Clever of Spike's Coffee & Teas to incentivize me via Too Good to Go to try their excellent, longstanding coffee and bake shop. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Zip, zip it's easiest on MUNI to get there and wow, such a cute space with interesting teas and coffees and yes, the coveted bag of pastries and bagels FinnCinerator devoured.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They greeted him at closing time and were very nice. The two bagels, blueberry muffin and bear claw my son snagged but I got the shortbread-tasting apple triangle that wasn't a chausson de pomme but something more interesting, tasty and new. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I need to come and kick back at their sidewalk cafe tables with a hot tea and something sweet.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

See all

Everyone here is so sweet. The coffee and pastries are incredible. I devoured the turkey and brie croissant in like two bites. It was so fresh and delicious, I was honestly shocked. In America we're so used to transactional coffee runs. Walk in, order, walk out. This place is different. You can tell people here actually love what they do. If you just want quick coffee, go to Starbucks. If you want something more, come here. It's all about energy and priorities. Thank you for putting your heart into this. I always get the mocha and it's truly delicious. I don't even know how the pastries are this good, but that croissant was insane. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The atmosphere says it all.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] There's a real difference between people who just do a job and people who are actually passionate about it, who put their heart into what they do. You can definitely feel it here and it's refreshing. This is why San Francisco is so special - because of people and businesses like this. Thank you! read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Adorable and cozy neighborhood cafe with outstanding energy, super friendly staff, and tasty coffee / pastries.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I poked my head into Spike's for a quick caffeine fix on a Sunday morning walk, and I immediately fell in love with the remarkably cozy, comfortable energy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The old wooden tables, comfy chairs, and dim lighting made me feel relaxed and at home, and the amps repurposed as side tables, album covers dotting the walls, and chill background music gave the space a unique flair.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I, sadly, couldn't stay too long for this visit, but I can't wait to come back to hang out for the entire day. The drinks and food are just as enticing as the ambiance. I got their cold brew -- which was the exact caffeine boost I needed and had a great flavor -- and gingerbread. The gingerbread was packed with ginger and molasses flavor, and it exuded the same comforting, warming energy that the overall space had. I had a hard time settling on what I wanted -- the scones and morning buns also looked *amazing* -- but the staff was super friendly in helping me decide. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - cold brew, sweet potato bread - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]So relaxing and great atmosphere[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] coffee is amazing and friendly approachable come in and enjoy the EVERYTHING read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]I discovered this cute, small, independent, coffee shop in the Castro District that sits quietly on 19th street and Castro for the first time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Truthfully I have never walked past 18th street before so this was a little adventure for me! I discovered this place when I randomly did a Too Good to Go App pickup of any random left over food end of day which is sold at a discount on the app. It will be a mystery bag, so never know what you are going to get. I was impressed with my pickup and enjoyed the variety of pastries. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I like this little neighborhood hidden gem.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a nice place to sit and hang out and enjoy the local art on walls.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]If I ever need a bagel or pastry, I'll walk further out there and enjoy the not hurried or busy atmosphere[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. read more

See all

the staff were friendly and [[HIGHLIGHT]]the ambiance gave off a traditional authentic experience[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. [[HIGHLIGHT]]it was really hot in there though so I sat outside[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. I got the iced coffee with oat milk and it was decent--the coffee was slightly acidic for me but not that much read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - iced oat coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

They make the best cappuccinos, lattes, and specialty drinks in the Castro, however you like them. Plus, each day's brewed coffee selections keep you with fresh and great-tasting flavors. The staff is so nice, too! read more

TGTG I got the Spinach croissant and it was delicious. So much filling and so much flavor. I can see myself getting a chai and this croissant. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Just sit and relax. No work. I'll just keep on visualizing. One day[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. read more

The Iced Coffee is pretty good, the bagels are big with lots of cream cheese, but the service is what keeps me coming back. I really enjoy the staff and how small the shop is. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's the quintessential neighborhood coffee shop![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I wouldn't come here if you're looking for groundbreaking food. [[HIGHLIGHT]]But if you're looking for a good cup of coffee and to sit outside and enjoy The Castro, then I'd definitely come here.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Pumpkin spice latte! Tasted good after a bike ride around the city, I was just spinning through for a weekend. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I loved the layout of the friendly store with a lot of great pastries and coffees[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], this is the type of place I would live at if I lived around here. Great service and nice people. read more

