The Best Coffee in San Francisco

Coffee was once a large part of San Francisco's economy with Hills Brothers Coffee, Folgers, and Peet's Coffee all having a start in the Bay Area. Many of these companies contributed to the progression of coffee in terms of storage, roasting methods, and roasting styles, as well as preparation and popularity. These companies were also able to bring coffees from all over the world to the bay area.

In the last few decades, many people have associated coffee and its expanding industry with Seattle. However, in recent years there has been an awakening in San Francisco with new roasters and specialty shops popping up at an increasing rate. The great thing is the amazing variety each roaster provides. If the world only knew Starbucks, it would miss out on the truly remarkable things coffee is capable of. That's where San Francisco comes in. The following discusses some of the best coffee available in San Francisco.

Sightglass is an independently owned coffee company in San Francisco. Their name comes from the viewing window in which the roaster can observe the coffee roasting process. Beans are sourced in smaller batches, allowing the roaster to progress in creativity and pursue perfection. Try these:

1. Ethiopia Yerga Cheffe, Moplaco
2. Blueboon Blend

Four Barrel prides themselves on sourcing highest quality beans and pursuing mastery, even if unattainable. They make every effort to ensure a healthy, respectful relationship when sourcing their coffee. Roasting is an art at Four Barrel, where roasters rely on skill, expertise, and artistry to ensure a unique and enjoyable coffee drinking experience. Try these:

1. Guatemala Antigua Pompeya
2. Ethiopia Welena Suke Quto

Blue Bottle Coffee are microroasters of organics coffee, deriving their name from the first coffee shop in Central Europe, The Blue Bottle. Blue Bottle is for people who enjoy the actual taste of coffee. The folks at Blue Bottle are good people, paying the closest attention to every detail of the coffee process. Their menu is simple, but every offering is unbelievable. And each bag of beans purchased gives the sense that you are really part of a unique experience. Try these:

1. Three Africans
2. Ethiopia - Bench Maji Gesha Estate

Ritual Coffee Roasters can wholeheartedly be described as steadfast and honest. Their uncompromising cup of coffee is entirely enjoyable. There is firm attention given to the selection of green coffee and to the roasting and packaging. Try these:

1. Hidden Cities, Seasonal Espresso
2. Retiro de Quisaya, Guatemala

De La Paz is committed to great, quality coffee and the pursuit is quite impressive. They are committed to the community with a focus on outstanding coffee and their passion is evident in every roast. Try these:

1. Las Brisas
2. Gahahe

Philz is another great coffee company with several locations in San Francisco. They have numerous roasts and blends with some very unique flavors. I always ask the barista to prepare me their recommendation and I haven't been let down yet. Try these:

1. Tantalizing Turkish
2. 4 Great Horses

A common method among many of these specialty coffee roasters in preparing coffee is using a dripper called the Hario V60. It ensures a fresh cup of coffee each time. With the right amount of coffee, proper pouring technique, and some practice, you can make the perfect cup of coffee and really begin to taste some of the subtle difference between all these great coffees. See the video on how to brew with the Hario V60.