Altered State

641 B St, San Diego, CA

★★★★★5.0(53 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

“Altered State is a hidden gem that combines expertly crafted specialty drinks like the Purple Haze and Fool In The Rain with a genuinely inviting, retro-cool atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours. The cozy loft setup, fresh pastries, and full breakfast menu create the kind of neighborhood sanctuary where regulars are already forming, and live music adds to the groovy, unhurried vibe that sets it apart from typical coffee spots. Staff and owners clearly care deeply about the experience, making this feel less like a caffeine pit stop and more like discovering your new favorite hangout.”

What to expect

Light foodSlow sitFull breakfastPastriesSpecialty drinksTraditional drinksSignature drinks

Google Reviews

Katie Eglsaer

★★★★★3 months ago

So happy I found this amazing spot! I can’t really say anything to top what’s already been said and wholeheartedly agree with all the glowing reviews posted before me. The Purple Haze (ube cold foam cold brew) is a delight and the Egg McMuffin is perfection complete with sausage from the flat-top grill- work the (brief) wait! Super chill vibes both below and above in the loft lounge area. Also some tables outside! Perfect music soundtrack (90s-70s) and very comfy and ample seating. I couldn’t believe how much seating they have. You must check it out and support this terrific local small business. I’ll be back sooner than later 💕😍

Ido Kinel

★★★★★4 months ago

Such a hidden gem. Delicious drinks, beautifully crafted space. One of those places you don’t want to tell people (or influencers) to keep it all to yourself but the owners truly deserve the business. Must visit for coffee shop enjoyers.

Samuel Hahn

★★★★★7 months ago

Very tasty coffee. Staff is friendly and they have plenty of seating. Pastries were good and fresh too. Grab a coffee and spend 30 minutes relaxing

Christi Lao

★★★★★8 months ago

I just had their drink called Fool In The Rain along with two of their breakfast empanadas. SO GOOD!! I’m excited to come back and explore more of their drinks and food, especially with live music playing. The vibe upstairs is amazing. Totally unique for a cafe and definitely feels like a great spot for private events.

Macie McGee

★★★★★9 months ago

the grooviest coffee shop ever! they just opened up and i will now be making this a regular stop to my mornings. they have a loft area upstairs with two rooms of seating. it feels soooo cozy and retro. lots of records, posters, and guitars decorating the place. there are multiple sky lights in the upstairs rooms. my friend and i tried 2 different specialty drinks and they’re both delicious!! 10/10