Brick & Bell Cafe - La Jolla

You can smell the coffee before you spot the sign. Brick & Bell feels like someone's tidy kitchen with extra chairs, sun slanting across a small patio and a gentle clink of ceramic at 10:30 a.m. Locals claim the maple glazed scone like it is a civic treasure. The iced dirty chai arrives spiced and unapologetic, the açaí bowl bright and firm enough to make you believe in summer. Service is warm and rapid, the staff moving with a practiced, homey efficiency. Portions skew sensible. There is a self-serve station for salt, pepper and hot sauce if your eggs need coaxing. Parking is an argument, so plan for a short walk. Bring a sweater for the patio in the morning, and leave room for the scone.