Playground Art & Coffee is set to become a vibrant hub in North Park at 3043 University Avenue, blending community spirit with a passion for creativity. This innovative coffeehouse and maker space is gearing up for its grand opening on March 26th, with festivities rolling out from March 26–28, featuring special activities and a VIP launch party. Patrons can look forward to delightful pastries and an array of engaging workshops aimed at fostering connections among visitors.
What to Expect
The new cafe is housed in the former Verbana Kitchen space, marking the realization of owner Spring Barnickle‘s vision—a culmination of her lifelong passions. With a fun, retro-themed 1970s decor, cozy seating, and a relaxing atmosphere, Playground Art & Coffee invites guests to enjoy exceptional coffee and explore their artistic side.
The beverage menu offers a delightful mix of classic favorites and innovative concoctions. Customers will find traditional espresso, Americano, latte, and cappuccino alongside unique creations like the Hazelnut Sesame Latte, Pandan Mint Mocha, Creameiscle Cold Brew, Root Beer Latte, Salted Nutella Whipped Mocha, and Ube Matcha Latte. Additionally, refreshing coffee tonics and sodas—such as Espresso Tonic, Orange Yuzu Coffee Soda, Dirty Ube Chai Soda, and Strawberry Matcha Soda—add a playful twist. The team is committed to sustainability, sourcing ingredients responsibly, and has partnered with Torque Coffee, a City Heights-based roaster known for its award-winning beans.
On the food front, Playground’s menu focuses on homemade offerings that evoke nostalgia while catering to health-conscious palates. Signature selections include croissant bars with flavors like Almond, Pistachio, Chocolate, Strawberry Chocolate, Cinnamon Roll, Cherry Vanilla, and Salted Nutella. Reimagined nostalgic sweets like Galactic Brownies, Protein Cookie Dough Bites, Gooey Ube Cheesecake Bars, and Peanut Butter Fudge Protein Minis are also on offer. Savory options, including handheld pastries and phyllo twists—many vegan or gluten-free—provide convenient and balanced meal choices, such as “Grown-Up Lunchables.”
Community connection is a key focus at Playground, with weekly events designed to encourage creative engagement. “Dopamine Thursdays” offer casual art projects, “Saturday Playdates” feature step-by-step workshops, and “Sunday Sunshine” sessions include chocolate tastings, coffee cuppings, and mocktail-making classes. Spring aims to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages adults to unwind, engage creatively, and celebrate joyful moments together.
The new North Park location will be open Monday through Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Playground Art & Coffee aspires to be a cornerstone of the neighborhood, enhancing the area’s vibrant and walkable charm.
Key Takeaways
- Playground Art & Coffee opens on March 26th in North Park.
- The cafe features an inviting 1970s-inspired interior.
- Traditional and inventive coffee drinks are prominently featured.
- The food menu balances nostalgia and health-conscious options.
- Weekly creative events foster community engagement.
- Hours of operation vary by day, enhancing accessibility.
FAQ
What are the opening hours for Playground Art & Coffee?
The cafe will be open Monday through Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
What types of food will be served?
The menu includes signature croissant bars, nostalgic sweets, savory pastries, and balanced meal options like “Grown-Up Lunchables.”
Will there be events at Playground Art & Coffee?
Yes, regular events such as art projects, workshops, and tastings are planned to encourage community engagement and creativity.
What is the coffee sourcing philosophy?
Playground Art & Coffee emphasizes sustainability and has partnered with Torque Coffee to source quality, responsibly grown coffee beans.
With its unique concept and community-driven approach, Playground Art & Coffee promises to be a vibrant addition to North Park, offering not just coffee, but a space for creativity and connection.
