Top 25 coffee shops in San Francisco
Discover our curated list of top-ranked coffee shops in San Francisco, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Sightglass Coffee, Caffe Trieste, Four Barrel Coffee, Blue Bottle Coffee, Flywheel Coffee Roasters. Let's explore together!
- 1. Sightglass Coffee
- 2. Caffe Trieste
- 3. Four Barrel Coffee
- 4. Blue Bottle Coffee
- 5. Flywheel Coffee Roasters
- 6. Saint Frank Coffee
- 7. Coffee To The People
- 8. Home Coffee Roasters
- 9. Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters
- 10. Peet's Coffee
- 11. Farley's Coffeehouse
- 12. Verve Coffee Roasters
- 13. Castro Coffee Company
- 14. Cafe Bean
- 15. Henry's House of Coffee
- 16. Ritual Coffee Roasters
- 17. Matching Half
- 18. Chatz Coffee Shop
- 19. Sextant Coffee Roasters
- 20. Mellis cafe
- 21. Starbucks
- 22. Blue Bottle Coffee
- 23. CoffeeShop
- 24. Grand Coffee
- 25. Blue Bottle Coffee
1. Sightglass Coffee
Sustainable and transparent sourcing practices

The area is undeniably hip, featuring high ceilings and filled with people working on their latest projects on the newest MacBooks. Despite your personal feelings towards hipster culture, the coffee served is truly delicious, and the roasted beans are definitely worth trying. The atmosphere invites you to take your time and appreciate life.
The macchiato served is particularly noteworthy, providing a perfect example of what good espresso should taste like. The espresso's quality is not diminished by the attractiveness of the baristas, as it stands on its own as the best espresso the reviewer has ever had. Additionally, the Hooker's Sweet Treats, specifically the dark chocolate covered, sea salted caramels, are a must-try and are rare to find elsewhere.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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2. Caffe Trieste
Oldest operating coffeehouse in San Francisco, established in 1956.

Caffe Trieste, a well-known establishment in North Beach, is a classic coffee shop that stands out for its character and lively atmosphere. It is common to find the café bustling with activity, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Along with the coffee, Caffe Trieste also offers free Wi-Fi with a purchase, making it a great place to relax, work, or study.
The café has a rich history and a distinct identity that is evident as soon as you enter. Caffe Trieste serves up tasty pastries, such as dulce de leche alfajores, coconut cookies, and pastafrola, that complement their good coffee. The café's commitment to quality and authenticity has helped it establish a loyal following and a place in the hearts of the local community.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
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3. Four Barrel Coffee
Direct trade coffee, roasted in-house

The coffee from this particular establishment is unparalleled and sets the standard for all other coffees. It is consistently roasted to perfection, never burnt, and carefully prepared to preserve the full flavor of the coffee. This cafe was a definite highlight of my trip to San Francisco due to its exceptional staff and unique atmosphere. The professional and friendly team created a welcoming ambience, while the art-inspired decor added to the hip and captivating environment.
The quality of the coffee at this cafe is truly superior. From the moment I tasted it, I knew that it would be the benchmark for all other coffees I would try in the future. The care and attention to detail that goes into each cup is evident in the rich and full flavor. The professional staff and inviting atmosphere were added bonuses that made for an exceptional cafe experience. This coffee has ruined all other coffees for me, as I can't help but compare them all to this impeccable standard.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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4. Blue Bottle Coffee
Pioneer of third wave coffee movement, Carefully curated selection of single-origin coffees

Blue Bottle Coffee is a popular coffee shop in San Francisco, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious drinks. The coffee shop's friendly staff and inviting decor create a comfortable and enjoyable environment for customers. However, it can get busy, so seating may be limited.
If you visit Blue Bottle, be sure to try the New Orleans iced coffee. It's a customer favorite, known for its creamy and delightful taste. The coffee shop's use of high-quality, freshly roasted beans results in a delicious and satisfying drink. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Blue Bottle is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers in San Francisco.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
5. Flywheel Coffee Roasters
Dedication to sustainable and ethical sourcing

TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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6. Saint Frank Coffee
Emphasis on ethical sourcing, transparency, and quality coffee

