Alyssa K.

I have been going to Windansea Cafe for years and even had the pleasure of living down the street from this place for a bit. It was a great cafe to run up to and grab a coffee in the morning before heading to the beach (or less fun, to work). In terms of pure aesthetics Windansea cafe has a great vibe and some incredible artwork. It has the perfect atmosphere to hang out with some friends or sit and study (although last year when I went often to do work WiFi was in and out as it was borrowed from The Travelodge). It is definitely the spot around town that reminds you how local Windansea is (I have never gone there and not run into at least a couple people I know, if not inside at least walking by). I do caution not going by Windansea while in a rush. Vahik is awesome but he is kind of a one man show and a couple of times I ended up waiting a really long time for my food (he always assumed I was staying to do work which caused problems a couple times when that wasn't the case.) Definitely run in and grab a coffee or have sufficient time to chill and enjoy some good conversation while waiting for the food. My number one measure of a good cafe is the coffee. Although the coffee Vahik serves isn't stellar or unique, it is a rather solid cup of Joe. He also makes the most INCREDIBLE blended mochas.......I don't know what he adds but it is highly addictive.....I usually just like black coffee but during the summer this was a cool treat that was pretty much the perfect balance of chocolate and coffee. And overall, the food is worth the wait. I love the Mediterranean bagel with fresh feta and basil! The food may look a little pricey but the portions definitely equate to what you are paying......the $10.00 salads are huge and delicious....lots of fresh ingredients and a variety of flavors (I love the Playa del Norte and Greek Fest). He also serves some great baked goods....the pan con chocolate are much better than most other cafes in LJ. I definitely recommend cruising by Windansea Cafe, after a day at the beach that gives it its name, and leisurely enjoying some of Vahik's delicious food and coffee.
(4)
Martha S.

I have stopped here for a quick bite from time to time! The paninis are fresh and yummy, the chikanini being my favorite. The guy who makes them is very polite, welcoming and takes pride in the food he offers! I love this place and would recommend it to anyone in the mood for an excellent meal or drink that hits the spot!
(5)
Lindsay S.

Stumbled on this charming little cafe after looking for alternatives to "Busy Bees" nearby. Very nice ambience indoors, the space is clean, and the owner was friendly. But the FOOD--wow! I ordered the Mediterranean Bagel, and while I'm not a real fan of scrambled eggs (I'm the antichrist, I know), I thought I'd take my chances on this one. Boy, am I glad I did. Who knew a bagel sandwich with cheese, basil and egg could be so tasty, so delicious, so ahh--I want another one! Dear Windansea Cafe owner: meet your newest regular customer!
(4)
Â¡Pedro E.

A pleasant surprise -- stopped by for an iced mocha. Turned out to be one of the best I've ever had. Very rich and chocolatey. Haven't tried the food, but I'm definitely coming back for the coffee.
(4)
Angela C.

Great pitstop for lunch! This cafe is very tiny, but has a cute artsy vibe to it and a small outdoor patio. The menu is hand written on a blackboard with colored chalk behind the counter. They have a variety of panini, salad, and sandwich options as well as an extensive coffee menu. I agree with other yelpers, Vahik and the staff here are all very friendly and warm. On Saturdays, Vahik specially cooks up his own beef kabobs on an outdoor grill. It's a big chunk of meat wrapped in a whole wheat pita and garnished with some parsley and green sauce. One of my friends ordered this and it was delicious!!! Even though it's not stated on the menu, you can also opt to do a half salad/half panini option, which is exactly what me and most my friends did. I got a half greek salad and a half ramblin' roast (aka roast beef) panini on multi-grain bread. My panini came with caramelized onions, wasabi mayo, and sharp cheddar cheese. It was very tasty though it shouldn't be called a panini since it wasn't pressed or grilled. It's really just your basic sandwich, but with the added benefit of organic, fresh ingredients. They use gourmet deli meats and cheeses. A great meal for a very reasonable $6-7. My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed our Saturday lunch here and would definitely come again the next time we're in the La Jolla area.
(4)
Mark C.

The owner, Vahik, is fantastic. His customer service is unbeatable, always a pleasant experience. The food is fresh, fast, and reasonably prices. The medditerain bagel is possibly the best breakfast bagel I have had. I take all my guests from out of town to this cafe, and they rave about it. I would also recommend the salads, again very fresh and very tasty. Ask Vahik for recommendations if you are unsure, he is very friendly and will ensure that you will come back for more!
(5)
Odd S.

Really good lunch at a good price. Great service from the staff with a eased amusing environment.
(5)
C R.

Updating my last review. Food is still great and the service has even gotten better/faster!!! Keep it up Vahik!! C.J.
(5)
Rob S.

Amazing sandwiches/paninis, coffee is always great, other espresso items and food also excellent. The best thing about this place, however, is the atmosphere. Vahik is as nice as they come and a pleasure to talk to. Always feels good to support someone like that.
(5)
Caitlin D.

This place is great and Vehik, the owner, is one of the nicest guys around! All of the food I've tried there from the breakfast sandwiches to the salads has always been delicious and fresh. I highly recommend the Mediterranean on an everything bagel for breakfast and the albacore tuna salad sandwich is very fresh and made without mayo so it's perfect for a tasty, lite lunch. Grab your meal and coffee to go and walk down to the beach for a perfect alfresco meal.
(5)
Joan S.

I love sandwiches/ salads and Vahik makes great ones!!! When I went here, he was the only one working. I said the magical word "Yelp" and he gave us a dollar off our sandwiches. For our whole meal it was about $40. The shop is a cute little artsy spot. It has unique art work throughout. There are about 8-10 tables inside and couple more outside on the patio. I came here with 3 other people. I ordered the Big Kahuna (tuna sandwich) and it was good; however, I tasted better. My friends got the Rambling Roast beef (roast beef with horseradish) sandwich, Chickanini (chicken pesto sandwich), and the Turkey Breeze (turkey pesto) sandwich. Overall, I liked the chicken pesto sandwich out of all of them. All the sandwiches were 6.95. The chicken pesto sandwich and turkey pesto sandwich tasted about the same. We also ordered the Playa de Northe Salad (Organic spring mix, blue cheese, cranberry, carmelized walnuts, and pomegranite balsamic vinegrette). The salad was AMAZING and HUGE. I would definitely recommend coming here for the salad. Only con: the coffee wasn't that great. I ordered the pumpkin spice latte special and my friend ordered the mayan chocolate coffee. The coffee was bitter and was not blended well.
(4)
Kim J.

This place is nestled in a local area of downtown la jolla near Windansea Beach (which you must check out!). I like it because it is not as busy as the other coffee places in La Jolla yet it is still nice and comfortable. Perfect place to catch up with friends or buckle down and get some studying done. And yes, it has free wifi (well not from the place itself, but the hotel next door has it). Owned by a local and frequented by locals, this is a great place to go when you want to escape the touristy side of downtown La Jolla. With a wide selection of coffee, tea, and food, it has something for everyone. The owner is really nice and will usually customize it for you as well. I particularly like the passion fruit iced tea as well as the caramel macchiato. I have also heard that the sandwiches are really good, but I have not had a chance to try them myself.
(4)
Mike M.

Outstandingly fresh food, delicious drinks, and a wonderful owner that makes every visit relaxing and fun. Perfect place to come and set down for a few hours. My girlfriend and I study here often, and get lunch, snacks, and dessert all in one few hour study session. Wonderful place to be, free wifi, and just a stone throw from the beach. My girlfriend and I share the high tide salad, chiknini, a passion iced tea, and an acai bowl to finish it. Everything here is outstanding! Introduce yourself to Vahik when you go :)
(5)
Nicole E.

Great coffee! Great service! I have been getting my caffine fix here since it use to be a cart in the parking lot down the street. The owner is super nice and although I miss the cart sometimes the full cafe is much better :-) It's a great place to grab a coffee and read the paper...or swing by before a morning walk on the beach. As far as food, I can only speak for the Mediterranean Bagel b/c once I had it, I haven't been able to order anything else. So simple yet so yummy. Tomato, Basil, egg and feta on a bagel. I don't know why it is so good- but it is.
(4)
Debbie S.

Delicious, fresh food. Great customer service. Highly recommend.
(4)
Victor T.

This little shop is easy to miss, but once you find it, and then find parking, you're in for a treat. I'll skip the story and go right to the food: I ordered a roast beef and cheddar panini, and my friend had a ham and swiss. The owner was very helpful and even told us which sandwiches would suit us better depending on how hungry we were and what kind of flavors we liked. The roast beef and cheddar was simple: about 5 or 6 oz. of warm, sliced, marinated roast beef with a nice thick slice of cheddar, and some tomato slices on any bread of our choice, garnished with a mild cilantro horseradish. I chose the focaccia I think, or maybe the Ciabatta. This one was a little sweet, not too salty, and melted together just right. The ham and Swiss came with a heavy serving of thick honey-baked ham, overlapping slices of Swiss cheese, tomato slices, and the owner's custom-made apricot mayonnaise. Her sandwich was on the sweet and savory side, and the Swiss melted in her sandwich nicely to create an interesting meat-cheese-bread-mayo network. Both sandwiches came with a big side salad with the owner's own dressing, and we both ended up full after finishing both our sandwiches and salads (I had to finish her salad for her because she's not a big eater). The reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because the meals came out a little pricey. Neither of us ordered a drink, which would've meant almost an extra two bucks for each of us. Price aside, I'll be coming back :D
(4)
Becca M.

Holy yumminess! Had the fresh yellow tail sandwich on chabatta with a salad. It was tasty! I trust whatever the guy tells me to get. Cute little place with nice people. Love it.
(5)
Shauna M.

Pros: good hot beverages, amazing no mayo tuna salad and green salads, and friendly service. Cons: Sometimes a little slow with food orders, but there is usually only one or two people working...best to call ahead to go orders so you don't have to stand around for 15 minutes while they try to make your sandwich and 5 drink orders at the same time.
(4)
Nico R.

Food was OK (3-4 stars) but the owner started off by being pretty rude. Continuously stared at me while I was trying to get my sandwich; when I made my choice he told me I had to get it to go -which was my plan anyway. It seems like getting in the place 20 minutes before closing time did not please him. He finally became a bit nicer towards the end, but the welcome scene almost sent me off (stayed for lack of other choices around) and the price for a sandwich and a drink (~$11) is pretty high to me.
(2)
Christopher O.

I would give it a 5 but... The service has declined drastically. As opposed to being greeted by a beautiful, fun loving, assortment of Brazilian females, I now am greeted by some dude. My overall experience has been cut in half... There was nothing better than starting my day with a warm latte' and hot Brazilian muffin.... Ooooooohhhhhh, the memories... Should Busy Bee considering using Vahik's old business model of employing Brazilian models, I might just become a regular...
(3)
Philip N.

This place is amazing! I got the yellowtail on ciabatta with a side of salad and it was delicious. When you bite into the sandwich, you can definitely taste the freshness of the fish and the hint of wasabi mayo really brought everything together. The owner was super nice and really gave me the San Diego chill and laid-back vibe that I have grown to love. I will definitely come back to try the other stuff on the menu.
(5)
Wendell B.

This little cafe is actually one of the reasons I moved to La Jolla. I've never met a better small business owner than Vahik, who cultivates a Cheers-esque atmosphere by greeting customers by name and remembering every detail shared with him. The food is healthy and fresh, the portions are generous, the vibe is friendly and a twinge European. I was shocked to read a disgruntled review, since I love this place so much, but she's right: Cafe Vahik is not fast food. So if you're looking for an assembly-line, in-and-out, pre-packaged fruit cup and stale pastries experience, you should go to Starbucks up the road. But if you want a delicious, made-to-order breakfast sandwich (I recommend the Mediterranean bagel) prepared by a man who remembers your dog's name and asks about your recent vacation, this is the place for you! (Other must tries: the Greek Fest salad and the Chickanini. But honestly, it's all good!)
(5)
Charles C.

Nice, quaint little sandwich shop with the best paninis I've had in San Diego. I came here this afternoon for a lunch meeting with a friend of mine--neither of us had ever been here before, but I was in the mood for sandwiches and my faith in Yelp brought me to this nice little sandwich shop. I ordered a roast beef panini on focaccia while my friend had the Chipotle Turkey panini (this wasn't on the menu, but it was a personal recommendation from the owner). I must explain this first: I used to visit my brother up in Berkeley a few times a year, and every time I would always want to go to a specific sandwich shop called "Sufficient Grounds." This place always had the best rosemary chicken sandwich on focaccia I've ever had, hands down. Unfortunately, this place has closed recently, and since then, I've had an empty hole in my heart (and stomach) that I have never been able to fill. Windansea Cafe goes a long way into filling that empty void. Having only tried one sandwich, I already promised the owner I would be back within a week or two, and I really plan to. The sandwiches, with the side salad, are about seven dollars each, which is a little on the pricey side of sandwiches, but is still a price I'd very willingly pay for such a quality meal. The owner was very nice and helpful, giving suggestions and even a sample of his tuna to my friend when she asked about suggestions. The only reason I nicked a star off of the rating is because it got a little noisy in the room while he was blending something in the kitchen--the sound effectively filled the entire store because of it's small size. Also, as always, it is a little awkward when she and I are having a conversation with the only other person in the store being the owner, but our conversation wasn't shady or anything so it was alright. All-in-all, I would definitely come back, and I do recommend this place for anyone who is in search of just -that- sandwich shop.
(4)
Nicholas E.

Great sandwiches. Fresh salad. Unique atmosphere.
(4)
Bella C.

