It was threatening rain. I was a little chilly. And I really should've been getting back to my hotel ... but the sign said I should come in and get some toast. Toast? I laughed a little and walked a few steps, then stopped, turned back around and realized that toast -- sourflour toast, in fact -- mightn't be a bad idea ... So I stepped in, asked for a latte and glanced at the menu on the count. Toast. With preserves. For about $4. "And I'll take some toast, please." The barista asked if I wanted it for here or to-go, so I craned a little and spied a seat at the bar. "For here," I said. The latte was lovely and arrived in no time at all. I watched the barista saw into a loaf of bread and pop a couple of slices in a toaster oven. Sipping my latte, I had my doubts still, but they all flew away when the toast -- two slices, each sliced again -- was presented on a little square plate with strawberry preserves and a pat of butter. And it was exactly what I needed. read more

This trendy hipster cafe is squished between the bohemian and vintage shops on bustling Haight Street. They serve up fine brewed coffee prepared by a mustachioed barista -- frankly, I'd expect nothing less. You'll see a mixture of hippies, tourists, and drifters all standing in line together to wait for this cup of joe. Easy parking: Good luck finding a meter. Large drink under $5: Yes Friendly staff: Yes Indoor seating: A few wobbly tables that if you barely bump your delicious caffeine will spill everywhere. Seriously, I did it and we saw two other people do it too at other tables. Outdoor seating: None Decor: Dark neutral colors with artwork from local artists hanging on the wall. People with laptops: Yes Hipsters: YYYEESSS Famous Faces: No Foam Art: Yes People watching: Great! In & out quick: Yes The challenge continues! read more

TL;DR This is my favorite coffee shop in SF. I've been to a lot, too. I'm not really in a position to attest to the experience of this coffee shop if you're popping in for a quick drink and running out, but what would a yelp review matter in that context anyways? If you're there to have a chat with people who are passionate about what they do, but more importantly are enthusiastic to know who you are, what you're about, what brought you to the city, what music is playing, or where's a good spot to grab a bite to eat, it's perfect. The shop is clean, the drinks/food delicious, the bar has plenty of outlets for your devices, and the staff could care less if you spend a long time sitting there working and reading and jamming to some music. If you're having a hard time finding a smile from an assuredly exasperated employee and you're on yelp to confirm you insecurities that a person who was too stressed and too busy making complicated and delicious drinks for the long line of impatient customers to give you a forced smile and the patience your (no more than) $5 buys you, you're doing it wrong. If you want a place however where you can sit down, plug in your phone/laptop, get a little work done, hear some really awesome music, enjoy some unique art from local artists, talk coffee, talk music, make a few new acquaintances, drink truly delicious drinks and eat truly delicious pastries, and get an overall feel for the hardworking, positive, interesting, and energetic vibe that Haight street made a name for itself on, you've come to - not the right -, but the perfect place. I work remotely out of coffee shops, and I have the entire time I've lived in SF. I've been to one in every neighborhood, and some are really great. Having said that, Stanza is my favorite coffee shop bar none. By such a wide margin, I'd feel embarrassed if they ever saw me anywhere else. read more

Guys. This place is new and up-and-coming and totally worth it. If you know anything about quality coffee, let me tell you, this place is growing to be compatible with fourbarrel, ritual, and sightglass alike. I heard about it coming and could not wait to try it out! They serve Augie's coffee from Redlands, CA, which is phenomenal espresso and coffee fresh per order. This place has got it, I'm telling you. Good coffee and good pastries!! I had a cappuccino and a blueberry ginger muffin (AMAZING). I have heard their wine is amazing too... I cant wait to come again and try some! This is worth it! Pretty soon everyone will be talking about this place... Dont miss out. be one of the first to spread the word! We all know in San Francisco we pride ourselves on the ability to distinguish good coffee and supporting local businesses. Add this to your list! SO SO GOOD. read more

In an age where the deeds of men are often shallow and unrepentant, one shop stands to rectify the human condition. A thoughtful intermingling of sophistication and functionality, Stanza, offers the best espresso and coffee in San Fran full stop! The nouveau-modern post-roman pre-mediaval decor brings a touch of clairvoyance to the ancient tradition of pouring water over beans. Whether you pop in for a quick nosh or plan to set up camp you will not be disappointed! read more