The espresso I had was a single origin variety, but I found it to be a bit too roasted for my preference. I would have liked it to have a more citrusy flavor. On the other hand, the pour over coffee that they offer is exceptional. In my opinion, it is the best in San Francisco, even surpassing the pour over coffee at well-known establishments like Blue Bottle and Sightglass.
The single origin espresso I ordered could have benefited from a less intense roasting process, as I found it to be somewhat overwhelming. A more citrusy notes would have been welcome. However, the pour over coffee served at this location is truly outstanding. It stands out in a city known for its coffee culture, and in my opinion, it is superior to the pour over offerings at other reputable coffee shops such as Blue Bottle and Sightglass.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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7. Coffee To The People
Devoted to carefully sourced, freshly roasted coffee

The staff at this establishment are known for their friendly and cheerful demeanor. They are efficient in processing orders and deliver drinks in a timely manner. Customers have praised the staff for their ability to provide quick service without compromising on quality.
The establishment offers a variety of coffees and pastries, all of which are highly regarded by customers. The coffees are praised for their rich and full-bodied flavor, while the pastries are commended for their perfect combination of flaky crust and delicious filling. Patrons consistently leave satisfied with their food and drink choices.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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8. Home Coffee Roasters
Dedicated to ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting

This coffee shop in San Francisco is renowned for its excellent ambiance, making it an ideal spot for work or relaxation with a book. Another highlight is the consistently fresh coffee and the staff's friendliness.
The coffee shop boasts a welcoming atmosphere, drawing in locals and tourists alike. Its reputation for serving fresh coffee is well-deserved, and the staff's friendly demeanor adds to the shop's charm. This coffee shop is an excellent choice for those seeking a cozy and comfortable space to enjoy a great cup of coffee.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Breakfast
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9. Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters
Sustainable and ethically sourced coffee beans

Wrecking Ball Coffee in Cow Hollow is a small but mighty coffee shop, serving well-balanced and delicious coffee. The staff is friendly and adds to the shop's welcoming atmosphere. Although seating is limited, there are benches inside and outside seating with parking available.
This coffee shop is a hidden gem in the neighborhood, offering a smooth and rich brew that is sure to satisfy. While they do have some sweet snacks, the main focus is rightly on the coffee. The cappuccino, in particular, is excellent. Overall, it's a great spot to enjoy a coffee and watch the city go by.
TOPICS
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
10. Peet's Coffee
Sustainable and socially responsible sourcing of coffee beans

During my visit to a Peet's coffee shop in California, I encountered a mix of positive and negative experiences. The staff behind the counter were friendly and helpful, especially to first-time customers like myself. They made me feel welcome and provided great service. Moreover, I found the coffee to be of good quality. On the downside, the cleanliness of the establishment left much to be desired. No one seemed to be clearing tables or maintaining the restrooms, and the wifi was unreliable. Despite the long queue for the only working restroom, the shop seemed to be best suited for takeaway orders rather than dine-in.
Stepping into Peet's for the first time, I was excited to try their coffee and baked goods. The morning roll I ordered was delicious and complemented my coffee well. Overall, the quality of the food and drinks was impressive, and I especially appreciated the friendly and helpful demeanor of the staff. However, the lack of cleanliness and poor wifi quality were noticeable drawbacks to the establishment. Despite these issues, I would still recommend checking out Peet's coffee shop for their great customer service and delicious food and drink options, just keep in mind that dining in might not be the most enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. Farley's Coffeehouse
Historic coffeehouse with a cozy atmosphere

Farley's is a popular coffeehouse known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. It's a true gem in the neighborhood, providing a cozy and relaxed environment for customers to enjoy their drinks.
With an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5, based on 72 reviews, Farley's has established itself as a go-to spot for coffee lovers. Customers consistently rave about the excellent service and inviting ambiance, making it a standout choice among other coffee shops in the area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
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12. Verve Coffee Roasters
Sustainable sourcing and ethical production values

This coffee shop offers delicious and satisfying coffee options. The cappuccinos are a popular choice, known for their hot and creamy texture, and a robust coffee flavor. For those seeking a sweeter option, the lattes are an excellent choice, offering a well-rounded coffee flavor with a hint of added sweetness.
The atmosphere of this establishment is pleasant and welcoming. It features airy and positive vibes, making it an ideal spot to relax. In addition to the coffee and tea options, customers can take advantage of the shop's wi-fi. The loose tea and coffee are both recommended and are reasonably priced at $10, offering a great value for the quality of the drinks. Over all, this is a fantastic spot to enjoy a tasty treat at a reasonable price.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
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13. Castro Coffee Company
Proudly serving Blue Bottle Coffee