The sandwiches here are SO GOOD. When I went there were only two people working and they just so happened to be slammed with half of a girl's soccer team and their parents. On top of that, they make everything fresh, so it was a long wait. If I hadn't been on my lunch break, I probably would have been a lot more patient, but I still decided to wait and am I glad I did! The whole mentioning yelp and get $1 off thing definitely makes it worth it! They have a special - 1/2 ceaser salad and 1/2 sandwich that is $6.95. It doesn't work with the yelp coupon, but it's pretty good I didn't get that, but my friend did and she said the caeser salad was quite good. She ordered it with the Big Kahuna and she said it was really good!! I ended up ordering the Veg Out on Ciabatta and it was delicious. Not only healthy, but very good mix of the flavors. I'm not really a fan of cheese, but the mozarella cheese mixed with the fresh tomato, portobello mushroom, and eggplant was delicious!! They toast the sandwich, making it all melt-in-your-mouth SCRUMPTUOUS. , I feel like those veggies would work really well together to make a healthy lunch even without the cheese. My other friend got the Bruschetta and it was a good vegetarian option, but I liked the Veg Out much much more. It's a cafe, so there aren't very many seats available, probably 20 including the few seats that are outside on the porch, so I wouldn't advise bringing a big group here to eat in, but I would recommend ordering to go! I'll definitely be back to try the other things on the menu! I'm so excited for my next visit.
(4)
K R.

I experiences are in line with all of the other positive reviews. My boyfriend and I live around the corner, and we eat here several times a week. The food is always fresh and delicious.
(5)
Zack R.

This cafe really is the best I've found in my 3 years living in the San Diego area. Vahik, the owner and operator, is personable and interesting, and the service is fantastic. Perhaps most importantly, the food is amazingly good - so good I have specific cravings for the Ham Diegian sandwich (make sure you get the apricot mayonnaise on any sandwich - sounds weird, but it really incredible). The decor is warm, the seating is comfortable, and the atmosphere is great. Need I say more?
(5)
Lissa -.

Nice breakfast place by the beach.
(4)
Paul M.

Whether you just want a snack or need to get filled up you'll get good stuff! Mediterranean breakfast bagel with egg whites is yummy. I'm not a vegetarian but the veg-out for lunch stuffs to the gills every time! Don't forget to tell Vahik to hurray it up he's not as busy as he seems LoL!
(5)
Chase B.

Took my gf here for lunch ~ awesome food, huge salads!! Didn't try the coffee ~ will go back.
(5)
Alex B.

Gigantic salad with the sandwich, which was really good. Wanted the roasted egg plant, but got something else instead, was excellent. I can see why it gets so many good reviews.
(5)
Gus T.

Having been looking for a good sandwich joint near Birdrock, I came here with fairly high expectations and maybe that's what did me in. It could have just been an off day for the place (seemed like a new cashier was being trained) but after a bit of a wait to place my order for the highly-rated tuna panini, it did take solid 15 minutes to get my order. Understandable if it's busy but there were only 3 or 4 other people in there. Total bill for the sandwich, iced tea, and a side salad was about $12 - although the food was very fresh and tasted great (4-4.5 star food) that's a bit pricey for a quick cafe lunch in my book. Also, I mentioned that I saw them on Yelp to the owner, and although they advertise that you'll save $1 by mentioing this, no discount. I didn't think it worth bringing up for a buck, but hey, if you advertise something (especially on Yelp) you should follow through on it. Owner did seem very nice as mentioned in other reviews. I may give it another shot, but sadly my first visit didn't live up to the hype.
(3)
Danny B.

I can see Windansea Cafe from my living room, it's literally right across the street. I go there at least a couple times per week, and have never been disappointed. Vahik is a great guy. The coffee beans he uses are of top-notch quality, as well as everything I've tried on the menu. His bagel sandwiches and paninis are nice, and especially the Acai bowls he whips up. The salads are HUGE and tasty! My main thing is that pretty much everything he uses is FRESH, which is a huge plus in my book. I will continue to get my coffee/breakfast here for as long as it's around.
(5)
Meghan F.

it took me 2 years to try this place and I'm glad I finally did! The owner is extremely friendly and is really good at making suggestions for different tatets. I had the Chickenini (I'm certain I've misspelled it...) which was excellent. The owner suggested a spicy southwestern sauce in place of the pesto when I mentioned I like me some flavor. It was a very good addition. The sandwich was huge and I ended up saving half for dinner. It also came with a giant mound of greens drizzled with tangy balsamic vinaigrette for free. I love free :) The only reason I gave 4 stars was the atmosphere. For friends eating lunch it would have been great, but I had wanted to hang out for a bit a read. The tables by the windows were taken and so I ended up towards the back where there was dim lighting. I had trouble reading my book there. I know this is a restaurant, not a library, but if you are looking for a place to hang out a study where caffeine is readily available consider the lighting complication. It was also pretty loud. The owner obviously has a ton of regulars and I heard him chatting with several customers about their wives, kids, jobs, etc. which was really cool. He cares a lot about the people that come to his cafe. There was one REALLY loud customer and they shouted back and forth across the restaurant for a good 20-30 minutes. It was fine for a bit, but after a few minutes I didn't understand why they were talking so loud. All in all a good experience though and I would definitely come back- but maybe not to study!!
(4)
Erin C.

Windansea Cafe is wonderful! I recommend the Chickanini on Focaccia and the blended Mayan mocha. It's well worth the wait each and every time : )
(5)
Adrienne H.

Wow, Fail on efficiency. The girl taking orders did not know half the menu items and the owner had to keep telling her what to write down as the order. Then instead of paying after you order they tell you to come back and pay later. So I could lie and say I got a cheaper dish? Or just run out on my bill if I am sitting outside? Then it took me about 45 minutes to get my lunch. 45 MINUTES! Omg. Why? Because they forgot to make my order. Was the food worth the wait or any wait at all? NOPE. Never returning here again.
(1)
kevin t.

I love this place !!! and have gotten a certain level of satisfaction referring it over to all of my friends.. The food is great and i know that they will have a positive experience. The owner Vahik is a super nice guy.. Kevin
(4)
S K.

I've been there almost ten times and EVERY time I am amazed by the food I order. Everything on the menu has a "wow" factor. The service is great - I think it's family owned and the two guys (who's names I've yet to learn) and the one girl are very warm and welcoming. You feel like you're hanging out at your good friends house when you're in here - great ambiance and I can't say enough about the food. You must try this place!
(5)
megan w.

yummy sandwiches. This is a cute cozy cafe frequented by locals headed to and from the beach. Pros: the albacore tuna sandwich on toasted ciabatta bread is awesome. This sandwich has largely contributed to my demise as a true vegetarian ever since I first stole a bite of my boyfriends sandwich more than a year ago. There is no mayo in Vahiks special tuna and try as I might to recreate it at home, I never quite get it right. Also, the people that work here are always so friendly and laid-back and its kind of like getting a tasty sandwich made at your friends house. Cons (aka why windansea cafe didnt score a 5 star rating): The laid-back nature of the employees makes service a tad slow and beware of the cream. They usually ask if you want cream in your coffee drinks and if you say yes, they will dump it in. Ask for a drop and you just might get the right amount.
(4)
Marc E.

Every time I'm in La Jolla I come here. This place knows the proper way to make a cafe americano and its even better than Starbucks.
(4)
Rita T.

The Mediterranean bagel and chicken panini were delicious! I went to this place two days in a row because of how much i loved the food! The service was excellent! We met the owner who is very friendly and funny! The coffee is amazing! I have to admit it was the best coffee I have ever had and I must mention I am very picky when it comes to my coffee!! BTW the coffee was organic :-) I'm from LA and was in la jolla for the weekend. I wish we had a Windansea in la! If we did I would be their number one customer! Its such an adorable cafe! I am more than looking forward to eating here again on my next trip to la jolla! Another plus about this cafe is how affordable it is! Its hard to find a place that has fresh tasty ingredients and is affordable!
(5)
J R.

Awesome food and a much more diverse menu than I had expected. Really good bfast and lunch options here. Great service and a nice ambiance - If you're looking for a cool little cafe with awesome food - look no further - this is your place.
(5)
sabrina g.

I used to go there so much I knew the menu by heart... :) Great tuna salad, no mayo. Excellent coffee, healthy snacks. The bread is so fresh, any sandwich is good. And they make an excellent acai smoothie, Brazilian style. They make everything fresh, so don't go there in a hurry.
(5)
Robert C.

Went there to visit a friend and coffee was perfect. They know how to make a mocha. The Windan Sea Bagel was awesome! Highly recommend for a small business meeting, quiet.... not like LOUD Starbucks where you can't talk over the next promotional dvd they are pushing, Free WIFI 2 miles from beach, a great way to start the day!
(5)
Ashley B.

Finally I found an outstanding cafe to happily loiter in for hours in San Diego! I came here to order the veg out sandwich, but the owner was momentarily out of portabella mushrooms. So he let me have a free coffee and I sat down to bum internet off the travelodge next door while I waited for my sandwich. It probably only took about 20 mins, and was worth the wait. Grilled eggplant, portabella musroom, pesto, tomato and mozarella on ciabetta YUM!!! It's not so bad being vegetarian sometimes...
(5)
Sam H.

so I am giving "Brick & Bell Cafe," "Pannikin Coffee & Tea," and "WindanSea Cafe" all the same reviews and 4 of 5 stars. Best Hot Sandwich (Bagel) 1. WindanSea Cafe: very very good. warm, crusty, good veges & meats 2. Brick & Bell Cafe: good when i ate it, not so great a few hours later 3. Pannikin Coffee & Tea: you call this food? Best Coffee 1. Pannikin Coffee & Tea: just right! not too sweet, not too bland, perfect! 2. Brick & Bell Cafe: not bad, not bad. i like the coffee cup holders (twist the top to close) 3. WindanSea Cafe: like Starbuck's Best Atmosphere 1. Pannikin Coffee & Tea: free local newspapers, chairs outside, bookstore next door, nice attendants 2. Brick & Bell Cafe: nice people, but small and lots of old people 3. WindanSea Cafe: eh, I did come on an offday, but there bagels would make me return!
(4)
Astrid C.

I love this place! the food is great! the place is quiet, cute and cozy, I had the The Chickaninni or something like that and loved it, comes with a salad if you dine in with a great balsamic dressing. I think his portions are the right size, I also have had his salads, the veggie sandwich and the turkey one too! I havent had his smoothies but a friend told me they are great! The place is clean, and very local, its great for me cause I live the next street over :) I am a regular now!
(4)
Lita P.

First I started off with a blueberry muffin which would have been better if it was hot or warm, but it still was very soft And yummy! Then I got a playa del Norte salad which was huge! I'm not a big fan of bleu cheese but it actually went well with the salad! The walnuts and the cranberries were really good inside the salad too! My cousin got a chicken pesto panini which was also very good, I'm a huge pesto fan!! On top of all the food the owner was very sweet and polite! Overall it was a nice place to stop by for lunch!!
(4)
Kevin S.

THE BEST TUNA FISH SANDWICH I HAVE EVER TASTED! I have been eating a tuna fish sandwich once a week for about 15 years. I try it at different places whenever I can. WIndansea Cafe has the best tuna fish I have tasted. They don't put mayonnaise in it (or it might be so minimal, I could barely taste it). They take prime albacore tuna and add a secret recipe of seasonings. The ciabatta bread is A+ as well. The Swiss cheese I asked for on the sandwich could not have been made better by the Swiss themselves. All sandwiches are toasted in a George Foreman like grill. My mouth is watering just thinking about the sandwich I ate. Not only was the food fantastic, the couch seating was as comfortable as I have sat in at a restaurant. (Hey, everything counts.) The service is excellent as well. The owner takes a lot of pride in his restaurant. Free wi-fi. A "must try" deli for anyone visiting or living in the area.
(5)
Tracey B.

All I can do is echo the raves of the other yelpers. The owner, Vahik is one of the friendliest people, greeting regulars by their name. He simply exudes happiness with life and love for what he does, making some delicious coffee, killer protein shakes and tasty bagel sandwiches, paninis and salads. His homemade chocolate chip cookies have this great flavor I was having a hard time pinpointing; My friend and I have since come to the conclusion he must be generous with the brown sugar (mmm). As far as salads my favorites include the Playa del Norte (cranberries, blue cheese crumbles and walnuts) as well as Vahik's House which is a delicious salmon salad with some of Vahik's own special house salad dressing. I love the simplicity of the Chickanini (Chicken panini with avocado, pesto and tomato) and the Bruschetta Bella (Mozzerella, Tomato, Basil and Pesto. Also, not to be missed and my hands down favorite, the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean Bagel with egg, feta, tomato and basil on your choice of bagel. And you can always count on service with a smile. If ever you're at the beach and looking for a light lunch or a caffienated pick-me-up, this is the place
(5)
Kevin S.

Small, informal sandwhich shop with excellent paninis. Chickanini is the best and you get a huge side salad with it. Soups are also good. Vahik the owner is great. We are locals and walk to the shop regularly.
(5)
Becky T.

I moved into the area about a year and a half ago. I happened upon Vahik's (the owner) cafe on a walk to the beach. I love the chai lattes and chickanini sandwich! Everything I've had there has been great! I love to support independent shops and this one is one of my favorites. At lunch, even when he is crazy busy, somehow he manages to get food out without much wait. When I'm in a hurry I just call ahead. About 2 weeks after I gave birth Vahik's was the first place I walked to with my son. I got my favorite sandwich and he always serves a generously sized salad to those that eat in with the sandwiches. It was such a relaxed lunch. Thanks, Vahik!
(5)
Aaron B.

Good food. Super friendly service. Lot's of good tasting healthy choices. It's a little on the high side, but you are in La Jolla.
(4)
T T.

I got the MEDITERANIAN BAGEL (Egg, feta cheese, fresh, and tomato) & my husband got the WINDAN SEA BAGEL (Turkey or ham, swiss cheese, tomato, pesto and fresh basil) - both were pretty good. I also got the Chai Latte which was really good as well. The ledy & gentleman behind the counter were friendly. the inside of the place is not that big, but it was cute. Would definitely come back to try out the other bagel sandwiches on their menu
(4)
Brian A.

This an excellent place for lunch. The sandwiches are delicious! The turkey breeze is my favorite. I order it with the chipotle sauce, it never disappoints!
(5)
Allyson F.

Very good place away from the tourists in downtown LJ. I like the owner because he individually helps each customer out with their order. But he's very quick which makes me feel rushed to order. It's all good though. His partner working with him is a friendly and more mellow guy. I really like the salads and sandwich called turkey breeze. I would come back again :)
(4)
Aida G.

Best chai latte in town. the big kahuna tuna sandwich -- also a winner.
(5)
Jenn. D.

