Java Beach At The Zoo

We waited a bit before long checking out this HeyTea location, knowing there was a long line during…read morethe grand opening because of the BOGO promotion. Instead of waiting, we scanned the QR code to download the app and placed our order there. It made the whole process much quicker and easier! If you see a long line, I'd definitely recommend ordering through the app instead. I was impressed as soon as we walked in. The beautiful lighting and minimalist décor give the shop a modern, chic feel; it almost looks more like a spa than a boba shop. Drinks are just as good as those from other shops globally and domestically. My favorite goes to is the Coconut Mango Blue and Crisp Grape Boom. My new favorite and I think it is seasonal - Guava Green Grape.

Came here on a Wednesday afternoon. They were busy even for a weekday. I guess since it was a…read morereally hot day which is way they were busy. This place is very small and can be chaotic between getting the drinks and ordering your drinks. It can be confusing especially on a busy day since those who are getting the drinks can block the area where you order the drinks from the tablet. They don't alway say your number . Anyways i got their coconut mango boom. My drink doesn't look like in the menu as it seems they had mix my drink before i got my drink. Cost was 6.99, a little expensive But it was still good. They have some pudding and sago inside as well.

Grape tea

Grand opening - number 89 on day 1!

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Interiors

Artly Coffee

3.7(49 reviews)

New app since I tried it in 2022, with all new coupons…read more $2 drinks, 50% off, it's on there when you download. I tried the Iced Yuzu Matcha and was very dissapointed. Barely tasted the Suzuki, if any. The matcha didn't taste good either. It has this weird chalky cheap taste to it. Bunch of ice and watered down. I'm hesitant to try them again, but I might if it's only $2 to try something else.

The coffee was good not bad. But the worker was rude. And she was on the phone ignoring. I asked…read moreher for milk I waited for my coffee and asked her ahead of time. I understand it's a robo coffee but I when she poured milk she didn't ask how much just poured a lot of milk.

Sunshine x latte

Box of 6 macarons: raspberry, strawberry, mango (04/2023)

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Chai Latte

Matcha Cafe Maiko

4.4(430 reviews)

I'd probably give this place less than 4 stars based on the food and drinks alone, but the service…read morewas so nice that I ended up giving it 4/5. My friends and I came from Texas and were recommended to try this location at Stonestown. I actually tried it when I visited SF back in 2024, so I was excited to come back again after two years. Unfortunately, I feel like the quality has gone down a little. The matcha was really astringent and didn't taste that good this time, and the banana flavor tasted very artificial. The service was definitely the best part though. The guy working there was really nice, and the Asian girl with red hair was super friendly and helpful. She explained the different lattes to us and recommended the black sesame latte, which was actually really good very nutty and not too sweet. She also gave us FIVE ice cream samples, like yo my friends were still downstairs and I just asked if they could try some too, and she happily gave us a bunch to bring to them. Such nice service! Overall: ambience 3/5, food/drinks 2/5, but service 5/5. The staff really saved the experience for us.

One of my go-to places while at Stonestown! It's located on the 2nd floor by the central…read moreescalators. I usually get the iced matcha latte with kokuto jelly and never have I been disappointed. Their matcha lattes are on the sweeter side, so this is definitely considered a treat. Don't get intimidated if you see a long line...it moved quickly with the option to order at the kiosk or register.

Banana matcha latte

Thai tea + black tea swirl

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Peach Oolong soft serve sample

Peet's Coffee

3.0(133 reviews)

Great place to go to, especially with SF State University and Lowell High School nearby. Friendly…read morestaff (or baristas) and can get busy at times, especially on a weekend. One of the baristas, named April, who is supposedly the store manager of this particular location, is nice and attentive, especially for some of the regulars she would remember (just like me). One reviewer from yelp said that April is rude, but in my opinion, not even true at all. Just made my statement that April is a great barista and store manager of this Stonestown location.

