I stumbled upon this spot since it's right down the street from my school. When I first walked in, there was a pretty strong, funky smell that almost made me turn around and leave, but I decided to stick it out and check out the menu. The space itself is small with limited seating, and parking is also a bit of a challenge. That said, the menu was interesting, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, which I appreciated. I ended up ordering the dalgona coffee, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to the hype. It didn't look anything like the photo, more like dish soap on top, and the square thing on top was frozen solid (which I assume was the dalgona?). The drink itself was really watered down and didn't taste like coffee at all. Honestly, the pictures were way more appealing than the actual experience. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Dalgona coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Bro and I came upon a unique coffee shop that help support special education for those who are physically challenge with disabilities as they were washing the windows a truly rewarding for those in need. So please support your local business as we were impressed and greeted by the owner/manager though interior has limited seating with an array of stuffed animals, artwork all line up on the side corner. Prices are extremely reasonable and they have pastries. I chose the almond spiced latte and Bro had the marshmallow match both with regular ice and for $6. Very refreshing a cool iced drink on a very warm Thursday morning. Best to come by early in the day than later when traffic builds up in this heavily congested street. Would definitely be back too bad they're not opened on the weekends or in the evenings. read more

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Why do I give this purposeful review a five stars? Friends Cafe exists because a group of people decided to meet a need in the community for people who can and contribute to the community when given an opportunity. The cafe displays work of some of these talented individuals besides providing great drinks and of course some sweets. Let's support this project . Staff is friendly and helpful. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Items bt artists for sale - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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Great spot to get coffee, dessert drinks and snacks. Friendly staff and decent seating areas. It's clean and quiet. Not to sure if there's a restroom available for customers. Parking can be tight. read more

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Fantastic place with a friendly atmosphere and a great cause. I think that their goal of providing a job to people with special needs and giving them a place to showcase their work is fantastic. Their coffee and pastries all looked so nice and if I was ever back in the area, I'd come back. Their ube coffee had a nice foam head to it and wasn't too sweet. Perfectly balanced. Their pear drink was very enjoyable on a sunny day. read more

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Friends Coffee & Tea is located in a small strip plaza on a busy and main street - they are inside the Friends of Children with Special Needs. I had this spot on my bookmarks for awhile, as I love their concept, so I was excited to finally be able to come down here after my hair appointment. Parking is not the best, maybe about 10 spots out front. Service was good though - I received my order in less than 10 minutes, which gave me the time to go to the restroom to wash my hands, as well as look around their cute shop. I wanted a jasmine milk tea with boba, but I guess they do not have boba anymore (which was a bummer, as I came specifically for it because I saw it on their photos) - I ended up ordering rainbow jelly instead, since I was already there. They also did not have jasmine milk tea on the menu, but the employee who took my order (I believe she is the manager) told me it would be easy to make it for me. She was briefly informing the employees on how to make the drink after she rung me up. The milk tea was decent - it was not that creamy or strong, nor was it as sweet as I was used to. It tasted a bit watered down as well. It is also a bit pricey at about $7.50 for what I ordered. Overall 3 stars, as I thought my drink was just okay, but 4 stars because I like the cause / concept of their shop, how cute the shop is, as well as how accommodating the employee / manager was to make me something that was off the menu. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Jasmine Milk Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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I was driving by looking for a quick coffee before an appointment and spotted this place. Nice staff, tried their almond coffee that they suggested. Great choice. I'm not in the area often but will stop by again if I am, it's worth the stop. read more

I go to the gym next door to this place (Warcat) and wanted to try this place out, since I had a gift card. I got a Brown Sugar with coffee jelly Latte, it has the right amount of sweetness (which I prefer in my coffee drinks) and I love the coffee jelly bits. I also got a green tea croissant and it tastes hella good! I think it had mochi and red bean in it. I'd go here again if I wanted a quick drink or something small to eat. The prices are relatively reasonable, around $4-$6. The ambience was nice too, good if you want to study because it's fairly quiet. The place is small, but cozy. I liked how the workers greeted everyone that came in :) read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Green tea croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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this cafe is such a cute spot & the drinks are yummy. i recommend the passion fruit tea read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - watermelon passion fruit & almond spiced latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Came here on a whim since I'm all about cool coffee shops, and I was excited to see all the Asian pastries, sandwiches, and boba drinks. I went with the almond spice and I was expecting it to be super sweet but surprisingly it tasted like coffee and not like sugar. It was sweetened as coffee should be and I could taste the spice and was hit with crunchy almonds towards the end of my drink. I'll be back to try their snacks! read more