At work I'm under immense pressure to become a Coffee Aficionado. An amateur among big-leaguers, I feel a little in over my head--but places like Stanza are helping me learn the importance and significance of a perfectly crafted, delicious cup of high-quality caffeination. Every time I come into Stanza, the staff are so absolutely lovely and they really do put maximum TLC into every cup they pour. I wish I could come in every single day, the coffee is so amazing. Stanza has converted me from a person who drank coffee for the productivity benefits and ritualistic nature to a person who drinks coffee because I appreciate the craft, time, and flavor that goes into each cup. God, I'm started to sound so San Franciscan. read more

Worst espresso I've had in years. Barista felt he was too good for the job. Toilet seat covered with piss. Overall not a great first/last impression. read more

The place is okay. Went by one afternoon to meet someone I'd met at a networking meeting. The macchiato and cookie I got were both good though both overpriced in my opinion, especially the $3 cookie. The staff was a bit aloof as well. The place is cute but the narrow hallway setup of it makes it unappealing for me, as I like coffee spots that have lots of light and space. Oh well, tons of other options nearby. read more

Like everyone else is saying, best coffee in the Haight. You get quality coffee without any of the 'tude. These baristas are knowledgeable and actually smile. Free coffee cuppings on the first Thursday of the month. tags: Augie Coffee, wifi, wine, chocolate, open until 10, Kyoto style drip coffee, super nice baristas. read more

I liked this place when it was coco luxe...I used to love the mexican hot chocolate here. But now that it is stanza they only have regular hot chocolate. I tried it once and it was kinda meh. I don't think I would come back. They have other stuff: drip coffee and a couple kinds of wine. The decorations are pretty cool with the barrel tables. Seems like a good place to meet friends or go on a date. read more

The are some sexy people making some really fine coffee drinks for some very discerning consumers. I like to drink my double latte there and enjoy the foam art along with a scone or cookie or something from that diner-esque glass case they have by the "we're too cool and progressive for a register" Ipad with a Square. Duck in there for relief from the flower power or miserable San Francisco weather read more

This is the best espresso I have ever had. So smooth and rich. Words cannot explain the wonder I felt upon trying it...I did a little jump for joy on the inside. Service was good and the baristas were friendly. The seating is a bit limited so expect you may not get any space. Highly recommend! read more

So they don't have wine here anymore apparently. Seems like they'd change their name but oh well. They also didn't have non-fat milk, which my friend was disappointed about. Otherwise, the coffee was good. Latte art was solid. Cute place to hang on the Haight. read more

This is my go-to coffee shop. Not only is every shot pulled to perfection but the staff is friendly and always has great stories. WARNING: Sometimes the music can be loud and offensive. Still... there are power outlets aplenty and FREE WIFI! Why is it hard to find that in this town these days? Well, this place has it all. Good job guys. Keep it up. A particular shout out to star coffee slingers Spencer and Robbie. read more

Bravo Stanza! I finally dropped in and ordered a cappuccino this afternoon, and I was very impressed. I'm thrilled to finally have top-notch coffee on Haight Street! The tables were a tad uncomfortable (thick enough to prevent leg-crossing, and the one I sat at was pretty wobbly). That's my only complaint. But that will prevent laptop jockeys from hogging tables for too long in this small cafe so that may be by design. read more

Stanza Coffee - Mmmm... - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

Howww did this place slip in on Haight without being rejected by the Haight-Street-Association? I mean, it's not yet another pipe shop, tattoo parlor, or, or , yes, a second hand 'fashion' store? Whaaaaaat! Got in here, ordered an espresso and my friend got a decaf coffee. Espresso was phenomenal---amazing flavor (I'm an espresso fiend) and served perfect. The decaf was interesting---super smooth and tasty! Very nice. Sat at the window to do some people-watching, and some guy comes up to the window, picture him pierced/tattooed, and starts licking the window while staring at me, and I'm staring back! The next thing I know I feel something tugging at my arm, and I picture I'm getting another Tattoo! I reset and go back to reality, I'm just at Stanza on Haight---All is good! Now, where can I find a smelly expensive vintage T-shirt? read more

