Customers consistently praised the deliciousness of the gelato, pastries, and various food items, with many highlighting the authenticity and freshness.
Service Experience
While many reviews noted friendly and welcoming staff, there were also complaints about slow service and some instances of rudeness from employees.
Atmosphere
The cafe is described as cozy and charming, with a warm neighborhood vibe, making it a pleasant spot for dining and relaxation.
Pricing Concerns
Some customers felt that prices were high for the portion sizes and quality, leading to mixed feelings about value for money.
LG
lavanda gastrica
1 day ago
1.0
They are going down the hill, the Gelato use to be italian now is everything but it, coffe is served without even glass of water and if you ask for it u have to pay for H2O I don't suggest trading it at your own risk! Besides the high cost of the product of course
AG
Angie Gomez
4 days ago
5.0
Literally the best food and service! Hasn’t changed for years! If anything it’s gotten better since I left. So glad to be in the area and trying out the Foccacia Pannini(what they are known for) and the Nonna custard!! 🍮 Delicious with every bite!!
MH
Melodie Henderson
6 days ago
4.0
Coffee is great but it’s not your spot for the cute latte menus that a lot of cafes offer now. It’s more a classic menu, great coffee flavors though, just not as many options. Website/Online menu could definitely use some help to make it more user friendly. Also coffee stoppers or little stickers for to go orders would be great, I was surprised they didn’t have those. I think it’s more of a cafe for locals downtown.
LA
Lena Ashykhmina
Jan 5, 2026
2.0
While ordering a dessert to go and spending only a couple of minutes inside the café, all of my clothes absorbed a strong smell of fried oil. Even after stepping outside, the smell was still lingering around me. It was very unpleasant.
The dessert itself was not good either.
EB
Eric Bowman
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
I love Papelecco for many reasons. It is proof that food can be elegant, freshly prepared, tasty and served quickly. On this occasion, I had breakfast but I've eaten there at all times of the day. Everything, from croissants to gelato, salads to sandwiches is excellently prepared and served on real dishes with a touch of pinache.
Service is quick and friendly. When ordering, you are always greeted first, and thanked last, a nice touch.
I will continue coming in on every visit to San Diego.
Our gelato is indeed made in-house, ensuring freshness and quality with every serving.
Do you offer delivery?
We provide delivery services through third-party platforms such as GrubHub and DoorDash for your convenience.
Is your coffee organic and fair-trade?
We are committed to serving organic and fair-trade coffee to our valued customers.
Is Pappalecco's gelato homemade?
Yes, Pappalecco makes their gelato in-house to ensure freshness and quality in every serving.
Does Pappalecco offer delivery services?
Pappalecco provides delivery through third-party platforms such as GrubHub and DoorDash for your convenience.
Is the coffee at Pappalecco organic and fair-trade?
Yes, Pappalecco is committed to serving organic and fair-trade coffee to their customers.
What are Pappalecco's usual opening hours?
Pappalecco is open from 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM Monday through Thursday; until 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday; and from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM on Sunday.
What types of products does Pappalecco offer?
Pappalecco offers a variety of items including gelato, coffee drinks, pastries like croissants and biscotti, salads, panini, and more.
How can I contact Pappalecco?
You can reach Pappalecco by phone at +1 619-238-4590 or via email at gelato@pappalecco.com.
Where is Pappalecco located?
Pappalecco is located at 1602 State Street, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States.
Which nearby cafes and coffee shops can I visit around Pappalecco?
Near Pappalecco, you can also visit Lofty Coffee Little Italy Cafe and Bakery for more coffee and cafe experiences.
Are there any beauty salons near Pappalecco where I can get a haircut or spa services?
Yes, nearby you can find Black Market Barbershop and State Street Hair Studio for haircuts, as well as Brazilia Skin Care and Spa for waxing and beauty services.
What cultural or community centers are near Pappalecco that I could visit before or after my cafe visit?
The Italian Cultural Center San Diego and the Italian Community Center are nearby, offering cultural events and language classes that can complement your visit to Pappalecco.