First came here over 25 years ago when I was new to San Diego. It was really special to me then - quirky, interesting and different. Nowadays you find the coffee shop/books combination all over the world, but I was glad of Upstart Crow in the olden days. I keep an Upstart Crow figure in my office in England and... More

Lovely setting as per previous reviews and an OK espresso/chocolate/orange drink (milk scorched as per usual for the US) but the very simple panini took an eon to arrive and was nothing special. Cafe wasn't packed so not sure what was going on there. Would recommend but not rave.

I loved this bookstore. I walked here several times on my stay. It had a place to sit with chairs. They serve all kinds of coffee, desserts. I had their red velvet cupcake which was good. I spent several days here browsing around. They also have unique cards and gifts. Nice place to sit and gather your thoughts and journal... More

The Upstart Crow is listed in Trip Advisor under "attractions" for the bookstore and under "restaurants" for the café. We purchased drinks and food items from the restaurant. We arrived on a Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m. We attempted to purchase a cappuccino and were advised the machine was broken. After the initial disappointment was over, we ordered one iced... More

Loved the coffee, snacks, music (mix picked out by the owner, according to the employees), eclectic mix of books, notes, and stuff.

We loved having coffee here and looking at the books. Right outside is the romantic pond, the waterfront and fairy lights.

I love to brouse this little bookstore. They have quite a collection of other items, too. And you can get coffee drinks, hot cocoa, deserts,etc. You won't be disappointed.

I always go in for one thing and come out hours later with a bagful. This is a great place to get gifts for intellectuals, liberals, conservatives, kids, criminals etc.

Store feels like an old library, sells books, travel trinkets, designer/yummy coffee and desserts. The carrott cake brought me back for seconds on a different day. I like the staff and feel of the whole place. Small find in a touristy shopping area.