Restaurant Spotlight: Zebra House Coffee

By Stacie N. Galang
1001 S. El Camino Real, Suite A, San Clemente, 949.218.6976, www.zebrahousecoffee.com
Most popular item: Coffee
Best known for: Mango basil smoothie
The idea for Zebra House Coffee took root in a coffee trip to Nicaragua nearly a decade ago, said owners Robin and Jay McIlwee who opened the shop and a drive-thru in July. The coffee connoisseurs’ dreams came into focus when Robin McIlwee spotted the for-rent sign at the former pharmacy and Jay McIlwee retired as a teacher. They gutted the space and created an eclectic vibe adding local art and free wi-fi. Zebra serves Klatch Coffee, a specialty roaster in Upland, Calif. that only prepares the beans when an order arrives, the McIlwees said. They prepare their specialty drinks in the European tradition and feature French press and a pour-over single cup method but neither can be ordered from the drive-thru. Zebra offers breakfast fare such as tacos, in-house made muffins and sundry baked goods. For lunch, the coffee house has a simple menu of sandwiches – from pulled pork sliders to a turkey sandwich on ciabatta bread with a pesto spread.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday and Monday 6 a.m.-3 p.m.
Payment: Cash only
Price range: $1.75 to $4.95
Reservations: Not necessary