Listen up, coffee addicts. I’ve got five places that will blow your mind and give you that perfect boost of caffeine that you need on a Monday morning (or every morning, if we’re being honest).
I’ve narrowed it down to a coffee shop in each district, so you can try the best place near you. Let's face it, not even the world’s best coffee will have you traveling too far from home on a typical morning.
1. Andytown Coffee Roasters – Outer Sunset
Located on Lawton and 43rd Avenue, it's only about a 10 minute walk from the beach and is a charming beach-style coffee shop. If you’re looking for a peaceful environment to sit outside on a sunny day, this is the place for you. The baristas here never fail to put a smile on my face, as well as bring my coffee out in a timely manner. I would say that their coffee is strong and full-bodied without being overpowering.
What to order:
Snowy Plover: espresso, soda water and homemade whipped cream. I know it sounds crazy, but I promise it’s worth a try.
Mocha: deliciously rich and an excellent balance between bitter and sweet.
2. Reveille Coffee Co. – Castro
I remember the first time I ever stumbled upon Reveille.
What first drew me in were the eye-catching forest green vines which wrap along the edges of the building. Once you walk inside, the design is modern with a touch of warmth and character.
What to order:
Dirty Chai Latte – it’s the perfect drink if you can’t decide between coffee and tea. Rather than debating between the two, you can get both! It has a warm earthy aroma with a hint of spice and a shot of espresso that’ll give you an instant energy boost.
3. Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters – Cow Hollow
No, this is not a play on the Miley Cyrus song. (If anyone even still remembers that song -- I'm slightly embarrassed I still do. But really, who can erase that music video from their minds?)
Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters is a quaint coffee shop located on Union Street. Their coffee sure is the real deal. They also have pineapple wallpaper. And who doesn’t love pineapple wallpaper? It’s so fun! While you’re there, I’d suggest venturing along Union Street. It’s what I call the SF version of chic.
Also, if you’re not familiar with the area, definitely check out the gorgeous Victorian houses on the way there. They are truly breathtaking and, if I might say, #goals.
What to order:
Latte – because a latte made from good coffee will never disappoint.
4. Flywheel Coffee Roasters – Upper Haight
Flywheel is an industrial style coffee shop located by the iconic Haight and Ashbury corner. If you enjoy studying at coffee shops, this is a great place to go because of its spacious environment which promotes productivity. They roast their own beans onsite, satisfying even the snobbiest of coffee snobs. Along with their coffee, they also offer an assortment of buttery pastries.
What to order:
Cappuccino – if you like your coffee strong, I suggest ordering a cappuccino instead of a latte.
5. Craftsman and Wolves – Mission
Located in the heart of mission, is a contemporary coffee shop on Valencia Street. Not only is their coffee up to any coffee enthusiast’s standards, but their pastries are to die for.
What to order:
Iced Latte – smooth, refreshing and perfect milk-to-coffee ratio.
Rebel Within – you’re probably both confused and intrigued by the name. It is a mouthwatering muffin with a soft broiled egg in its center.
Now grab some coffee and go run this town, because with good coffee, anything is possible.