Great selection of drinks and options that are trending on social media. Friends Coffee & Tea benefits FCSN adult day program. Friendly staff and really cute and special art work by their program attendees. Prices are fair and my drink was delicious. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Excellent coffee creations and very friendly service! The dalgona iced coffee was good as well as the caramel latte. They do close at 3pm so be aware. Otherwise they have great options read more

Was driving by and decided to spontaneously make a stop for a drink and I was so amazed by how CUTE it is inside. The drinks are pretty unique and are very refreshing! Service is quick and everyone is super sweet and friendly. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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Good cafe and easy to find! This cafe is right off of a main road and was very easy to find. They do have speciality coffees that all looked very yummy. I got the dalgona coffee which is whipped coffee and milk and some cinnamon. It was good I do wish it was a bit stronger. When it melted it tasted more like the milk than it did coffee. They also have a lot of cute small items to buy around the shop! Looking forward to trying it out again! read more

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Came with my friend after having lunch at Kcafe, Friends Coffee &Tea is a lovely shop with many signature drinks and pastries . The drinks we had were tasty and refreshing. We especially like the homey decoration which makes the place warm and welcoming. We definitely want to come back and spend more time in the store! read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Lychee Jelly Iced Tea and Lavender and basil seeds Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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This is a really cute spot on Bascom Ave. The cafe is run by and benefits the Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN) organization. The coffee shop works with the FCSN Day Program to provide work skill training. I've enjoyed their rose cafe latte and lavender cafe latte. Their food menu seems to be slightly different each time I visit, but they have sandwiches, salads, and pastries. I love to browse through the handmade items- they are perfect gifts for holidays or special occasions. I've gotten the beautifully handmade mugs by Austin and the organic soaps and chapsticks for friends and family. If you need a caffeine fix, stop by Friends Coffee and support a good cause. Also, be patient as all drinks are made to order :) read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Specials - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Dear Friends Coffee & Tea, You're so freakin' cute, but I don't think we can be friends. It's me, not you...okay? It's cool how you have one long communal table (maybe to enforce communication?), as well as single seats for those who can be at times anti-social like me. The super nice ladies behind the counter helped me out when I didn't know what to order. They also encouraged me to take samples of some kind of cookies from an Asian country! I forgot where?? I would give them five stars for their service! Unfortunately, I've been there twice and I wasn't gaga over the drinks. Maybe I just ordered the wrong things? Once I ordered Strawberry Rose Tea thinking about how much I liked it at this other place. But instead of hot, I ordered it with ice since it was roasting outside. I wanted to cool off with a drink! However, it was NOT the same as I had before and it was wayyyyy too sweet! I really liked the green tea cookies, they didn't need a lot of sugar to be enjoyable. Most Asian desserts are less sweeter than American. Heck, I think ALL Asian desserts have less sugar. Then when I came back, I had the Red Velvet Latte. It looked really nice with the pink marshmallow, plus the pink and white sprinkles on top of the whipped cream. It made my heart warm and fuzzy. But where's the red velvet? It tasted more like mocha to me. I was kinda bummed. I had the same green tea cookies again cuz they were so yummy!!!! There you go. I've expressed my feelings. I guess being adorable just doesn't cut it for me. Hey, you never know... our paths might cross again some day. I might try something next time that will change my mind about you. Sincerely, Jen C. read more

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super small, cute cafe with the friendliest staff ever!! they were so welcoming and offered us some samples of their baked goods. coffee was just alright, a little too sweet and syrupy for my liking, but I loved their croissants!! tried both the taro/ube (? can't remember which flavor) and green tea croissants that they graciously warmed up for us. they were so delicious, flaky, and buttery! read more