I love stanza! That being said.... I moved from the mission to the Haight and can't imagine coming to this location and there being literally only one mediocre pour-over option here! I loved the 16the street location's turning point and multiple other options. Can we get this going on Haight street please! read more

My first time here. Good location and the house coffee war okay but a bit weak for my taste. Sadly, the music was so loud I could never come here with anyone I'd care ta have a conversation with. read more

Nice atmosphere. Limited seating. Fairly good coffee. Modern Hipster vibe. No GF or vegan treats. No Almond milk. read more

Great little coffee bar and great people. The coffee lived up to my expectation and I was impressed at how much care went into making everything for their customers read more

You think I'M a coffee nerd? I've got nothing on these guys. Every one of the staff at Stanza is obsessed with The Art Of The Cup, and know things about coffee that I didn't even know could be known about coffee. My mouth is literally agape when they proselytize about the dry process method, or about the power of their Slayer machine (at the other location), or about their varieties from Yirgacheffe like Idido. They are constantly tasting, touching and perfecting their craft at this modest spot on Haight street. You'd never know by walking by that you're in the presence of true coffee deities, and now that I think about it, I'd almost prefer you walk on by and leave me in peace with my drip, no cream, thank you. The serve beans from Augie's Roasters in pourover, espresso and cold brewed styles. And when you've over-caffeinated yourself, grab a glass of wine and stay until close. This is the hangout. Obligatory Title Pun: Go-stanza! Menu Readability: Just talk to 'em. Need to mention: The barista Dustin is really bad at fist-bumps and/or handshakes. What this place teaches me about myself: I miss my life in the Upper Haight. read more

Solid small coffee/espresso menu. Good pastries. There is a restroom & wifi. Lovely artwork. Window seating in front, bar and a couple tall tables in the back. 3 stars for ambiance. read more

Love the atmosphere of this place. The coffee here is really good but a bit pricey for the size. The small is literally midget. Good study area. Wish they were open later!! read more

Damn good espresso drinks here! What really got me to love this place is the fact that I could actually taste the espresso with my almond milk latte. Some other well-known coffee shops (whose names will remain "sight"less) make almond milk lattes that taste so bitter because they burn the almond milk hearing it at ether too high of a temperature or for too long. Anyway, I really like how light and airy the lattes feel at Stanza. It's also just a super cute place to go for a date or to hang out and possibly do work if you had to. Would return again :) read more

yay! Just what the neighborhood needed. Finally a good cup of coffee in the Haight. Thank you Chris for starting my day off with a delicious cappuccino and disco before noon. read more

Stanza Coffee - cappuccino disco party! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

An amazing little coffee shop. I know the owner and the manager. Both very classy, clean and knowledge of coffee and coffee cultures. If my benefits at my job weren't so rad I would live at Stanza. The wine is just for tasting..... That part is a little mixed up. Ah man I should go right now. read more

Since trying the amazingly delicious Kyoto and New Orleans style iced coffees at Blue Bottle, I haven't been able to be happy settling for just any iced coffee. I've been on a quest to find that same quality at other cafes. Luckily, San Francisco has many coffee shops that do it right...you just have to find them. Today, I found Stanza (thanks to Yelp). They make Kyoto style iced coffee, which I didn't really know anything about (other than that it's good - sophisticated, I know!) until reading this article: http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/29/ristretto-kyoto-to-stay/. It takes MUCH longer to brew, and has an unmistakable flavor - once you've had it, you'll compare every other coffee in your life to it. It doesn't need any cream or sugar added. So now, there are two types of coffee shops - the ones that make iced coffee this way, who treat coffee brewing and latte making like a craft, and the ones who don't. Stanza is the first kind. As for the coffee shop itself, it's very cute inside, but there aren't an abundance of seats, and I wouldn't describe it as "comfy." If you come during peak time, you may not get a place to sit, which doesn't matter anyway if you're just looking to get coffee to go. The service was pleasant enough, but not warm. However, they still deserve 5 stars, because the only thing that REALLY matters - the quality of their product - is excellent. read more

