Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Francisco

Espresso coffee spots

You take your espresso seriously and expect the rest of the coffee menu to follow suit.

Based on 838 Opinions
+835
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Boa's CVC image 1

Bright and airy cafe with cozy chic decor featuring dark paint and brass lamps creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Tables form personal nooks especially with sunshine streaming through large windows, complemented by friendly staff and good music. Seating options include both tables and bar seats, encouraging guests to linger in a relaxed, mellow vibe.

Espresso drinks come hand-pulled with a reviving kick. Coffee pairs well with banana bread and breakfast focaccia, offering a great variety to start the day.

Hand-pulled espresso drinks offer a strong, fresh flavor that wakes you up in the morning. They pair well with breakfast items like a frittata sandwich.

People are saying

"The sandwich bread here is insanely crispy and flavorful."

"I enjoyed the excellent coffee they served."

"The espresso here is so friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The cafe operates on a first come, first serve basis; order at the register.

3

Group dining for more than four may not be ideal due to space.

02
Progeny Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop inside an apartment lobby offers cozy seating with giant steps and a windowsill bench. Bright, well-lit space creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a community feel from local residents. Small terrace invites guests to enjoy the sun while sipping expertly brewed coffee.

Coffee here features deep flavor and smoothness with high-quality beans. Unique drinks like the Specialty Housemade Blueberry Latte and a cold brew without burnt taste stand out.

Espresso offers chocolaty and roasted caramel flavors with a balanced aftertaste. It features great crema and a smooth mouthfeel without bitterness or sourness.

People are saying

"The coffee here is rich, well-balanced, and expertly brewed."

"The pastries here were very unique and delicious."

"The espresso here is delicious, with chocolaty and caramel flavors."

Good to know

1

Progeny Coffee only accepts card payments and does not accept cash.

2

They pay farmers equitably and above fair trade pricing.

3

Progeny Coffee is committed to improving the quality of life for local farmers.

03
Paper Son Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop with a bright, warm atmosphere and friendly vibe. Small but well-lit seating inside and outside encourages sharing among patrons. Known for unique pastries like ube salt bread and flavorful scones that sell out quickly.

Coffee here features extraordinary espresso with rich crema served in charming ceramics. Unique drinks like the guava coffee soda and off-menu passionfruit espresso tonic offer refreshing, complex flavors beyond typical coffee options.

Espresso here features a smooth single origin with rich crema served in cute ceramic cups. The coffee tastes rich and nutty, working well solo or with textured milk and Asian-inspired syrups.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent and amazing."

"The pastries here sell out so fast, you need to line up early."

"The espresso here is rich, nutty, and dialed in perfectly."

Good to know

1

Afternoon coffee and tea start at 3 PM.

2

Expect to line up 15 to 20 minutes before opening.

3

Pastries often sell out by 10 AM.

04
Coffee Bodega Farm-to-Table image 1

Tiny coffee shop with cozy seating and plant-filled decor creates a living room vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and companionable, with soft classical music and a home-like feel. Dog park outside adds a unique touch for visitors with pets.

Coffee here stands out for its high-quality taste and consistent flavor. Options like the Mandarina Brava, cold brew, and pour over deliver strong, memorable experiences.

Espresso comes perfectly dialed in with a delicious crema. It serves strong shots in a glass, ideal for straight espresso drinkers.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best I had in the city."

"I found the empanadas here to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the espresso to be perfectly dialed in."

Good to know

1

No dogs are allowed inside; animals must wait outside for sanitation.

2

The coffee shop does not offer Wi-Fi, making it a quiet work environment.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for local vendors nearby.

05
HI NRG image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious wine bar with bright open windows and modern art on the walls creates a chill, intimate vibe. Live DJs spin vinyl records on weekend mornings, adding energy to the relaxed atmosphere. Seating suits individuals or small groups, making it a spot for focused work or casual coffee.

