explore communal
CAFE, ARTISANAL SHOP, EVENT SPACE
Contributing Writer & Photographer: Jordan Younis
There’s no shortage of delicious coffee and curated spaces to drink it in Oceanside. With vibey java shops scattered all over town, it’s hard to keep them all straight, but Communal Coffee has taken root as an iconic favorite, not only in Oceanside but in San Diego.
Founded in 2016, Jen Byard opened Communal’s flagship location in North Park, followed by the quaint, outdoor shop in South Park. In 2021, Oceanside’s trendy Tremont Collective offered the perfect home for Communal’s expansion to the northern edge of the county.
Each location is unique to its neighborhood setting but echoes a consistent signature concept: bright, airy aesthetics, a focus on fostering connection and community, delicious coffee drinks, seasonal food items, curated local goods, and, of course, fresh flowers.
O’side’s Communal shop is situated in the collective’s corner spot, welcoming visitors with a sweeping open cafe space and sunlight that pours in through large windows lining the shop’s walls. The interior is complete with tables, couches and chairs, a large co-working table and a small bar lined with wine glasses at the ready. Sidewalk seating as well as a large private patio are also part of the shop’s outdoor area.
On any day of the week, morning through evening, you’ll find a full house of remote workers, creatives, vacationers and locals lingering and enjoying the space. With a robust menu, Communal offers inventive and seasonal coffee drinks along with “not coffee” selections, like sparkling limeades, matcha lattes, local kombucha and seasonal cocktails. Food is available all day, from a variety of toasts like avocado and peach-ricotta, to bagel sandwiches with a breakfast flare. In the afternoon and evening, opt for building your own pizza, or snack on charcuterie along with a glass of natural wine or a refreshing spritz.
In addition to the cafe experience, Communal doubles as a treasure trove for any shopper. Visitors can peruse meticulously curated shelves of locally sourced goods like candles, jewelry, children’s clothing, plants, wine, and bouquets. The cafe is flanked by a designated flower shop in a room beyond the ordering counter, and a separate shop known as the Annex sits next door. An extension of Communal’s retail section, the Annex greets visitors with a calming, earthy aesthetic, and even houses a private event space behind the shop, which straddles the interior space and a charming outdoor patio area. The event space often hosts workshops and is available for rent as a picturesque setting for work outings, birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, and more. This area sprawls out to their large Tremont Collective patio space that offers dance fitness and pilates classes.
True to its name, Communal is a must-visit for anyone seeking a great latte, a curated seasonal menu, hands-on experiences, unique gifts, and a thoughtfully designed space to unwind and enjoy an idyllic O’side day. Discover more about this unique spot HERE.