See all

Spikes Coffee nailed my coffee and peanut butter protein bar like a gold medalist volleyball player securing a match point! After traveling for two days straight to finally arrive in San Fran, Spikes was my refuge. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Open early, hot coffee, friendly people, chill vibes, good music, and convenient location.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are a couple small tables inside to have a date or chat with a friend with more seating outside.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Stopped by for a late afternoon drink and was pleasantly surprised by the number and variety of looseleaf teas that Spike's carries. I always love it when coffee shops carry a serious variety of teas. Since it was a hot day, I got an iced oolong tea and a chocolate donut. Service was friendly and efficient. Prices are very fair. The oolong tea was so refreshing and I like that they didn't put too much ice. The donut was just okay (didn't taste very fresh). Don't think there's technically a public restroom, but the employees were so nice and let me to use the employee restroom in the back. Love their bulldog logo too! Will be back. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

"Brewed Like a Power Chord: My Visit to Spikes" Walking into Spikes felt like strumming an open E--warm, full-bodied, and instantly satisfying. From the moment the door swung open with a little jangle (like the intro of a jangly Rickenbacker tune), I knew I was plugged into something special. The espresso? That was the lead solo. Smooth, sharp, and cut through the morning haze like a Strat through a Marshall stack. It had that perfect crema sustain, like the sweet overdrive of a tube amp pushed just right. Every sip felt like a well-bent note--meant to linger and stir something deep. I went with a cappuccino for the second round, which landed like a jazzy chord voicing--complex, creamy, and just the right amount of foam feedback. The barista, clearly the Hendrix of the La Marzocco, dialed in the shot with precision. Watching them work was like watching someone fingerpick a nylon-string with total finesse--graceful, intentional, and in the pocket. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibe of the place? Think vintage Telecaster meets lo-fi vinyl shop. Woodgrain tables, amps repurposed as side tables, and album covers hanging like platinum records. Background music was a steady rhythm section of indie, blues, and classic rock--no autoplay nonsense here. Just well-curated tone.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Service? On tempo, with no missed notes. The crew was in sync, working in harmony like a tight trio on stage--nodding, smiling, and knowing their gear inside out. If you're looking for a café that hits like a killer chord progression and leaves you buzzing like a fresh set of Ernie Balls, Spikes is your next gig. It's not just coffee--it's a jam session for your taste buds. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Great Service Great Spot - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Super friendly staff, seems like a local favorite. The baristas are knowledgeable and open to you asking questions or making custom drinks. Has outdoor seating so fun to just sit outside and people watch. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Hot apple cider vinegar - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Been coming here the past 20 years. Had a very unpleasant exchange with one of the baristas there this morning. Will not be back.

I really enjoy going to Spikes for the nice friendly staff and service. Today Xara and Leo were working there and were great, friendly and nice! [[HIGHLIGHT]]I like supporting places with good product but it is the staff and ambiance that keep me coming back![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Thanks Xara and Leo! read more

Instantly welcomed in this quaint little home to the best espresso in Castro. I got a customized drink order in under three minutes, home style hospitality on my first step into the door, and a comfy little bench to get some writing done. Make this place your regular sit & sip! read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Perfectly balanced, custom espresso drink with the shop in the background - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

This place has probably the BEST latte with oat milk ever. Get a small hot latte with oat milk--you won't regret it if you like deep, dark, and roast-y lattes. The latte flavor was very concentrated and rich (I love it), unlike Tartine's which was way too light and "dilute-tasting" for me! Blueberry scone is also good. Service is great and friendly. read more

I came here for some coffee while around Castro. It's a no-frills, old-school place where the people were pretty nice and took the time to explain how their menu works. I ordered a cappuccino, which was pretty strong and unsweetened. I'd come here again for a traditional espresso drink or to try one of their more unique offerings. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Another terrible experience with the morning women crew. Either train them on how to make a drink or fire them. Many bad experiences with that crew. read more

The cosiest spot to have tea on a rainy day! My friend and I don't drink coffee so we were excited to find a place with so many tea varietals. We got some advice from the server and tried to lovely loose leaf teas - I enjoyed my peach ginger black tea though it didn't have as much ginger flavor. We had nice mugfuls while people watching by the window. Seems like a sweet neighborhood shop that I hope stays open for a long time to come! They also have pastries, coffee drinks, and other snacks. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Peach ginger tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Beautiful neighborhood, friendly staff, and friendly neighbors. Spikes has a dog for their logo and they don't disappoint. Saw five dogs on the sidewalk and a man walked out from Spikes and gave them all treats. Not sure if he was the owner but he was gathered with some other neighbors inside when we arrived. Staff was kind offered recommendations on Oracle park food for us and were prompt. Good vibes. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Sign from the front - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Once upon a time in early March 2020, we took this lovely thing called a "vacation" and we were fortunate enough to discover Spike's Coffee and Teas! What a delight! Mid afternoon, cruising all of SFCA, we need a touch of something to wet the whistle. Popped in for a water and ended up trying their Hazelnut cream - LORD HAVE MERCY I'M DROOLING WRITING THIS REVIEW! The staff was super friendly and helpful. Prices were on-point. Product (coffee) was PIPING HOT and served in a very timely fashion. Again.... have I mentioned the Hazelnut Cream? Check it out, best wishes to them through this hateful year of 2020... we do hope to visit again and get to try more of your delightful selection! read more

