With autumn in full swing and winter well on its way, the time has come once again for the sugar-infused, coffee-based delicacies that have become synonymous with fall. And while we’re all well aware of the notorious flavor known as “pumpkin spice,” it’s not the only fall-flavored player in town. So, with the tasty caffeine drinks in mind, here are three local spots for seasonal coffee drinks and what you should try.

Starbucks

We know, we know. Starbucks is such a large company they literally have a cafe in a train car traveling from Geneva Airport to St. Gallen in Switzerland. Hardly what you would call "local.” But, the reality is, Starbucks is everywhere. Heck, there are four Starbucks cafes within a 2-mile radius of your front door. That being said, if you're in a hurry and you can't make it to a locally owned coffee house, well, they've got a train in Switzerland for a reason.

What Should You Try?

No, we're not going to suggest the Pumpkin Spice Latte – stop being so basic. Instead, we're going with the Apple Crisp Macchiato. This flavor-rich treat consists of espresso, milk, and delectable apple pie swirl over ice and topped with caramelized spiced apple drizzle.

Cafe 160

Cafe 160 is a nutrition-focused cafe with an impressive menu of healthy food options like breakfast items, salads, sandwiches, burritos, burrito bowls, smoothies, and tacos. While the coffee menu isn’t as expensive as Starbucks, few are. But that doesn’t stop Cafe 160 from boasting some stellar coffee-based beverages.

What Should You Try?

We suggest the Golden Milk Latte. With nutritionally beneficial hemp milk as its base, this latte also combines turmeric, cinnamon, coconut oil, honey, cracked pepper, and a shot of espresso. The result is a great-tasting fall treat that hits your tongue with a kaleidoscope of flavors to enjoy.

Cafe Cali

Last up on the list is CAFE Cali. This family-owned drive-up coffee stand also has a small order window to accommodate the walkers and drivers alike. Their food menu has your standard pastries, muffins, and cookies, along with an assortment of fruit bowls and flavored smoothies.

What Should You Try?

Their coffee menu has the usual suspects – lattes, machiottos, and mochas. However, what sets CAFE Cali apart is their incredible blended frappe. With over 30 flavors to choose from, your taste buds will have a field day trying each and every one of them.

For more fun-filled articles about things to do in and around San Diego, be sure to check out our other Olympus Corsair blog posts.