Aloha Yelpers, Reviews can be subjective and often just reflect how we felt in the moment--sometimes good, sometimes bad. As a business owner and someone who frequents a lot of establishments around the world, I'm always paying extra attention to how different brands and teams operate. After being a regular at Parakeet for the last 6 years, I felt inclined to finally write a review, based purely on appreciation for the all-star team at this location (Kayla, Janelle, Neda, Hailey, Regina, Michelle, Calvin, and all the cooks crushing it in the kitchen daily) and everything they bring to the community. BIG VIBES & Customer Experience Biggest one on the checklist. The energy is always on point from the second I walk in to the second I leave. The entire staff is friendly, welcoming, authentic, and genuinely cares about making the experience top-tier. Also worth noting, they're up at 5 AM to open at 7 AM... which is already heroic. On top of that, this location gets its fair share of entitled, unfriendly, and straight-up rude customers (I've seen it firsthand on the daily). Even then, the ladies and Calvin handle it with patience, professionalism, and still keep the good energy going. That shit is not easy. Attention to Detail Regina and Hailey run a tight operation day to day. Their attention to detail and consistency is honestly unmatched. I've been to plenty of spots around the neighborhood, and no one has it as dialed in as they do. They are also better dressed than other managers in the biz. BIG STYLE POINTS Problem Solving I've watched this team navigate everything--broken equipment, unhappy customers, clogged toilets (lol), bad weather, and difficult delivery drivers yelling at them through Google Translate. And they handle it all without missing a beat and staying composed. Meanwhile, I've seen other places completely implode in similar situations--blaming each other or arguing instead of solving the problem. Not the case here. Always solution-oriented. Extra props to Janelle for unclogging the toilet and Kayla for chasing a grasshopper out the door when it jumped on a table. Yessahhh Consistency Food and drinks are always consistent--fresh, well-seasoned, proper temp, and clean presentation. The cooks are back there working hard but still somehow having a good time while pushing out orders for both dine-in and delivery. The girls and Calvin on bar are always crushing it. Espresso is never burnt, matcha is smooth (no clumpy, low-tier stuff), and the latte art is always on point. Shoutout to Neda, Hailey, Regina, and Calvin for keeping things fast and high quality. Cleanliness Everything is always clean, smells good, and actually put away where it belongs. No shakshuka stains on tables, no scone crumbs everywhere, no sticky coffee floors, no overflowing trash cans--things that, somehow, have become the norm at other nearby spots. All in all, I never leave reviews, so the fact that I'm writing this says something lol. Hopefully whoever reads this--regulars, upper management, or owners--recognizes that this all-star team is what makes this Parakeet location special, and a big reason it continues to bring GREAT VIBES to LJ LET'S GET THEM A PAY RAISE!! Mahalo, Brady read more

There's truly something special about Parakeet Cafe, and every visit reminds me why this place has become such a meaningful part of our lives. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the care and intention behind it all, a genuine commitment to clean, high-quality ingredients that's so rare to find. Knowing they use non-seed oils is a huge plus, and it makes Parakeet one of the most refreshing and trustworthy spots in San Diego for a feel-good meal. My wife, my kids, my closest friends, and I have been loyal customers since Jonathan and Carol first opened their original location, and what incredible people they are. Their warmth, vision, and passion shine through in everything Parakeet has become. Since they opened the La Jolla location, it's been our go-to. I bring my family here all the time, along with friends and clients, and every single visit feels just as wonderful as the last. Beyond the food, everything about the experience feels intentional, from the beautiful presentation to the consistently great service and welcoming atmosphere. Whether it's a coffee, a matcha, or one of their thoughtfully prepared dishes, everything tastes fresh, balanced, and made with love. I also want to give a heartfelt shoutout to the incredible team: Janelle, Kayla, Neda (who honestly makes the best flat white I've ever had), Hailey, and especially Regina (and I'm sure I'm missing someone...sorry if I did!). As the manager, Regina sets the tone for the entire space. You can feel her leadership in how smoothly everything runs, she's attentive, genuinely welcoming, and always making sure guests feel taken care of. She truly elevates the entire experience. The whole staff contributes to such a warm, positive energy. Everyone is kind, helpful, and consistently makes you feel welcomed and appreciated as a guest. It's the kind of place that feels like family. Parakeet Cafe is one of those rare spots you leave feeling better than when you walked in. Great food, Great energy, and incredible people. Huge thanks to Jonathan, Carol, Regina, and the entire team for creating something so special, we'll absolutely keep coming back. read more