Decided to switch it up this morning and visit the Peet's closer to home rather than the one we…read moreusually go to each morning at Serramonte. We also had a free tea latte to claim on the Peet's app! Upon entering, it was busy, as expected since it's near the college campus. Very small shop, seating was limited. We placed our orders. I ordered my usual London Fog latte with heavy cream and SF vanilla, David ordered his cafe au lait with heavy cream and SF vanilla. We told the cashier we had a free tea latte to claim in the app and showed her our rewards. She seemed a bit confused and asked her colleague. They both came over to explain that we could t utilize our free tea latte towards the London Fog latte I ordered which is early grey tea with milk... hence, a tea latte. Strange. This is disappointing as we build our rewards up by coming into Peet's each morning to order a tea latte and cafe au lait. Hmmm.. Anyhoo. I enjoyed my London fog, David enjoyed his cafe au lait. We ordered an iced matcha latte for a friend who works at stonestown and claimed our "free tea latte" reward this way. They made it hot. I asked to remake it to iced, as ordered. I get it, they're busy here.

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85°C Bakery Cafe-Stonestown

3.1(284 reviews)

One of the few places open early at the mall. I stopped in for a breakfast treat and found a wide…read moreassortment of pastries (Asian inspired flavors and American classics). I bought the Hokkaido Milk Bun and a pair of custard tarts in a two-item bag. I made good choices! The Hokkaido bun was soft and inside the milk cream was smooth/not overly sweet! I couldn't resist delaying eating one of the Portugese-style egg tarts. Flaky crust. Egg custard smooth as silk. Delicious! I would buy both again. Oh, by the way, there is a panel to order drinks only if that's what you want. Or order at the cashier and pay for your pastries at the same time. Convenient options.

Always have to make a stop when I'm at the mall, bc how can you not?! My fave is the salted bread…read more It's their take on the Korean salt bread. It's not exactly the same but damn near close in my opinion. The Mochi egg tart is buttery, flaky goodness. The taro bun is another fave. Not everything knocks it out of the park but those 3 are pretty solid.

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Jade & Java Cafe

4.4(98 reviews)

2.0 mi•Parkmerced

Been meaning to try this place and so glad I did…read more Needed something strong and staff mentioned their Vietnamese coffees are it. Tried the pistachio cream Vietnamese coffee and it was good and strong. They even added some crushed pistachios on top. When I mixed in the cream I could taste the hint of nuttiness. The pistachio bits were also a nice add. Enjoyed the space and will come back to try the matcha. Note this is located closer to the Park Merced apartments rather than SF State.

Vietnamese coffee must be the new coffee trend in San Francisco. Jade and Java Cafe is another…read morecoffee shop focusing on Vietnamese style coffee as well as matcha drinks. It is located in a small strip mall next to San Francisco State University. I think the place has been opened about a year. Ordered the Pistachio Vietnamese Coffee which has a thick pistachio cream on top. The pistachio cream has good flavor and is enjoyable with sipping. The coffee is strong. They also offer other Vietnamese coffee like traditional, salt cream, and crème brûlée. I haven't tried their matcha drinks but I've heard they are solid as well. Really good selection of flavors including classic, strawberry matcha, coconut matcha, and black sesame matcha.

Matcha w/ crème brûlée

Crème Brûlée Matcha

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Hojicha latte with crème brûlée foam

YY Coffee & Tea

4.0(116 reviews)

1.6 mi•Lakeside

This is literally my favorite boba spot in SF, with an arguably close second of Quaters/Momo Tea…read more Their tea taste is very floral, fragrant, and fresh without a hint of bitterness or processed tea taste. Parking can get tough in the area, and wait times may be longer than expected if there is a small line. I ordered a camelia milk tea with tea and lychee jelly, and it's probably one of the most floral teas I've had, arguably on par with molly tea. I found 75% sweetness to be perfect

The order kiosk was not operating…read more The boba was not acceptable, taro was a big gluey chunks. Tea tastes water down. They were out of egg waffles and other drinks. The person working there wasn't happy to be there. She seemed way too stressed out. I like ambiance, the small plant pots that the sell for $1. I think the personal touches that the owner has put into it including and the lucky cat gifting candies.