Vahik Vartaniaz is one of the most well known fixtures of La Jolla where he started his road stop coffee shop "Cafe Latte," off of La Jolla Blvd. and Nautilus. Come rain or shine Vahik has stood the test of time, weathering the storm and waiting to serve your Latte a Go Go with his effusive grin and well wishes for the day. Now Winanseans are more than stoked to know he has opened his groovy cafe and coffee house across from Su Casa west of La Jolla Blvd. He can serve up some amazing Panini's on the fly, and quality coffee or tea for those who go strong. Wireless ready.
(5)
Katie B.

I was beside myself with excitement when I found this little gem- I work a few blocks from here, and this little corner of La Jolla has to be the least favorable as far as places to find good food- around here you can find a mediocre taco shop, a cheap (and greasy) chinese food place, and a bagel shop where the staff could all use a vacation and some basic cooking skills. But THIS place, Windansea Cafe- it is amazing. Even if I wasn't so disappointed in the other restaurants nearby, this place is still one of my favorite places to grab some coffee or a sandwich. Here's why: the staff. They are awesome! I am a strong believer in the magic of good customer service, and these gals exemplify good, personal customer service. I walk in and instantly feel like I could stay and chat for hours, and when I leave, they actually say a friendly goodbye. I think this speaks very highly of the owner, Vahik, (who is also one of the friendliest guys you'll ever meet- he knows many of his customers by name), who clearly knows how/who to hire. What a refreshing atmosphere. Oh, and the cafe decor is beautiful and soothing, too. My new oasis. Then, there's the food- made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and bagels, there's breakfast, there's coffee (try a Mayan Mocha with a dash of cayenne- it'll really wake ya' up!)..what more could you ask for? I will be having lunch here frequently... :)
(5)
Andrea L.

I come here for lunch often when I'm in San Diego, the bagel sandwiches are super yummy, as are the salads. The best thing about Windansea Cafe is the owner, Vahik, it's so obvious how much he loves food and his restaurant and he draws you into the place with his warmth & the detail he puts into his dishes. It's super YUM, a 5 star Cafe!
(5)
Aaron L.

Found out about this place from the people I work with at Dearinger salon. Food, service and atmosphere are all top notch. The owner is very friendly and makes you feel at home. I recommend getting the special of half sandwich and half salad for 6.95. My choice is the Chickenini with caesar salad. Simply delicious. Will definitely be back!
(5)
Marsha C.

The food here is always fresh & delicious. The owner is also very friendly and kind - would definitely recommend to anyone!
(5)
Alana D.

Vick makes the best sandwiches hands down. I love the spicy turkey sandwich with the spicy pesto sauce! He makes them so fresh and he's super sweet. He knows all the locals and I always have good conversation with him every time I go in. I try to come in once a week because it is worth it. You have to make time because it gets busy! I always call ahead ;)
(5)
Mike R.

Bread on tuna sandwich was warm and crispy. Very delicious.
(4)
Cheryl M.

This place is just average. I was going to be in the neighborhood with a friend and looked on Yelp beforehand to see where a good lunch spot would be. We ended up at Windansea Cafe and the owner was behind the counter with one other employee in the back. We each ordered panini's and a bottled beverage. It took quite a while for us to get our sandwiches, considering we were the only customers there. The owner was VERY nice though and gave us a discout because we mentioned we found him on Yelp. Over all the sandwich was tasty but nothing to write home about. Worth going if you're in the area, but don't make a special trip.
(3)
Josh K.

Just happened to stop by this place driving down La Jolla Blvd - IT'S GREAT! Started with a delicious cup of coffee and ended up staying through lunch - try the Tuna sandwich. It's light (very little or no mayo), has avocado, and a great citrus flavor that really ties it all together. The owner (I think his name is Vahik) is a really witty guy and makes all the food himself.
(5)
Robert S.

As a vegetarian, who has been in the food industry for a decade, trust me.. This place is a welcomed addition to the neighborhood! Friendly, quality, never disappoints!
(5)
Pauline L.

Service: Owner was really nice and suggested I upgrade my chai latte because it was the special of the week or something (I went a couple weeks ago). Wahoo! Drink: Chai tea soy latte was average, not particularly memorable. Atmosphere: Definitely chill although when I first entered, it had this weird sour smell that was nauseating but I eventually got used to it. I ended up studying on my laptop for a couple of hours with no dirty looks, which is a plus since it seems like more of a place to eat than study. Don't recall seeing any outlets. I'll probably go back to try their food and study in the day since they close pretty early. Why does every coffee shop in this area close so early?! :( I'm having to resort to North Park to get my nocturnal studying done...Anyway, the cafe was fairly empty (a lot of people got things to-go) so its definitely a good place to study with enough seating available inside/out. But like I said, it doesn't seem like a studying/study group kind of joint if you're looking for that coffee house feel. North Park is probably better fit for those environments but its still a nice place to go thats closer to where I live. Check it out!
(4)
Jerry C.

Great sandwiches. Tough parking situation. Close walk to ocean. Nice bike stop.
(4)
Becca T.

I love this place. Vahik is so nice and though they're a little slow with getting orders out, I've grown to expect that and now kind of enjoy it because it's nice to just chill out there. Their breakfast bagel sammiches are awesome and the atmosphere is great; totally mellow place to go enjoy some coffee and chow.
(5)
L A.

And the chocolate chip cookies are sinful. I love this place.
(5)
Patrick L.

Food was decent. Moderately priced. People who work there seem nice.
(3)
Chelsie D.

Came here with my girlfriend after reading about it on here and I must say that for the price it was SO good! I got the turkey breeze panini with pesto and caesar salad for $6.95, their daily special, and it was well worth it. The owner was working and was so nice to us and even gave us a free chocolate chip cookie. They also have great coffee drinks! If you are looking for good coffee and something simple like a good panini I highly recommend!
(5)
Sarah S.

The cafe looks just like the pictures posted on yelp, and unfortunately is as small as the pictures depict. However I felt that the furniture and color of the walls was very unique. Came with a friend to study, but I felt that it was a bit dark to study. However there didn't seem to be very many people there, so it was very quiet. Only ordered a hot chocolate- which tasted just like hot chocolate served anywhere else, nothing special.
(2)
Tyler H.

This is a small little cafe in off of La Jolal Blvd that is a good place to grab a quick bite to eat. It is small, not much room inside or outside, but that is what makes it charming. The atmosphere is laid back and the food is great. I had the turkey bagel sandwich and it was reasonably priced. My only complaint is that there is not a whole lot of room to maneuver around when lots of people are inside. Overall, a good place to grab a quick bite to eat.
(3)
Tamar B.

My family and I were visiting some family in La Jolla and were having a difficult time finding anything affordable. This place tastes great and fits the budget! Salads, sandwiches, and soups - great food for a great price, can't beat it!
(5)
D D.

This place is great. Vahik is so nice and recognizes you even if you'd only been there once before. When we were in there, he knew everyone that came in by name. The Mayan Mocha is addicting and the sandwiches are incredible. We had the tuna on the recommendation of our neighbors and the vegetarian. It is rare that you get eggplant cooked to perfection in a sandwich but that's what I found in the vegetarian. The tuna was really great too. Prices were reasonable at around $7 per sandwich. I really like the decor in this place too. It's not that overly conscientious coffee shop look you often find. It's really open with great colors and the seats are placed so you never feel over crowded. They have muffins, croissants, smoothies, and bagel sandwiches too. It seems like a better alternative to the grumpy reception at the bagel shop across the street.
(5)
Mel W.

My friend and I studied here a couple weeks ago. What a cute cafe! I loved the deep blue paint on the walls and the quirky pieces hung up. There's a wide selection of food, but I only ordered the white chocolate mocha. Delicious. I'm definitely returning to try the sandwiches. As for the studying part... the cafe is really small and I couldn't find any outlets for my laptop. Great place to chat with a friend, but not really the ideal cafe to get work done.
(5)
Ashley C.

If you have not been here... You are missing out! I have been getting coffee from Vahik for years and was extremely excited when he opened his cafe. The food is soooo yummy, light, heathly!! Besides being a big fan of windansea cafe... I also worked there. I assure you that the food is as fresh as it gets. What you must try... His mayo less tuna, get it on sandwich or a salad. Another must have is playa del norte salad... Home made dressing makes it a little piece of heaven! Ok.. I could go on and on.... Just try it for urself :)
(5)
Nicole L.

excellent, get the mediterranean, couldn't be better! =) also, the tuna salad is good, its not loaded with mayo (in fact it doesnt have any, which is really rare and good for me since i hate mayo). i feel sorry for this place though, it seems kinda hidden and i wonder how much attention it gets. although, id recommend getting the food to go, as the place is small and doesnt really have any sense of privacy to eat.
(4)
Devin B.

Vahik is one of the hardest working people I have ever met. The result is a great cafe. His attention to detail translates into fantastic food and superior service, all at a price you can't beat. Personally, I love the Ramblin Roast sandwich and my wife is all about the VegOut. If you're around WNS, lunch at Vahik's is a must.
(5)
Shannon D.

Great turkey pesto sammie : ) Love this location. Really glad I stopped in. Very personal, friendly service. The wait was worth it.
(4)
Tim T.

Big thumbs up. At first, I have to admit, I didn't get Vahik and his personality, but i have really grown to like him. I love to support small businesses and this one is easy. Vahik has fresh, healthy, delicious foods for all meals. My current favorite is the Mediterranean bagel. Insanely good for any meal. If you eat in and order a sandwich you get a half salad. Great deal. I'm a local and cafe vahik is at the top of my list.
(4)
Will E.

We pulled in to town a little hungry, but unfamiliar with the local restaurants. Cafe Vahik was close to where we were staying so we figured we give it a shot without bothering to even look up any reviews. What luck on our part that the place is so great, and the owner so friendly! It's a nice little sandwich shop and cafe that has more on the menu than you might think. I had the fresh yellowtail ceviche (it seems they make a ceviche every day, based on the local catch) and my wife had a yellowtail sandwich. Both were excellent, though I thought the ceviche could use a little more kick (I like things a little spicy). Anyway, I'd definitely return. Next time I'll ask for a side of chopped jalepeno though.
(5)
Barb L.

We had heard such great things about Cafe Vahik, and the Yelp reviews were so high, that we were really looking forward to our visit. Unfortunately, the food and drinks fell far short of our expectations. My boyfriend and I both had sandwiches. Mine was OK. He did not like the meat on his and sent it back for something else. He also had a latte and said it wasn't that good. A big disappointment.
(2)
Ellene O.

Since I was in the neighborhood I yelped nearby restaurants and decided to give this cafe a try due to its high ratings. I was fortunate to walk in on an early Monday evening when there were no customers. Like everyone mentioned in the previous reviews, Vahik is really nice and I got to know him a little bit while he was making my food. I ordered the Turkey Breeze (turkey breast, pesto sauce, tomato, romaine lettuce and swiss cheese) on ciabatta bread. (You have a choice of ciabatta, multi-grain, sourdough, or focaccia.) Most of the sandwiches are $6.95 and they're a pretty good size that will fill you up. If you mention Yelp, which I did, he takes $1 off the cost of your sandwich. =) I took my sandwich to go and let my mom try some of it. She LOVED it and liked how thick the turkey slices were. I am definitely coming back to try the other sandwiches on the menu, especially the Big Kahuna that people are raving about on here. I noticed that most of the drinks on the drink menu were coffee/tea but I was craving something fruity. I remember reading a review on here saying that he makes an excellent acai smoothie so I asked for that. (On the menu it's listed as an acai bowl but if you want it in smoothie form, he puts it in a large plastic cup with a 'slurpee' type lid.) The smoothie was $6 but it was worth it because it tasted really good... better than Jamba Juice, in my opinion! I saw that he poured in some strawberries along with the acai berries which gave it a nice flavor--not too sour or too sweet. Overall a great place to eat healthy and get your caffeine/smoothie fix. I'm sure I'll be coming here often since I just started working up the street. :P
(4)
Bre D.

This place is great! I only came in for a coffee and r&r but the customer service is great, coffee is delicious, free wifi, and after speaking with an employee (or owner?) I learned everything on the menu is under $7. I plan on coming back with my husband
(5)
Natalie B.

Very Good! The Medditerranean bagel is the best. It's got eggs scrambled with feta on a bagel of your choice with tomato and basil. Try it on an everything bagel, it's a great combination. Only downside is that the service is a little slow and there is very limited parking. But, that doesn't matter because the food is great!
(4)
Carol N.

This place is one of my to go places for lunch every time I am in San Diego. Their paninis are the best! Vahik, the owner of the cafe who makes the panini also makes the cafe so much better since he is so friendly and interactive with his customers. This place is small and quaint and although you have to find street parking there is usually parking right in front of the shop if you don't go exactly at lunchtime. I also suggest everyone not to go exactly at lunchtime since Vahik gets pretty busy and you might have to wait for your order since lots of working people like to call in and order their paninis to go. Most of their paninis range from $6-$7.50 which is a pretty good deal especially if you eat there. This place also offers a wide variety of drinks from smoothies to lattes and frappes so it's a good study place for people looking to avoid the loud noises and crowd at other popular cafes. It is also located couple streets from La Jolla beach so you can easily order a panini and eat on the beach or stop by after your meal. I would also suggest to eat there and not to-go the paninis since they come with a plate of fresh mixed greens with baby spinach, argula with this sweet and tangy vinaigrette drizzled on with no extra charge. You can choose what type of bread you want from ciabatta, sourdough, multi-grain or focaccia ( I recommend the ciabatta bread!) My favorite paninis are the Chickanini and the Turkey breeze. The Chickanini is a chicken panini with homemade basil pesto sauce, sliced chicken, romaine lettuce, tomato and swiss cheese. The Turkey breeze is basically the same thing except its turkey breast And I always add avocado to my panini which he never charges me for unlike other sandwich places. Both paninis sound simple and they are, but it tastes amazing. The combination of the grilled ciabatta bread and pesto sauce are what really makes the sandwich. So next time your craving for a panini, go to windansea cafe and order any panini with the ciabatta bread!
(5)
Nikita K.