had a great experience at Parakeet Cafe. The overall vibe is super clean, modern, and welcoming definitely a spot you can relax or get some work done in. The food feels high quality and thoughtfully made. You can tell they focus on fresh ingredients, and everything tastes light but still filling. I tried one of their breakfast options along with a coffee, and both were on point. Service was friendly and efficient, and Arlene in particular made the experience even better super kind, attentive, and welcoming without being overbearing. read more

Parakeet is my happy place and favorite cafe! I stroll in every day on my lunchtime walk to grab my beloved salted maple latte (and sometimes food). The quality of the ingredients is unmatched and the kindness shown by the staff is what keeps me coming back each day. Kayla is usually working the register and is the sweetest. I love my daily chats with all the LJ peeps (Kayla, Janelle, Hailey, Calvin, and Regina) who welcome me in with smiles and a "Kim's here!" I've been a Parakeet customer for 8 years and it's truly the best. Thank you for the consistently delicious food and coffee. I feel so lucky to have Parakeet as my neighborhood cafe! read more

I got to try out Parakeet Cafe last week as part of a mystery picnic experience. It was our 2nd stop. We were able to put our order in, and the staff was very nice, friendly, and helpful. The person helping us even upgraded one of our drinks. The cafe is very small, and they pack in a few tables, there are some tables outside as well. There is also a very nice large restroom, that was very clean and adorned with fun pictures. The food was yummy. We got a nice salad, the dressing was tasty, and there was plenty of it. We also got 2 coffee drinks, and 2 sparking waters. It also came with a chicken sandwich and we opted for potatoes instead of another salad. We also got a Parakeet PB shortbread cookie, and a banana oat loaf with chocolate. Everything was tasty, high quality, and inside was fun and well decorated. Enjoy the photos. read more

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Had a friend recommend this place after a walk at the shores so we stopped by! We ordered the protein waffles and egg Benedict on toast to split. There is some seating inside and outside, you stand in line to order and then grab a table! The inside was a bit small but the patio seating was nice as we were able to snag a table Both items were sooo good and I'm so glad we tried both, the protein waffles had 40 grams of protein and tasted SO good, none of that protein taste. The Benedict's were so good as well, I loved the pesto and tomatoes and I typically dislike tomato Parking is typical for La Jolla but I would definitely come back again read more

Parakeet Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

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I come here all the time, and I've got plenty of options around, but I keep coming back for a reason. The food is incredibly fresh, super healthy, affordable, and tastes great. One thing that really matters to me--they don't use seed oils, which is very hard to find. My functional medicine doctor even said this is the only place outside the home she recommends eating in the Village. You can tell the owners, Jonathan and Carol, are very involved. There's attention to detail in everything, and they run a really strong business. It's busy, and it makes sense why. They also have a juice and smoothie bar right next door, which is just as good and fits perfectly with everything else they're doing. The staff is outstanding--friendly, hardworking, genuine, and super enthusiastic. A few people I really appreciate are Kayla, Neda, Regina (the manager), Matthew, Leilani, Hailey, and Janelle. Super clean, high-energy vibe. You feel a real sense of connection here--I see neighbors and friends from the Village all the time, which makes it even more enjoyable. I look forward to coming here. Just a great place all around. read more

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Great and bright space. Outdoor and indoor seating available, Dog friendly on the outside patio. Fresh juices bottled available and next door they have a juice shop where you can get fresh juices. Food was fresh, healthy, tasty and beautiful dishes for a cafe. read more

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We love parakeet cafe They are all so nice and the food is so clean and amazing Thank you Regina , Kayla, Neda, Janell's In San Diego read more

