Manor Coffee, a specialty coffee brand known for artisanal drinks and a cozy, alternative atmosphere, is preparing to open a new storefront in Hillcrest at 829 Washington Street.
The new cafe, led by owners Kait and Aric, announced earlier this year that the team had received the keys to the building. Kaitlyn tells What Now San Diego that the team is in the final stages of permits and paperwork, with an anticipated opening in late January or early February. Kait and Aric tell What Now San Diego in an email that Manor Coffee began as a coffee cart and quickly evolved into a goal of creating a permanent space to build lasting community connections. Customers can expect a mix of classic coffee drinks, specialty lattes, and rotating seasonal beverages served in a welcoming cafe setting.
Manor Coffee reflects more than 10 years of combined experience in the coffee industry from Kait and Aric. They tell What Now San Diego that they wanted to open a space that felt “permanent and rooted in the community.” They had previously experimented with mobile and event-based coffee setups, but realized that their true vision was a location where they could engage with customers daily and create a consistent, personal experience.
Kait and Aric say they were inspired by the San Diego coffee scene but wanted to offer something different from the typical bright, airy cafes. Manor Coffee is designed to feel like walking into a cozy Victorian manor. The aesthetic is darker and moodier, with a slightly alternative edge, but they emphasize that everyone is welcome, and the space is intended to feel comfortable and inviting for anyone who walks through the door.
The Hillcrest cafe will offer a variety of specialty drinks and classic coffee options, including espresso, Americano, cortado, flat white, latte, black mocha, matcha latte, drip coffee, and cold coffee. Seasonal specials include Black Marble, Samurai’s Garden, and Tokyo Tonic. Customers can also customize drinks with oat milk, extra shots, or flavored syrups. Beyond coffee, the menu includes pastries, desserts, and other light offerings to complement the drinks.
Kait and Aric describe Manor Coffee as more than a cafe; it is a reflection of their approach to hospitality and community. “We love the coffee scene in San Diego, but we hadn’t found a cafe that really matched our style or how we approach hospitality,” they say. Their goal is to create an environment that feels personal and welcoming while delivering high-quality, thoughtful beverages.
With its focus on artisanal drinks, a distinctive atmosphere, and community connection, Manor Coffee is set to become a new fixture in Hillcrest. The cafe aims to offer both locals and visitors a unique coffee experience, blending quality, creativity, and a welcoming space for families, friends, and coffee enthusiasts alike.