Coffee here has a smooth texture and is perfectly brewed with a focus on light roast Ethiopia beans. The shop offers high quality coffee in a beautiful, not-overly-crowded space.

Espresso stays dialed in all day with high-quality beans and precise preparation. It ranks as exceptional compared to other well-known spots.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth and made by super nice owners."

"The vibes here are really chill, with a live DJ spinning tunes."

"I thought the espresso here was great."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially Sunday mornings.

2

Coffee prices start at $4 for a 6-ounce serving.

3

Only two staff members typically work, which can slow down service.

06
Charm Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with quirky red and white decor and pink accents creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Friendly staff serve coffee from a La Marzocco espresso machine alongside fresh, well-liked pastries. Neighborhood spot feels warm and stylish, attracting locals who appreciate its charm.

Coffee here stands out with rich espresso and a flavorful mocha that blends coffee and chocolate well. The cappuccino and latte are also strong choices, crafted by skilled baristas in a warm atmosphere.

Espresso here has a solid shot with a scrumptious taste that stands out from generic coffee. Standard espresso drinks keep you alert for a long time.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be the best I had all week."

"I enjoyed the really good coffee and smooth oat milk lattes."

"I found their espresso to be delicious and scrumptious."

Good to know

1

They donโ€™t mix sugars into their Matcha, which is a unique feature.

2

Expect limited seating as Charm Coffee is a small coffee place.

3

There is no outdoor seating available, especially on rainy days.

07
CHAPEL COFFEE image 1
Coffee shop

Modern brutalist design uses concrete, iron, and wood to create an ascetic interior with no seating. The atmosphere is quiet and simple, focusing solely on espresso and coffee without extras like pastries or syrups. Limited options include only oat and whole milk, and no decaf is available.

Coffee here is quick and high quality, focusing on espresso and cold brew without extras like pastries or seating. The cappuccinos and espressos are consistently perfect and solid, served with welcoming service and a simple setup.

Focus stays on espresso and coffee without distractions like pastries or seating. Quick chats happen over a shot of espresso or a cortado, making it a straightforward spot for a caffeine fix.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and of high quality."

"I thought the espresso was quick and very good."

"I had a great Flat White here."

Good to know

1

There is no seating available at CHAPEL COFFEE; it's a takeout-only spot.

2

Only oat milk and whole milk are offered; no syrups or decaf available.

3

A nearby park provides a nice option for enjoying your coffee outside.

08
Doppio Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Bright, spacious coffee shop with stylish, inviting decor and comfortable seating creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Many power outlets and fast WiFi support working or relaxing. Cleanliness and a well-designed layout offer personal space and a pleasant vibe.

Coffee here is divine and spot on, delivering exactly what a quality cafe should. Turkish coffee and a great Latte stand out among the offerings.

Lavazza espresso stands out as the core offering here, featured in double espresso and various espresso drinks. The coffee pairs well with desserts and other menu items like crepes and toasts.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, and the staff are super friendly."

"The breakfast sandwich here is the best I ever had."

"Their espresso uses high-quality Lavazza beans."

Good to know

1

Doppio Cafe offers gluten-free options like sandwiches and avocado toast.

2

Prices at Doppio Cafe are lower than typical in San Francisco.

3

The portions of food and drinks are generous for the price.

09
The Wild Fox image 1

Small cafe with impeccable design and chill, friendly vibes offers a curated menu featuring Japanese coffee and pastries. Space feels cozy and refined, suitable for casual meetings or working on a laptop. Attention to detail shows in every aspect, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere.

Espresso drinks offer flavorful and unique profiles with a rich, sweet balance. Pour-over coffee features bright, fruity, tea-like flavors highlighting single-origin beans, including notes of blueberry and orange peel.

Espresso offers a flavorful house blend with a pure coffee taste. Drinks are consistently excellent and unique.

People are saying

"I found the espresso here to be excellent and flavorful."

"I loved their Sakura Kuromitsu latte; it was the highlight."

"The espresso here is excellent and top-notch."