I came here twice and enjoyed it both times. I think it used to be called Windandsea. It's a quaint cafe with coffee drinks, deli style foods, and a peaceful environment. Pros: The owner is super kind and he seems to really care about his customers. I'm used to being given death stares, so his service was a pleasant surprise. If you notice that the place is busy, just plan on waiting a bit longer. He actually makes the food, so you have to be patient for the deliciousness. The cafe is in walking distance of a beautiful and hidden beach. Cons: Parking is a bit of a bummer though. Have to find parking on the street or within the neighborhood. Also, the cafe was a bit difficult to find at first.
(4)
Bucky F.

My buddy and I ate here last week (obviously not locals) and I still want to write a review. Great food: Fish of the day (yellow tail) sandwich was tasty and the ceviche was the best I've had in a long time. Great service too! Thanks again.
(5)
Gretta V.

Vahik's is a gem at WindanSea beach. The food is fresh, delicious and healthy. The location is also excellent - just down the block from the beautiful beach, Vahik's food makes the ideal surf break. I am a vegetarian and this cafe is perfect for me!
(5)
Ann P.

Great little spot to grab some coffee, a breakfast or lunch sandwich. The guy that runs it apparently had a coffee cart back in the day, and has since opened up his own shop. The coffees were all delicious, and the breakfast sandwiches were great! (The Mediterranean was my far my favorite!) So glad to have found this fabulous spot.
(5)
N. H.

Delicious food and AMAZING customer service. I love this place.
(5)
Mama G L.

Recently stayed a week at the motel next door and walked to this place every morning because the coffee was out of this world, nice, relaxed atmosphere...very good quality food served here. The coffee was an organic blend that was heaven....breakfast was wonderful, so good, so fresh, so nicely prepared, and you got so much for the price...this place is wonderful! I only wish I lived in La Jolla so I could go every morning.
(4)
Hyun Jeong C.

Extremely friendly owner. Nice coffee. Large table with power outlet. Loved it!
(5)
Cara C.

Yummy sandwiches, cute location, friendly service and intimate seating.
(3)
Drea C.

Man this place is really great but last time i went in I was treated horribly by the owner! I used to frequent the place but I was pretty insulted and I cannot bring myself to going back. Too bad :(
(2)
Downtownbaby T.

If this place can make a 'macaroon hater' like me, a 'macaroon lover' with their deliciously soft, chewy and decadent log of goodness--they can cure cancer.
(4)
Megan R.

Delicious sandwiches. You cant go wrong with anything on the menu, and the staff is great.
(5)
Natural N.

This quaint little coffe shop also offers a variety of sandos and snacks. It is very convenient to go to on your way through Bird Rock if you are looking for a quiet place to chill out for a bit.
(4)
Kate S.

So after a friend recommended this place, I decided to try it out as a new study spot. As a med student, I'm constantly looking for places to study so that I don't go insane in the library. WOW. It was mostly quiet, though bustling with people in and out and everyone there seemed to be a regular. And trust me, I understand why. The Mediterranean bagel was amazing, as was my vanilla latte--soooo smooth and creamy and the amount of foam on top was perfect. Perhaps the best latte I've ever had. In fact, I had to order two of them because one simply was not enough after I knew how good it was. I was there for almost 5 hours, and though it was busy at lunch time, I never felt like I needed to vacate my table, which is a must for a study spot. The Wi-Fi worked perfectly, and the owner (Vahik) was abundantly friendly. I think that this may become a regular spot of mine. You were right Yasmin:)
(5)
Nicole B.

Yummy yummy yummy. I'll be back. The owner was working and was extremely nice and helpful. The food was delish, and prices were great. I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Cal M.

Nice people but weak coffee. If you're going to serve coffee and espresso drinks, make a commitment: get excellent, fresh coffee beans, grind it in-house and learn to operate your equipment so you get great tasting coffee. Your business will dramatically increase if you do! While you're at it, get excellent, fresh baked goods. Service is friendly, location is great...now fix the grub and you're home-free.
(2)
Jarrod D.

Wow, this place is truly a gem. I keep going in with these custom orders and this place delivers delicious creations every time. The staff are very nice and friendly and I definitely recommend Cafe Vahik to anyone in the neighborhood.
(5)
Erica M.

Went here for lunch and left satisfied. The menu is limited to mostly paninis and bagel sandwiches, with a few salads and soups. Would have liked a larger variety, but if you're looking for a good quality panini or bagel sandwich, look no further! The panini came with a big, delicious helping of mixed greens w/ tasty dressing. I wish the bagel sandwich came with the same.. had to steal some off my boyfriend's plate! Also ordered an iced mocha and it was one of the best I've had (and I've tried MANY!)
(4)
Joyce H.

Mediterranean Bagel. Feta, eggs, fresh tomato and basil- sandwiched in a toasted bagel... MMMMmmmmm... I couldn't comprehend the sensation on my taste buds when I took my first bite! The feta had been cooked in with the eggs, which were soft and fluffy. Oh, and the taste of fresh basil and tomato...! It was kind of amazing... I ordered their Mayan Mocha, which was quite delicious as well. I just had a jackpot experience...
(5)
Trevor G.

Great service, tasty rood, and fair prices. One of the best places to grab a quick sandwich or beverage. Also, they have great breakfast options.
(5)
Chris K.

Delicious panini sandwiches! The owner Vahik always has the freshest and best quality coffee brewed. I also had their latte which was superb! The chickanini is delicious and a definite favorite among most of the customers that frequent Windansea Cafe! Go here for a tasty lunch or for some coffee that beats Starbucks by miles!
(5)
Kristi G.

They don't have lox sandwiches anymore, which was really sad. Hopefully, they'll bring it back. This sandwich shop is delicious! They have great quality bread and meats for very cheap prices, and I've loved everything I've tried there. And when you get your food, you do get the impression that they handle them with care. There is usually only one person working so it is pretty slow. But the coffee is self-serve and if you see Vihik working, he is always smiling, which makes the wait much more enjoyable.
(4)
Destinie Z.

Met a friend here around 1pm for a quick bite and this was the perfect place for it! Never been to La Jolla area so I just yelped places (duh) and saw some good reviews and recommendations for the yellowtail here. I ordered the yellowtail sandwich on ciabatta bread WOWWOWOW y'all weren't kidding when you said it was delicious! Super fresh and perfect on a crispy ciabatta roll topped with tomato, avocado and a lemon vinaigrette. Sandwich comes with a side salad at no extra charge. So much food for reasonable prices and a cute shop for brunch or lunch. It's also really nice that they let you pay for your meal after you're done eating.
(5)
Emily P.

Came here with my friend on a sunny Saturday morning before venturing to the conveniently close Windansea Beach. The staff was very friendly and, judging on the fact that a young boy was bussing the tables, appeared to be a family. Obviously I ordered coffee because functioning without caffeine is out of the question. My friend ordered a dirty chai latte, which she said was delicious. The coffee was fine, I mean it was just black coffee so nothing to rave about. Our food was served very quickly to our surprise because the restaurant was relatively busy. I had the Ham Diegan, which was just as delicious as its name is punny. It came with a side salad which I am pretty sure was just lettuce, but I didn't even know that it came with one when I ordered so I suppose that isn't a deal breaker. There are different breads to choose from and trying to be healthy, I ordered it on wheat. It was a tad bit to wheaty and somewhat hard to chew... but still a good sandwich. On every table there was an extensive collection of hot sauces. Yes, I was in heaven. Ham sandwiches don't normally go with hot sauce, but it was necessary to try each one. A mysterious black liquid caught my eye - I had never seen black hot sauce. Probably for good reason. It tasted like spicy gasoline. If you feel the need to test out the sauces, take caution; that may have taken a few years off of my life. Besides leaving the cafÃ© with a disgusting taste in my mouth, the food was altogether good and the experience pleasant (except of course from that hot sauce). And it was an added plus that the quaint Windansea Beach is so close.
(4)
Adam W.

That 1 star review is way out of line. Coffee was too hot?? Invest in a thermometer?? Are you kidding me?? Yes there is one person working the register while prepping and serving food but that did not translate into lack of service by any means. People were steadily coming in and being served promptly. Half of the customers were clearly regulars as she had their orders memorized. I ordered the veggie omelet and it was phenomenal, the basil, garlic, and feta made for the best veggie omelet I've ever had. The iced latte was above average as well. If I'm ever in the area again, I'll certainly visit again.
(5)
Manushak A.

One of the best cafes I've been to and the prices were very reasonable! I loved the TJ turkey panini on whole grain and it even came with a side salad!
(5)
Kara P.

When your girlfriend says, "I feel like salad for lunch"....venture to the yellow awning. Youthful Mom and Pop Cafe serving up California dishes which are healthy and fresh. This place serves up the Seinfeld Big Salad. Known for their self proclaimed Best Ceviche, we were drawn in. Park your bike along the side and sit in some of the belly bar tables outside. Order in and pay after you eat. They also serve Breakfast all day. Ceviche comes with a side of chips and slivers of avocado which is perfect for a snack or appetizer for a few to share. We also ordered the yellowtail on ciabatta bread and the chickini sandwich. All lunches come with the huge side salad of generous proportions lightly drizzled with a vinaigrette. This is such a California moment when you have more salad and side hot sauces on the table and you can't fit your big ass iphone6 plus anywhere on the table. Friendly service and neighborhood gem, this place is my go to lunch place after a night out of red meat red wine intake. Now bike or walk down to the beach for the rest of the afternoon.
(5)
R K.

Was there for the first time. Super friendly staff and very nice place to grab breakfast or brunch (in my case.) Prices were extremely reasonable. I tried their yellowtail sandwich and it was a bomb!! Super fresh and yummy. I felt so full. Cannot wait to go back and try other items on their menu.
(5)
Sylvia G.

During the last week of April, I came here on Wednesday morning at 840am with my husband, after taking a long walk around the cove on our staycation week as we live in San Diego. There was one lady prepping food for serving, actually serving, working register, making lattes and dealing with food to go....ONE!!! There weren't many people, three tables of two outside and two individuals waiting inside. It took her forever to acknowledge me standing there and waiting to place a coffee order....it took forever to order. Finally a guy showed up from the kitchen and took my latte coffee order (simple...two triple non fat large lattes). The coffee was extremely hot and we burnt our tongs, it was milky which suggested it wasn't 100% non fat as I requested, you couldn't taste the coffee flavor (cheap coffee)....we grabbed our coffee and went to the beach to drink it. No smell, no flavor...no enjoyment. We didn't finish it and went to a coffee shop 3 blocks further in the La Jolla Village. Advice: spend more money on a solid quality coffee, get more staff to support, invest in thermometer to measure temp while heating up the milk and don't misrepresent that you just served them with "non fat" coffee...if you are out of skim milk just be honest because you can taste it!!!! I know there are regulars that love your cafe, but paying attention to non-regulars goes a long way and this is why you got a not so good review from a non regular.
(1)
Mariah D.

Absolutely AMAZING service. I walked in not really sure what I wanted, and even though she was very busy, the dark haired, accented girl at the counter did everything she could to find me something I wanted and have me stay for breakfast. Between her great service and the delicious aroma wafting through the air, I had no choice but to stay.
(5)
Jackie C.

HELL YES. bombbbbbbbbb salads! This place is a hidden gem if you ask me. I had the best yellowtail salad ever- it was massive and so so fresh! I can't wait to come back and try something else. I saw a couple bagel sandwiches that looked awesome! The guys that work here are the sweetest and everything is prepared with love.
(5)
Ricardo S.

Great food and service! The Ham Diegan panini was awesome, not to mention it also comes with a little green salad on the side. This was a nice little place to come by and relax after a long day. I will definitely be back.
(5)
Arlene P.

Small joint on the corner of La Jolla Blvd and Playa Del Norte, formerly known as the WindanSea Cafe. Look for the yellow awning. I enjoyed sitting out on their patio watching the world go by on a sunny day after enjoying Windansea beach. It's a bit dark and cramped inside for my taste. Unfortunately that day, there were a few flies outside, but I was wiling to swat away to protect my territory. I can recommend that you try any of their coffee drinks - I had an iced mocha- and enjoy a nice big salad, because that's what I had. Their salads are huge! I had the yellowtail salad. (see my pictures) They offer a plethora of hot sauce on the tables, which I think would go great on one of their omelettes one day. I hope to return to enjoy their breakfast selections and sandwiches.
(4)
Ann J.

Really enjoyed the breakfast special. Was enough for Mom and me. Went on Sunday morning, prime post church time, no crowd, good for us. Very attentive staff. If I were to stay at the Travelodge, I would breakfast or snack here.
(5)
Yasmin C.

Just stopping in to say that Cafe Vahik is still my favorite place in San Diego :) My husband and I moved to Houston last summer, but recently made our first trip back and of course made a beeline for our beloved Windansea coffee shop. I stand behind my usual breakfast items, the Mediterranean bagel with egg whites on a good grain bagel and the chai latte with nonfat milk (I have yet to find a coffee drink in Houston that even comes close :/ ). However, Vahik has added so many other enticing-looking things that I will one day try! If anything, the food has gotten even more delicious and the service quicker! We stopped by twice during our few days in San Diego, and it still wasn't enough! We'll be back, though. No matter how far away we live, we'll always be back! Thanks Vahik :)
(5)
Deniz A.

Staying at the overrated Travellodge with their crappy breakfast, I ended up next door at Cafe Vahik. The outdoor seating is pretty comfertable. Their food is just amazing!! The chicken panini on a ciabatta was simply amazing. Can't get closer to the European taste. If you eat in, you get salad for free which also gives you the feeling being healthy. And they're not bothered if you ask for a little adjustment like I did by adding some olives and feta. Friendly service, and hard workers. Worth every penny!!!
(5)
Cailey B.

The owner is really nice and you can tell he is passionate about what he does. I always have to stop by before I head to windansea beach!
(5)
Kim D.

Tried this place for the first time and I must admit they have amazing bagels! I created mine , egg white with veggies , loved it. Great service.
(5)
NM Z.

Found this place while on a family vacation in La Jolla. The cafe is a short walk to the beach and offers delicious coffee and food. The owner makes an effort to get to know his customers and I felt like a regular by the end of my trip. Not to mention they offer the best chai latte I've found. Looking forward to visiting again on my next vacation!
(5)
Damon T.

