Cafes:
1.The Swell Café
With two locations, one in Del Mar and one in Mission Beach, Swell is an adorable coffee shop with a very open work and study friendly environment. Their coffee is great and they will make almost any coffee drink upon request. They also have a small but healthy menu including salads and various breakfast foods.
2.Halycon East village
Possibly one of the coolest and most unique cafés I've been to in San Diego. Located in the east village of downtown, Halcyon offers various caffeinated beverages as well as a small but very unique menu. Ordering their s'mores is a must, they set it up and you roast them at your table! I also highly recommend the avocado toast, their bread is freshly made multiple times a day. Halcyon also has a work and study friendly environment as well as large outdoor and indoor seating areas.
3. Brick & Bell Café
http://www.lajollabluebook.com/blog/5-things-we-love-about-brick-and-bell-cafe-in-la-jolla/
Located in La Jolla, this café always seems to be busy and crowded. Not somewhere to sit and study, however, their drinks are delicious and their acai bowls are the best I've had in San Diego.
Strictly Breakfast:
1.Harry’s Coffee Shop
One of the only cute old diners left in San Diego where the food is actually good. Only open for breakfast but everything on the menu is delicious, I recommend the French toast and hash browns!
2. The Cottage
Possibly the most talked about brunch spot in San Diego, but for good reason. Located in the heart of La Jolla, always has a long wait, but if you're patient enough to get in make sure to try their stuffed french toast or vegetable salad.
3.The Mission
http://www.themissionsd.com
In Mission Beach, another super popular one, usually a long wait but well worth it. Try their Mexican hot chocolate and pancakes!
Brunch:
1.The Great Maple
Located in North Park this is no doubt the coolest brunch spot in San Diego. You are guaranteed to have an Instagram worthy meal. Their specialty drinks come in bear shaped glasses and all their food is picture perfect. Try the kale salad and avo toast!
2.Claire’s on Cedros
http://www.clairesoncedros.com
On cedros, in Solana Beach, Claire's is a super cute spot with something for everyone. You must try the truffle fries.
3.Sugar and Scribe Bakery
https://www.instagram.com/p/_4ziAFnvtl/?taken-by=sugarandscribe
A new spot in La jolla with all the baked goods you could ever dream of, a full menu with sandwiches, soups, etc., and lots of coffee. It decorated beautifully, def picture worthy!