When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Sul & Beans
Why Sul & Beans is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sul & Beans is a beloved Korean dessert café specializing in traditional and innovative bingsoo, the Korean shaved ice dessert. With a strong emphasis on quality, Sul & Beans uses only the finest and freshest ingredients to craft a variety of bingsoo flavors, from classic red bean to creative offerings like Earl Grey and permission bingsoo. The café offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that combines contemporary comfort with touches of traditional Korean culture, including interior elements inspired by Hanok architecture. This unique blend of authentic flavors and cultural experience makes Sul & Beans a perfect spot for friends to gather, share refreshing desserts, and enjoy a welcoming environment. Beyond bingsoo, the café also serves an assortment of toasts and specialty drinks, offering a well-rounded menu that complements the shaved ice desserts. The café’s dedication to great service ensures every customer feels at home, making it an ideal destination for casual meet-ups and relaxing social moments.
Here's what people think of Sul & Beans
As of recent, Sul & Beans holds a 4.3-star rating based on 160 reviews.
Customer reviews of Sul & Beans generally highlight the café's authenticity and tasty desserts, particularly praising the quality and creativity of the bingsoo offerings. Positive reviewers often mention the fresh ingredients, unique flavor combinations like Black Sesame and Earl Grey bingsoo, and the friendly, welcoming service that enhances their overall experience. The café's ambiance, inspired by traditional Korean design, is also appreciated for adding a cultural dimension to visits. On the downside, some reviews point out occasional issues such as limited seating, minor wait times during peak hours, and variations in portion sizes. A few customers noted that some menu items can be a bit sweet for their taste or that prices are slightly higher than comparable dessert cafes. Despite these minor critiques, the overall feedback is favorable, and many customers express their intention to return for the delicious desserts and the cozy atmosphere. In conclusion, Sul & Beans consistently delivers a memorable Korean dessert experience backed by engaging service and authentic flavors that resonate well with visitors seeking a refreshing and culturally rich café outing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mullen Teodoro
Sul & Beans Convoy Street San Diego, California So, after a fantastic Korean dinner, we both decided to have a Korean dessert. It's been a while since we had dessert at Sul & Beans, which is connected to our other favorite desserts place, SOMISOMI. The dessert we had is a traditional Korean dessert called Bingsoo "Bingsoo is a popular Korean shaved ice dessert made with milk-based shaved ice and sweet toppings.: We decided to get two items. One was the Chocolate Bingsoo, which was delicious. The Bingsoo was flavorful and fluffy. The chocolate brownies were a great accompaniment to the dessert. The next item we ordered was the Cinnamon Toast, which was delicious and flavorful. They have several to choose from. The staff members are always helpful, friendly, and informative. The cafe is spacious and offers different seating areas. The only drawback is the parking. This is located in a strip mall with limited parking, but the desserts at Sul & Beans and SomiSomi are worth the wait. Now Convoy is crowded all the time and all the restaurants and cafes are always busy. I know this because I'm a native San Diegan and have watched this area grow and watch how busy this road has become. So all I'm going to say is have patience. If you don't have it. Then I would avoid this area. If they are busy then thier busy. That can't be help because there is apossibility that this place could be popular like so many other places on this street. Now, Bingsoo is not for everyone because some flavors could be something you are not used to. Of I don't like it, I would never mention it because it's a bit rude, especially to a culture who may love that flavor. The way I look at it is just a lesson learn, and I probably not order it again. Overall, this fantastic place if you want to try a fantastic and delicious Korean dessert.
Jamie Mason
It was extremely crowded when we went on a Tuesday night. We really wanted the ice cream next-door, which I think is from the same restaurant, but the line was insanely long. so instead, we went to the Bingsu counter instead. It is a shaved ice milk dessert which we tried for the first time. My friend did not like it at all because it is not very sweet. I appreciated it how light it felt while still having the feeling of a frozen treat. We had the injeolmi flavor and the best way I can describe the flavor is imagine you had a bowl of Cheerios and milk, let it sit for a while, poured the milk out and froze it, and then shaved it like a snow cone. I would definitely go back, but my friend would not. I would try the strawberry or mango next time. It was super crowded because of all the people who waited in the long ice cream line, but we were able to find a table.
Pokemon Mom
The shaved ice is approximately $15 each, the portion is large and good to share with 2 or 3 people. We like the macha, black sesame and mango flavors. Coffees are meh.