Super friendly owners and very good food as well. It was within walking distance of our hotel, so we popped in. I had bagel with lox and it was excellent. Friends had spinach omelette and eggs/bacon/toast plate and they also looked very good. Coffee is excellent. Small patio with 3 tables - larger inside. A very good choice for a quick breakfast or lunch. Not a huge menu but everything we tried was very good.
(4)
Kay K.

Impressive well priced spot in La Jolla. Have your breakfast here and you will not be disappointed. Great service, fast, friendly, and quaint. The California omelet was fresh and tasty. It comes with bread. I also had a latte. It was delicious and not to sweet. There is parking on the streets and they have chocolate, muffins, and lots of beverages.
(5)
EM B.

Delicious food, big portions, very friendly and helpful staff, and they Love dogs! What more could you ask for! I run here most mornings for an Acai Bowl mmmm!
(5)
Lindsay H.

I had the Yellowtail salad, and I have to say that it was probably one of the most enjoyable salads I have ever had! usually I look down my nose at salads because if a food is not hot and not savory, then it is not a meal in my book. However, the rave reviews convinced me to try it, and I was pleasantly surprised! They give you a generous portion of deliciously seasoned fish in a huge bowl with a humungo serving of fresh garden mix veggies. I finished the entire thing and I didn't hate myself afterwards! The location itself had a lot of annoying flies and the service is a little tense because they're so busy, but I would say that it's worth it just because you can tell the food is made with love love love. I think next time I'd like to get the salad to go and eat it on the beach. Perfection.
(4)
Deb A.

Cafe Vahik is that rare small place that serves exceptional simple and fresh food in a very sweet and kind atmosphere, We went with a group of 6 for breakfast and had wonderful farm bagels with goat cheese, spinach and eggs. The lox bagels were great too. Everything was so good that we went back for lunch for the incredible ceviche and yellow tail salad.
(5)
Travis C.

The breakfast here is simple yet fantastic! I've never enjoyed a veggie omelette like this one. It was the first time I've had an omelette with eggplant, and the basil added the perfect flavor mixture with all of the vegetables. The spinach & feta omelette is great as well. I enjoyed a love shake as well as my espresso. Thank you to this establishment for a perfect environment and fantastic food as well as the good impression it had on my girlfriend.
(5)
Bruce M.

Cafe Vahik is a godsend. Friendly owner and staff, friendly customers, and great food and coffee. The coffee is excellent (perfect temp) and very tasty. I ate breakfast and lunches here four days recently and couldn't have felt more welcome. The "locals only" vibe was never evident. Thanks Vahik!
(5)
Patrick C.

I worked here for a summer back in 2011, and I have to say that this cafe is flawless from both sides of the counter. Vahik is such a great person, and his food is made with incredible attention to detail and quality. I now find myself returning as a customer often throughout each week. Best food and coffee around -- not to mention the atmosphere is relaxed and cool. Highly suggest!
(5)
Mark K.

An intimate little shop that's sure to please. I came in on a Sunday afternoon and ordered a ciabatta with turkey, avocado, melted cheese. It was resting next to a bed of romaine with a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar. The food was well prepared and the taste made that evident. I'm itching to come back soon and try another sandwich or possibly one of their salads. The whole menu really looked enticing. Cafe Vahik is definitely on my personal radar now, I'll be back to sample some more in the near future.
(4)
Stephen M.

Discovered by accident this small, friendly, inexpensive cafe with an excellent California Omelet, good coffee & a good pleasant staff. If you want a good start to your day, STOP HERE FIRST.
(5)
Brian S.

My (future) wife and I walk here on weekends to savor the coffee and breakfast sandwiches that only Cafe Vahik can offer. Their approach, service, and consistency deserve our praise. I love this place! Take a drive to La Jolla and stop here before you walk the sand. Its worth every bit. Thank me later.
(5)
Jodi A.

This is a great place to grab a panini by the beach! The owner suggested the yellowtail sandwich and said it's his best seller. It looked and smelled delicious but we just weren't in the mood for fish. He also suggested the TJ turkey which sounded good to us and did not disappoint. It was turkey, a chipotle pesto, fontina cheese, avocado, and tomato served with a generous side salad. The bread was a sourdough perfectly crispy for the panini. They have a great selection of hot sauces. My fiancÃ© has a large selection of hot sauces. When we came across one we had never seen before, with his favorite Mexican pepper the chiltepin, we had to take a bottle home with us. Delicious! Solid panini and warm service. We will be back.
(4)
Yihan N.

We live by the side hotel so we came there 3 days in a row. Yellowtail sandwich is not as good as expected but others that we had tried are excellent! Salads are super generous and their homemade dressing is very fresh and tasty. I also would recommend the omelet which has crispy bacon inside!! The hostess is someone that is super cool and "the women living by the sea".
(5)
Jack M.

This is a great little coffee shop and cafe. They not only provide great organic coffee, but they also make some great bagel sandwiched, such as the Mediterranean bagel breakfast sandwich I had on this visit. ( yelp.com/biz_photos/cafeâ€¦ ) I had them make my sammi on a toasted multi-grain bagel which they filled with fluffy and very well seasoned scrambled eggs, freshly sliced tomatoes, fresh sprigs of basil, and some excellent salty feta cheese ( yelp.com/biz_photos/cafeâ€¦ ). The bagel sandwich together with its ingredients tasted great, but that creamy feta did a great number on its flavor profile. The Ethiopian organic coffee was very good as well and provided a smooth rich flavor. I hope they keep serving this coffee. The place has a nice small patio outside along the front with some high bar type chairs ( yelp.com/biz_photos/cafeâ€¦ ), and a some comfortable seating inside.
(4)
Ami W.

All time favorite salads in La Jolla! Love this guy - fresh delicious yellow tail on the Playa Del Norte salad is the best!!
(5)
Alan G.

We come here almost every weekend. The salads and sandwiches are amazing! The yellowtail and Vahik house salads are our favorites. The portions are generous and all the ingredients are high quality. Great prices (especially for La Jolla) and the owner is very nice.
(5)
Lu G.

TOP TIER Amazing food and great customer service. The ceviche and the yellowtail salad are my top two followed closely by the Vahik salad. The husband/wife team are really attentive and couldn't be more accommodating. I just started working in the neighborhood and now I find myself having lunch there at least three times a week. So tasty
(5)
Roberto C.

Grabbed some lunch for the beach. I ordered a sandwich forgot the name but it was good it hit the spot. Girlfriend had a Caesar salad with chicken was good but wasn't that great wouldn't order it again little pricey but I would stop by if I'm ever in the area. Definitely try it if in the area.
(3)
JT T.

Five stars for the coffee's! We had the best latte's, mocha's, hot chocolates and straight up black. Five stars also for the owner who is kind and makes you feel like family. I can't speak to the food , only had a delicious sesame bagel. Stop in and say hi !
(5)
Love S.

It's almost like a hole in the wall place. The restaurant is a bit tiny. It is definitely packed at rush hour. But, they have great food and great drinks! Parking is easy, and wifi is assessed from next door hotel.
(5)
Dan S.

It's been three years since posting my review of what I consider the best cafe establishment in the universe, and it just keeps upping it's game. So, why this update?? Because, based on the reviews, the biggest turnoff is the possible wait time when the place is busy. That is understandable, and they have addressed it.. How? You can call in your order before arriving (you've always been able to do that). If it's to go, he'll have it all nicely packed up for you.. if it's to eat in, I don't know, I've never had a problem finding a couple of seats or an empty table.. but your order will be ready and seating seems to turn quickly. If it's really busy, he'll tell you on the phone how long it will be.... So, if you are worried about the wait, call first, and he'll tell you what to expect. Wait problem solved. And, since my last review, they really have created the" world's best ceviche", and now, also a lox bagel??? Ordered that today and yes! .... that was a great fresh lunch you won't find at many places. BTW, maybe it's just me, but I've only seen the place "too busy" a couple of times in many years. I'm usually in and out in less than thirty minutes...
(5)
Omar H.

Super friendly and warm owners, they make you feel at home (this is a rarity in Southern Cali). Get the yellowtail salad and ceviche, they are unbelievable! 5 stars :)
(5)
Kevin B.

Don't be fooled by its blasÃ© appearance. It feels like a warm, buttery blueberry muffin when you enter inside. The staff is friendly, everything on the menu is delicious and Mojan is always quick to help you define what you are truly craving. Next time you're in La Jolla, make a stop at Vahik's. You'll leave with a smile on your face, guaranteed!
(5)
Amy S.

I love this place. The food is fresh and tasty, the service is quick, and it has a laid-back, beachy vibe that makes it a perfect weekend spot.
(4)
Sally M.

I've made a big mistake...why haven't I been here sooner? I live within walking distance and am kicking myself for not frequenting Cafe Vahik. I believe it was the owner who was working, but he recommended the yellowtail sandwich special, so I ordered that. It was only $7 and so good! The yellowtail is grilled quickly with garlic and avocado is included in the sandwich. The sandwich is very filling, a little messy, but well worth the effort. I would make sure that after eating the sandwich, you either brush your teeth or have a mint handy; there was a good amount of garlic. ;-) I ordered my sandwich to go, so I'm not sure if that's the reason why I didn't get a side salad (like others have), but I was full from my sandwich, so didn't need a side salad. And it didn't take long at all to get my sandwich to go. Pricing is very reasonable and if you check-in on yelp, they are currently offering $2 off any salad. I'll be back to try out more of their sandwiches and salads soon. They do have free wi-fi and a small patio with high top seating. Street parking only.
(4)
Micah M.

The ceviche is the best I've ever had and I've had some good ceviche. This place might be my favorite cafe all time.
(5)
Tony T.

The food and coffee was wonderful. I came in and was asked what I would like, then directed to help myself with coffee and take my seat they will bring out my food. I helped myself to the wonderful coffee and sat outside on the deck, very gorgeous morning. I sat drinking my coffee, reading and taking in the beauty surrounding me. A half hour went by and I still have not received my order. The lovely waitress came out to clear another table and I asked how much longer my order would be. She ask what my order was and how long I have been waiting, I informed her and she immediately apologised and made sure my order came out next. She brought my food and again apologised and told me it's on the house. Customer service in this place is A1. I am definitely returning and bringing my friends. I highly recommend this little cafe if you're ever in the area. Bravo!
(5)
Neal L.

Fantastic little spot! The food is always great and the owner is such a nice guy. I keep coming back and have never been disappointed.
(5)
Natalie L.

What a gem! Super cute and homey cafe with great coffee, yummy and affordable food (breakfast is served all day!), and wonderful service by the owners! The food is made with fresh ingredients and much love. Thank you so much, CafÃ© Vahik!
(5)
Silas H.

I only went in for an iced tea, but the folks who work in there are super nice and helpful. I watched them make food while my tea steeped and it all looked incredible--lots of fresh ingredients, and all made right there in front of you. Can't wait to go back for lunch.
(5)
Jake C.

I live in the neighborhood and have been coming to Vahiks everyday for years. Great coffee, great food and awesome staff!
(5)
Ben C.

Great little cafe. I had a California omelette one time and their yellow tail sandwich another. Both were delicious. You can tell they really try and get quality ingredients. Very evident in the really good quality tomatoes and bread they use. I'd return if ever in the La Jolla area.
(5)
Ashley R.

Amazing food, good quality and good presentation! Espresso not the best everything else amazing!
(5)
Djohara H.

I know, I know, went yesterday for the 1st time and couldn't help but to come back today... I ordered a Vahik house salad: it's delicious, super fresh, very healthy and very simple, plus it's enormous so you don't need to buy anything extra (my wallet is grateful) to make it through the day without any unexpected carb cravings... Service is super kind. Why can't I live here in this paradise lap called Windandsea and become a regular? Life is sometimes unfair...
(5)
Mary P.

We have only been to this little gem for breakfast one time. We ordered the three egg breakfast special for $6. Included was three strips of perfectly cooked bacon and delicious grilled bread of choice. I suggest the sourdough. Eggs were well prepared. This little cafe was clean. Friendly service. Nice looking menu.
(5)
Sally P.

I wish I could leave way more then just 5 stars. Not only is their food the most fresh, & incredibly flavorful, & their portions are beyond generous... The people that own & run it are some of the most kind hearted individuals that I have ever met at an establishment. I am a local in Windansea, & every time I come in (at least 2 to 3 times a week) I am greeted with smiles & they never forget my name. It's more like coming to have breakfast or lunch with friends, rather then just going to a "cafe" or "restaurant" They take pride in making every customer feel like home. If you're ever in the Windansea area, you'll know you'll have a wonderful experience at Cafe Vahik. Going to miss this place when I'm in NY this summer!!!!
(5)
Eric C.

Fantastic Mediterranean bagel. Egg, basil, tomato on a yummy bagel. Super nice people...friendly, kind & inviting. Best wishes from Detroit! We love this place. We spend 2 weeks a year in La Jolla and every morning we want that bagel sammie. Damn, its good.
(5)
Jeanene E.

His salads are insanely delicious, especially the yellowtail salad!! So divine....yum!! His sandwiches, his acai bowl, his coffees, his everything....can't go wrong!!
(5)
Kaitlin K.

I'm staying at the Holiday Inn Express right next to this amazing cafe--and we've only been here 3 times in 4 days. Not enough!!!! This place is so wonderful and I wish I could find the equivalent in LA. Vahik and his team were so helpful and quick and nice! We really didn't try many types of food because we tried their American bagel with egg and bacon and cheese and we loved it so much that we got it again and again. Quick and delicious and not expensive!! Their coffee is life changing though. We came back a few times just for coffee--I got their iced coffee with milk and vanilla and my mom got the red eye. Really strong coffee and SO addicting!!! If you're in the area, you gotta stop here! If anything, come in for the good vibes and caffeine fix. Keep up the great work, Vahik!
(5)
Ido W.

