Exploring Coffee Shops in San Francisco with International Coffee Options
San Francisco is famous for its beautiful scenery, amazing food, and lively arts scene. But did you know it’s also one of the best places in the world to enjoy coffee? The city has a rich coffee culture, with cozy cafes on almost every corner. Whether you’re a coffee expert or just someone who enjoys a nice cup, San Francisco has something for everyone. Many of its coffee shops don’t just serve local blends—they offer coffee from around the world. If you want to explore international coffee flavors, this city is the perfect place to do so.
Let’s dive into some of San Francisco’s coffee shops that are known for their international coffee options!
Sightglass Coffee
Sightglass Coffee is one of the most popular coffee shops in San Francisco. It’s a beautiful space with a trendy vibe, but what makes it stand out is its dedication to high-quality coffee. They source beans from countries all over the world, including Ethiopia, Colombia, Guatemala, and Kenya. Each country’s coffee beans have unique flavors, and Sightglass does an excellent job of bringing out the best in them.
They roast their beans in-house, meaning they make sure the coffee is fresh and full of flavor. If you visit Sightglass, try their pour-over coffee, which is a slow brewing method that truly highlights the taste of the beans. Whether you love fruity, floral Ethiopian coffee or prefer the nutty, chocolatey flavors of Colombian coffee, Sightglass has something for you.
Ritual Coffee Roasters
Ritual Coffee Roasters is another famous spot in San Francisco. They focus on “direct trade,” which means they work closely with farmers in different countries to ensure high-quality beans and ethical sourcing. Their coffee is both delicious and sustainable.
Ritual’s beans come from places like Panama, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Ethiopia. Their menus often describe the origins of the coffee, so you can learn about the farms and regions that produce your brew. One of their specialties is a fruity Ethiopian coffee that is perfect for people who enjoy lighter, more complex flavors. Whether you’re at their flagship store in the Mission District or their other locations, you’ll find coffee that represents the best of global flavors.
Andytown Coffee Roasters
Andytown Coffee Roasters is a must-visit for anyone in San Francisco. Located in the Outer Sunset neighborhood, this cafe has a homely, laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing with a hot cup of coffee. Andytown is known for its commitment to sourcing beans from all over the world, including South America, Africa, and Asia.
One of their popular international options is their coffee from Guatemala, which has a balanced flavor with hints of caramel and citrus. Their unique brewing techniques also make their coffee extra smooth and enjoyable. If you’re visiting Andytown, don’t miss their Snowy Plover drink, a crowd favorite that pairs espresso with sparkling water and cream. It’s not strictly international, but it’s so delicious that you’ll want to try it during your visit.
Linea Coffee
Linea Coffee is a cozy coffee shop in the Mission District that shines in its ability to pair international beans with local artistry. Their coffee lineup often features beans from Ethiopia, Colombia, and El Salvador. What makes Linea special is their attention to detail—they roast the beans carefully and brew each cup with precision.
Their espresso drinks are fantastic, but if you want to fully experience their international beans, try a pour-over. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to tell you about the origins of their coffee and what makes each cup unique. The shop is small and intimate, making it a perfect spot for coffee lovers who want a quiet place to enjoy a thoughtful brew.
Reveille Coffee Co.
Reveille Coffee Co. combines great coffee with beautiful aesthetics. The stylish design of their cafes makes this spot perfect for sipping coffee while catching up on work or chatting with friends. They offer coffee sourced from countries such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Mexico. Reveille’s coffee is meticulously roasted to bring out the natural flavors of the beans, creating bold and balanced drinks.
Their handcrafted espresso drinks are excellent, including lattes and cortados, but their drip coffee is where you can really taste the international beans they use. With multiple locations around San Francisco, Reveille combines international coffee with convenience.
Exploring the World Through a Cup
San Francisco’s coffee shops give you the chance to travel the world without ever leaving the city. From Africa’s bright and fruity beans to Latin America’s rich and chocolatey flavors, each cup has a story to tell. What’s exciting about San Francisco’s coffee scene is its focus on quality—these cafes care about where the coffee comes from and how it’s brewed.
Next time you’re in San Francisco, skip the chain coffee shops and explore these local spots instead. You’ll not only experience coffee at its best but also discover flavors from around the world. Who knows—you might just find your new favorite brew!