Olive T
Stopped to get dessert at Sul & Beans. This is an authentic Korean dessert place. We ordered the mango bingsoo (no picture because it was devoured before we could take picture) and red bean taiyaki. Nice treats to satisfy our sweet tooth.
Brian Cho
Best shaved ice. Ordered the injeolmi bingsoo and taiyaki. Good price and everything made fresh. Can’t go wrong with their shaved ice. Highly recommend
How to reach Sul & Beans
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Why Sul & Beans may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sul & Beans with your friends?
Gathering at Sul & Beans is an irresistible idea for anyone looking to share a delightful experience centered around fresh, unique Korean desserts — especially their signature bingsoo, a shaved ice treat. The atmosphere at Sul & Beans offers more than just food; it creates a warm, welcoming vibe where friends and family can connect over light, refreshing, and beautifully presented desserts. The portion sizes are generous and perfect for sharing, encouraging group interaction and tasting a variety of flavors. Whether you prefer classic flavors like taro or green tea or more adventurous options such as earl grey or injeolmi topped bingsoo, this spot offers an exceptional dessert experience that appeals to all palates. The restaurant's dedication to quality ingredients and excellent service translates into a communal feel, making it an ideal meetup spot where everyone leaves satisfied both in taste and spirit. Plus, with multiple locations and convenient hours, you have flexibility in planning your get-together, making Sul & Beans a top choice for social gatherings.
What activities can you enjoy at Sul & Beans during a group meetup?
When you meet up at Sul & Beans, the primary activity revolves around indulging in their exquisite Korean-style shaved ice desserts known as bingsoo. These are not your average snow cones; they feature a delicate, fluffy milk ice base layered with fresh fruit, sweetened condensed milk, red beans, mochi, and innovative toppings like earl grey syrup or roasted injeolmi powder. Sharing different bingsoo flavors with friends invites exciting tasting experiences and lively discussions about which flavors reign supreme. Beyond eating, the setting encourages photo opportunities—each dessert’s vibrant presentation makes for Instagram-worthy moments that friends can cherish. The relaxed ambiance is perfect for conversations, catching up, or celebrating special occasions with a sweet touch. Some locations also offer Korean-style fish-shaped waffles stuffed with sweet fillings, which are perfect for sharing and add variety to the meetup. Overall, the activities at Sul & Beans pivot around enjoying delicious desserts while fostering social connections in an inviting environment.
Why is Sul & Beans perfect for group meetups?
Sul & Beans stands out as a perfect venue for group meetups for several reasons. First, the portions of their signature bingsoo are designed to be shared, promoting social interaction and communal enjoyment. The diversity of flavors caters to a wide range of tastes, from traditional purist choices like red bean and taro to creative and seasonal varieties, ensuring everyone in the group finds something they love. The ambiance is casual yet lively, encouraging long periods of relaxed conversation without the pressure of a formal dining experience. Staff are known for their friendly and welcoming service, making guests feel like part of the Sul & Beans family, which enhances the group dynamic. The restaurants often have spacious seating arrangements suitable for groups of various sizes, and their hours are accommodating for afternoon or evening meetups. These characteristics make Sul & Beans more than just a dessert spot—it’s an ideal social hub for friends and families who want to enjoy a unique culinary experience together.
What makes the dessert selection at Sul & Beans so special?
The cornerstone of Sul & Beans’ appeal is its exceptional dessert menu spotlighting bingsoo, a Korean shaved ice delicacy that’s both light and incredibly flavorful. Unlike traditional shaved ice desserts, Sul & Beans uses milk ice rather than plain ice, giving their bingsoo a creamy and melt-in-your-mouth texture that distinguishes it from other frozen treats. The toppings and flavor combinations are thoughtfully curated, ranging from fruity mango and sweetened condensed milk to nutty roasted soybean powder and chewy housemade mochi, adding depth and texture. The inclusion of traditional ingredients like red beans alongside popular Western flavors such as chocolate, strawberry, and Oreo allows for a fusion of tastes that appeal broadly. Each dish is presented with care and artistic flair, making the eating experience both delicious and visually engaging. These qualities elevate the dessert experience at Sul & Beans, making it a must-visit spot for dessert aficionados and casual diners alike seeking something novel and satisfying.
How does Sul & Beans accommodate different group sizes and preferences?
