Stellar Coffee Co. - San Marcos

I really enjoyed the menu here; it’s quite creative. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but considering you might only be in town for a couple of days, it’s worth it. I ended up returning three times, and my drinks were all priced between $6 and $7 with a milk modification. To be eco-friendly, ask for drinks in their own cups instead of using plastic. Their plastic cups aren’t environmentally friendly, and the reusable ones are much prettier. The place definitely has a student vibe, with good music and a calm atmosphere. They also have some specials for students, but these change throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on their Instagram. Don’t bother calling, though; I tried reaching out on two different days, and no one answered. A big shout out to the baristas! They were super friendly, and I had a lot of questions. I tried a strawberry matcha with almond milk, a Secret drink (the name is on my blog), and a Sakura.

When he finally made my drink, it was only half full. Normally, I’m a “glass half full” kind of person, but this made me feel disappointed. Having been a barista myself, I understand how stressful the job can be, even if a worker is rude. Here’s the interesting part: I’ve shared my experience with at least five different people, and they all told me they had similar negative encounters with Jalen! I really don’t understand why they haven’t fired him, especially since his attitude seems so disrespectful and unfriendly. It’s hard to enjoy a café with someone like that ruining the vibe. On the bright side, I’ve found my new favorite spot: The Coffee Bar! Everyone there is friendly, and it truly feels like home.

EDIT Stellar is now under new management, which has brought a complete makeover to the space. Unlike the previous café, which featured an eclectic mix of souvenirs and photographs, the new design is sleek and contemporary. The aesthetic is uniform and features a tri-color scheme, resembling an IKEA-inspired coffee shop. Along with the change in name, there’s also a new coffee source—the beans now come from Austin, TX. The blends are richer and more flavorful, yet the prices remain fair and unchanged. The staff is friendly, and the café is student-friendly, offering plenty of power outlets and fast, free Wi-Fi. There are communal desks and coffee tables available for group work, making it a great spot for studying or collaborating.

After hearing numerous positive reviews about this place, I finally decided to visit on a winter evening, and I was definitely impressed with both the atmosphere and the food. The coffee shop is spacious, clean, and has just the right lighting to create a cozy environment for coffee enthusiasts looking to enjoy a warm beverage and relax. The art and decor are quite nice, although I would recommend adding more comfortable chairs or even sofas for a cozier feel. The food was excellent; I had a mocha for $5. It may be a bit pricey, but the overall experience was worth it. I would definitely return! Update: Although the ownership has changed, the shop continues to offer coffee of the same quality, taste, and atmosphere.

The Rylee special was fantastic! The atmosphere was wonderful, and the lovely ladies who made the drinks and designs added a great touch!