Restaurants in Pacific Beach: Kendall's Kitchen Is a Must-Visit
Pacific Beach is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, with options ranging from upscale seafood establishments to casual taco shops. But among this diverse culinary landscape, there's one spot that has carved out a unique niche by combining Old World tradition with SoCal sensibilities.
If you're on the hunt for the best restaurants in Pacific Beach, there's one spot that combines authentic flavor, fresh coffee, and baked-from-scratch pastries like no other—Kendall's Kitchen. Located just a few minutes from the PB shoreline, this local favorite is where Czech tradition meets California cool.
What to Expect at Kendall's Kitchen
Kendall's Kitchen isn't your average beachside café. It's a full-on experience built around warm hospitality, irresistible pastries, and energizing drinks that fuel both your day and your appetite. From the moment you walk in, the aroma of freshly baked goods and brewing coffee creates an atmosphere that's both inviting and exciting.
Unlike many coastal eateries that lean heavily on seafood or Mexican influences, Kendall's draws inspiration from Central European baking traditions, offering something refreshingly different in the Pacific Beach food scene. The bakery's commitment to quality is evident in every item they serve—each pastry is crafted in-house using techniques that honor Czech culinary heritage while incorporating California's love for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The Menu: Czech-Inspired Delights Meet Beach Town Vibes
Here's what makes Kendall's a standout among restaurants in Pacific Beach - here’s our menu:
Savory Klobasneks
These Czech-style pastries are a warm, pillowy dream—the perfect hand-held meal for beach days or busy mornings. The dough is light yet substantial, with a slight sweetness that balances the savory fillings beautifully. Each klobasnek is baked to golden perfection, creating a portable meal that satisfies hunger without weighing you down.
Choose from these mouth-watering options:
Sausage, Egg & Cheese: A hearty combination that provides sustained energy for surfing sessions or beach volleyball.
Bacon, Egg & Cheese: Crispy bacon folded into fluffy eggs and melty cheese—a breakfast classic reimagined.
Margherita: For vegetarians or those craving something lighter, featuring tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil in perfect harmony.
Sweet Kolaches
Light and fluffy with a satisfying chew, these sweet pastries showcase seasonal fruits and creative flavor combinations. The dough cradles each filling like a precious jewel, creating the perfect bite every time.
Current favorites include:
Strawberry Rhubarb: Sweet-tart perfection that captures the essence of summer.
Guava: A tropical twist that brings exotic flavor notes to this traditional pastry.
Lemon Curd: Bright, zesty, and perfectly balanced—sunshine in pastry form.
Sweet Cream Cheese: Rich and velvety, often topped with a delicate fruit compote for added dimension.
Fresh-Baked Cookies
No bakery experience would be complete without cookies, and Kendall's offerings don't disappoint. Each cookie strikes that perfect balance between crisp edges and chewy centers, making them irresistible whether enjoyed with coffee or as a stand-alone treat.
Chocolate Chip: Generous chunks of premium chocolate in a buttery, vanilla-forward dough.
Oatmeal: Hearty and wholesome with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of cinnamon.
Butterscotch: A nostalgic treat that's becoming increasingly rare in modern bakeries—rich, caramel-like butterscotch chips create moments of sweet bliss in every bite.
Craft Coffee & Espresso Drinks
Coffee isn't an afterthought at Kendall's—it's a cornerstone of their offering. Their beverage program features carefully selected beans and trained baristas who understand the art and science of coffee preparation.
Drip Coffee: A house blend with notes of chocolate and caramel, perfect for purists.
Cappuccinos: Velvety microfoam meets rich espresso in this classic preparation.
Lattes: Silky steamed milk with expressive espresso, available with house-made flavor syrups.
Iced Coffee: Cold-brewed for 24 hours to reduce acidity and maximize flavor.
Americanos: Espresso pulled long with hot water, delivering bold flavor with approachable intensity.
Homemade Seltzers & Iced Tea
For those avoiding caffeine or looking for something refreshing:
Homemade Seltzers: Featuring seasonal fruits and herbs for a naturally flavored fizzy experience.
Fresh Iced Tea: Brewed in-house and available unsweetened or lightly sweetened with organic cane sugar.
A Beachy Vibe with a Central Location
Kendall's Kitchen has mastered the art of creating a space that feels both special and approachable. The interior blends coastal aesthetics with subtle nods to European café culture, creating an environment that's quintessentially Pacific Beach while offering something distinctly different.
