Roaming Hunger

Middle GroundCertified

CartCart, Popup Catering
LocationEscondido, CA
13 Months on Roaming Hunger

Super Great For

  • Custom Menus
  • Indoor Events
  • On-Set Catering
  • Corporate Catering

"Poured with Purpose. Blended with Story."

Jalend Venn & Darryl Laforteza of Middle Ground

Middle Ground Menu

Signatures

"Coco Blush"

Salted pink coconut latte

"Tropika"

Mango and calamansi with an energy tonic kick

"The Red Cap"

Cold Brew Tonic with Lingonberry and a touch of mint

"Sassy Lassie"

Fizzy Strawberry Lime Mocktail Smoothie

Coffee

Americano

Espresso, water

Flat White

1:2 ratio espresso & milk

Cortado

1:1 ratio espresso & milk

Cold Brew or Americano, 12 oz

Option between Signature Cold Brew or Americano

Latte

Served Hot or cold Milk options: Whole or Oat Flavors: Vanilla, Caramel, Mocha, Hazelnut

Other Drinks

Bottled Water

Can have with cup of ice

Matcha

Matcha with wilk

Treats/Pastries

Turnover

Puff Pastry with Fruit Filling

Chocolate Puffs

Chocolate pastries

Banana Bread

Banana Bread Loaf Slices

Meet Jalend Venn & Darryl Laforteza
What is the story behind your business' name?

The story behind the name "Middle Ground" is rooted in connection—between people, cultures, and passions. It began when two very different creative minds came together: one, a seasoned coffee aficionado with a deep love for precision and tradition; the other, a color-loving mocktail experimenter drawn to playful flavors and bold, unexpected combinations. What could’ve been contrast turned into chemistry—Middle Ground is where those worlds met. The name also reflects our shared love for travel and the time we’ve spent living and working around the globe. From the bustling street markets of Asia to quiet cafés in Europe and vibrant gatherings in the Middle East, we found inspiration in how drinks are more than just beverages—they’re rituals, stories, and expressions of place. Middle Ground is our way of honoring that, bringing together global influences into one cart, one menu, one cup. At its core, Middle Ground represents the beauty of blending: coffee and mocktails, heritage and innovation, familiarity and surprise. It’s a space where different perspectives come together—and something new, thoughtful, and delicious is born.

About Middle Ground

  • LGBTQ+ Owned
  • Women Owned
  • Minority Owned
  • Veteran Owned
  • Disability Owned
  • Asian Owned (AAPI)
  • Immigrant Owned
Middle Ground is a coffee and mocktail cart based in San Diego, serving a rotating seasonal menu inspired by global traditions. Every drink is a carefully crafted blend of authenticity, storytelling, and technique-made with ethically sourced ingredients and prepared with intention. From a fizzy Sunrise Mocktail to a smooth cortado or spiced masala chai, each offering reflects a meaningful connection to the cultures that inspired it.

What sets Middle Ground apart is its mission to create more than just a caffeine fix. It's a space where beverages spark conversation, a gathering point for farmers market regulars, conscious consumers, and curious minds who value cultural depth and sustainable sourcing. With seasonal drinks and small-batch beans, Middle Ground delivers a rich, respectful experience rooted in community and curiosity. Every visit invites guests to explore the world, one thoughtful sip at a time.

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