seasoned the whole way through, a touch of spice that's really pleasant. The salsa is more like a thick hot sauce, spicy and tomato-y). Would order both again! There are a few small tables, and they were setting up a back courtyard space for an art exhibition.

Big Kitchen Cafe

3.9

(886 reviews)

•$$

Big Kitchen was among my favorite memories of visiting San Diego!…read more It has a community "hippie" vibe and Ms. Forman the owner is so friendly and vibrant, and community focused! It's a relaxed atmosphere with delicious food we enjoyed for breakfast when in San Diego. The bluberry pancakes stand out in my memory as being absolutely delicious! Everything we had was fresh including the orange juice! So visit and support this locally owned restaurant! I understand Ms. Forman has experienced health issues and could really use a hand up from those who can support her Big Kitchen!

The owner of this establishment, Judy, assaulted my partner and me. wouldn't stop harassing us,…read moremaking deeply uncomfortable comments, wouldn't stop touching my partner despite being told she was making us uncomfortable, and then grabbed me by the face and forcefully kissed me before doing the same to my partner. Outside, in front of my friends and family, zero qualms about her actions. We were both completely shocked. I hear they're failing. Good. Plus, insanely slow service and poorly made food on badly cleaned rickety tables, uncomfortable chairs, and an interior that hasn't been cleaned or dusted in years.

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Morning Glory

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1 MAKE Cafe review that is not currently recommended

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1 review that is not currently recommended

MAKE Cafe - breakfast_brunch - Updated October 2026

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