Over the past several years, North Park has grown into one of San Diego’s most hip and trendy neighborhoods. Not only is North Park big on the restaurant/bar scene, it is also home to many small businesses, curated shops and dreamy cafes that will make you want to pull out your camera and take your next instagram photo.
North Park is a neighborhood I visit several times a year for many reasons. Pre-pandemic, I would get so much inspiration just hanging out at a local coffee shop, writing my blog posts and getting inspired by the views around me.
Next time you’re in San Diego, make sure you add North Park to your must-visit list and check out some of our favorite places to stop and check out the scenery and snap a few pics for instagram.
Holy Matcha
Without a doubt, Holy Matcha is probably one of San Diego’s most popular cafes and Instagram spots. They have a few locations throughout San Diego but their North Park location is most notably known for its pink scenery. Plus, their matcha teas are dee-li-ciousss. They also have matcha donuts which are a must try!
Every single corner of Holy Matcha is perfectly decorated making it a favorite spot by locals.
Communal
Another one of my favorite coffee shops in San Diego is Communal. They’re not only a coffee shop, they also sell curated items and florals. They also offer food and are another popular hang out spot among locals. Best known for their outside COFFEE+ FLOWERS mural.
Pigment
One of my favorite little shops in North Park is Pigment. If you’ve been before, you know why. And if you haven’t been, it’s a must to your list. They have all the cute and pretty things to fill your home/office with. They carry everything from whimsical sweatshirts, to kids items, to birthday cards and more. They also sell beautiful succulents that you can pot yourself in the store.
Artlexia
A hidden gem in the heart of North Park is Artlexia. A carefully curated shop of Mexican items filled the entire store. You can pick up anything from Mexican textiles, candy, Mexican hot coca and gorgeous and whimsical items to add to your home. It’s a taste of Mexican right in San Diego. Plus you’ll find a gorgeous Instagrammable mural of Frida inside the store, and another colorful one right outside.
Hammonds
Maybe not the typical flight you are used to ordering during brunch but this one is kid friendly. Hammonds is a little ice cream shop that offers ice cream flights. You can choose how many ice creams you’d like to try and they serve the ice cream flight just like you’d get your mimosas! Such a fun way to try many ice cream flavors without eating too much.
Farmer’s Market
Every Thursday, a Farmer’s Market pops up in North Park. Due to COVID, there are some changes to what is allowed and masks are a requirement. If you find yourself in the neighborhood on a Thursday afternoon, I recommend checking out the market- purchase some fruits/veggies and try out some food from local vendors.
North Park is such a fun neighborhood to explore, it’s full of culture, life and diversity. It’s a fun place to just walk around because you are sure to find something delicious to eat or a shop to walk in and explore.
Next time you’re in San Diego, be sure to add North Park to your list!