Créme Brûlée Milk Tea with Coffee Jelly

Inside 8/4/26

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Nice decor

Wanpo Tea Shop - San Francisco

3.2(97 reviews)

This was my first visit and the brown sugar milk tea with boba was very good. Tapioca squish was…read morechewy and very enjoyable. Sweetness was just right. It was more milk than tea. I don't have a photo to share because it was too good to remember to photograph. I look forward to next visit. Service was excellent. It's a to go location and there isn't seating.

This was ok: Wanpo Milk Tea…read more I ordered the Wanpo milk tea for takeout, and it was honestly just okay. The drink was so average that it ended up being pretty forgettable. Nothing tasted bad, but nothing really stood out either. Service was straightforward since this was a takeout order. The order process was easy enough, and there were no issues with getting the drink, but there also was not much interaction beyond picking it up. Since it was takeout, I did not spend much time with the ambiance, but the overall experience felt quick and casual. I would not avoid Wanpo, but based on this drink alone, I also would not go out of my way to come back.

Hot drink straws??

Wanpo Milk Tea with Boba

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Brown sugar milk tea

Andytown Coffee Roasters

4.4(1.2k reviews)

1.5 mi•Outer Sunset

I ordered a Hot Matcha Latte 5/5…read more It was really good. Right next to Rusty Ladle, is a cute coffee shop. Plenty of space to sit around and chill out with some coffee. Sit outside and enjoy a nice view of ocean beach from afar. Staff is friendly and order came timely.

Took some years, but I'm a fan!…read more Original Bird is delicious, didn't know sparkling espresso could taste like that haha drooling just thinking about it Iced Latte is also great Hoping to catch their Lavender Chai in the future!

2.3 mi•Ingleside Terraces

Grilled cheese sandwich

Candied lavender latte

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Inside counter

Charm Coffee

4.5(92 reviews)

This is truthfully my new favorite coffee shop in the city. Latinx-owned, just enough seating to…read morenever feel busy, and great food to match the great drinks. I went on a weekday and was hoping to get some work done. Most of the seats were available when I got there and the staff kindly shared the WiFi. They were overall extremely friendly and just their vibe made me want to go back again. I think a pitfall of a lot of SF coffee shops is the food, but both the drinks and food were superb and just what I needed to kickstart my day. They have unique flavors and seasonal drinks. I'm inspired to make my way through the menu! PS if you're a transit girly like me, this is right along the K line!

San Francisco is full of coffee shops and there is so many different ones throughout the city…read moreneighborhoods offering their own brand of charm. You can go for blocks in SF and find hardly any coffee shops and then go to certain neighborhoods where there are more than one coffee shop within a block. There is one located on Ocean ( not salty one ) Avenue in SF which has its own charm with drinks and pastries and it is called Charm Coffee. On a Summer stroll where rain drops fall and the sun comes out after I landed on Ocean ( not the beach) avenue. Inside Charm Coffee you will see a menu with toast and jam and grilled cheese like some in SF but you will also find avocado toast and cheesy quesadillas. They also matcha for Don Juan de la Matcha. I got the iced mocha which had a smooth taste and it was refreshing. I then I got the butter croissant which was flakey like some I seen on my social feed in SF. This place is a good place to make a pit stop on Ocean avenue. There is a "place" away from the "rat race" in SF which is a coffee shop with its own flavor and "taste" with a slower "pace" The weather is unpredictable in the Summer you better cover your "arm"and also be "alarm"if it rains you can go to a place to get organic coffee straight out a Latin American "coffee farm" and the place is on Ocean not the salty beach in SF but the avenue and it's called " Charm"

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More indoor seating

Burrito and Lavender latte

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Iced Matcha Latte w/ oat milk, whipped cream aka Matcha Einspänner | $7 (special request)

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52 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Samantha S.

