Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, a San Diego-based coffee chain known for its specialty drinks and modern café spaces, appears to be planning a new location in Santee at 8890 Cuyamaca Street.
The company recently submitted documents to the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality, indicating plans to move into the site currently occupied by KFC. While Better Buzz has not yet confirmed the project publicly, the filings suggest continued expansion throughout San Diego County. An official opening timeline has not been announced, and the KFC location remains in operation as of mid-September.
This would mark another step in the company’s rapid regional growth. Better Buzz opened its newest shop in Rancho Peñasquitos earlier this month, adding to its roster of nearly 40 locations across Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. The brand has developed a strong following for its vibrant spaces, quick-service drive-thrus, and signature beverages like the “Best Drink Ever,” Horchata Iced Latte, and Mint Infused Iced Coffee.
Founded in 2002, Better Buzz started in San Diego and has since evolved into a lifestyle brand with its own line of coffee beans, branded merchandise, and seasonal cold brew creations. The chain’s expansion strategy includes high-visibility drive-thru locations in suburban corridors, often replacing legacy fast-food spaces, similar to the Santee site.
The potential Santee outpost would offer the brand’s full menu, including espresso drinks, cold brew, smoothies, acai bowls, and breakfast sandwiches like the Bacon Ciabatta and Chili Crunch Wrap. Non-coffee options such as tea lattes, “Buzz Energy” drinks, and multigrain avocado toast also feature prominently across locations.