I made a purchase of Black Joe Organic coffee, which cost me $9 and came in a pound. The coffee is special because it is organic. Before leaving San Francisco, I want to express my gratitude to a few important people. Specifically, I will miss Ken, Abeer, and Dalia.
Dalia is a standout among those I will miss. The organic coffee I bought is a nice treat, but the memories and connections I've made with people in SF are even more valuable. Leaving such amazing people behind is undoubtedly going to be challenging.
(TIP: add a scoop of brown sugar to enhance the flavor of the coffee)
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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14. Cafe Bean

On my daily commute to work, I frequently stop at a small café where Chester and Nancy, two individuals who never fail to brighten my morning, work. This cozy café offers an extensive menu, but I always opt for their refreshing cold brew.
The food at this café is delicious, and I particularly enjoy their bagels. In fact, they are so good that they can rival the famous bagels from New York. Additionally, the prices are quite reasonable, especially considering the location is in San Francisco.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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15. Henry's House of Coffee
Family-owned business since 1965, dedicated to sustainable and fair trade coffee

The Neighborhood Coffee Shop is a charming local spot, located within walking distance from a house rented through Airbnb. This coffee shop stands out for its excellent cappuccino and variety of offerings, including baked goods and coffee beans available for purchase by the pound.
What makes this coffee shop truly exceptional is the quality of their beans and the exceptional customer service. They specialize in dark roast, full-bodied beans, and offer online ordering. Recently, due to a mix-up, the wrong beans were delivered. Upon reaching out to the shop, the owner went above and beyond by refusing to accept the return of the mistaken order and instead sent a replacement order free of charge. This act demonstrates their dedication to customer satisfaction and makes Henry's Coffee a must-visit for both their delicious beans and standout service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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16. Ritual Coffee Roasters
Dedication to ethical sourcing and small-batch roasting

Before having dinner, there was some time to kill, so a decision was made to get coffee. The Ritual Coffee Roasters had a nearby stand. I ordered a mocha, which was quite satisfying.
The service was pleasant, and there were tables outside where one could sit. The espressos were served in ceramic cups with saucers, accompanied by a glass of sparkling water to cleanse the palate of the caffeine. The quality of the espressos was also good.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Asian Cuisine
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17. Matching Half
Modern and cozy cafe with a focus on healthy and organic food

This cafe is not only beautiful on the inside, but it also serves excellent coffee. It's a great spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while reading a book, but be aware that it can get crowded and seating is somewhat limited. The overall atmosphere and aesthetics of the cafe are delightful, making it a happy place to be. I ordered a breakfast egg sandwich to go and found it to be delicious. There is a nice outdoor seating area, and many people can be seen working on laptops inside the cafe.
This café is a favorite in the neighborhood, and it's easy to see why. The coffee is fantastic, and the food is delicious. The café can get crowded, and seating is limited, but the ambiance and atmosphere more than make up for it. The café is aesthetically pleasing, and it's a perfect place to relax with a good book or get some work done on your laptop. The outdoor seating area is charming, and it's a great spot to enjoy the nice weather while sipping on a delicious coffee or tea.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Gluten-Free
- Hidden Gems
18. Chatz Coffee Shop

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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19. Sextant Coffee Roasters
Sustainable and fair trade coffee beans

Sextant Coffee Roasters is a popular coffee shop in San Francisco known for its exceptional coffee and welcoming atmosphere. The shop’s coffee is consistently high in quality, with a rich and full-bodied flavor that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning coffee drinkers. The staff at Sextant Coffee Roasters are a big part of what makes the shop so great. They are always friendly, welcoming, and happy to answer any questions customers may have about the coffee or the brewing process.
Whether you’re a San Francisco local or just passing through, Sextant Coffee Roasters is a must-visit destination for any coffee lover. The shop’s combination of high-quality coffee and exceptional customer service make it one of the best coffee shops in the city. So if you’re looking for a place to grab a cup of coffee and relax, be sure to check out Sextant Coffee Roasters. You won’t be disappointed.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
20. Mellis cafe

