Jason Mraz has stepped in to help save Oceanside’s Jitters Coffee Pub, a local landmark running for over 30 years. The Grammy winner, a longtime customer and friend of former owners Vallie Gilley and her husband, joined as a partner to keep the doors open. Mraz’s motivation stemmed from wanting to preserve the shop’s legacy as a community hub. “It’s more than coffee—it’s a place where people connect,” he said. His involvement has heightened community engagement, drawing attention to the café’s role in Oceanside’s cultural fabric.
Opened in the 1990s, Jitters was the city’s initial coffee shop. For 24 years, the Gilleys nurtured it into a cozy gathering spot, with husband Irv serving as master roaster using a 2-pound batch roaster to handcraft 20 pounds of beans weekly. But challenges threatened its future until Mraz stepped in. The revival involved significant renovations to modernize the space while honoring its nostalgic roots. Now, the shop has fresh life with a revamped menu, live music, and quirky decor. Chef Felix Alcaide added vegan comfort food like cashew queso nachos, catering to diverse diets. The café emphasizes community value and local identity, reflecting its commitment to being an integral part of Oceanside. Exceptional coffee shops often nurture community connections, which is evident here.
Jitters, Oceanside’s original 1990s coffeehouse, overcame challenges through revitalization—now offering vegan comfort food, live music, and quirky charm under new leadership.
A tiny stage hosts local musicians, while a gold-plated bathroom sparks conversations. Community remains central. Regulars still meet for coffee, but new faces arrive too, drawn by Mraz’s fame. The shop hosts live music nights and storytelling events, encouraging neighbors to share experiences. It also supports local rescue groups, mixing philanthropy with daily operations. Mraz hopes these efforts will guarantee Jitters stays a “third place” for Oceanside—somewhere that isn’t home or work, but just as important.
Financial changes have stabilized the business. Mraz’s backing allowed menu updates and efficiency improvements. Social media buzz and events like open mic nights draw crowds, while sustainability practices—like eco-friendly packaging—align with modern values. The team aims to keep prices affordable, ensuring everyone feels welcome.
Looking ahead, Jitters plans to expand cultural programs and deepen community ties. Workshops, artist collaborations, and more live shows are in talks. Mraz sees the shop as a model for blending creativity and commerce. For now, regulars savor the mix of old charm and new energy. As one customer put it, “This place is Oceanside’s heartbeat—glad it’s still beating.”
