Friends of Friends

New National City Coffee Shop Esquina Celebrates Lowrider Culture - Eater San Diego

"A coffee shop inspired by the South Bay’s lowriders and cruising culture has arrived in National City. Decorated with automotive memorabilia, Esquina Vintage and Coffee is now pouring filter and espresso-based drinks out of its corner outpost at 640 National City Avenue. The shop features Gavina coffee as its primary supplier, while the shop’s cold brew is supplied by Paradise Hill’s Project Reo Collective coffee shop and decaf drinks are made with Cafe Moto beans. House specials and traditional Mexican items include cafe de olla, the Viejito latte, and pieces of pan dulce. The shop’s interior and motif is inspired by the lifelong passion of owners Fabian Gil, Alberto Castaneda, and Rene Acevedo, who are all members of the chapter of lowrider group Viejitos Car Club. The trio aims to celebrate this aspect of the local culture, while giving back to the community through their shop’s space. There are also plans to feature art and photography from National City artists and residents. Esquina Vintage and Coffee in open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. through 12 p.m., with the shop reopening from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. The shop’s Saturday hours are 8 a.m. through 1 p.m." - Mario A. Cortez