The best matcha latte! Vanilla is made in house which is non-negotiable for me. I go everyday and get the best service by Calvin, Janelle, Kayla, and Neda! read more

This place is amazing and I'm very sad we don't have any near me. We stayed near here and I stopped by an obscene amount of times because it was walking distance. There was a reward program too and I didn't sign up day one-that was silly. The parakeet bowl quickly became my favorite meal. The banana muffin was so good-it's been almost 7 months (little delayed here) and I still would love another! To the point where I have a friend visiting the area now and I told her she must try it and asked her to bring me a muffin- let's see if she does!! I have been tempted to see if they will ship to me or if they'll share the recipe with me since I found an article where they shared a recipe for an item. So maybe... My son (17) had one of the breakfast wraps. I can't recall the name but he said it was really good. The chocolate chip cookies are also good. read more

Parakeet Café - Parakeet bowl with chicken - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

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This café made me want to move Cali and so sad that I had to get on a flight so soon after visiting! Let me start with the staff - they greeted me upon entering & made me feel comfortable as I waited for my food and drink. Everyone was working hard yet still seemed pleasant. Loved that energy. Then, let me get to the coffee. Ohhh the first sip of their coffee immediately made my shoulders relax and feel at ease. I got the plain latte and it did not need any flavor, & trust me - I love me some flavored coffee. Additionally, their cups? The cutest things ever. Lastly, the decor is the cutest ever from the poop emoji on the restroom door to the wall paper throughout. You can hear yourself think and just be at peace here. If you want to leave a place with a smile and have a good meal & coffee, go here! read more

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I've been to multiple parakeet cafe locations and the food is great at all of them. This location was no different. I personally enjoy their avocado toast and breakfast burritos. I opted for a salmon and egg toast today and enjoyed it! The location is has some parking around it if you're lucky, but also has a number of paid lots. The inside is really tiny though. It's well decorated and cute, but seating is overall not very functional. There was only one wall of bench seating and stools on the other side. A server kept accidentally bumping into me being in the stool which was mildly annoying but not something they could've prevented considering the space. Service was great though, they were helpful at the register, made sure we had everything we needed, and cleared our tables quickly. I think i'll opt for the del mar location next time. read more

Super tiny store but cute nonetheless! A classic place to grab a breakfast and catch up with a friend. Their drinks never disappoint, definitely on the sweeter side (I have a sweet tooth, I'll admit that), and their savory dishes always hit. This time though, the toast was a little hard to cut into, providing a crunch to the berries and almond butter, but for a morning meal I don't expect to be fighting to slice my bread into bite-sized pieces. Waitresses are very prompt with taking away plates and clearing tables, especially because the store is so tiny that seating is quite limited. read more

Parakeet Café - Almond Butter Toast (v) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

A smaller cafe than other Parakeets but it's view is priceless. Reasonably priced food and drinks just steps from the water. Quick service and a good amount of dining inside and out. If you're looking for a spot to sit and relax for a bit, this is it. read more

the food here was great, but i would say that you would come here for the ambiance mostly because it is pricey. you get a cute cup if you get a cold drink. overall a very cute place! read more

Parakeet Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

Got the acai bow here, their granola is amazing and base is super thick, pure acai which I love. I also love the sugar free and healthy style they have here. Added cinnamon on top of the bow and it was a 10/10. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. Service was pretty fast and very nice. We ate outside and there was some vibe music and we thoroughly enjoyed. read more

Parakeet Café - Açaí bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

The Parakeet is the best breakfast place in town.. With the best staff and customer service. Regina, Kayla and Calvin are the best way to start your morning read more

Love parakeet cafe. All of their ingredients are intentional, clean, and healthy. Everything I've had so far has been tasty- my newest obsession is their house-made gluten free sourdough! A little on the pricey side but you get what you pay for :) I am a forever customer read more