Spike's is just another ordinary coffee shop, especially if it's at the far end of the Castro. Despite a huge variety of coffee selections, I'm still not a fan of coffee since drinks like those will give me jitters. Glad I make it to Spike's few minutes before closing time. I plan on going for take out anyway. Both owners are nice enough to give me several minutes to choose what I like to drink. Even though the cashier didn't tell me which brand she's using, I'm still good with the spices she has given me in a drink. Want coffee? Go to Spike's. They'll give you a drink that you'll be satisfied with. read more

It's easy to see why this no-frills, independent coffee shop is a neighborhood staple -- it's the type of place that has a lot of personality that matches the Castro vibe. Spike's beverages and food offerings are decent, and they certainly have a lot of different types of coffee & tea. Despite their adorable logo, the interior of this shop candidly feels a little run-down, but with a little TLC has a lot of potential. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Carrot Bran Muffin + Dirty Chai Tea Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Quick update. Just popped in here this morning @ about 8:15 AM. Noticed they have ever changing art work on the walls. My guess, is they may support local artists, if so, how cool is that. Always a good cup of Jo and they fill it to the "brim", which I love. Pastry case was full and everything super fresh. But dang me, no matter how early I get there, within a few minutes the "locals" start showing up and taking up all 3 outside cocktail tables for several hours. Some folks don't even support the business by making a purchase, they just sit down. Which fair enough, who doesn't love to support their local business ~ But ~ seriously guys, this isn't your dining room table. Please limit your "sit time" to maybe an hour" so others can enjoy the outside seating. I believe there is a time limit on sitting inside. Maybe this needs to be implemented outside as well. It's slowly becoming a turn off for me, as there is NEVER ANY OUTSIDE SEATING for others. And clearly no place to add any more tables or chairs. Its like tricker treat for dogs as one fella brings bags of dog treats for the local dogs and their owners. It's a party if you will. I get it, but again, PLEASE share this wonderful space with others. read more

Trust me when I say the coffee here is superb. I was born in Vietnam- the world's 2nd largest exporter of coffee - and started drinking (coffee!) when I was 10. My aunt would brew a cup for me every AM for breakfast. I also grew up in Seattle and had my first espresso in the 1990s at Espresso Vivace. Then I dated a guy from Trieste, Italy who introduced me to more coffee. So coffee has played a major role in my life. Was walking by with a friend and she smelled the scent of the coffee, we were led to the front of this shop. These days, so many places' coffee no longer smell like coffee should. I got a latte to taste (smooth, silky, was fine without sugar (mark of good coffee for me)) and then bought a bag of the dark house blend. I always start with the simple stuff because if someone can't get that right....how are they going to handle fancier roasts and blends? The bag we brewed at home the last few weeks via our simple drip coffee maker was excellent. Smooth, not bitter, fragrant, with a nice body to it. Strong but not bitter just the way I like it. This is our most recent favorite and beats even Peerless, Los Gatos, Gus' and some other local brands (which are excellent too). read more

Great coffee and friendly baristas make it a neighborhood favorite. Essential stop on your Castro visit read more

I love the coffee and tea options at Spike's! The ambiance is homey but the seating space is limited so it's best to order coffee/tea for takeout or to make your own at home. I like their coffee options but my favorite thing to order is the Blue Eyes herbal tea. read more

Coffee was good. Had a nice robust flavor. I got an iced latte and you can taste the espresso which I love. Service was nice and friendly. Prices are reasonable and cheaper than other hipster coffees. This place has more of a down to earth vibe. Kinda out of the way from the hustle and bustle of Castro. Parking kinda sucks but it's just typical for the area. They sell coffee beans here, some pastries and some seasonal coffees like banana coconut latte which I wish I had tried instead. Still very pleased with my latte though! read more

Such nice baristas! Super personable and friendly. Had a cold brew and chai tea latte, both delicious. Don't live nearby but hope to be able to stop by this place more often. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Delicious coffee and great service in a [[HIGHLIGHT]]wonderful neighborhood[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. Castro is my favorite in SF.

