Cafecito, a South Bay-based coffee shop known for its Hispanic-inspired flavors, is getting ready to open a new location in downtown San Diego at 1088 Park Boulevard.
The company recently submitted documents to the San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality to open a new location, Cafecito on Park, near San Diego City College. The upcoming location will move into the former space occupied by Smarts Cafe, which has since closed. While an exact opening date has not been announced, the project is expected to move forward with Cafecito expanding beyond its South Bay roots. Customers can expect espresso drinks, pastries, and quick bites based on the company’s current offerings.
Cafecito described the new shop in a recent Instagram post, saying, “Cafecito is making moves beyond the South Bay. Expanding outside of our beloved community has always been a goal of ours, and we couldn’t be more excited about this next chapter. You can find us at Smart Corner / City College Station in Downtown San Diego.”
The post continued, “Huge thank you to Nicole, Danny, Sandra, and everyone who played a part in making this happen; we truly appreciate it. We are beyond excited and a little relieved to finally operate out of more than 150 square feet. Feeling grateful for the opportunity and optimistic about what is ahead. See you soon, City College.”
The concept is part of Cafecito’s growing footprint in San Diego County. The brand operates Cafecito On Palm in South San Diego at 1550 Palm Avenue and describes itself as a husband-and-wife-owned coffee company focused on espresso and specialty drinks alongside burritos and quick bites sourced from local vendors.
A second location, Cafecito on Park, is described by the company as the newest addition to the Cafecito family. The brand states it specializes in unique Hispanic flavors while offering a traditional coffee shop experience designed as a space of comfort and inclusion. The downtown expansion marks a significant step beyond its original South Bay base.