Cute pink brunch spot in the heart of La Jolla! Less busy then some of the more popular brunch resturants- still a steady amount of customers! There's a small amount of cramped seating indoors, and a little more outdoors, but right in the morning it is COLD- even with heating lamps, it is just super chilly. The parking is also challenging as it is in La Jolla cove, but if you can get over these hurdles, the food is still great the same as other locations. The green scrambled eggs were really good I loved the amount of vegetables with the eggs. The toast with labneh was also delicious. Overally, I would go back to Parakeet Cafe for a cute girly brunch, but maybe not this location. read more

Parakeet Café - Vanilla Latte ($7) with Green Scrambled Eggs ($16) - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

I would love to come here again to hang out or study! I was immediately drawn by the pink aesthetic of the whole cafe. Everything is very nicely packaged and it felt like a sincere, high-end cafe to visit. I just got a small drip coffee to go, yet I have been convinced to come again when time allows so please await part 2 of this review! So far I can rave about the cute heart stopper that is placed in the to go cups and the cozy, sheek ambiance of the whole place. There was a line in the late morning I came in to visit. Service was still kind and patient with all the different people looking for a nice bite or drink. God bless you all read more

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I had such a fun time trying Parakeet while visiting La Jolla! I found the café and Juicery on seed oil scout for not using seed oils. Went to brunch on a Saturday morning and it surprisingly wasn't crowded with tables available inside and outdoors. It's a very small shop with very tight seating and the Staff weren't really willing to accommodate any request or modifications on dishes :( the food was fantastic though! The latte was thick and creamy and luscious, the power bowl was full of flavor and giant mushrooms which were so fun to eat, and the blue corn waffle was so unique! I would definitely dine at parakeet Café if I were in town again and recommend those passing through (or locals if they haven't already) to give it a try! read more

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The Waffle was very filling and sweetly tasting. I was pleased with how efficient they could get to your table with how small it was inside. My girlfriend could genuinely embrace all of the pink inside making it for the girlies specifically. read more

Parakeet Café - Belgian Waffle - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

LVE Parakeet La Jolla. Everyone is so sweet. Kayla and Calvin serve the best care and cappuccino

Visiting to this area and stopped in for a quick take out breakfast on the way home.... Worst chai tea latte I've ever had - the sediment of the chai was in the drink making it gritty, not creamy/smooth and too spicy. I thought eating it with my warm chocolate croissant would maybe balance it out but was also disappointed with the croissant as it was stone cold. Delicious mind you, but not warmed at all. These are pretty simple/ basic things in a cafe environment so if they couldn't get these right, I wouldn't return or recommend. read more

Pretty small location! There's about 4 tables walking inside, it's pretty packed. Somewhat busy but people are heading inside and out. Probably not the ideal location for working form your computer. However, this place is so cute and themed pink! Very aesthetic. Even the cups are super cute! The cashiers are very welcoming and always smiling! I ordered the on tap drip coffee. It was OKAY. The coffee tasted a bit sour and a bit watery. Pastries looked amazing! read more

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Great little spot for coffee, has food here around 16-20 a plate here. Left is the mint coffee (ice) and right is the lavender match tea (warm). Both were great, not too overly sweetened. However no public WiFi, do not stop by if you are looking to get some work done read more

Parakeet Café - Left us Iced Mint Latte (iced). Right is Lavender Matcha Latte (hot). Both were great, not overly sweetened - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

Small location but always busy. Love the fact that they don't use seed oils! Only healthy oils! I like their hamburgers and salads with salmon. Parking only on street is sometimes tough Expensive but worth a treat sometimes. read more

Parakeet Café - Cesar with salmon - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

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I absolutely adore that they don't use seed oils and only healthy fats. I do think some of the customer service could be better at times. Prices ate high but if they keep the quality high, they'll survive. This is one of their smallest locations that I've been to. Another review as a non elite... in the words of the backstreet boys, " tell me why! Ain't nothing but a heartache... tell me why!" read more

Parakeet Café - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

Thank you for your response. But we ate there again today and the tables outside the juicery were still dirty. The ones at the restaurant are cleaned immediately read more