Good to know

1

The Wild Fox specializes in Japanese coffee and unique matcha options.

2

Handmade mochi is available, adding a unique touch to the menu.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments for convenience.

10
Hairchitect Barber Shop & Lounge San Francisco image 1

Barbershop combines thoughtful design with a chill, welcoming vibe and complimentary drinks like whiskey and beer. The atmosphere feels like a lounge, blending professional grooming with spa-like pampering. Attention to detail shows in every aspect, from lighting to music to service.

Espresso stands out with great hospitality and a modern vibe blending traditional barber services and coffee culture. Regulars enjoy pairing espresso with tequila shots and whiskey.

Espresso here comes with excellent quality and is served while you wait. It blends well with the shop's modern vibe and adds to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"The barbershop cuts here are precise and leave you looking sharp."

"I felt sharper and more put together after my haircut."

"They offered me a delicious espresso to wake me up."

Good to know

1

Hairchitect celebrates its 1-year anniversary with special promotions.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends.

3

Walk-ins are welcome, but expect longer wait times during peak hours.

11
Mellis Cafe image 1

Small cafe with outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere offers a friendly vibe that shifts from bustling mornings to homey evenings. Arabic pop music plays softly in the background, enhancing the welcoming environment. Few tables outside provide a quiet spot to enjoy flavorful coffee and sandwiches.

Coffee here stands out for its excellent espresso and variety of brews like Americanos and Cappuccinos. It pairs well with fresh bagels and sandwiches, making it a solid spot for morning or late night coffee.

Espresso comes out excellent and pairs well with a sesame bagel breakfast sandwich. Coffee quality stays consistently good throughout visits.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and flavorful."

"I found the bagels here to be fresh and delicious."

"The espresso here is excellent."

Good to know

1

Mellis Cafe opens at 5:00 a.m. and stays open until midnight.

2

Expect reasonable prices for sandwiches and breakfast items.

3

Mellis Cafe is ideal for quick breakfast and coffee options.

12
Flywheel Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Classic brown wood interior and big windows fill the space with natural light and cozy atmosphere. Smooth jazz music plays softly while noise levels stay low, creating a calm environment. Frequented by office workers and tourists, the place offers vegan pastry options and draws a steady, busy crowd.

Coffee here offers rich and smooth flavors with a dense, deliberate foam on drinks like oat milk cappuccinos and vanilla lattes. Barista-grade quality shines through in pour-over and espresso-based drinks, served with friendly, attentive staff.

High-quality espresso delivers a strong, smooth flavor. Quick espresso shots work well for a fast caffeine boost on busy mornings.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be really good and professionally made."

"I loved the vanilla latte; it was the best coffee I had."

"I had a really good quality espresso, professionally made."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop experiences busy times, especially post-lunch and during tourist hours.

2

Flywheel Coffee is conveniently located in the Financial District.

3

The coffee shop offers good vegan options for those with dietary preferences.

13
Spinn Coffee image 1
Coffee wholesaler

Minimalistic design and centrifugal brewing technology define the machine's presence. The atmosphere is shaped by intuitive app control and customizable coffee options, offering smooth, rich coffee with regular maintenance. It suits single users well, balancing convenience with ongoing upkeep demands.

The coffee maker delivers great tasting coffee with minimal cleanup and lets you brew from bed. Its connected app allows easy customization and scheduling, offering a wide range of coffee styles including cold brew nitro that is fresh and smooth.

Brews a wide range of coffee styles, from rich espressos to balanced drip coffee. Always good to have a backup brewer like a Keurig or stovetop espresso maker.

People are saying

"This coffee machine makes smooth, rich coffee."

"This espresso is smooth, rich, and not bitter."

Good to know

1

The machine requires regular maintenance, including cleaning, descaling, and filter replacement.

2

The ongoing expense of consumables is something to consider if you are budget-conscious.

3

Proper maintenance significantly improves the flavor, but neglecting it can impact taste and void the warranty.