9 years ago

I'm not normally one to complain, but this is the third time this has happened to me here and I just have to say something. I always order the same thing: an iced latte with almond milk. And I'm always very clear about it being iced because I used to work in the coffee industry for 6 years, so I totally understand the frustration of having to remake someone's drink, especially when you are super busy. So I always double check my order on their screen to verify that I said my order correctly, and that they heard it correctly. And every time it has been correct. I'm not sure what quite happens with the communication after the transaction is complete and the order goes to the barista, but this is the third time they've made my drink hot instead of iced. I get that this is really not a big problem in the grand scheme of things (hence 3 stars instead of 1), but it isn't necessarily the mess up that bothers me, it's the way the barista handles it. And it's literally the same barista that messes is it up every time. The first time it happened to me, I just took the hot beverage because I really dislike frustrating people. The second time it happened, I spoke up and it felt like I completely annoyed the barista. Today, the third time it happened, I enjoyed some passive aggressive attitude, as though it was my fault she had to remake my beverage. I get it. It's frustrating to have to remake a drink because it takes time and you have a bunch of other orders to fill. But you should never make the customer feel like they did something wrong, when they didn't. If you're having to remake multiple orders, its most likely because you're rushing and not paying attention to the details. And frankly, my drink order is pretty simple. read more

Leanne M.

16 years ago

This place is the most generous coffeehouse in the city. The portions are out of control BIG. Everything on their menu can be split between two people and you'll both be full and satisfied. In addition to plentiful portions, the quality is off the hook, consistently. I personally love the super crunchy, extra chunky kettle chips on the side. And the coffee is super top-notch. I frequent Blue Bottle when I am at work (in Hayes Valley), but when I am in the `hood I always choose Java Beach. They micro-roast their coffee on a Probat-- cool!-- and the word on the street is that they plan to open a roastery in Ocean Beach. And they use Clover milk. Yum. Prices are more than fair. More than fair! I noticed some of the Yelpers tend to exaggerate when it comes to price. Hmmm. All I know is the quality is superior, the setting is outstanding and the staff is hard working and loyal. The core staff have worked at both establishments for years and years. No way they're getting $10/hour. Come on, people! Don't compare JB to Starbucks or some other corporate giant. Java Beach is an authentic neighborhood spot with character, quality and class. Cheers to Java Beach! read more

Douglas D.

8 years ago

Love this little hole-in-the-wall! Both my wife & I frequent when we can, but I like to go when I'm working on a listing in the area. Realtor's don't get much chance to "take a break" so it's a little break I enjoy. Their Smoked Salmon on a bagel and a Latte are a real treat for me! Their staff is always personable and serve up great food with good suggestions, if you are stuck to choose. My wife loves their steel cut oatmeal-very hearty! If the weather is good, I'll sit outside and "people & dog watch", if not, inside, even at the counter, it's a nice place to be. I like giving the smaller locals my business so that they don't move out of the area. Being on the cusp of SF & Daly City is perfect! If you haven't tried them, please do! It's a small place-don't expect huge. Warning: On REALLY sunny days, the SF Zoo, across the street, really packs them in, so parking will be at a premium in the area. Be patient, it's worth it! Besides, their prices are reasonable and the service great. Hope you get a chance to try them out. read more

Chen-Chen H.

1599

11 years ago

I always have some serious nostalgia when I'm here- it was the place I studied for my SATs in high school, and now years later, I came back to grab a quick coffee and to visit. Lots of huge pros. It's right by the beach with a great vibe and an awesome staff. The interior is clean with great wood furniture and a boardwalk-esque feel. There's also plenty of outdoor seating, but away from all of the power strips. Service was fast and friendly, and they have a pretty large selection of pastries, sandwiches, and an extensive bagel menu that I'm looking forward to trying out next time I'm back. One small con- it took freaking forever to connect to the Internet. It was a problem shared by a bunch of other patrons as well. read more

Khenpo L.

11 years ago

I am giving this place four (rather than one) stars mostly because of the very friendly staff. They really do aim to please. However, the food is often very mediocre, served cold and tasteless. The baristas are usually great though, and the coffee is great, especially the cappuccinos. I don't order much food anymore, but only the coffee and a desert and sit in the 'dining' area and use the wifi. On weekends, this place can be very busy because they cater to the tourists who are visiting the zoo across the street. read more

michelle s.

