About Lestat's On Park

Lestat’s is one of the best coffee shops in San Diego to hang with friends for a casual meet up or to be a recluse and truly knock out some work. Their location on Park Boulevard is open 24 hours, so if you are cramming for an exam, are feeling lonely late at night, or you just want to finish that romance novel in public (cause you know what keeps happening when you read it at home), this is the spot for you.

Lestat’s coffee shops are all eclectic, quirky, and cozy with large velvety thrones placed about and Classical or Renaissance-themed art all over the walls. They feel like sitting in the living room of a very eccentric land baron who has fallen on hard times. Lestat’s prioritizes seating and folks who plan to stay a while, so there are plenty of tables and large couches, as well as an abundance of outlets, power-strips, and free and functional wi-fi. It can get crowded with bloggers, freelance digital writers, online essayists (so… bloggers), plus a few “Magic The Gathering” folks in the mix and a couple of local old men who came to chain smoke cigarettes outside, but even during busy times there is a good chance you’ll find a spot.

They have a large menu that includes breakfast and lunch sandwiches, salads, pizzas, smoothies, a variety pastries (try the whoopie pie), and almost every cafe drink you can imagine. For something slightly different than normal black coffee, try their Wellness Tea, which is green tea, honey, and a splash of orange juice.

Each Lestat’s location also serves as a venue for small community events and gatherings, with open mic nights, featured artists, comedy, music, and other community meetings. Check their site for what’s happening at each location.

Best Parts

• People watching
• Late night out
• Supporting small business
• Magic the Gathering

Behind The Counter

Named after a character in Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire,” co-owners John Husler and Jamie Gerkowski opened the first Lestat’s location in 1997 in the Normal Heights neighborhood, expanding to Park Blvd in University Heights in 2010, and then opening up their Hillcrest location in 2016.

Lestat’s coffee was created for the non-corporate, non-conformist citizen and this notion is clearly reflected in the loyal, alternative customers they’ve attracted over 25+ years of operations. Lestat’s offers something unique for students, graveyard shifters, early birds, gamers, bloggers, and any one who wants to feel welcome and safe in the neighborhood.