14
Paper Son Coffee - Dogpatch image 1

Coffee stand with Asian-inspired flavors and artful ceramic cups offers a cozy, fun vibe and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Small space shares area with a busy bakery, attracting office workers and a steady crowd. Unique drinks and pastries create a memorable experience.

Unique drinks like passionfruit espresso tonic and pandan coffee stand out here. Espresso and pour-over options are solid and reasonably priced, with staff who show real passion for coffee.

Espresso shots come out stronger than usual but sometimes suffer from poor extraction. The cortado balances milk and espresso well and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"The baristas here are so friendly and welcoming."

"I loved their unique pandan drinks and passionfruit espresso tonic."

"The espresso here is strong and the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Their online ordering system is convenient and can help avoid lines.

2

Espresso drinks are reasonably priced, around $5 for an oat cappuccino.

3

There are a few tables outside for seating.

15
Saint Frank Coffee image 1

Space features high ceilings, wood and marble surfaces, and natural light creating a gorgeous, cozy atmosphere. Vibe stays laid-back and lively, welcoming both regulars and newcomers. Pastries and coffee stand out as high quality, with excellent croissants and rich chocolate treats.

Coffee here stands out for its high-quality beans and exceptional brewing. The orange crรจme latte with oak milk and tasting flights highlight the variety and care in each cup.

Espresso here features single origin options with rich notes of citrus, dark fruit, and chocolate. The Kenyan and Bolivian varieties stand out for their balanced, smooth, and syrupy profiles.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great and refreshing."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming."

"I found the espresso here to be the best in San Francisco."

Good to know

1

The seating area is limited, making it hard to find a spot.

2

Parking can be crowded and difficult to find.

3

Wi-Fi is only available on weekdays.

16
Bella Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Italian aesthetic shapes a cozy cafe tucked in a quiet alley with both indoor and courtyard seating. Warm, welcoming atmosphere blends soft, authentic music with comfortable decor, inviting relaxed conversation. Regulars enjoy a calm spot that feels like a slice of Europe amid the city bustle.

Coffee here is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced, made with quality beans. Drinks like cappuccinos and americanos come with thoughtful touches like a personal container of oat milk.

Real Italian espresso stands out with a strong, authentic flavor. It pairs well with light lunches and beautiful desserts like mango and limoncello.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing food with fresh ingredients."

"The coffee here is incredibly good and authentic Italian."

"The espresso here is rich, smooth, and perfectly made."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes you receive.

2

Bella Cafe is perfect for a lunch or coffee break.

3

The dessert case is a showstopper with pastries that look European.

17
Delah Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop with daylit openness and unique cultural decor creates a quiet, welcoming atmosphere. Plenty of seating and fast free WiFi support working or relaxing. Distinctive Yemeni coffee and homemade pastries add to the experience.

Coffee here offers rich flavor and comes in unique styles like Turkish coffee and Yemeni lattes. The rose latte and pistachio hot latte stand out, paired well with sweets like baklava and bee bites.

Espresso here varies from good and flavorful to surprisingly plain and lacking flavor. Some shots highlight spices that stand out, while others taste like a basic espresso with no distinct character.

People are saying

"I thought the Turkish coffee here was very good."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, it's great for working."

"I had the best espresso, it was outstanding."

Good to know

1

Delah Coffee is open until 10 PM every day.

2

There is no restroom available at Delah Coffee.

3

Delah Coffee offers unique Yemeni coffee and pastries.

18
Bernie's image 1

Small cafe-bookstore blends used books and lush plants with upbeat music for a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Regulars create a warm, familiar vibe where people linger to read, work, or chat. Treats for furry visitors add to the welcoming, community-focused feel.

Rich, perfectly brewed coffee shines here with consistently delicious lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos. Cozy vibes let you sip a handcrafted espresso beverage while watching the neighborhood go by.

Espresso here comes with options like adding sugar and varies in quality. Some shots are handcrafted and delicious, while others can taste burnt from a dark roast.