The coffee and bagels at this San Francisco establishment are exceptional, and perfect for breakfast. It's a great value, especially when compared to other nearby options. The Nutella bagels were a hit with the kids, while the cream cheese with tomato and cucumber was my personal favorite.
This spot, located near Union Square and Parc 55, serves fresh and delicious sandwiches. The breakfast bagels have received high praise, and the sandwiches are equally as impressive. The staff is known for being both friendly and efficient. Whether you're in the area for sightseeing or lodging, this place should not be missed.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
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21. Starbucks
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainability

The location of the establishment is in a bustling city, known for its high tourist traffic. As a result, wait times can be lengthy. However, the city's popularity means that there is always a steady stream of customers.
The service experience varies for guests. Some report fast and friendly service, while others have described their experience as disappointing. It is unclear what factors contribute to these differing experiences, but it is worth noting that opinions on the quality of service are mixed.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
22. Blue Bottle Coffee
High-quality, ethically sourced coffee beans roasted in-house

Blue Bottle Coffee has received high praise from many of its guests, with an impressive overall rating of 4.56 based on 581 reviews. A common thread among these reviews is the exceptional quality of the latte, which is described as being milky, smooth, rich, and delicious. The Founding Store, in particular, has won over visitors with its unpretentious atmosphere and unique character. The presence of murals and graffiti on the opposite side adds to the San Francisco spirit, creating a welcoming and laid-back environment.
Furthermore, visitors have been pleasantly surprised by the down-to-earth vibe of the Founding Store, given its status as the original Blue Bottle location. This sense of approachability and lack of pretension is yet another aspect of the coffee shop that has won over the hearts of many guests. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a great cup of joe, Blue Bottle Coffee's Founding Store is definitely worth a visit. With its delicious lattes and unpretentious atmosphere, it's easy to see why so many people have fallen in love with this San Francisco gem.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
- Vegetarian Options
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23. CoffeeShop
Dedicated to fair trade and organic coffee

I recently visited a hidden gem of a coffee shop without a sign, where I had the pleasure of meeting the affable owner, Wilson. The shop, despite its small size, boasts a clean and attractive design. They brew Ubuntu coffee from Emeryville and offer an array of Russian pastries that look simply delectable. I'm thrilled to have such a great coffee spot so close to home and am already planning my next visit.
The coffee served at this charming coffee shop is excellent. I ordered an iced latte with a hint of honey and was thoroughly impressed. However, the monkey bread I tried was a bit dry on the outside. On the other hand, the other pastries on display looked incredibly appetizing, which leads me to believe they're worth trying.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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24. Grand Coffee
Indie vibe with local art displays

Grand Coffee is a well-known coffee roaster in the Mission, with their coffee served in numerous coffee shops and grocery stores across the city. Their small location on Mission St. is a must-visit for an affordable and delicious espropresso shot. The communal energy of the space adds to its charm.
For pastries, consider Craftsman and Wolves, a trendy bakery that offers unique and delightful treats. Their famous "Rebel Within" pastry, a soft-boiled egg baked inside a savory muffin, is a can't-miss item. This hidden gem, albeit popular, maintains a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for starting your day.
In summary, for espresso drinks and pastries, Grand Coffee and Craftsman and Wolves are excellent choices. Grand Coffee, the preeminent coffee roaster in the Mission, offers affordable and tasty espresso shots, while Craftsman and Wolves is a trendy bakery with unique pastries and a welcoming atmosphere. Both places are perfect for those who value good service and a sense of community.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Breakfast
- Budget-Friendly Eats
25. Blue Bottle Coffee
A commitment to quality and sustainability in every cup

Blue Bottle Coffee has recently opened its doors, much to the excitement of many. The grand opening brought in a big crowd, with free drinks and proceeds from purchased goods donated to charity. The offerings were impressive, with an iced latte and pour-over coffee being particularly enjoyable. The food items, such as the avocado toast, were equally delightful.
Pairing a satisfying meal with a view of Mechanics' Institute Library and Chess Room promises to be a lovely experience for customers of Blue Bottle Coffee. Guests have raved about the perfectly cooked avocado toast, and the latte has been praised for its exceptional taste. Overall, Blue Bottle Coffee offers a unique and enjoyable experience, with delicious food and drinks, and a great atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
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