Shopping Small and Staying Trendy

Exploring the best local businesses San Diego has to offer 

Ashley Nichols / Assistant Arts and Culture Editor / The USD Vista

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, pristine weather, and amazing local businesses. As USD students, particularly the newbies on campus, get a feel for the city, there are a couple of local spots waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re in need of coffee, retail therapy, or just something to brighten your day, San Diego has it all. 

An’s Dry Cleaning $

3017 Adams Ave

This might be one of the more quirky and interesting local businesses in the mix: a quaint gelato shop fashioned as a 1950’s dry cleaners. It smells of a combination of both chocolate and honey. 

Each flavor is named after different fabrics such as “Cashmere” and “Linen.” The seven flavors can be mixed and matched from chocolatey goodness to pineapple. There are also vegan options for those who don’t eat dairy. 

The staff is very helpful and understanding. You can try every flavor on the menu. They will recommend their favorites and are quick to ask how your day is going. 

The location is on the edge of North Park sitting right next to a cute little coffee shop. There is street parking available right outside An’s Drying Cleaning. This small business will make you want to time travel back to the 50’s just to do some dry cleaning. 

Kettle & Stone $$

1619 W Lewis St

This hidden gem is tucked within the beautiful community of Mission Hills (only ten minutes from campus); parking is available along Lewis St.. Due to COVID-19, Kettle & Stone created a new outside seating area built onto the street. In the early mornings, kids ride bicycles, couples hold hands, and people rush to grab their morning coffee. However, don’t leave in a hurry. Stay and enjoy the antique atmosphere as the waterfall runs through your ears. 

At Kettle & Stone, the smell of coffee seeps into the walls as the Buddha centerpiece draws each customer to the center of the room, and serenades them as if it is saying good morning.  Incense leaves a decadent touch along the wooden tables and decor. The coffee – more than worth it. Especially if you like to splurge on a good cup of coffee, this place is for you. 

The salted caramel latte is strong and sweet. But, if you have an intense craving for chocolate, get the “mocha mexicana.” It is both spicy and soothing.

Kettle & Stone has a small variety of pastries such as muffins and croissants. Avocado toast is always a simple and easy breakfast, but Kettle & Stone knocks it out of the ballpark. It is made on french baguette bread with fresh arugula and lemon. An absolute must if you find yourself hungry while getting your morning coffee.

Verbatim Books $$

3793 30th St

The lavender awning harnesses the world of antique books. Whether selling, buying, or trading books, this peculiar setting draws you in. The eye immediately follows the overwhelming shelves and shelves of books. From old to new, Verbatim Books has it all. Scanning the shelves there are works of Charles Dickens, William Shakespeare, and Walt Whitman. Comics entice, records run along the counter, and even a 50 cent sticker machine makes you feel like a kid again.

Verbatim Books is located in the heart of North Park, which is a 15-minute drive from campus. Street parking is available on the side street of Verbatim Books. 

Outdated furniture is laid out randomly so fellow book lovers can enjoy the historic atmosphere. Since 2015, the store continues to give the community of San Diego a wide variety of curated books. 

The walls are covered in local San Diego art and photography to enhance the browsing experience. The workers are friendly and can help you with any questions you might have. This place is a must if you find yourself wanting to explore something on a Saturday.

Day To Day Vintage $$

3063 University Ave

This new discovery might be one of the best local, vintage shops in San Diego. Park by the Bank of America down the street, and you will be greeted by the sweetest security guard. 

The clothing ranges from simple crewnecks to rockin’ leather jackets. Right now, they are stocked with amazing flannels and jeans to keep you warm this fall. This local vintage store has been much needed in this area. They started out as a seller on Instagram and flea markets, and after enough traction, Day to Day decided to build a brick and mortar store in North Park.

The staff is super sweet and helpful. Businesses really care about their customers, which was evident at Day to Day. And this vintage store really went above and beyond. 

They are very well organized and even had some vintage knick knacks, playing cards, stickers, and records.

Shopping small is a great way to feel a closer connection with the San Diego community. These shops are a blend of trendy and unique experiences only found near this beautiful campus, so check them out soon.