People are saying

"The coffee here feels like home, made with genuine care."

"It's a cozy, quiet Reading Spot with a lovely, familiar vibe."

"Bernie is the sweetest person I've ever met."

Good to know

1

There is no seating inside, but a bench is available outside.

2

They charge $1 for heated regular milk.

3

Bernie's does not have a tip screen on their menu.

19
Sextant Coffee Roasters image 1

Minimalist space with warm lighting and lofi cafe music creates a cozy, stylish vibe. Plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi support both casual visits and work sessions. Coffee serves in ceramic cups, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.

Coffee here is rich and smooth, with perfectly brewed espresso and velvet foam cappuccinos served at just the right temperature. Both classic and specialty blends, including Ethiopian roasts, stand out in a cozy, stylish atmosphere.

Espresso here features classic drinks and unique specialty blends. Ethiopian roasts stand out with exceptional drip and espresso options.

People are saying

"Their coffee is exceptional, rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed."

"I found the ambiance to be warm and cozy."

"I found the espresso here to be superb and perfectly brewed."

Good to know

1

There are plenty of seating, WIFI, and power outlets available.

2

The touch screen ordering process is easy and seamless.

3

They serve hot beverages in real ceramic cups for dine-in.

20
Artly Robot Coffee @ Pier 39 image 1

Robotic arms prepare coffee in a small, modern space with minimal seating. The atmosphere feels neutral and functional, focusing on the automated drink-making process. Watching robots craft beverages offers a unique visual experience distinct from typical coffee shops.

Robots prepare coffee quickly and efficiently, creating a unique and fun experience. Drinks like the rose latte and cappuccino with perfect latte art have a balanced taste and delicious micro-foam.

Double espresso stands out with a great flavor and is served both hot and over ice. Extra espresso shots are available to boost the taste when needed.

People are saying

"It's cool to watch the robots make your coffee."

"Watching the robot make my coffee was a fun, new experience."

"Watching the robot make my espresso was really cool."

Good to know

1

The coffee is prepared by robots, which takes about 3.5 minutes.

2

Customers must stand and wait for drinks in a crowded environment.

3

The menu is limited, with no customization options available.

21
Q Specialty Coffee image 1

Open, minimalist space fills with natural light and features coffee bean aroma displays and cutting-edge coffee technology. Atmosphere feels modern yet cozy, bustling with energy but welcoming for work or relaxation. Crowds are consistent, creating a lively vibe despite some noise.

Coffee here stands out for its incredible quality and aroma with espresso made carefully. Unique drinks like yuzu matcha and coconut latte offer a fresh twist, and sweetness levels can be customized for balance.

Espresso here has a superior aroma and quality compared to other spots. The menu includes multiple espresso options, though the espresso cloud tastes mostly like milk.

People are saying

"The matcha here is super creamy with a strong, pleasant flavor."

"The mocha espresso coffee was delicious and smooth tasting."

"The espresso's quality and aroma are superior."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours; reservations are not accepted.

2

Seating is limited, so be prepared to wait for a table.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for purchases.

22
Monaco Hair Studio image 1

Barber shop offers a warm welcome with relaxing vibes and great music. Skilled barbers provide exceptional attention to detail and personalized hair product recommendations. The atmosphere combines professionalism and warmth for a first-class experience.

Espresso arrives with a smile, creating a great vibe. Coffee service includes hot towels and shifts to whiskey later in the day.

They serve espresso right when you sit down, offering a nice start. The espresso is paired with a friendly vibe, often enjoyed alongside a smile and good service.

People are saying

"Antonio gives amazing haircuts and really understands what you want."

"This hair salon gives you amazing haircuts and makes you feel confident."

"Antonio is the best barber I have found."

Good to know

1

Appointments are recommended to ensure availability, especially on weekends.

2

Walk-ins are accepted, but expect longer wait times during peak hours.

3

Credit cards and cash are accepted for all services.

Discover more

San Francisco, California

Area guide
Loading Map...