I came in and was immediately greeted with "Welcome in! Is this your first time?" The service was amazing, top notch. How did she know that we were here for the first time? She told us that every customer that comes here comes back. She was absolutely right, we will be back again! So many places around San Jose and this place stands out with their pastries. The coffee bun was the best texture, it was soft, moist, and chewy. We also little fishie buns and a chocolate chip cookie; all made in house and all were good. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Almost don't want to share this hidden gem since it's my own little office away from home. Really cute shop with coffee, tea and pastries, run by amazing people with hearts of gold giving kids with special needs a safe place to learn and practice barista skills and build confidence. Customer service is superb and they leave you alone if you look busy. Great place if you need an assuming, quiet place to work or just a quick drink without artificial syrups and local quality coffee beans. There needs to be more places like these. Spread kindness, y'all. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Salted caramel and cream iced latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

What. What. What. FCT is a joint I found on a whim June 2018; place is real small, cute and perfect. Space: A small dining table in the middle and art, cashier, and counters surrounding the space. I like it. Friends Coffee and Tea collaborates with FCSN (http://fcsn1996.org/) SoDoI and local artists, a friendly place to catch some work and enthusiastic locals over a joe or beverage. Decor: Simple woodsy decor line the small business and I find it easy on the eyes and not distracting. Very cool. Think IKEA. Cute pot succulent for the eyes and senses. Grub a lub: The fare is not fairly extensive, but have unique offerings like Mojito Orange Latte Cafe, Organic Jasmine Pearl etc( https://www.friendscoffeetea.com/image/) berry cheese pastry is flakey and sugary. Win. Also tea and bottled drinks availy too. Rec: Definitely a must; they support locals and the community. June 2018 #10 read more

Soooo good! This place is walking distance from my house and had always meant to visit but hadn't gotten around to it til recently. I'm so glad I finally made it in because it was so cute in there and my drink was amazing! I ordered the matcha latte and it was so delicious and so fresh it literally improved my day definitely recommend! read more

I drive by the coffee shop every day for work and always wanted to go in. I was not disappointed! The ladies who work there are so sweet, she told me all about the different kinds of drinks they have and even let me and my friend have free samples. The inside is small and cute. A very cozy vibe. If you love checking out new coffee shops please give this small business a try! read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Marshmallow Mocha - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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Tried this place today and it did not disappoint! We tried the lavender latte and brown sugar latte and they were both very delicious. The lavender latte is the best I've ever had. We also tried their pastries. The cookie bars are delicious as well as the mochi cream cheese. Will definitely be going back soon. Support small coffee shops (: read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Mochi cream cheese 10/10 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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Just ordered an iced mojito latte- super yummy!!!! I highly recommend it. It's smooth like a cold brew and a nice light sweetness and really refreshing! I can't wait to try all the drinks and food! Super friendly staff! read more

Coming here for the first time after finding it through a yelp search. The location has an ample amount of parking, and it was empty on a weekday after when I was there. The people who are working here are sweet and helpful in understanding the menu. They prepare the coffee right about the moment you order, so it felt very fresh. I ordered a Mojito Orange Latte, It contains Orange Zest, Orange slices, Honey, and Mint. The latte tasted really unique and I am eager to try all the other signature options they carry. I'm not sure why this shop isn't popular in the neighborhood and people not trying it. More people coming here will let them do a good job in developing the business and making delicious coffee in the neighborhood. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Mojito Orange Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

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This is my first time here and I have to say that this place is a hidden gem. I drive by this place everyday and it always catches my eye. The next coffee/tea shop is miles away. I have to say that the place has a nice warm feel to it. Its a nice neighborhood shop with little heirlooms and decorations that make it unique. I love the aesthetics of the place as it is nice and clean. One problem I did find is just about the location. Its located near a busy street and it lacks pedestrian traffic. In theory though the place is close enough to a Highschool and even a community center. I hope that they find a way to get more eyes on this place and hopefully as the surrounding area develops this hidden gem becomes a treasure within. read more

