For those who find equal passion in the rich aroma of coffee and the vibrant sweep of a paintbrush, Tijuana’s creative scene is serving up the perfect blend. A new wave of local projects is transforming the classic café outing into an immersive artistic experience, inviting both novices and experts to reinterpret classic art or paint their favorite characters, all with a hot drink in hand. As such, San Diego Red presents a list of five spots where Tijuana’s art and coffee cultures beautifully collide.
1. Esencia Meraki at Sketch Lab
At Esencia Meraki, the goal is not just to paint, but to reconnect. Founded by creative visionary Mirna Rivera, this collaborative project with Sketch Lab art studio offers a sanctuary that feels both intimate and inspiring. Soft lights, the scent of freshly ground coffee, and thematic decorations create a unique atmosphere.
Patrons can choose their canvas, a tote bag, wine glass, or even a flowerpot while accompanied by unlimited coffee. A welcome kit including a Polaroid photo and a themed surprise sets the tone for a fearless, creative session.
Drop-in sessions are available on Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., while weekends feature pop-culture themed events celebrating everything from Twilight to Friends.
Esencia Meraki has become less of a workshop and more of a community, a refuge where brushstrokes mingle with laughter, music, and new friendships.
2. UNIKA Painting Bar
For a vibrant, social art experience, UNIKA Painting Bar has become a local staple since its 2018 debut. Its “Paint and Drink” concept is designed for fun and relaxation, requiring zero artistic experience.
Over three hours, guiding artists lead attendees step-by-step through a painting while they enjoy a complimentary drink and à la carte food. With all materials provided, the only prerequisite is a willingness to have fun. UNIKA, which now has two locations in Baja California, also specializes in private events for birthdays or bachelorette parties, even allowing guests to bring a custom playlist to soundtrack their creative celebration.
3. Clarooscuro Café
Nestled in Tijuana’s downtown, Clarooscuro Café offers a tranquil escape for creatives. Beyond serving excellent coffee, it acts as a hub for diverse workshops, including painting, art therapy, crafts, and floral arrangement.
The key to Clarooscuro is its ever-changing roster of activities. Those interested are encouraged to follow the café’s Instagram account to stay updated on the weekly schedule of events and workshops.
4. Joyoclock BC
For those who love discovery, Joyoclock BC offers an artistic surprise. This itinerant project pops up in different locations across the city, making each painting and coffee session a unique adventure.
This roaming concept is perfect for explorers who want to experience different neighborhoods while flexing their creative muscles. Followers must watch the project’s social media for announcements on upcoming dates and secret locations.
5. Urban Art Session
Injecting a dynamic, urban flair into the paint-and-sip model, Urban Art Session is the go-to for a lively group outing. Hosted at venues like Corleone’s Terrace in Playas de Tijuana, these sessions pair step-by-step painting instruction with a glass of wine.
No experience is needed, and by the end of the night, every attendee leaves with a finished masterpiece and the memory of a night filled with art and camaraderie. As their motto states, it’s about “celebrating the grand things in life by learning to paint while tasting a glass of wine.”
Bonus: Bunko and Julep Cultural Cafés
No list of Tijuana’s creative cafés would be complete without mentioning two cultural pillars: Bunko Café-Librería and Café Julep. These established venues frequently expand their offerings to include creative afternoons, from painting and lettering workshops to tote bag decorating, often accompanied by coffee or craft cocktails.
These establishment remain perfect destinations for those seeking an artistic escape surrounded by books, good music, brushes and paintings, and the comforting clink of coffee cups.