16 years ago

This is my perfect cafe. I teach at State so I stop by everyday. They have the best coffee with the most wonderful flavors. They offer a slow drip coffee which is exquisite!!!! The staff and look of the place is very welcoming. This place is definitely for people who appreciate coffee. Most other cafes coffees are actually burnt. Java Beach at the zoo has got it perfect. I drink the Bernie's blend since it is the strongest, but they do have lighter flavors. DEFINITELY 5 STARS read more

Dianne A.

12 years ago

Love the Hummus Bagel and the Mocha with the leaf on top. The waitresses remember my daughter's name and always a smile on their faces. It's a great place so close to home and on beautiful days we get to sit outside and look at the sun. My daughter is in love with the Butterscotch Hot Chocolate and we love to walk over with the dog and enjoy the view. Its a real neighborhood place where if you stay long enough you run into lots of folks you know. read more

Jani A.

16 years ago

Stopped over here after a trip since I was hungry. All the ingredients they put into my meal was fresh and tasty. They have good service and nice ambiance to the place. I also had time to bring out my lappie and surf for awhile so it's a bonus that they have a connection I could use. I'd stop here anytime, even if I wasn't really hungry. Just to pick up a treat for myself or someone at home! read more

Angie J.

16 years ago

My favorite Cafe for sandwiches that isn't a deli. I always order their Tsunami Sandwich which is with mortadella, salami and ham. Their French Bread is crunchy and rustic. Choice of cheese, I like Monterey Jack. And I always get it with jalapenos for that extra kick. It can get pretty crowded during lunch time so expect to wait about 10 to 15 mins. Love the Tsunami! read more

Marcy S.

16 years ago

this was recommended by a friend that lives in san francisco so I stopped by and I'm soo glad I did! We both ordered a tuna melt and it was just delicious! SO good. We got there around the time the sun was setting so we just sat outside at the tables they have and ate watching the sunset. This is defnitely a great spot for great food and great views. I'm a fan. read more

Luz C.

15 years ago

I always try to find the cheapest cafe's in town but I have to admit I love coming here. The sandwiches are delicious, the beer (during happy hour) is reasonably priced, and overall the atmosphere is a welcoming space during the evenings. Great place for bringing together a study group and chillin' by the beach. I only wish their food was a little cheaper. read more

Julie G.

14 years ago

If your looking for good cup of coffee at a local coffee shop I highly recomended Java Beach. The atmosphere is friendly and the coffee is always excellent. They also have a good arrangement of snacks, breakfast and lunch items. I often stop by after a run around the lake it's conveniently located in the Sunset give them a try if you're in town read more

kate s.

17 years ago

I love the original and this newer location as well. The BEST lattes EVER!!! You have to try them!! And now they offer mimosas with organic OJ! The service is friendly and the sandwiches and salads are delicious. It does get busy, but you can see the employees working and making your sandwiches and salads. Go try the lattes!!!! read more

Cutie P.

15 years ago

Java Beach has the tastiest iced vanilla lattes and their food is delicious as well. I'm a regular at both locations but when I'm looking for a coffee shop to do homework I prefer this location because I run into less people I know... Just a personal preference. Either way, you should definitely give this place a try!! read more

Mary F.

2 years ago

This place is a hidden gem! Everything I've tried here has been great, but the Tsunami Sandwich is next level--seriously tasty. They've got a ton of yummy pastries, salads, and all kinds of coffee drinks too. Super chill vibe, perfect for grabbing a bite before or after hitting the zoo. Definitely worth checking out! read more

Lana R.

16 years ago

I just totally love this place!The service is very warm and friendly.They serve the best sandwiches ever...(have to try it yourself) and Guinness beer on tap!(my husband's favorite):) Very nice place to have an ice ream with kids after visiting SF Zoo.Plus they have free WiFi Internet. read more

Erin R.

17 years ago

My first time at Java Beach. Very good, but overpriced. I like how they have vegan food and the coffee is yummy! Very great ambiance and have a choice to sit outside. The day I went it was very sunny and perfect weather. read more

rosemary f.

