Cafe 976   

Students from nearby UCSD duck into Cafe 976 for a quick cuppa joe, a serene spot to study and/or a respite from scary dorm food. The garden-surrounded coffeehouse (it's a real house, not a strip mall cafe) has been a staple in the San Diego bean scene for almost a decade, and in that time has created a niche in the hearts and tummies of the surrounding community. "976," as it is affectionately referred to, serves up light fare for breakfast and lunch (the kitchen closes in the afternoon) and bakery and prepared snacks through the evening. Coffee is hot, strong and fresh (and the refills are cheap.) The walls are filled with artwork by locals, some quite good and often for sale, and the cozy atmosphere makes it pleasant to sit indoors. But, if it's nice outside, be sure to plant yourself at the garden tables, the most pleasant spot for a latte and a bit of ponderance. Garden sitters be prepared -- the occasional local kitty-cat might wander up to visit.