Great coffee, tea and espresso offerings. Super friendly service and an inviting atmosphere both inside and outside the cafe. It's clear that this spot has a lot of meaningful history in the neighborhood and a ton of regulars who frequent the spot for drinks and treats. There were a few baked goods for sale and some fun candy items for purchase as well. They sold a variety of whole bean coffees by the pound-- light, medium and dark roast options. The staff here are friendly, helpful and just the right amount of chatty to make you feel welcomed! Indoor and outdoor seating options available -- but only if you come when it's not super busy! read more

It's been eleven long years since my first review of Spike's, and I was a gushing li'l Yelper at the time dramatically comparing the service one receives there to the feeling of being kowtowed at a high-end Japanese department store. Itadakimasu! Overstate much, Ed U.? Well, Jamie W. and I were back at Spike's after a long absence just because I was looking to have some hot liquid in my body after a brisk walk over the Swish Alps. It's still the same tiny place on 19th Street, but we take up less room so it didn't seem as claustrophobic on this visit. The service was pleasant enough but didn't seem that outstanding. Maybe I've gotten more crotchety over the years. I can cop to that. Get off my lawn! However, I did like the montage of dog photos which we stared at from the round table next to the front window (photo: http://bit.ly/2EwLqwY). This time, we took advantage of their robust tea selection (photo: http://bit.ly/2F9zMW6) and decided on a steeping $2.50 cup of Rooibos (photo: http://bit.ly/2C2YfNT). Jamie, never a fan of hot liquids, went with the $3 Ginger Peach Iced Tea. They offer all sorts of gummy candies, but we were good and stuck with our teas. We decided to replace our collective sweet tooth with subtle eavesdropping skills as we listened to an awkward blind date at the next table where the more interested guy kept laughing like a hyena at anything the other one said. Ah, I remember those days... TEA - 4 stars...nice loose-leaf quality AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...tiny space, crowds quickly SERVICE - 4 stars...good but remember that I am a curmudgeon TOTAL - 4 stars...good to be back, Spike read more

See all

I came to spikes today before heading off to work and am so glad I stopped by! My boss told me to meet them at this cute little coffee shop located right in the heart of the Castro. I had never been here but she said that she has came here for YEARS and always loves it! There's seating inside and outside and street parking. They have everything from bagels, cookies, bread, coffees, teas, everything delicious! What really made me like Spikes is the friendly service I got when I walked in. Since it was my first time I wasn't sure what to get, but they were so friendly giving me recommendations, I ended up getting the sweet potato bread with a large chai. The chai was amazing - hot, spicy, great taste! The loaf was also amazing, I've never had sweet potato bread before, so I had to get it! Next time I'm in the Castro looking for coffee or a snack, I know where to go! read more

See all

Such a cute small coffee shop. Love their pastry options and they carry vegan pastries. Had the pumpkin and banana bread vegan no nuts. So good. They sell not just coffee drinks but coffee beans too. The service was awesome and everyone there is so nice. One of many reasons I love Castro. Overall I definitely recommend this place. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Yummy pastries and they carry vegans too. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Cute spot in a calmer part of the Castro.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Relatively quiet, intimate and with friendly baristas.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]They don't have WiFi and only a few outlets.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] However, I appreciate the old timey vibes that creates. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Definitely the type of place where one would have 3 hour chats getting to know someone.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Let me tell you a little bit about Spikes. If you read all the other reviews, you'll learn that Spikes has great coffees, teas, baked goods and snacks and has a real neighborhood vibe. This is all true. What I will add is that Spikes is also a vital part of our community. From looking out for the elderly regulars to donating coffee and baked goods to the public elementary down the street, Spikes truly takes care of the neighborhood. There are so many wonderful reasons to visit Spikes and support a fantastic business. read more

Totally hidden coffee shop tucked on the west side of the Castro. Totally didn't know about it until one day walking back from voting...low and behold there it is. Friendly folk, chill vibe. read more

Decent iced latte, they did light ice as I requested, but the coffee was almost sour, and not in a good way. It was fine and it grew on me, but not my favorite. The staff were a bit snarky, not overtly but there were undertones of snark, but they were fine. The chocolate croissant was also fine. They asked if I wanted it warmed up, and that was a decent suggestion. There was a steady line but nothing crazy, and my wait was about 5-7 minutes total from entering to having my wares. Average prices--medium iced latte and the croissant for $7.25 plus tip. They use compostable cups and straws; e straws are paper but they hold up for a bit. There's not much seating if that's your jam--2 or 3 tables outside, 2 in the window inside, and another 4 or so small tables across from the counter inside. Conveniently located near the heart of the Castro, but a block or two away. read more

Spike's Coffees & Teas - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California