Bottom line: The food was good, the service was not The Pros: The food was good. We got an omelette, a Mediterranean bagel and a salad. All were very good. The salad is huge. Be prepared to eat it with someone. The Cons: The chef (owner?) would not show any flexibility as to the size of the salad (which we were hoping to get as a side dish for the bagel and omelette). It was basically "eat it, throw it away, take it with you - there is only one size". The person at the cash register seemed constantly annoyed. It was frankly unpleasant to talk to her.
(3)
TOM A.

i went here on the yelp reviews which i now think are fixed- totally plain place right on the road- good deal and decent food but we were in LAJOLLA and wanted a lajolla experience- this is NOT. Ater wasting our time here we went a few blocks away and there was an awesome waffle house we wished we went for. Nothing against this establishment or the food- but its not a upscale place and the reviews seemed to infer otherwise. Good food for the price- just be ready for a diner on the side of the street.
(2)
Shira B.

Love this place, it's always wonderful, the service, the food, the drinks, highly recommended!
(5)
Leslie A.

The salads are amazing, the bagels are delicious, the location is excellent, and the protein smoothie is perhaps the best I have ever had (including ones I make for myself)! Nice outdoor seating to take a quick stroll from the beach and grab a bite to eat in the shade, I definitely recommend this as a breakfast / lunch / brunch place if you are by Windansea beach or the La Jolla beaches area!
(5)
Lori D.

Excellent food! Fresh ceviche with a side salad makes for a beautifully healthy lunch! My first time here, I will be back!! Yum!
(5)
Matt G.

I ordered the fruit smoothie and the acai bowl here. The smoothie was fresh and delicious. But I had to wait almost 40 minutes for the acai bowl!
(3)
Tim K.

So I'm trying out a new coffee spot everyday for a month, and this place was my stop for yesterday. Had the spinach omelette. So bomb, and you can tell it was healthy. Sometimes you can just taste the difference between good ingredients and generic Von's ingredients. The place is a bit dark, but seems like a cool spot for high school/college students to get work done. The photography on the walls could use some improvement, but as far as the food/coffee - spot on. Friendly staff too.
(5)
Sulo K.

Friendly from the moment you step right through the door. Vahik and Mogi both greet every single person as they walk in. The menu they have is excellent, the food they serve is quality, the price is very reasonable for the portion they offer. This is definitely a hidden gem if I have ever found one. I recommend this cafe to anyone. Make sure you check out Cafe Vahik next time you are in the La Jolla area or just feel like grabbing a bite to eat. Thanks!
(5)
Amy D.

WOW.... How amazing!!!! I am an avid yelper and this, by far, is the most well-deserved 5 star rating I have given!!!!! So welcoming as we walked in. Vahik and his employees were super nice :) The food..... YUM. I got the Vahik's house salad with chicken on top (cooked perfectly! Not dry, just right). IT WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! SO BIG, SO TASTEFUL! Mike got the Yellowtail salad... Just as good if not better than mine! The fish was perfect. We live a few houses away and we will now be eternal regulars. Organic, fresh, and a homey spot.. With wifi!!!! Don't know what else to say.... Amazing. :) :)
(5)
Victoria K.

Ate here for the first time with my boyfriend and it was AMAZING. The owner was extremely polite and made sure that all his customers were acknowledged. We both had the veg-out panini which came with a huge side of salad with a yummy honey mustard dressing. I was so satisfied and we both cleared our plates in a matter of seconds. I'll definitely be coming back here and recommending the place to all my friends.
(5)
Lisa W.

My husband and I had the yellow tail on sourdough and multi-grain. Yes, the food is fabulous! The delivery of food is very speedy. The owner offers a salad with a just right citrus vinegarette. This salad is included with the sandwich. The portions are huge. That's a plus. We couldn't eat all of ours, so we asked for a to go box. The owner wrapped them and handed me the bag. I asked where the rest of the salad was? The owner said salad is complimentary for dine in ONLY! He threw it away. Quirky. Not necessary. He did not mention this policy. (I would have finished the salad or paid to have it wrapped). Bottom line, food is fabulous, speedy service, great location for access to the beach. Be prepared for quirky behavior from owner.
(4)
Eaton M.

Small quaint seems family owned Solid omelette You can tell all the ingredients are fresh and smiling faces everywhere nice little place on a perfect little day
(5)
Kate K.

My favorite place for breakfast! A high quality of products, always fresh, very welcoming and delicious! Feel like i am home every time i come here! Thank you, guys!
(5)
Asha M.

My favorite local joint! Best Love shake in town...made with dates, banana, honey and a bit of peanut butter. My other favorite is the cerviche and the yellowtail salad is awesome! The owners are a delight and it's always fun to catch up with them and friends here.
(5)
Jim S.

Was in La Jolla for my daughters wedding and by chance discovered this gem! We had breakfast there the fist day and where hooked, food was fresh and coffee was tremendous! We returned every day we stayed in La Jolla. Lunch menue is excellent and ordered several sandwichs and wraps for the entire wedding party, once again everything was prepared to perfection. Vahik and Mogi greeted us every morning and inquired about the wedding they made our visits to the Cafe very personable. A great gem to have a meal when in La Jolla
(5)
Ellen P.

Tucked in a building in DTLJ, this is a cute cafe to grab a quick lunch or to sit and get some work done. Because of the lack of foot traffic, it's usually a pretty quiet cafe unlike many other cafes in DTLJ. FOOD: Paninis are great! I usually get a half panini half salad and it fills me up. The iced teas are mediocre but the coffee is great! SERVICE: The staff is very friendly :)
(3)
C W.

Bagel sandwich and coffee (or iced mocha) from here is the best way to start a day! Then walk down to the beach to watch the surfers. There is a selection of several types of bagel sandwiches, omelettes, or the classic eggs & bacon. Service is super fast and polite. Seating is first come first serve. This place isn't nearly as insanely crowded as some brunch places closer to PB.
(5)
Terra C.

Decent food and coffee. Close enough to home to walk so that's nice, but it's a little disorganized. You order food and drink separate, they bring you the food, but then you have to wait in line again afterwards to pay. Wish it was just a little bit more cohesive.
(3)
Jade L.

Came in here on Thursday morning. Guy at counter was busy on the phone. Offer me a sign of acknowledgement, an apologetic look, don't just ignore me. But I was ignored for a good five minutes. No apology either when he was done with the call. Ordered mayan mocha as many people suggested. Good, but a bit too sweet for my taste. Personal preference I guess. Coffee = good. Service = left something to be desired.
(3)
Kayla G.

so so so so good! YELLOWTAIL is the bomb there! not too expensive considering it is in La Jolla and quick and very nice owner, I have never not liked what I have ordered, I deeply enjoy the yellowtail sandwhich, chickenini, california bagel, fruit smoothie!!! Go check it out!
(5)
Chris L.

Great little spot for breakfast, close to the beach too! Friendly service and good vibes!
(5)
Elizabeth A.

It's so obvious this place cares about your experience here. They are so self-aware. It's like I'm a real person instead of just more profit in their pocket! The coffee is just alright, very average. The smoothies are great! The food can be substituted to meet your needs. The blender and family friendly atmosphere make it difficult to study here. Sometimes I stop by just to soak up the caring vibes and do some leisure reading. A stop by here followed by a walk to the beach is the perfect way to break the spell on any foul day.
(4)
Jared D.

The owner is lovely. He truly cares about creating deliciously flavored food. The coffee is terrific, and I loved the vibe. Friendly and really wonderful. I'd go back!
(5)
Jules F.

Magical little hideaway place with sensational food, ambiance and lotsa love in the food. The coffee (Cafe Americano) was truly delectable! Owner takes order and is personable and conscientious. Vahik's has a diversified menu with many healthy choices. Check out my breakfast sandwich in my photo.
(5)
Michelle M.

We came here today for breakfast based on the good reviews and awesome pictures of food we've seen on yelp. So we wanted to check this place out. Maybe we should have come on a different day. This was a hectic visit to the location. It is very small there were no open tables, I wasn't sure if we were supposed to order at the food bar or wait for a table. Everyone looked like they were working their absolute hardest to make the food and serve the guests. Once we were finally helped, our service was not pleasant. The woman was so stressed and anxious to get our order and move on. She was rude when I asked a question about something coming on the sandwich and told me to look at the menu. (Which I couldn't read without standing right beneath) and couldn't seem to find any other paper menus around the place. The trash can was out of sight in the very back corner of the place also. Overall-My friends loved their food the garlic feta on the omelette is amazing.
(3)
Joseph R.

My buddy brought me here to this cafe/restaurant on La Jolla Blvd. I found simple and tasty (& affordable) food, no drama or attitude from the staff, no long lines, also it's air conditioned which is nice during the heat wave in September. Bonus they have free wifi. This is just a nice little cafe to grab a bite to eat or a coffe. They have indoor and also some outdoor seating. Parking can be a challenge in this part of town. Overall a really nice place to grab a quick bite to eat or coffee. I would rather come here on a weekend than stand in line at places like the Mission or Broken Yolk
(4)
Elizabeth M.

A great spot for breakfast. I've been here twice and had the Farmers bagel sandwich and the breakfast special. Both meals were very fresh and cooked perfectly. The drip coffee was excellent and the service was outstanding!
(5)
Patrick C.

Vahik hired me for a summer during one of his early years. From the back of the restaurant to the front, this place is truly wonderful. Vahik cares more about quality and service than anyone I've ever met. He's also an amazing chef and barista. Thanks, Vahik.
(5)
Froilin A.

Such an amazing cafe!!! My brother and I were in the area and we were looking for a place to check out and to try something new. I checked out some nice quiet not too pricey cafes all were nice but trying this place was the best choice yet. The owners were absolutely friendly and had amazing customer service. I'm definitely coming back to this place again. You can never go wrong with getting the ceviche (: or the yellowtail sandwich!!
(5)
Charlie N.

Omg, the turkey breeze sandwich was "To Die" for. Friendly staff, individual attention. I'll be back.
(5)
Stephan B.

Enjoyed a latte and the Mediterranean bagel. Delicious and not too heavy. Small shack, friendly staff, great food - what else do you need ?
(5)
Linda H.

Found a local gem! Friendly owner and staff. Excellent food and drinks. I highly reccomend the bagel sandwiches. Don't miss out!
(5)
Emily T.

I have been coming to this location for years! The neighborhood is delightful and the staff are very friendly and the food is reasonably priced and VERY DELICIOUS. I enjoy the chai tea latte and the Mediterranean bagel in the mornings and the chickenini for lunch. :) enjoy!
(5)
Colleen S.

Stayed right next door and came to this great friendly cafe every morning for coffee and breakfast. The spinach omelet with feta is amazing and the coffee hot and fresh. Wonderful, friendly service. We'll be back next time we're in La Jolla!
(5)
jill h.

We just stopped here on the way to the la jolla cove...so delicious! We were initially just going to get coffee but I ended up getting a spinach and roasted red pepper omelette as well! I was not disappointed. The owner is very kind and sociable!
(5)
Parker M.

This place was GREAT. The owners here are always impossibly friendly, very involved in their business (do they ever take a day off?!), and the food is great. The quantities are perfectly large. A single breakfast bagel sandwich is plenty for a big eater. The blended coffee drinks are delicious. The yellowtail sandwich or salad is just killer, and you're gonna love the ceviche. The service and friendly atmosphere are where they really shine. Who tells *strangers* that they can sit down, their food will be brought out to them, and they can pay after they're done eating?! There's few places in this world where you're treated with such hospitality. Maybe that's why the owner, Vahik, knows nearly every customer who walks in the door, refers to them by name, and remembers their regular drink and food orders. Love this cafe!!
(5)
Annie K.

Came here for the salad on an extremely hot day in La Jolla! I was definitely drawn to this place because of the check-in offer. I was very pleased about my yellowtail salad!!! The yellowtail was cooked to perfection, soft, and with the right spices. It wasn't salty and the dressing complimented it very well! I would love to come back again!!!
(5)
Chillin G.

I think vahiks has gotten better recently! The moon and stars are aligned to create better avocados, or maybe vahik upped his game. some say the world will end in fire, others say it will end in ice. i dont know why i wrote that but vahik house salad is whats good right now.
(5)
Z S.

Amazing cappuccino, great ceviche, super friendly service! Has a really nice independent feel.
(5)
Nina M.

The spinach omelette was really good. There was a lot of vegetable in the omelette. This is the first time that we come here and we would come back if we are in the neighbourhood.
(4)
Justin H.

Place is really really really good. Literally everything I've had here is awesome. Acai bowls are good as well as every sandwich. Get there.
(4)
Brad G.

Great California omelette. Good neighborhood spot for yummy breakfast.
(4)
Marvin C.

Was on a trip down to San Diego and craving a panini. We looked up restaurants on Yelp and this place was highly rated. We stopped in and ordered two paninis. The owner was extremely friendly and advised that he throws in a free side salad when customers dine in. The food was absolutely delicious. Grilled to perfection and the turkey wasn't deli meat, but rather seemed freshly roasted or grilled. Just extreme yumminess all around at a very reasonable price. I would definitely recommend this place and plan on trying their other paninis next time.
(5)
Kimberly K.

amazing service! I got the house salad and it was soooo good, brimming with yummy fresh greens, pine nuts and goat cheese. The owner is very personable too, you can tell he cares about the food and customers.
(5)
Carolyn B.

Cafe Vahik has been visited by me many times and I am very impressed with the services every time I've got. It was as good as was tried for the first time. I liked this place very much. Especially for groups wants to hang out.
(4)
M M.

I'm so glad that I stumbled upon this place. I'd suggest considering this spot if you're thinking about heading to Sttarbucks or Peets to get a little work done. This cafe has better food and is locally owned. I also just had the most amazing yellowtail sandwich, so I'll be coming back.
(5)
Lina L.

Came here after reading great recommendations from Yelp and this place does not disappoint. The owner runs the cafe and seeing that we are new here, he was extremely helpful and very personable. We ordered the yellowtail fish sandwich and the mayan mocha - DELIS! I absolutely love the sandwich, the yellowtail was fresh and you can tell that it's freshly prepared in the kitchen. The side salad is a generous portion and the dressing is really tasty. We sat outside at the patio on a sunny day and the owner brought us our order. It's nice to sit outside on a good day, just try and avoid sitting at the patio around noon. The sun gets really glaring to the eyes. I would also recommend the mayan mocha, it is really very different from the usual mocha and actually tastes surprisingly nice. Even now, I still recall the unique taste of this beverage. I'll definitely come here again the next time I swing by La Jolla. Thanks for a wonderful lunch experience!
(5)
Jasmine P.