12 years ago

I usually go here because it's nice , but if your going to order the lox bagel Then don't , they give you a measly amount of salmon on it. I had to open it up to check if she put salmon in it. Bad. read more

Chester D.

12 years ago

Stop by there on Sunday and had some good sandwiches and very tasty very reasonable price looking for a sandwich with a lot of meat in it stop by and have one coffee was good too read more

Katherine S.

7 years ago

The coleslaw was old and tasted fermented and past the date the falafel on the sandwhich too. So did the onions on the sandwiches and the hot coacoa was mainly milk. read more

Java Beach At The Zoo - coffee - Updated September 2026

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El Café

4.7

(161 reviews)

Cute little corner coffee shop…read more Looks like they have a pretty large menu with a variety of options for sandwiches and drinks both hot and cold. I believe even smoothies. Came here with my kiddo for 1:1 time. He got a hot chocolate and muffin. I got a chai and raisin cinnamon twist. Good neighborhood spot.

August 11th is National Panini Day! August is National Panini Month AND National Sandwich Day!…read more Where else to go to accomplish three things at once... thanks to El Cafe on Taraval Street and 24th Avenue. I went with the Parkside Panini (in honor of the cafe's location in the Sunset District). The panini's combination of turkey, provolone cheese, spinach, tomato, red onion, red pepper mayo was excellent and yummy. Now you do not have to get a panini nor a sandwich only in August. Go to El Cafe anytime. The employees are friendly and in this case, made a great panini.

Yonkers Cafe

4.2

(473 reviews)

I orderd the DUBAI chocolate cup with strawberries and banananas. It came quick and it was FULL!…read moreliterally chocolate and pistachio goodness dripping down the cup onto my hands. The first bite, I felt like i was transferred to dubai itself. the second, im an animal wanting more. it was so good 10/10 the cup probably lasted 2 minutes the most be careful ordering this. Side note: The lady working here is also super sweet 10/10 customer service

I ordered the usual Yonker's Deluxe any time I'm in the area for work. Don't be cheap and get the…read moreYonkers Special. Spend the extra bucks and grab the delux. It's 100% worth it Ordering was quick and sandwiches came out timely as well. Small shop with minimal dining spots for a quick grub. Staff is friendly. Other than that I don't recommend the overrated chocolate strawberry dubai. It was a very disappointing experience. Had to toss it after a few bites. I don't understand the hype and it was pretty expensive. Just come here for the sandwiches and go across the street for devils teeth coffee.

Java On Ocean Coffee House

3.6

(607 reviews)

I haven't been on Ocean Avenue since our son was in middle school nearly 8 years ago. Always found…read moreinteresting local coffee shops, poke, sushi and burgers places near by. Today I dropped our recently senior rescued dog for his first grooming for us. I came upon an "Old Friend" Java on Ocean Coffee. The café is at the corner or Ocean Avenue and Faxon across the street from the former Walgreens which means amble parking! Java On Ocean Coffee is a classic San Francisco coffee place which has much more than coffee to order. There is a selection of savory breakfast items, sandwiches and smoothie! Given it was after 3 pm I ordered a Mexican Mocha and an oatmeal cookie. The café was fairly packed with nearby Riodan High School students studying about American history "New Deal" with great enthusiasm and laughter! There are 15 tables and plenty of seating including several outside but given the May gray day I cozyed under a poster of famous Mexican artist Frieda to drink my Mexican Mocha today. I look forward to future exploring Ocean Avenue including getting a smoothie or sandwich at the café!

Tried their coffee cake and chai chiller smoothie . Very close to train. Spacious. Lots of options.read more

Sweet Passion Bakery

4.2

(269 reviews)

Our first time here, i was curious to see what an Irish/ Chinese bakery had to offer. The…read moregentleman helping the lady before us, he didn't look Chinese but he was speaking Chinese fluently to the customer. I thought that was so cool. I'm not big on soda bread but really wanted to try the pineapple bun. I'm a big fan of that especially when you're craving it. This place did not disappoint. It was fluffy/doughy and oh so fresh. I loved that the crunchy crust didn't fall apart when I cut it in half..and half again lol..I ended up finishing the whole thing it was delicious. Here's a few other items I tried: 1. Coconut bread: Soft and fluffy. Definitely, had the coconut flavor but it felt like it was missing something. 2. Cocktail bun: Simple but tasty, can't go wrong with a classic. 3. Assorted breads: White toast, dinner rolls, and kind of like a hot dog bun. All of these were fresh and tasty. 4. Caramel fancier: A new item I've been trying at bakeries. I love the crunchy outer crust and inside was most. The caramel topping glaze made it a tasty mess. Overall, customer service was amazing. Pastries were all delicious. Items were reasonably priced.

