Public Square - La Mesa, California

Public Square

Located at 8278 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942, Public Square is a unique fusion of a cafe, concert hall, event venue, and pizza restaurant. The business is owned by a group that identifies as Asian, Latino, and women-led. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, this beloved spot offers a range of amenities and services to cater to the diverse needs of its patrons.

Public Square takes pride in its extensive menu that includes a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The cafe boasts a great selection of coffee and tea, while the restaurant offers comfort food, healthy options, and small plates, including vegan and vegetarian choices. For those seeking a quick bite, they have prepared foods and quick bites available as well.

The venue is highly appreciated for its outdoor seating, which allows patrons to enjoy their meals in a lovely, al fresco setting. Inside, the establishment features gender-neutral restrooms, wheelchair accessibility, and free Wi-Fi for customers to use. The menu also includes a range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, making it a perfect spot for patrons seeking a more relaxed and social dining experience.

Public Square is renowned for its live music and performances, making it a vibrant and exciting destination for night owls and music enthusiasts. This trendy, cozy, and casual atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, including college students, families, groups, tourists, and those from the LGBTQ+ community, all of whom can enjoy a safe and inclusive environment.

Patrons have consistently praised Public Square for its exceptional customer service, delicious food, and top-notch coffee and tea selection. Many customers appreciate the fast service and commend the venue for its ability to accommodate various dietary needs, such as offering oat milk for those who prefer dairy-free options. The establishment is also known for its ability to cater to solo diners, families with children, and large groups alike.

With seating options available for both small and large gatherings, Public Square is a versatile venue that caters to various types of events, including intimate gatherings and large celebrations. The venue also offers onsite services, takeout, and dine-in options, making it a convenient choice for busy professionals and families on the go.

Public Square is committed to providing a comfortable and inclusive environment for all, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their time at the venue. With its prime location, extensive menu, and inviting atmosphere, Public Square continues to be a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Specialties and Services

• Cafe
• Concert hall
• Event venue
• Pizza restaurant

Other Points of Interest

• Asian-owned
• Latino-owned
• Women-owned
• Outdoor seating
• Onsite services
• Takeout
• Dine-in
• Fast service
• Great coffee
• Great tea selection
• Live music
• Live performances
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Solo dining
• Good for working on laptop
• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• Alcohol
• Beer
• Coffee
• Comfort food
• Healthy options
• Prepared foods
• Quick bite
• Small plates
• Vegan options
• Vegetarian options
• Wine
• Breakfast
• Brunch
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Dessert
• Seating
• Gender-neutral restroom
• Restroom
• Wi-Fi
• Casual
• Cozy
• Trendy
• College students
• Family-friendly
• Groups
• LGBTQ+ friendly
• Tourists
• Transgender safe space
• Accepts reservations
• Credit cards
• Debit cards
• NFC mobile payments
• Credit cards
• Good for kids
• High chairs
• Free street parking
• Paid street parking
• Parking
• Dogs allowed
• Dogs allowed outside

Opinions and Reviews

Public Square has gained a loyal following, with a total of 1343 reviews on Google My Business, resulting in an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Patrons appreciate the venue's ability to cater to various preferences and dietary restrictions, as well as its welcoming atmosphere that encourages socialization and relaxation. Many customers also praise the quality of the coffee and tea, noting that the lattes are a standout item on the menu. The live music and performances add to the vibrant and lively ambiance of the cafe, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a meal or drink while being entertained. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and a diverse menu, Public Square continues to delight and attract patrons from all walks of life.

👍 Reviews of Public Square

Gen W.

5/5

Great atmosphere and vibes for studying, sketching, or just enjoying an afternoon. I got their gluten free scones (last 3 of the day!) and they were delicious when paired with their special butters. Not dry at all. The iced tea was pretty standard, but I'd love to try the coffee next time!

Everlife191

5/5

We love coming here, it's always so cheerful and the coffee is 10/10! Especially love the pandan and chaga lattes, good add ins without being too sweet. Food is tasty too; oat milk available for those who need dairy free. Bring a friend, a date, or just come here to study ☀️

Janie C.

4/5

The scones! Get the scones! Went here on a Saturday and Sunday bc I had to get more scones. Well the butters are really what makes the scones but still get the scones!

Both days were busy but food service was fast. Drinks are delicious and vibes are on point. With all these it makes for a super busy place but staff have always been kind and helpful. Great local spot with chill vibes and yummy food! I just hate that it’s always busy

ana

5/5

10/10! 100% you have to come here if you are in town or live in the area! If you come, the scones are a MUST! Latte was incredible, but the scone was the queen of this! I absolutely loved this place! Service was excellent! Loved it!

Perry N.

5/5

I just moved here last December and found the spot while familiarizing myself with the area. I love Public Square and am fast becoming a regular! I’ve been here almost everyday for my chaga latte and breakfast sandwich or avocado toast. The staff is exceptional and friendly; they make you feel welcome to be here which I appreciate! You’ve set a very high example on service and all around great experience! Thank you and much continued success!

Luna B. R.

5/5

So i have been to the la mesa location and just went to the downtown location and I love this place but most of all the customers service was amazing and the scone with guava butter was so soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside. My black sesame latte was really good too. Not sure if they use homemade syrups but it did not taste synthetic like others I have tried.

Kendall M.

4/5

Atmosphere is a 10. This place was PACKED when I visited and the line was almost out the door. I love to see a local "coffee shop" that is making a statement and name for itself, that says alot in itself.

As for Food - its tasty and I can tell they have quality ingredients but a bit overpriced for the portions. The scones are true to their name and absolutely delicious - the butter flight was wonderful! I'm not entirely sure but I think they were making the cayenne butter when we were there and that experience wasn't pleasant. Myself and my friend experienced our eyes burning while we were inside and I felt like my skin was on fire. I have no allergies and as an avid cook I am never sensitive to foods but as soon as we stepped outside the burning sensation went away and the cayenne in the air is all we could equate it to.. a very strange feeling to say the least.

Aside from that, the vibe is comfortable and laid back. I love what they have done with the place. There isn't much room for everyone waiting for their orders so people sort of crowd around the tables closest to the counter, I recommend sitting towards the front door, not the counter. Outside seating is also super comfy!

Parking outfront is metered so be prepared for that!

M P.

5/5

Staff was nice and knowledgeable. Place was packed and clean. I ordered the mocha with dark chocolate, it was delicious. It didn't have that sweet chocolate milk flavor that other coffee shops have, instead, it has a roasted/bold coffee forward flavor with a well balanced dark chocolate bitterness. This will definitely be a treat-yo-self coffee for me. My wife got the scones and butter dish, scones were crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The 12 butters we got were nostalgic and trendy. Will definitely be back.