Coated Cafe

3400 E 8th St #114, National City
(619) 856-4458

Recent Reviews

Mariya Pearl U.

This is an amazing hole-in-the-wall Cafe. It's run by mom and pop with amazing and tasty pastries. I'm a big fan of their empanadas. They come in beef and chicken. Soooooo yummy and flavorful! The kind lady that runs this Cafe is so so sweet and so welcoming. I've only went twice so far because I was craving empanadas and the place I usually go to ran out, and the kind lady remembered me from just meeting me once. She's so sweet. And everything else is just as amazing. So instead of the other place I usually went to, I'm only going here from now on!!!

Jeremy C.

Amazing looking and amazing tasting. It's rare to have both. The empanadas are the best.

Christina G

Such a gem with kind staff and delicious goodies!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Empanada, Empanada De Carne

Julie B.

I found this place through Yelp and decided to stop by since I was in the area. It's a small little cafe, mom and pops own typa shop. I heard they were known for their empanadas so I got 1 chicken and 1 beef. Unc's notice it was my first time there and swear they are delicious. Well HE SURE AS HELL WASN'T LYING. These are the best empanadas I've had by far! It was $2.25 a piece. They are delicious!!!! Please come by and support this cafe! You won't be disappointed!

Amber E.

I stumbled upon this charming small cafe yesterday and was greeted by a lovely lady with the most welcoming smile. She informed me about their daily special, "bulalugaw" (yes, it's bulalo meat in lugaw), which sounded delectable so I ordered one to take home with a couple of empanadas. I immediately had the combo when I got home, and wished I had ordered more; I will definitely come back to try more specials!

Kenneth Peter L.

The bulalugaw available on Saturdays is soooooo good. This quaint little bakery cafe has really good bread and desserts. Definitely going to be a weekly thing. The staff is super friendly, and the place is kept clean. Not many chairs for dine in but definitely worth coming to bring all the goodies home.

Raul E.

I gave it 5 because of the friendliness of the owner...and the nice baked goods available on hand. Had I known they had spaghetti cooking before I went next door best believe I would've ordered

nails smart inorganic

Taste good!! Besst service ever, try it

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Monica E.

I only come for the Filipino style chicken and beef empenandas. I will drive clear across town for them. But always call ahead -- because I, apparently, am not the only person in San Diego County who is hooked on this place. It has happened more than once that I have driven 20 minutes whilst nurturing a craving for Coated Cafe only to arrive that they have been for hours sold of of the thing I absolutely need. The owners are caring and absolutely dedicated to their craft. That alone is a draw. And you can taste the love in their food (all desserts with a few savory options). Here, you can find ube items, pan de sal, cheese garlic bread, cakes (sometimes chocolate cakes), mango fruit cups and drinks like passion fruit tea. Lots of other items, including soda to go. There is ample parking and indoor seating for a few people, though I have never seen a person stay. Everyone seems anxious to get their orders and run. Coated is a great spot to grab a bulk buy for the family or the office. Or, if you are like me, just get 6-8 empendads and enjoy them over the next several days. Tips: The cafe is closed on Sundays and Mondays. You can call in your oder in advance, or even call to ask them to hold inventory for you (they will hold for an hour), which is something I have done frequently.

Jocelyn E.

Staff is great and the best empanadas I've tried in San Diego. I would mark down a star because hours can be sporadic which I forgive because they are family owned.

sharlyne gonzales

I love their food especially the egg pie and guyabano juice!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Chris U.

Been coming here for the past six months now but haven't posted it's deserving review till now. I've always support small businesses/Veteran owned like Coated Cafe, especially they provide great customer service and delicious desserts. We keep coming back for their empanadas and egg pie. Generously loaded with meat fillings in a thin and crispy crust the way I like it. Best empanadas ever!, even better that my in-laws recipe. They have special menus during the week so I recommend to call the store first and check. Highly recommended if you're looking for some Filipino treats in the National City area.

Marissa F.

The best Philippine empanada I have ever tasted. Not oily and baked and the filling is just right with all the ingredients of peas, carrots , ground meat or chicken and some raisins. Easy to eat and no crumbs left and it's the best Pasalubong ( surprise gift) and Regalo ( Christmas) gift to your love ones and the best thing is the affordable price!!!

emelyn maigue

Recently discovered this quaint Cafe and have been going there now for my pandesal and desserts.Parking: Plenty of parking availableDietary restrictions: She has created diabetic desserts which are delicious

Judy Viele B.

I really love the empanadas we ordered 100 pcs for my uncle viewing and since then I always buy empanadas. The chicken empanadas are so good I just wish they offer pork empanadas too.

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