Calypso Café is a Hidden Treasure
- Susan Heavilin
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Tucked away near the bay in a quiet little corner of the Coronado Cays is a wonderful gem of a restaurant . . . locals all know the Calypso Café.
It is located off the Silver Strand Boulevard (Highway 75) that travels between Coronado and Imperial Beach. You may enter at either end but unless you’re already in Coronado, I recommend the shorter drive though IB.
I used to come here with a group of friends almost ten years ago when I had lived in Coronado and I had totally forgotten about this hidden treasure.
Recently a friend asked me to meet her there for lunch and then it all came back to me. The food was still delectable and the service was as friendly and attentive as ever.
It’s a locally owned café.
Hanan Martha is the sole owner and opened the café sixteen years ago.
Originally, she had operated a little coffee cart right near the property. When this space opened up, she jumped at the chance to have her own restaurant.
I asked her how she had come up with the menu and she told me that she had been doing this for a while. She had a long history with cuisine.
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What is her most popular item on the menu? She replied that every item is unique and so they’re ALL good! I can’t argue with that.
Vegan and vegetarian options are offered. The Calypso Café caters to diverse dietary needs, ensuring everyone finds something to savor.
Everything is made in house. Hanan does all the preparation and the seasoning of each dish. Everything comes through her. Once that is complete, the chef cooks it for the customer.
At Calypso Café, you have the choice of dining inside or outside. Both are perfect for groups of friends or family gatherings with plenty of seating. Though it’s just as inviting for solo dining.
The inside is cozy and welcoming. It feels like you’re enjoying a meal at a friend’s home.
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The outside patio has a refreshing breeze and you can opt to enjoy the sun on your face or enjoy the shade of an overhead umbrella. It is literally right on the water with abundant scenic views. One more bonus, it’s dog-friendly so you can get Fido out of the house for a bit.
There are two boat slips facing the bay for the Café patrons to use. Yes, you read that correctly. You can “dock & dine” right at the Calypso Café!
If you are not fortunate enough to own your own boat, then driving is the next best thing. No need to stop as you enter the Coronado Cays, just wave “hi” to the guard as you make a right turn and proceed to your dining destination.
Too busy to dine in? They also have take-out! Just call in your order (619.423.5144) and pick it up before 3PM. And if you forgot an ingredient or drinks for dinner, they have a small supply of store items.
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You’ll find the Calypso Café at 505 Grand Caribe Causeway, Coronado, CA 92118. They are open Monday through Saturday, 8AM – 3PM. At this time, they are closed on Sundays.
After closing time at 3PM, the Café is available for private parties.
Calypso can host any event for up to 80 people:
Engagements
Bridal Showers
Baby Showers
Baptisms
Birthdays
Other events you might want
Call Hanan (619.423.5144) to set up a date for planning your party.
Next, you would come and meet with her to decide your menu, your likes and dislikes, types of drinks, how many people you are inviting and if there are any special food requests. She will take it from there and make sure your event is everything you ever hoped for.
The Café also does catering with “Family-style” dishes. She will prepare a big tray of lasagna, kebabs or whatever you have a craving for.
You can pick your menu and they will make it. Give them enough time to get it done and then pick it up by 3PM to serve at your home party.
Hanan loves her café and you can tell this by the care and attention given to her customers and cuisine. The detail to preparation is apparent in each meal.
She told me that she wants you to feel at home and as if you’re sitting in the family kitchen eating a home-cooked meal.
Come on in and enjoy your time at Calypso Café. Breakfast, lunch or dinner . . . they serve it all and it’s delicious!
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