Stopped into Cafe Vahik after a recommendation from my friend who used to live in the area. I love this place now -- and can see myself returning as it is just a short walk from my apartment! What a great establishment -- they really found the blend of great customer service and fantastic tasting food. They have breakfast options like omelettes and bagels. For lunch they have choices between a variety of sandwiches and salads. At the bar, they have oatmeal packs to go if you are in a hurry. Their coffee and tea menu is pretty extensive as well. For a $1 more, you can add almond milk to your hot drink choice. I chose to have steamed almond milk with my english breakfast. Gosh, just having a great hot drink really made my day. I really like that they offer options to make your dish healthier, i.e. option to use egg whites in your omelette for $1 more. I had the Spinach omelette today and I must say it was delicious!!! It came with a slice of multi-grain toast on the side and the omelette size was more than enough for me. Everything was fresh and made to order. There was another regular there that was raving about the Veggie omelette so it is my goal to try that next time that I am there. I had not planned on dining there, but I immediately felt welcomed as soon as I stepped in. It was nice to take the time to savor my meal without rushing off. Seating was appropriate and they keep their cafe clean. There is even outdoor seating as well if you want to enjoy the sun. The people at Cafe Vahik are so friendly. You are greeted with smiles upon entering Cafe Vahik -- what a wonderful way to start the day! Thanks Cafe Vahik! I will return (especially for the Acai Bowl, Veggie Omelette, and your salads!)
(5)
Matt C.

Knowing nothing about San Diego, I asked my friend for a cafe recommendation: not only was Cafe Vahik a two minute walk from her house, but they have free wifi and an exquisite life-by-the-beach vibe going on! Food is top-notch (try the Mediterranean bagel!) and the wifi is free (despite the password ;) Perfect for writing for hours on end :)
(5)
Lilie N.

Such a quaint little cafe. I walked here early one morning before walking down to the beach. It's very close to a beautiful local beach. The owner here is very friendly and makes everything himself. We only had coffee and an onion bagel, but I very much enjoyed relaxing on their front patio and taking in the morning.
(4)
Steve B.

I'd give more stars if I could....great food, service, and casual atmosphere... we will be back daily!
(5)
Karen W.

We stopped at Cafe Vahik for a light lunch before an evening of sea kayaking. Vahik *highly* recommended the Yellowtail sandwich, so we ordered it. We picked out another sandwich as well--The Wind and Sea Bagel Sandwich. For us, the Wind and Sea Bagel Sandwich ( s3-media1.ak.yelpcdn.comâ€¦ ) consisted of turkey, swiss cheese, pesto, basil, and sliced tomato in a poppyseed bagel (you can actually pick between meats, cheeses, and bagel types). It was delicious. I loved the Yellowtail sandwich ( s3-media4.ak.yelpcdn.comâ€¦ ) even more...I think the fish must be in season. The yellowtail was wonderful....it was fresh, juicy, and flavorful, and went perfectly with the ciabatta bread. It was served aside fresh greens, which were drizzled with a simple yet tasty balsamic dressing. Our meal was extremely satisfying, and did not leave us weighed down for our fun evening. Verdict: Mmmmm...deliciously fresh and tasty sandwiches served with passion! And, our meal was super affordable!
(5)
Kyle B.

Turkey panini was incredible.... Great coffee... Even better service. Loved this place.
(5)
Sandy Y.

I'd been hearing about this place and wanting to check it out since I lived in the UTC area. Now that I'm just around the corner in Wind and Sea, I finally walked to my new neighborhood cafe. This place definitely has a nice local following and has a nice breezy vibe. The owner has been there twice since I've stopped by and is very nice and friendly. It's a very laid back feel and consistently has people in and out. I ordered a breakfast sandwich for a friend, who said it was delicious. When I went back the 2nd time I ordered a cappuccino and the owner personally got up to make my coffee and even asked if I wanted it dry, wet, etc. haha, I don't even know what that means but it was nice he knew and offered all those options! There is a broad number of coffees and breakfast sandwiches, salads, paninis as well as the acai bowls. There is also free wifi. I have yet to explore all the options available but I think it's definitely going to be a favorite spot!
(4)
H A.

First impression: small coffee shop off the beaten path that isn't crowded. Got a cappuccino and a Mediterranean bagel, both of which are absolutely delicious. Both are made the way I like and the people at the counter are so nice. I'm going to come back for more.
(4)
Rikki F.

Best omelettes and service around! Vahik himself really cares about his clientele and ensuring you have a wonderful experience. 100% recommended.
(5)
Grace W.

This small cafe, formerly known as Windan Sea Cafe, has the most wonderful staff. They are friendly and quick and definitely make you feel welcome the minute you walk in. I've been there three times and already feel like a regular. They have: Freshly grilled fish sandwiches or salads Soup of the Day Full coffee and latte menu Hot and cold teas Candy and Pastry selection Free Wi-fi Lots of outlets Low noise level Patio seating A great attitude! They don't have: Valet service - street parking only, but hey, there's no meters and it's free! Seafood buffet - no crab legs or unlimited sushi :( Mood lighting - just a few regular lights and ambient light from the window Ocean view - the ocean is a few blocks away but you can't see it! Cable TV - you can't watch the game, what a bummer For a cafe, this place is pretty awesome. I highly recommend it as a low-key but superior alternative to Starbucks or Peet's if you are looking for a meeting place or chill spot to read a book, write your dissertation, or just to have a delicious but affordable meal and relax on a weekend.
(5)
Kevin E.

This place is just down the street from me in Windansea. I scheduled a business lunch there because it is close and I know the food is good and a great value. The two people who met me there had not been there. Two of us got the special- the Yellow-tail fish sandwich and the other got a chicken Greek salad. Everybody loved the food and the salad eater had a 2nd meal to take home because the portion was so big. The food was great, service always friendly and personal and the meeting was a success too! BTW-good coffee drinks too!
(4)
Raffi N.

Vahik and Mojan are wonderful people and their food is the best I have ever eaten for breakfast and lunch. The ingredients are top quality, the preparation is outstanding and the price is unbeatable. I cannot start my weekend without a great morning breakfast and coffee and a warm greeting from Vahik and Mojan.
(5)
Johann C.

Came here to meet up with a friend. The California omelette I had was pretty good. The macchiato was on point. There's very little parking and the place is cozy, but it's a decent place for a casual hangout.
(4)
Jennifer L.

Small business is big on flavor. Tried the yellowtail ceviche and it was pretty fantastic. Also our party had the turkey pannini and also the cp (chipotle pesto) turkey pannini which were both great. All dishes were served with a sping salad with some darker greens. :-) THANKS! Owner & operator obviously enjoys what he does. Has an A+ rating from the health dept also. Definitely worthwhile & is pet friendly with some outdoor seating.
(5)
Rick I.

I've been eating at Cafe Vahiks for years and the food is excellent. In addition to the great food you also get a lot of value for your money. The portions are big and the quality is excellent. You can get a great meal for under $10.
(5)
Marley K.

It appeared to be closed. I was there during their posted hours and it was not open.
(1)
Mike F.

We stayed a few nights at a friend's condo just down the road from Cafe Vahik. Since it was the only coffee place within walking distance, and the closest breakfast place, we stopped in several times. We were happy with every visit there, whether we were getting coffee or food. We only had brewed coffee rather than espresso drinks, but it was decent and nothing to complain about. Everyone loved the food, whether is was an omelette, a panini, a breakfast plate of bacon and eggs, or just a bagel with cream cheese. The process is a little weird - you order at the counter, they bring the food out to you, and then you go back to the counter and pay once you're finished. Once you figure it out, it works just fine. The atmosphere is okay, with the inside of the building being a bit dark. If it's a nice day, definitely go for one of the outside tables if you can. The owner is a nice guy and the woman who works with him (his wife, I am guessing) is also really friendly and nice. You can't help but feel good when you leave the place.
(4)
Mike M.

Stopped in for a quick lunch Thursday while waiting for an appointment. Kind of a hole-in-the-wall looking place, modest decoration, but clean throughout. We had a Yellowtail sandwich on Panini bread and a Greek salad. Sandwich was warm and quite tasty, bread soft but not mushy, salad of baby greens with a very good honey vinaigrette dressing. Wife's Greek salad was fresh, large, and delicious. Staff was friendly and helpful. It took about 10 minutes for the lunch to be prepared. There is a little bit of outdoor seating. I will definitely try their breakfast next time I'm down that way! I expect it to be as good as the lunch. My opinion - good food, good service, friendly atmosphere, and check out the "ticker" sign on the wall. Give it a shot -- I don't think you'll go wrong here! :-)
(4)
D.R. W.

Great food, great coffee, friendly and good service. What's not to like?
(5)
vagabond j.

Noticed a few taco places nearby as I approached Holiday Inn Express in La Jolla. Got on Yelp to check them out and saw highly rated Cafe Vahik across the street. Unfortunately, I arrived on a Friday afternoon near closing time and they where out of yellowtail, which is what most reviewers here like best I went with takeout of half sandwich (chicken) and half salad (Caesar) instead, based on the recommendation of the owner. Wow to both! I tend to think of salads as something I need to eat to stay healthy but this was yummy from first bite to last. The fact that takeout salad was tossed says a lot their focus on quality. Next time I hope to have the full yellowtail salad but I'll probably try everything on the menu before I'm done.
(5)
Ashley P.

my boyfriend and I came here and ordered 2 paninis and 1 of the bagel sandwiches, along with a cup of coffee. everything was 100 percent amazing! -the flavors are very elegantly put together-- everything was delicious and as a huge food snob i can say that there was nothing that could be done to make the food better. just amazing. -the food was healthy and tasted extremely fresh. exactly what i wanted, refreshing! -the one guy there that was doing ALL the work was so friendly! i was beyond impressed -the guy who works this place told me the coffee would be the best i ever tasted. he was right! great organic coffee.
(5)
Cindy C.

SO disappointed! Had super high hopes for this place because I heard through the grapevine they have delicious coffee drinks. Service was HORRIBLE. We had came on a Sunday and there were about 5 people in line ahead of us. The cashier/worker took everyone's order so slow. He would take the order, then make the drink/sandwich, give the item to the customer, and tell the customer to pay once everything they've ordered was delivered. Okay, bad system because you have TONS of people waiting in line to order. In my opinion, this system was extremely inefficient and the worker didn't even care to apologize for the wait! We waited 25-30 minutes to place two drink orders. Seriously? Not only was the service horrible, and the wait insanely long, I ordered an Iced mayan mocha thinking it was going to be the most delicious thing to date because I had high expectations. Half of my drink was in POWDER not mixed in to the drink. I literally had crumbs of chocolate/sugar crystals that would come up the straw as I attempted to drink the coffee. Sigh. My friend's iced chai tea latte was no good either. Definitely had better. Would've given this place a ONE STAR if it weren't for their food. My friend ordered one of the sandwiches and it was actually quite impressive. Sorry, Cafe Vahik. You've disappointed me so much I never plan on coming back.
(2)
J G.

Also recommend the ceviche and breakfast here. Everything is uniformly excellent on the menu. Even if you selected something at random I think you'd be pleased.
(5)
Donata N.

Arriving in La Jolla later than we anticipated and not having eaten all day this was the perfect solution to our needs. It was a cross the street from our hotel, Holiday Inn Express. The owner was pleasant and answered questions and the prices were very, very reasonable. Husband ordered the special. Peppered turkey with a chipotle pesto sauce. I ordered the Ramblin' Roast and just a turkey & cheese for our son. The sandwiches were wonderful. The chipotle sauce on the turkey had just the right amount of kick. My sandwich had plentiful rare roast beef with sun dried tomatoes and avocado and every other bite had a shock of horseradish. All of our sandwiches came with a side salad of mixed greens and a wonderful balsamic vinaigrette. The son's turkey and cheese was just a run of the mill sandwich that had been left in the panini press a tad to long. Honestly this was probably one of the best meals we had while in La Jolla and it was cheapest. Fresh ingredients. Highly recommend.
(4)
Kat L.

What can I say about Vahik's that hasn't already been said?? There is a REASON why this place has close to 5 stars and over a hundred reviews! The Chickanini is amazing and my husband orders it every time. I like to be adventurous so I've tried about 5 different things here and they're all good! My favorite is the Mediterranean (on ciabatta instead of bagel). I also highly recommend the Chickanini and Turkey Breeze. My friend tried the omelette and she was raving about it! If you eat here, Vahik also throws in a side of mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette. I really like the ambience of this cafe. Very relaxing place to eat with a few friends or even alone to study. I brought my dog here once and ate outside. There is a water bowl outside for dogs so I thought that was pretty neat! It is less than a 5 min walk to Windansea Beach so if you're a tourist, I suggest walking to the beach afterwards to soak in beautiful La Jolla. The only downside (for customers, not Vahik) is that this place can get pretty packed and it takes a while to get your food. However, the reason why it takes so long is because everything is carefully crafted and made with love. You really do get a beautiful, tasty sandwich/salad/etc and not one just thrown together hastily. Normally, I'll call in my order 10-15 mins ahead of time to avoid the wait. Seriously, just try the place. You won't regret it!
(5)
Timbre T.

Don't let the appearance on this quaint little peaceful cafe fool you. No thrills nor frills but Vahik makes some pretty amazing omelets and his soy lattes are just about as good as Influx in little Italy. The expressos are pretty tasty too with a strong but well balanced flavor. While the food gets absolute thumbs up, my only issue is the glaring sun on that front porch before 1pm as the sun moves directly within ones line of vision while sitting outside at bar facing the street. One may opt for wearing welding goggles to minimize glare while tentilizing tastebuds with one of Vahik's yummy omelets. Other than that I am very pleased with this little gem.
(5)
Rainy D.

Yummy lunch! Had the TJ Turkey on ciabatta - delicious. The chipotle sauce was perfect. Also has the Chickenini on sourdough - huge sandwich! The pesto was really good. Both came with spring greens salad with balsamic dressing and that was really good, too. Couldn't eat it all - nit nearly. The fruit smoothie hit the spot, too. We will come back next time we're in town.
(5)
Samantha S.