We dropped in for lunch and were glad we did. I enjoyed an insanely fresh and delicious ahi tuna salad with a super fresh green side salad (on a gluten free homemade sourdough), while hubby loved his French omelet sandwich. This was the kind of cafe food I had been craving from Southern California. So good. read more

Parakeet Café - Flat white - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Coffee and ambiance was really good but a little pricy. My latte was $10 so definitely more of an every once in a while kind of stop. read more

Parakeet Café - Pumpkin Spice Latte with Cold Foam - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

Prices are a little steep. Squash soup okay, a tad bit on the sweeter side compared to other squash soups I've had. But the consistency is great - velvety and true to a bisque. Avocado toast was meh and the gluten free bread nothing special. Really enjoyed the raw beet spirals, radish, seeds, and crunchy mung beans. Down-side - the avocado was overly smashed, making it a runny consistency??? IMO just use sliced avocado or gently smashed the avocado so it's not like a sauce. Given that the menu item is avocado toast, I'd prefer to actually get avocado and not just a mere smear of avocado "sauce" under the toppings. A handful of tables to sit at inside, but the interior is a very small space. Ample seating outdoors. Staff is great. There's several bakery items to choose from and ample gluten free options :) read more

Parakeet Café - Squash Soup (gf, v) and Avocado Toast (v) on gf bread - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

Parakeet is one of those standout local business that truly cannot be praised enough. I am a long-time loyal customer who continues to be surprised and impressed by the quality of the food, the skill and ingenuity of the kitchen, and the warmth and kindness of every single person who works there. What makes Parakeet so special is how everyone that works there truly cares about your experience and treats you like family. They are genuinely proud of their business and want you to be proud of it too. Lots of places in Southern California can make a show of offering healthier spins on favorites, but Parakeet stands alone in coming up with new things that quickly become your favorites. They are constantly tweaking and updating their menu while keeping beloved classics. Come for the green scrambled eggs but try out the new euphoria inducing protein waffle. This place even makes its own bread. A huge shoutout to Regina, Janelle, Maya, Neda, Calvin, Kayla, Mishell, Jaymie, Hailey, and everyone else for making Parakeet the foundation of our weekends. read more

Clean, healthy food that is delicious. Homemade almond milk really makes the drinks fantastic

Food is 10/10 especially the pastries. The ambience is very relaxed and positive. This cafe reflects the positive and relaxed energy of La Jolla and its residents. The service is 10/10 with kind and pleasant employees. Bathroom is very clean and smells good. People don't trash the bathroom here even though it's a busy and high traffic place. This reflects the beauty of the visitors besides the coffee shop. Definitely will be my top place to visit in La Jolla. Only thing I did not like is they do not have a wifi so I had to go to some neighboring places for a zoom meeting. Overall it's a beautiful place to visit and drink coffee. Positivity is everywhere. read more

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Very unique menu. Lots of coffee and drink choice. It was hard to pick. Great selection of healthy choices. Cute little place with outdoor seating that's tucked away from the busy village foot traffic and cars. Super cute cups and dishware. Nice and helpful staff. Very attentive. Coffee was strong yet smooth. read more

Parakeet Café - Coffee cups soooooo cute! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California

This place is the absolute best cafe i have ever been to. they have such fluffy and delicious croissant. 200/10

Cute cafe in La jolla. Everyone is friendly and polite. The esthetic is gorgeous from the wall decor to the plates and coffee cups. It's a great place for coffee or tea and a bite to eat. Great photo opportunities. The only downfall is the pretty squishy inside. You can't help but bump into people to get through. But once you're seated, it's not too bad. The overnight oats are good, and the coffee is delish! read more

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Cute cafe shop in the heart of La Jolla. We tried their salad and bowl which are pretty filling yet delicious. Mint matcha latte was great as well. The staffs were truly the one that make our visit special. Thank you Monica and Kayla who make us feel welcomed and the chefs who made these delicious foods. We'll be back!! read more

Parakeet Café - Crunchy Chinese Salad (gf, v) Grains & Greens Bowl (gf, v) Iced Mint Matcha Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - La Jolla, California