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Definitely a hidden gem! I stopped by during my lunch break from the hospital (15min walk). The place is so cute - there're many small decor items on display and likely for sale (mugs, cards, lotions, etc.). Seating is a long communal table with some counter space - I can see this place getting busier on weekends. They have a small selection of pastries as well as samples of some kind of Asian cookie? The matcha one was delicious - they're chewy and not too sweet. Their drinks menu includes coffee, lattes, teas, and milk teas. The mango oolong / peach oolong can come with basil seeds as well - pretty unique! The friendly lady behind the counter was very knowledgeable about the drinks and helped me pick out the rose strawberry drink - rose tea with strawberry purée. It came out pretty quickly and had dried rose petals on top. I'd recommend asking for less sweet - other than that, the drink was very refreshing and perfect for a hot day. There's a small parking lot out front if you're driving. Definitely stop by if you're in the area! read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Strawberry rose tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

What an awesome place to find so randomly! A coffee place created to put Special Needs people to work and sell their creations too! Had an incredible Earl Grey Honey Milk Tea and went home with a handmade coffee cup! read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Friends Coffee & Tea is a hidden gem! The owner and staff are so nice, friendly, and thoughtful. Friends Coffee & Tea helps train individuals with disabilities and provide employment. This is an amazing step to helping those who don't always have the same job opportunities. The rose latte was very strong, not sweet at all. The flowery taste was prominent. The drink itself is really pretty and topped off with honey. The interior is clean and spacious. Prices are reasonable. Friends Coffee & Tea sells ceramic cups, clay pots, and other goodies from local vendors. Support your local small businesses and enjoy some awesome coffee/tea. Its a great quiet, study spot as well. read more

A very lovely and elegant cafe, with freshly made special tea and gourmet coffee, plus delicious salads and sandwiches. All drinks can be made hot or cold. Come with friends to support this newly opened cafe for a great cause. read more

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i got the orange mojito latte and the black sesame crossaint. the two were absolutely amazing. for smaller owned coffee shops i don't mind waiting longer for my items to come out but they were rather fast and it didn't come at the expense of quality and the associate taking my order was super friendly and helpful read more

This is such a cute little cafe with a unique concept and unique drinks. This place was started for kids with learning disabilities. I came in not knowing if I should get the Rose Latte or Almond Spice Latte. I asked the lady and she recommended the Rose Latte. In my opinion the Rose Latte was not my type of drink. If you're an avid Vanilla/Caramel Latte drinker, the Rose Latte is nothing like it. If I had to describe the drink, I would say it tastes like a Rose MT mixed with cold brew. If I'm in the area I would love to give this spot another try, but with a different drink. Also, I did not see outlets here, so prepare to fully charge your devices before coming here to work. read more

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Random, interesting coffee shop on Bascom. It almost feels like a waiting room turned into a coffee shop, but it kinda works in a weird way. I mean, the drinks are good and the service is prompt and friendly. There's not too much seating outside of one big table set up in the middle of the shop, so it's not your typical coffee spot for posting up and getting a ton of work done. I stopped by for their almond latte specialty drink and it was solid--creamy, not too sweet. I'll be back to try other stuff when passing through. read more

A true hidden gem! The menu of both food and drinks is very unique and everything I've had was delicious. Pricing is very reasonable. The staff is extremely kind and friendly. The facility is very clean. I come here every chance I get. read more

I had the Mango sago. It is very tasty with mango and coconut. Perfect for hot day or a dessert drink. The staff is very friendly and it is a part of a special needs adult learning. It is worth supporting great programs like these for our community. read more

Friends Coffee & Tea - Mango Sogo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Jose, California

Absolutely lovely coffee and shop! A must stop if your passing through. :] Also a nice spot for doing some work as well if you're a remote worker. read more

Dont' know if I just chose the wrong drink, but I had ordered the Ube Latte and a sandwich from Doordash, and the ube latte was literally undrinkable. No taste of coffee at all, it just tasted like a sweet sugary milk. And it didn't even taste of ube either, and the color was entirely wrong (light purple reminiscent of the color you get with fake taro drinks), and there were bits of these grainy chunks in the drink that didn't help the taste at all, and I had to toss the whole thing after drinking 2 sips. The sandwich was fine, but not really worth the $7 that I paid for it. read more

Wonderful place We ordered their vegan sandwiches for the school meeting It's taste great read more

Cute little cafe - seating is limited to one large table, but staff was friendly and gracious. My tea was delicious and my friend's coffee drink looked pretty :) Definitely stop by here if you're in the area and need a drink! It's close to Bascom library, too. read more