Positioned prominently at the corner of Newport Avenue and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, the new outpost takes over a converted former Union Bank building, offering locals and beachgoers the convenience of a quick caffeine fix without leaving their cars. The 900-square-foot space features a drive-thru entrance off Newport Avenue, a walk-up window, and outdoor seating for around 50 guests.
The Ocean Beach location expands on what has made Spill the Beans a rising favorite since launching downtown in 2017 alongside The Smoking Gun, a bar concept from parent company the Verant Group. This latest addition cements the brand's status as more than just a quirky side venture, establishing it as a serious player in San Diego's café scene.
True to form, the OB menu focuses on the shop’s signature "California-style" bagels created by Executive Chef Karina Orozco. These bagels are boiled in agave syrup for a distinct texture and feature offbeat flavors like Sundried Tomato & Cheese and Bacon & White Cheddar. The bagels are complemented by a lineup of indulgent compound cream cheeses, including Bananas Foster, White Truffle & Parmesan, and Caramelized Shallot & Chive - plus a rotating seasonal special and a vegan option.
While bagels are the headliner, the menu has broadened to include breakfast sandwiches like the "San DiEggo," made with over-medium eggs, double cheese, peppered bacon, and cayenne aioli. There are also lighter options like chia berry bowls and avocado toast, along with heartier fare like the garlic aioli-slathered B.B.L.(t) sandwich.
Drinks span everything from espresso-based classics and cold brew to matcha, chaga, and herbal teas. The coffee program, which once relied on Dark Horse Coffee, now features beans from San Diego’s Dropkick Coffee, giving the menu a fresh jolt with local flavor. Alternative milks such as oat, almond, coconut, and macadamia are available.
The Ocean Beach drive-thru is designed for speed but keeps a laid-back vibe in line with the community’s culture. Upon entry, drivers are greeted by a team member, music plays while orders are prepared, and everything is brought directly to the car - no speakers, screens, or sterile corporate feel.
Spill the Beans' expansion into OB follows a series of openings throughout San Diego, including Seaport Village, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach. The drive-thru addition suggests that the brand may continue evolving beyond walk-up cafes into hybrid models tailored for convenience without compromising personality.
Spill The Beans Coffee + Bagels is now open at 4805 Newport Avenue in San Diego's Ocean Beach. For more information, visit spillthebeanssd.com.
The Ocean Beach drive-thru is designed for speed but keeps a laid-back vibe in line with the community’s culture. Upon entry, drivers are greeted by a team member, music plays while orders are prepared, and everything is brought directly to the car - no speakers, screens, or sterile corporate feel.
Spill the Beans' expansion into OB follows a series of openings throughout San Diego, including Seaport Village, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach. The drive-thru addition suggests that the brand may continue evolving beyond walk-up cafes into hybrid models tailored for convenience without compromising personality.
Spill The Beans Coffee + Bagels is now open at 4805 Newport Avenue in San Diego's Ocean Beach. For more information, visit spillthebeanssd.com.
Originally published on June 26, 2025.
