Fifteen years ago, a family opened a little café in Encinitas with a simple mission: serve our neighbors and friends exceptional coffee in a warm, welcoming place. On May 15, we're celebrating just how far that first cup has taken us by offering free coffee to our loyal customers at all Lofty locations (except the airport) until 12pm.
From One Café to a San Diego Institution
In 2011, Lofty Coffee planted its roots in Encinitas with a single location and a whole lot of heart. Since then, it has grown into six café locations across the region, and even earned a spot inside the San Diego Airport. All because great coffee shouldn't stop just because you're catching a flight.
That kind of growth doesn't happen without a community. It happens because of you: the regulars who became friends, baristas who became family, and shared our belief that coffee is more than a drink. We believe it’s a ritual and a connection to the people around us.
Come Celebrate With Us — Coffee's on Lofty
To say thank you to everyone who's been part of the journey, all six café locations will be serving free house coffee until 12pm on May 15. Yes, free. Come in, grab a cup, and let's toast to 15 years together.
(Please note: the airport location is not included in the free coffee offer.)
Share Your Lofty Story & Win a $100 Gift Card
We also want to hear from you. Every Lofty regular has a story: a first date latte, laptop-fueled study sessions, a Saturday morning ritual that's become non-negotiable. Now's the time to share it.
Here's how to enter the giveaway:
- Post on your Instagram feed
- Write about your history with Lofty. Post a memory, a moment, whatever comes to mind
- Tag @LoftyCoffeeco on Instagram
- One random winner receives a $100 gift card
Must post between 5/13 and 5/31. The winner will be announced early June 2026. No purchase necessary. Limit 1 entry per person.
Whether you've been with us since the Encinitas beginning or just discovered us last week, we want to hear your story.
Cheers with us to 15 years of our favorite people, excellent coffee and the excitement of whatever comes next! See you on the 15th.