Sul & Beans is well-equipped to accommodate groups of all sizes, making it an excellent choice for casual hangouts, family outings, or even small celebrations. With multiple seating areas designed to handle both intimate pairs and larger parties, the venue ensures comfort and accessibility whether you arrive with two friends or a dozen family members. The menu’s flexible nature—featuring shareable bingsoo servings and additional items like fish-shaped waffles—means everyone can choose according to personal taste or dietary preference. For groups with varied palates, the variety of dessert flavors allows each individual to explore something new while also trying others’ choices, promoting interaction and shared enjoyment. Customers can drop in at different times throughout the day since the outlets operate across expansive hours, accommodating spontaneous or planned gatherings. Staff are attentive and responsive to group needs, ensuring service runs smoothly even during busy periods, which helps maintain a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
What are the benefits of visiting Sul & Beans beyond the dessert?
Visiting Sul & Beans offers more than just a delicious treat—it's a chance to enjoy a cultural experience through the lens of Korean dessert traditions paired with modern twists. The term "Sul & Beans" reflects this cultural connection, with "Sul" meaning snow and "Beans" referring to red beans, a classic ingredient in Korean desserts. The venue's commitment to authenticity combined with innovation introduces visitors to a small taste of Korea’s rich culinary heritage, making the outing educational as well as enjoyable. The friendly, family-style service adds to the welcoming atmosphere, encouraging guests to relax and savor their visit fully. For groups, this environment fosters conversation and connection, supported by the cozy yet lively restaurant design. The opportunity to experiment with flavors and enjoy beautifully crafted desserts offers a memorable outing that pairs well with socializing, celebrations, or simple leisure — all within an affordable price range, making Sul & Beans a valuable destination beyond just dessert indulgence.
How accessible is Sul & Beans for a wide range of visitors?
Sul & Beans is accessible and appealing to a diverse clientele, from dessert lovers seeking a sweet treat to groups looking for a fun and unique place to meet. The business operates several locations in California, including Buena Park, San Diego, Cupertino, and Irvine, offering convenience to residents and visitors across these regions. Their hours are generous, generally spanning from noon to late evening, making it easy to fit a visit into various schedules—whether it’s an afternoon break or an after-dinner dessert stop. The menus cater to both traditional and adventurous tastes, which can satisfy a broad demographic including families, young adults, and older customers. While parking may be tight at some locations, alternative parking nearby and public transit accessibility usually facilitate easy access. The clean, vibrant atmosphere and positive customer reviews, alongside a solid rating averaging around 4.3 stars from over 160 reviews, reinforce the notion that Sul & Beans is a well-loved and trustworthy spot for group socializing and dessert enjoyment alike.
What should visitors keep in mind when planning a meetup at Sul & Beans?
When planning a group outing to Sul & Beans, it helps to consider a few practical details to ensure a smooth experience. Because the desserts are rich and filling, it’s advisable not to arrive immediately after a large meal but rather as a perfect follow-up or during an afternoon pause to truly appreciate the flavors. Given the establishment’s popularity, especially on weekends or in the evening, making a reservation or arriving early can help avoid wait times, especially for bigger groups. Keep in mind that some locations might have limited parking, so planning for alternate parking or ride-sharing options can ease logistics. Sharing bingsoo and other menu items is encouraged, but be prepared for quick enjoyment as freshly shaved ice begins to melt swiftly. Bringing a camera or smartphone is also recommended to capture the visually stunning desserts and moments with friends, as these memories often become an area highlight. Following these tips will help any group maximize their enjoyment when rallying at Sul & Beans.
Why do customers consistently rate Sul & Beans highly?
Customers consistently give Sul & Beans high ratings due to their exceptional product quality, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the light, fluffy texture of the bingsoo, describing it as one of the best dessert experiences available—often comparing it to famous Korean shops in Asia yet praising Sul & Beans for its accessibility and flavor creativity. Patrons appreciate the generous portions that make sharing enjoyable and cost-effective for groups. The friendly, family-like staff contribute significantly to the warm dining atmosphere, as guests often mention feeling welcomed and well cared for. Positive word-of-mouth and the visually stunning desserts lead to return visits, with many customers stating that once they try Sul & Beans, they keep coming back. This reliable consistency across multiple locations contributes to the establishment's strong reputation and solid 4.3-star average from hundreds of reviews, making it a trusted pick for dessert lovers and social groups alike.