Location: 1808 Garnet Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109—right in the heart of PB's main thoroughfare, making it accessible whether you're arriving by car, bike, or on foot from the beach.
Vibe: Bright and full of locals who know where to find the good stuff. Natural light floods the space through large windows, illuminating walls adorned with minimalist artwork and warm wood accents. The seating arrangement encourages both quick visits and longer stays, with a mix of counter spots for solo diners and tables for groups.
Perfect For: Morning coffee runs, afternoon treat breaks, and casual meetups. The atmosphere shifts throughout the day, from bustling morning energy to laid-back afternoon charm, making it versatile for different occasions.
Why Kendall's Belongs on Your PB Foodie Map
Among all the restaurants in Pacific Beach, Kendall's Kitchen brings something different to the table—literally. With a menu rooted in Old World tradition but a vibe that's undeniably San Diego, it's become a go-to spot for:
Culinary Adventurers: People who want something more unique than the usual brunch spot will appreciate the Czech-inspired offerings that can't be found elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Coffee Enthusiasts: Serious coffee lovers looking for real quality (and serious espresso) will find their standards met and often exceeded by Kendall's careful approach to brewing.
Comfort Food Seekers: Locals craving comfort food without compromise appreciate that everything is made from scratch with quality ingredients—no corners cut, no shortcuts taken.
Remote Workers: With reliable WiFi and a comfortable atmosphere, it's become a favorite for those who need a productive space outside their home office.
Beach Day Planners: Those heading to the shore often stop by to pick up portable pastries and drinks that elevate their oceanside experience.
Stop by Kendall's Kitchen Today
The Pacific Beach food scene has a lot to offer, but Kendall's Kitchen stands out for its flavor, friendliness, and fresh-baked magic. Whether you're grabbing a kolache to-go or lingering with a latte, this is one of those PB spots that just feels right—a place where quality and care are evident in every bite and sip.
Their seasonal offerings rotate based on ingredient availability and creative inspiration, so regular visits are rewarded with new discoveries. The staff remembers regulars and their preferences, creating that neighborhood feeling that makes a good café great.
Follow them on Instagram @kendalls.kitchen to stay up-to-date on seasonal pastries and weekly specials. They often announce limited-time offerings that sell out quickly, so staying connected on social media ensures you won't miss out on their latest creations.
FAQs About Restaurants in Pacific Beach and Kendall's Kitchen
What kind of food does Kendall's Kitchen serve?
They specialize in Czech-style pastries like klobasneks (savory) and kolaches (sweet), along with coffee, tea, cookies, and homemade seltzers. Everything is made in-house with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Is Kendall's Kitchen a sit-down restaurant?
It's more of a cozy, counter-service bakery and café, perfect for dine-in or takeout. You'll order at the counter and can choose to enjoy your selections at one of their tables or take them to go.
Where is Kendall's Kitchen located?
1808 Garnet Avenue, right in the heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego. The central location makes it accessible from all parts of PB, whether you're coming from the beach or the eastern residential areas.
Do they serve coffee?
Yes! From drip coffee to lattes and cappuccinos, they've got your caffeine fix covered. Their espresso program is taken seriously, with properly trained baristas and carefully selected beans.
Is Kendall's Kitchen good for breakfast?
Absolutely. It's one of the best breakfast spots in PB thanks to its fresh, hot pastries and energizing drinks. The savory klobasneks make for a satisfying breakfast that will keep you fueled through morning activities.
Do they have vegetarian options?
Yes—try the Margherita klobasnek or one of their fruit-filled kolaches. Many of their sweet options are naturally vegetarian-friendly, and they're happy to accommodate dietary preferences when possible.
What are their hours?
They open early to catch the morning crowd and typically close in the late afternoon. However, it's best to check their current hours on Instagram or by calling ahead, as seasonal adjustments may occur.
Is seating limited?
While not expansive, Kendall's offers enough seating for most visitors. During peak hours (typically weekend mornings), you might find yourself waiting briefly for a table, but turnover tends to be relatively quick.
Do they take advance orders?
For large orders or special occasions, Kendall's can accommodate advance orders with sufficient notice. This is especially helpful if you're planning to bring pastries to a meeting or gathering.
