Here Are 10 Unique Coffee Shops In San Francisco With Java To Die For

Coffee is a way of life, especially for many locals in Fog City. And it’s not about the caffeine – not always, at least. It’s the whole cafe experience that goes with this morning ritual, from ordering it, even from the crankiest and snobbiest of baristas, to taking that first comforting sip. Here are 10 memorable and eclectic coffee shops in San Francisco with java to die for!

Sera H/Yelp

This is the ultimate "old school" cafe in San Francisco. This is the real deal Italian/North Beach spot to get espresso, coffee, and other coffee perfection. This is eclectic for the old fashion charm and not so fancy coffee flavored drinks.

Andrew D/Yelp

Ritual defines coffee as a "delicious, sweet, and complex fruit." Ritual’s coffee has bite and is generally on the more bitter and acidic side of the coffee spectrum. Ritual uses fair trade beans from Latin America and Africa, where they work intimately with their coffee bean producers.

Ed U/Yelp

Philz has also become quite an institution in the San Francisco Bay Area. They pride themselves on their artisanal and high quality coffees, and the unique experience of ordering the coffee itself. There are many locations around the Bay area.

Ann S/Yelp

This is an awesome cafe right on a corner on the edge of Little Italy/China Town. The building that Reveille is in will wow you! The coffee is expensive, but worth it. They serve Four Barrel beans, so the coffee is fresh and local. Be prepared for a hipster coffee experience complete with a bit of "coffee" attitude and pretension.

Iman F/Foursquare

Four Barrel’s home in the Mission is complete with roasters, vintage machines, and even turntables. Coffee and records go well together — and Four Barrel’s vintage ambiance goes well with their old-fashioned roasting methods. The cafe offers no Wi-Fi, which means tables are thankfully free of Macs. Ha!

Shal W/Yelp

Blue Bottle is another institution in the Bay Area. The name is inspired by Central Europe’s first coffee house --- The Blue Bottle. It’s important to note that Blue Bottle serves beans that have been roasted within the last 48 hours. The coffee is strong and vibrant and the body is nice and full, with a clean yet acidic finish. This cafe is urban, minimal, and best yet, known for strong coffee!

Ann S/Yelp

If you're in the Outer Sunset then check out this spot for coffee heaven. The coffee menu has the usual lattes and drip coffee, and unique options, like espresso cream soda. Beware - this place is very popular.

Adam S/Yelp

Along with being a great coffee spot, this place has wonderful ambiance. You're in the heart of North Beach, so expect a crowd. Other than incredibly delicious coffee and espresso, you have delicious Tiramisu to enjoy.

Andrew C/Yelp

This is Sightglass Coffee's flagship two-story space in SOMA, a hybrid coffee production roastery and coffee bar. The coffee is light roast, so it is a bit bitter. The space is industrial and stark. Expect crowds, strong coffee, and an artsy vibe.

Guillaume B/Yelp

French style in the middle of Hayes Valley. Many people though this shop would not survive after it was bought by Starbucks, but today the original stores remain in San Francisco. You'll get classic coffee fare and drinks like lattes, ice coffee, and an exciting urban vibe.

Have you been to any of these cafes? Let us know about your experience at any of these coffee spots. Share this story too! If you’re curious about great food in the city, You’ll Love This Rooftop Restaurant In San Francisco That’s Beyond Gorgeous.