Stanza was a very welcome respite for us as we walked SF a few weeks ago. Our phones were deader than dead, and Stanza gave us and our phones all the fuel we needed. Outlets at every seat, even the counter! Bless! Great coffee (thank you for an outstanding decaf), and ok pastries. Nice decor, but very strange and unwelcoming bathroom situation. You have to walk down two corridors that are super shady (you can get kidnapped out a side door - hey, as a chick you have to watch all exits, you know?) and FILTHY FILTHY bathrooms. Emergency purposes only! If you don't have to go pee, then definitely hang out at Stanza and get a coffee. Lovely staff, too. read more

in the land of Starbucks and other coffee chains... there stands out a small lil cafe tucked discreetly on Haight St serving the most freakingly amazing latte. I don't know what it is, the bean or the press or the way the barista makes it.. but when he handed me my cup of latte, it looked divine. When i tasted it, I was in heaven :-)) Only thing missing in all this was my usual company to enjoy the latte with! read more

Awesome, nice selection of chocolates, delicious coffee, great environment. Stop here! read more

I work in the Haight neighborhood and this coffee shop is my go to spot for some breakfast during work. Stanza has always had the best coffee on the block, but now that they have started to offer hot breakfast items I'm addicted. The breakfast sandwich and the New York bagel are my favorite. Made fresh with real eggs and handcrafted with a lot of love is what keeps me coming back. The New Orleans Style iced coffee is so addicting, been getting it every morning. Perfect combination of sweetness and strong coffee flavor. Definitely worth checking out for some quality coffee and breakfast! read more

After a lovely day of shopping at all the cute stores on this street my friend and I wanted a place to stop and chill. This place looked awfully cute so we went in. I usually dont like coffee but I thought I'd get a pastry or something. My friend ordered a poptart and she liked it. I spent a few minutes telling the guy at the counter, not being able to choose between a coffee cake or trying a coffee drink. He suggested a cappucino and I loved it! The cute design was so up my alley I felt bad drinking it! Nice chit chat with the staff and it was lovely sitting at the window on a cloudy afternoon watching the passersby. Definitely would come here again. I also liked the bathroom setup. read more

My fave on upper Haight for a coffee. One of the two places in the city serving Counter Culture coffee. Rare single-farmer beans sometimes available. People here know what they're doing. Great music in the background. Wine Bar in the evening. Gotta come by for that soon.... read more

Stanza Coffee - Rare single-farmer beans. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

They have french press coffee, which is $2.50 per cup. The coffee was good, but they don't give you the press while it brews. They pour your cup after it brews. I find that a little strange. The place is small, with a few small tables. Nice relief from the touristy garbage around it. read more

They don't serve wine here so sorry to disappoint you if you read the name. Apparently yelp won't let them change it. BUUUT have no fear. The coffee and service here is BOMB. I got a cappuccino and it was awesome. I personally would want to change the back area into a cool patio for customers since it was already getting full on a Tuesday afternoon. My friend knocked my drink and spilled a little and he gave us a brand new capp. You can just feel the love that the owner has in this shop, just like most independent businesses of SF. Also, smell the beans on the shelves. It's a vacation for your nose. read more

Stanza Coffee - The capp - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

The first macchiato I've had that tastes exactly like the ones in Rome. The cute barista adds points too. :) read more

Stanza Coffee - Just like in Italy! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

The coffee is great, but they fail to be punctual to open on time. I usually have to wait 15 min or more when I come at 9am. Sometimes I feel like going across the street to the other shop.. read more

Was a great experience until the change of shift and the music was on blast. Very straight menu. No space for a small group of 4 just 2 at a barrel table. Cute design but very dirty drug infested bathroom. read more

Stanza Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Francisco, California

I think this is the best coffee in the Haight. Friendly staff and usually there are tables or places at the bar for you to sit. So you can definitely come and chill. I had no idea they served wine, which, with a name like this, I assume that they do. read more

There's nothing hot or exceedingly cocoa-y about their hot cocoa. Tepid milk with a vague rumor of chocolate about it. The staff are pleasant and social, at least when I've visited. read more