I came here today and got the chickanini sandwich. It was amazing. I dont really know what else to say about it. I typically cant finish a sandwich in one sitting but despite being stuffed i still scarfed this one down. I enjoyed the pesto, avo, chicken and fontina combo, especially with it being warm. I just felt like everything melted in my mouth. It was so good, I was tempted to drive back and get another one. I will definitely be coming here again to get another one of these tasty sandwiches...is it bad that i keep thinking about this sandwich while writing this review?
(4)
Tina L.

"E komo mai. Nou ka hale." For those not versed in Hawaiian, this means "Welcome, my house is yours." My review could end here as these few words define the ambiance, food, and service at Cafe Vahik. I wish I knew more of the backstory of this quaint cafe in downtown LJ. The owner may not be named Vahik. This may not be a Hawaiian place. However, these are the assumptions I will have until proved otherwise. I apologize if these are inaccurate assumptions. I ordered a yellowtail salad. Little did I know, this would turn out to be one of the best salads I have ever had. Right after I told "Mr. Vahik" what my order was, he immediately turned around, gathered the ingredients and began to freshly make the salad right there and then. I could hear the fish searing, the crunch of cucumbers being chopped and the squish of avocados being sliced. When I received my salad soon thereafter, I was pleasantly delighted at the large dose of avocado, yellowtail, and the perfect amount of balsamic vinaigrette. Halfway through enjoying my salad, I realized that I hadn't paid! The laidback style of this restaurant was incredibly refreshing. This cafe denies the convention of "pay first, then receive" that large coffee chains have so concretely established. Rather, it allows you to enjoy your food and experience first so you feel more than happy to pay with your full and happy stomach. In fact, it may be the most genius business strategy as I eagerly gave a generous tip. In conclusion, I would like to say to "Mr. V", mahalo a nui*. *A spiritual Hawaiian way of saying "Thanks very much" Directions: This cafe is to the right of Travelodge. There is a yellow canopy on the front. There is parallel parking right in front of the restaurant.
(5)
Matt N.

Fresh quality ingredients! Familiar menu items with a twist. Best salads in San Diego!!! Great casual spot for breakfast or lunch.
(5)
Tori C.

Loved this place!!! Best chai tea lattes I've ever had. Went every morning during spring break. Also had delicious looking food but was never able to try it. Definitely going back.
(5)
Michael T.

Pretty close to UCSD. 25 minutes away if you take the 30. Super convenient and a great way to get away from school food. Menu is pretty wide ranged and the food is delicious. :D
(5)
Kimberly G.

Visiting the area and searched Yelp for a coffee shop. AMAZING! Kids loved it, food was fabulous, huge portions, friendly owner. Not a bad thing to say. We will be going back for sure!
(5)
Susan O.

Had coffee and a blueberry scone to start. I'm now eating a Greek salad, dressing on the side - chopped romaine lettuce, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, chopped tomatoes, onion slices, peperoncini (sp?). It was fine, although half the quantity would have been fine for me - it's a very large serving. This cafe is fairly consistently busy. The sun is shining on the outdoor seating most of the day so that people are choosing to sit inside.
(4)
Jake J.

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(5)
Serena H.

Windansea, I've heard a lot about you and your beautiful beaches and great waves that your locals guard like fierce beach sharks. I choose to stay clear of the water, but I can't do the same for this cafe. Blame my friend Mr Dan for tempting me with a new cafe I had not yet tried but had heard tons about, but you're going to see a lot more of me around. Surprisingly this place wasn't packed when we got there, but they had a nice little patio/porch where you can sit and soak in the SD summer sun and chatter away to your heart's content. If only it were overlooking the beach, eh? But that's wishing for what can't be granted. What I can wish for, however, is a taste of that Mediterranean bagel sandwich once more! You see, this feta cheese-egg-basil-tomato combo has always been my favorite, and I order it all the time when it's available. That sandwich here was extremely delightful. Usually, it's dense or runny or too bland, but yesterday's lunch forced me to slow down, take smaller bites, and enjoy every bite of that bagel-goodness. I'm hungry. Sigh. I ordered an Americano, and it wasn't phenomenal, but for some reason I could forgive them for forgetting about it and bringing it to me when I was already almost done with my bagel. No hard feelings, surprisingly. I'd come here again on another gorgeous warm day and treat myself to another afternoon of simple bliss. Count on that.
(4)
Anna V.

This place is fantastic, don't bother going anywhere else! The owner puts SO much effort into his food. He want's only the best for his customers, I've seen him scold a produce delivery man for not bringing fresh enough tomatoes. He is so witty, odd, and very friendly(to those who are friendly back!) so you never have to be bored. All of his food is so healthy and yet bursting with flavor so you don't have to feel guilty about ordering anything on the Menu. My entire family loves this place from my 53 year old dad to my 7 year old brother (whom is on the VIP list!) so this place is most definitely for all ages. If anyone has an issue with the wait, Vahik has no problem letting you call in ahead with your order so you can just grab it and go and avoid the mob of customers on rush days. What else is there to say? There is a great little sun deck, Wifi, beautiful zen. Also it is STEPS from the beach, so it is the best place to go after all your beach visits. He has such a wide variety of drinks so don't be afraid to be specific with what you want, chances are he'll remember your order if you come back again. My recommendations: The Mediterranean bagel has the absolute perfect blend of flavor, the Mayan Mocha is perfect for my sweet tooth, and DEFINITELY the Acai Bowl. I've tasted as many as I can in San Diego and his Acai Bowl is THE BEST. Not watery or bland like some others, it is think and so so so so delicious. So go to Cafe Vahik!
(5)
Michael R.

Great paninis and good service. They could use another person behind the counter helping make sandwiches or taking orders. We enjoyed ourselves but the wait was a bit on the long side with how many orders the guy had to make and take by himself. Conveniently located across from the Holiday Inn.
(4)
Tony K.

This is the old Windnsea cafÃ© but still the same place. Really good food. Vahik is cool guy. Great Acai bowl.
(4)
Hilary H.

Hey, guy at Windansea Cafe - here's a tip: if you advertise that you make smoothies, you should probably make smoothies! We came here after searching for 'smoothies' on Yelp and seeing a huge banner outside that said 'SMOOTHIES'. We were not welcomed, or even acknowledged upon arrival. We were looked at, but not spoken to (and it's not like we look like a bunch of rascals or anything). We just wanted a little something after a day at the beach, but when we inquired, the dude was very put out and irritated. He said he could 'check to see if there was enough stuff left' to make A smoothie, and there were three of us. Again, if you advertise smoothies on a huge banner outside your establishment and on Yelp, you should probably make smoothies. Or at least be polite to your customers and offer to make them something else.
(1)
Bryan Y.

If there's 3 things I know in this world, it is death, taxes, and.... Vihik makes amazing sandwiches. Nestled next to a bunch of motels in La Jolla, is Windansea cafe. It's a small place with a big charm. Vihik the owner of the store is a happy go lucky dude who has an amazing talent in making excellent sandwiches. I got the Ham Diegan, which had a absolutely perfect balance with cheese, lettuce, and ham. The sourdough (you can choose your bread) that came with it really complemented the meaty insides of my meal too. Definitely coming here again.
(5)
Lana R.

Well, all I have to say is that the food is worth the wait. And the wait it pretty ridiculous, so as the food (but in a really good way). When I'm by the Windansea beach, I'll definitely be back. BTW, the owner is really nice and accomodating.
(4)
Christopher S.

Had the Chickenini, great sandwich! Pretty reasonable as well. Nice little spot to study over some coffee
(5)
Ron S.

Eggs bacon and toast breakfast special is great. Bagel sandwiches are good as well! Highly recommend this place.
(5)
Yoder O.

Just had their Mayan mocha with a bacon egg and cheese sandwich on white bread.. Amazing way to start my day.. Were both amazing!! Be careful or you'll pass by this gem..
(5)
Kevin D.

So good!! The service was extremely friendly and the food was amazing. The yellowish cevaches was very refreshing on a hot day. Will definitely return every day this week during my stay.
(5)
Brenda V.

This place was awesome. The guy that attended us, I believe it was Vahik himself made us some "special" sandwiches; he said that they were not on the menu yet. One was basically some kind of white fish with wasabi horseradish spread. Every thing tasted fresh; not gonna lie it was a little pricey, but definitely fresh and specially made; great place to bring your dog (since they have a doggy bowl)
(5)
Nate W.

I absolutely love this place! Excellent coffee from Cafe Moto, delicious bagel sandwiches (I could eat a WindanSea bagel every morning and not get tired of it) and Vahik is a great guy. Highly recommended.
(5)
Amy R.

Excellent little cafe that's perfect for taking a picnic lunch to the beach or enjoying inside. The sandwiches and salads are super fresh and tasty. I loved the chicken and pesto panini. Plus the portions are amazing and the service is great! I will be back.
(5)
Tiffany H.

Loved this place. When I first looked at the menu I thought $6 for a bagel was a bit much but it was superbly made so I have no complaints. I ended up getting the Windansea Bagel on the Everything bagel...tomato basil and turkey with a slice of provolone cheese. The basil was so fresh I could smell it 10 feet away. The guy making the sandwich was awesome...multitasking like I've never seen before. Bagel making with one hand, coffee making with the other, phone call, orders, the whole shindig in one go. I think what won me over and essentially made my ENTIRE day was the coffee. I got the iced latte and was SO incredibly happy. You can taste the premium-ness in your mouth. BEST COFFEE EVER!
(5)
Bruce L.

Vahik is the man. I can't believe I lived at Windansea for over two years before I tried this place. I read the previous review where someone felt insulted by him, but I've never had anything but positive experiences. I recently bumped up my review to 5 stars as I've now had a chance to sample a few of the menu items: Mayan Mocha.....get it with cayenne pepper even if it sounds bizarre. Portuguese Soup.......don't think its on the menu, but if he's got it ask about it. Mediterranean Bagel........perfectly balanced egg sandwich Rambling Roast Beef.....had it on sourdough and it was perfect. Chickanini......not as amazing as the above items, but it is chicken so you can't expect it to be amazing.
(5)
Mari B.

I stumbled into this place because I was staying at the Travelodge next door and didn't like their continental breakfast. The 2 egg omelet that I had was fantastic. And the drip coffee is to die for. I heartily recommend this place.
(5)
Jesica L.

I wanted to find a cute cafe with good food to meet my husband in La Jolla for lunch. After reading the yelp reviews I decided on Windansea Cafe and what a great choice! I told Vahik that I discovered his restaurant from yelp and right away he offered us $2 off his salads and $1 off any sandwich. We got there right at noon so we had our pick of tables. There were a few on the patio outside and higher tables inside near the window. As we waited for our food I checked out the restaurant. It was quiet, clean, with a nice use of color. It felt like a little cottage in La Jolla. I ordered the veg-out sandwich with grilled veggies but he told me he substituted red onion for avocado instead since it tastes better that way. I agreed and happily stuffed my face with his sandwich oozing with melted cheese. I was pleasantly surprised that it came with a side salad too. My husband ordered the Vahik's house salad and it was so huge he couldn't eat it all. I stole some of his goat cheese and pine nuts to sprinkle on my salad and kicked my feet which is a move in my happy food dance since the food was so fresh and delicious. We can't wait to come back to Windansea Cafe again.
(5)
Latisha P.

3.5 stars The food was good but nothing I was realy excited about. The playa del norte salad was really good though. I also had a chicken sandwich which wasn't very special, needed a more memorable sauce. But it did come with a side salad that was huge! The place is cute and the owner is really nice.
(3)
Melinda L.

My first review of 2014 unequivocally had to go to CafÃ© Vahik/Wind and Sea CafÃ©. That Yellowtail Salad? Yeah, believe the hype. Its every bit as flavorful (and filling!) as the raves rave. And this is coming from a person who, in the deep depths of her soul, truly believes salads are one and the same with rabbit food. The Yellowtail steak was cooked wonderfully, with an assortment of herbs and spices that made it taste fresh and vibrant. The mixed greens were also great; no annoyingly high ratio of radiccio or frisee with lots of soft butter lettuce and spinach. The dressing was also something to write home about. Vahik puts it on the side for you and its truly one of the best vinaigrettes I've ever tasted. Whether you're a New Year's resolution-er looking to get on the healthy wagon or just looking for a way to eat more greens that doesn't feel utterly torturous, take yourself here and order this salad.
(5)
Robert B.

This is one of the best cafÃ©s I've ever been to. The owner vahik is very nice and personable. He genuinely cares for his customers and will get your name down after a visit or two. All of the food is fresh and prepared on the spot. Great place!
(5)
Kevin W.

Incredibly friendly and awesome customer service!!! Ohhh, and delicious coffee. More on this little La Jolla gem as I frequent it and sample the menu.
(5)
Laura T.

This place is excellent. It's a cute little cafe just round the corner from the beach. It does fresh made sandwiches, teas, coffees, bakery goods, and a selection of cereal bars etc. The guy who owns the place is really friendly and really good at making delicious sandwiches! I had a tuna/cilantro/avocado on ciabatta - DEEEE-LICIOUS. He also gave me some great recommendations for restaurants and places to visit whilst I was in San Diego. I enjoyed eating here so much I came back for breakfast in the morning. Yum. All in all, a big YES for Windansea.
(5)
Soojin S.

The name of this place changed to Vahik or something of that sort. I think a cafe in LA also had the name 'Windansea cafe' and although this place had the name first, the owner hadn't copyrighted it. Summer special! All salads are $6.99 (great deal!) Had the yellowtail sandwich on ciabatta bread which came with a huge salad on the side. It was tasty, but I personally just don't think fish is meant to be eaten in a sandwich. But since yellowtail is my favorite sushi, I decided to try this one out. My friend got the chickanini, which was yummy but nothing special. I don't think I will be coming back just because the place is so tiny and I hate being on the lookout for seats. Causes too much tension between the customers lol.
(4)

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Address : 6780 La Jolla Blvd
La Jolla, CA, 92037
Phone (858) 459-1895
Website https://cafevahik.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :6:00 am - 5:3
Mon : 6:00 am - 5:3

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
Good for Working : Yes

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Cafe Vahik

6780 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA, 92037

Cafe Vahik Menu

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