Looking to rekindle those childhood food memories, I bookmarked this neighborhood bakery. I have…read morenot been in this area for over 40 years after graduating high school (about six to seven blocks away). I was surprised the number of businesses on this block and took photos to remember to try them next time I'm here. When I walked in, the lady guessed my name as I called a week earlier to order a couple things. She went to the back to get them as I studied their counter cases (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=o_L2mqkAZiHlINiTO1npfQ), (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=DAkjOAn6escMvT3Rig5yBw) and looked at the menu board. As she helped me, another lady helped a few guys could came in just after me. When I got home, I packed everything up as there was no way I'd be eating everything right away as I prepped lunch. Wanted to at least try one thing while fresh, I reheated a green onion bun (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=h_76kKVErl6pMBVbuxPktg); it is substantial, probably double if not more size wise from what I'd get in Chinatown. The green onion flavor is there and prominent without being overwhelming. The next morning, I reheated an almond croissant (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=2yEWFqfCpZD2xrdz_bffhA) for breakfast; there was plenty of almonds outside and a generous amount of almond paste inside. Reheat this to enjoy it more. Next was the reason that I came here. I read on a FB thread on old time eats in SF that they made a dessert/pastry from a long-closed restaurant across the street from where I worked... actually it closed before I actually worked there... yes, that long ago. Sun Wah Kue was one of only a handful of Chinatown restaurants that served American food in those days, with traditional breakfasts and lunch plates. Besides their meals, their pies were also big staple items, mainly apple, custard, and orange pies. I read that this place made the less common one of the three so I ordered an orange pie (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=TxwLWEWjGQwuYXjqQl7rVw); given the time span, I do not remember the details of the original one that I had at SWK so I can't compare it with this. I cut a slice (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=Ud9cYSi1blmlurfb5PrjXA) besides sharing the rest of the pie with several other friends who remember this. It is basically a orange gelatin filling and the crust is definitely an upgrade from the flaky dry (baking soda?) version from my childhood. The next item that I tried was the blueberry scone (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=ZQDZpIcD5wKIkBsvrp8bhw); after reheating it in the toaster oven, I had this for breakfast a few days later. It is pretty good size and definitely filling for my morning meal. Later that evening, I reheated the chicken pot pie (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=a0uNgAXSRdQxcSBEUzqtRA); the filling (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=v84dHICQfC-oxdIaZYwzPQ) consisted of lean pieces of chicken, chunks of potato and carrots, and peas. This is delicious and satisfying as the star was equally the crust being delicious and not dry. There is a small area for dining in so most customers were like me, take and go. Thanks to Jenny for taking my order a week earlier and putting my goodies together. Also, thank you for the bonus try. I look forward to coming again and will get feedback on my fellow old timers on that pie.

Toast Eatery

3.2

(391 reviews)

From the moment I walked in the service was exceptional and the ambiance is amazing. Brittany was…read morefantastic and offered suggestions that were on point. The corn beef hash was the best that I have had in a restaurant ever and I will travel back here to visit and come back to eat here. Great breakfast place if you live or are visiting the area this is a must visit!

Simce 2020 they have been extracting as much money from their loyal customers as possible. That was…read moreBEFORE inflation. Now that inflation is here it just cost me $48 for 4 eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns. If the food wasn't DISGUSTING I would still return. I have been a customer here for so long and the only thing left here of value is a seat. They spent half a decade buying worse and worse ingredients so they could push their profits up. How on earth they stay in business I will never know. Get out of West Portal. Please leave and let a restaurant that doesn't hate it's customers serve us. This restaurants food is genuinely garbage now and the prices have become insulting.

