Necessity Coffee in Encinitas is not your average caffeine pit stop. This is a place where coffee is taken seriously, but not too seriously. If you’re up for a memorable cup, some friendly conversation, and a side of good vibes, this is your spot.
A Coffee Shop With a Story
Necessity Coffee started with a simple idea: coffee is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. After years in the specialty coffee world, owners Jon and Curtis wanted to create a place where every detail, from the beans to the water, is chosen with care. Their journey began online, roasting and shipping beans to fellow coffee lovers, before opening their first cafe in March 2023 right here in Encinitas.
Why the name? After hearing countless customers say, “I need my coffee. I can’t function until I have coffee. It’s a necessity,” the name practically chose itself. The mission is clear: build real connections from producer to customer, and make every cup count.
Find Your Way, And Find Your People
You’ll find Necessity Coffee at 102 2nd St, Encinitas, CA 92024, tucked away at the end of a single-block street. Look for the soft pink exterior and the black cursive logo. There’s a sign with an arrow at the corner, but don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re on a mini adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll spot heavy-duty picnic tables outside and a calm, welcoming vibe inside.
The space is small but mighty. The L-shaped coffee bar, with its pale blonde countertop and pink La Marzocco espresso machine, sets the tone. The decor is simple, with just the right mix of classic and playful. There’s a pastry display filled with treats from Relic bakery, and shelves lined with compact boxes of whole beans ready to go home with you.
Hours for the Early Birds and the Leisurely Sippers
Necessity Coffee is open every day from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso before work or settling in for a slow morning, you’re covered.
Coffee That’s Roasted With Purpose
Every cup at Necessity Coffee starts with freshly roasted and sustainably sourced beans. The team works directly with producers, ensuring that every batch supports farmers who care as much about quality as they do. The menu is simple but thoughtful, with single origins like a Guatemala natural (raisin, plum, brown sugar) and a Colombia Huila washed espresso (chocolate, tangerine, brown sugar).
Pour-overs come with cards that tell you about the farmers behind the beans. There’s even a sensory training guide so you can try to pick out the flavors that make each coffee unique. Want to brew at home? Every bag of beans comes with a packet of Perfect Coffee Water minerals because good water is just as important as good beans.
A Menu That Keeps It Simple and Surprising
Necessity Coffee’s menu is refreshingly straightforward. No endless lists of syrups or complicated concoctions. Just great coffee, a few fun tiki-inspired drinks, and pastries that make you want to order seconds. The Belgian Liege Waffle is a customer favorite, especially for dipping into your morning brew.
If you’re feeling adventurous, ask about the seasonal specials. The team loves to experiment, and you might find something you’ve never tried before.
People First, Always
What really sets Necessity Coffee apart is the way Jon, Curtis, and the crew treat everyone who walks in. They make a point to remember names and start conversations. The goal isn’t just to serve coffee, but to create a space where people feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or just passing through.
Don’t know much about coffee? The staff is happy to answer questions, no matter how many you have. Curious about the difference between washed and natural processing? Want to know what makes a good batch brew? Just ask. You’ll get answers, and maybe even a new favorite drink.
Take Necessity Home
Can’t make it in every day? No problem. Necessity Coffee offers subscriptions and online ordering, so you can get fresh beans delivered to your door each month. Every order comes with that same attention to detail, from the Perfect Coffee Water packet to the info card about your beans.
A Place to Slow Down
Even though Necessity Coffee is just steps from the Coast Highway, the patio is surprisingly peaceful. Grab a seat outside, soak up the sun, and listen to the birds. It’s a good place to pause, whether you’re catching up with a friend or just enjoying a quiet moment with your cup.
Stay Connected
Want to keep up with what’s brewing? Follow @necessity.coffee on Instagram or sign up for their mailing list. There’s always something new, from fresh roasts to events and collaborations.
Why Necessity Coffee?
Because sometimes you want more than just a caffeine fix. You want a place where the coffee is good, the people are genuine, and every detail is there for a reason. Necessity Coffee delivers all that, with a side of charm and a dash of pink.
Stop by, say hi, and see what makes this spot a new essential in Encinitas.
Sources: necessitycoffee.com, yelp.com, Necessity Coffee Instagram Page
Header Image Source: necessitycoffee.com