Machu Picchu Cafe

4.7

(73 reviews)

What a wonderful experience I had…read more Obviously beautiful decor. But truly, the way the staff made me feel, is where the real beauty shines. And I can tell they are proud of their work. I wanted the tuna sandwich but really would have wanted a tuna melt (which is off the menu), and without hesitation it was made possible. Added cheese and avocado. Toasted. Omg it was delicious. The ingredients are so fresh. The portions are generous. The space is clean. The music is upbeat and just right to provoke creativity and conversation. The ambience is welcoming, comforting, nourishing. Thank you so much.

I've actually been to Machu Picchu. Yeah, the real one up in the Andes. Now that was back in the…read moreday when I had more lung capacity to conquer the Inca Trail. Fortunately, there wasn't that headache-inducing elevation challenge in coming here, but it felt kinda remote to someone who doesn't make it to the Balboa Park station that often. It kinda felt like a hillside warming hut on the way to oh I dunno... Machu Picchu? The place was relatively cavernous with an eye-catching faux-cherry blossom tree smack in the middle (Photo 7). Interesting decorating choice. True to its name, they offer Peruvian coffee and specialties like empanadas and alfajores on their extensive menu. However, what caught my attention was the extensive sandwich selection. Feeling quite peckish that day, I decided to order the $16.25 Turkey Club Sandwich, which was a pretty hearty layering of deli turkey, crispy bacon, Swiss cheese, avocado, lettuce, onion, tomato, and mayo between slices of toasted sourdough (Photo 8). It worked. FOOD - 3 stars...a well assembled sandwich with good ingredients AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...spacious but oh that tree SERVICE - 3.5 stars...a bit of a wait and not that busy TOTAL - 3 stars...if I happen to be in the 'hood hankering for a sandwich RELATED - Exploring past the Mission? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/8qmdwPejHQ

La Promenade Café

4.3

(457 reviews)

La Promenade is my favorite neighborhood cafe to get some work done. The inside is cute with a…read morenostalgic, cozy vibe and plenty of seating, good wifi, and outlets to charge your electronics. They also have board games and books from Green Apple Books in the back. The coffee is good and their bagels & sandwiches are great. It can get a bit busy on weekends so it's best to come in the morning. Service is always friendly and efficient.

I know it's time to get ready to close but the young gal with tattoos on her left arm was sweeping…read moreand knocked into my friend and then used the broom to sweep over my feet and didn't even apologize! Horrible customer service. I was about to say something but my other friend asked me something urgently and we all became distracted. Food is always just so so. Nothing spectacular. Ambiance I always typical coffee shop ambiance. Don't think we'll be returning here anymore.

North Bay Bagels & Donuts

4.7

(77 reviews)

I had their almond croissant and it's so good. The outside is crunchy yet croissant is soft and…read moreairy. I'm not a huge almond fan but it had just enough almond flavor for my taste. Their bagels and donuts are also fire!! North Bay is awesome.

Recently discovered this spot while craving bagels and wanting something local, not a chain. It…read morelooks like they opened within the last year, and I'd definitely come back. They offer a good variety of bagels and donuts, and everything I tried was solid. I especially loved that they have donut holes, since some places don't. For bagels, there are multiple flavors along with different cream cheese options. I ordered the jalapeño cheddar bagel with salmon cream cheese, and it was yummy. It would be nice to have a menu with all the bagel flavors, donut options, and cream cheese choices, either online or more visible in-store. I didn't notice a clear sign listing the cream cheese flavors, and while you can see the bagels in the display case, having everything listed out with prices would make ordering easier.

The Art Bistro

4.6

(493 reviews)

Grab your morning bagel here!…read more And so many sweet treats to pick from! This is a local spot, don't bombard the sweet ladies working

Bagels are amazing. Thai iced tea, probably the best in the…read morecity. Great prices and the lady is very sweet. No seating in the location.

Avenues San Francisco

4.3

(206 reviews)