The perfect cup of coffee? The smoothest cappuccino? We have a lot of coffee shops here in the Bay Area and I set out to review two of the most well known in San Francisco: Blue Bottle and Philz. I decided on these two because I've been a fan of both for the last 10 years. I remember my first experience with Blue Bottle at their "flagship" location in Hayes Valley. It was my first experience with the single drip- the pour over. It was wonderful. Strong and smooth. But for this review I chose the Blue Bottle in the Ferry Building at the Embarcadero. You can't beat the location.
The Ferry Building is a destination for anyone visiting the City as well as for the locals. I opted for the equivalent of the Spanish "Cortado" and had the Gibraltar. Espresso and steamed milk. They used the Hayes Valley Espresso Blend. It was very good. Described by the company as "baking chocolate, orange zest and brown sugar. It did not disappoint. I really do love this location and I really enjoy their coffee. Plus, the Ferry Building is my commuting "weigh-station", allowing me to partake a few times a week.
Next up was Philz. When we lived in the City, there was a Philz in the Castro that was on the way to work. I use to stop in there three times a week. Another wonderful single drip pour over. I chose the Philz in the Mission on Folsom and 24th Street. It's close to one of the my hospitals and I love the tree-lined street in front of the cafe.
This is a totally different experience-both the coffee and the atmosphere. Unlike the Ferry Building, this Philz is a hip, happening cafe where people go to drink coffee and work on their computer. Philz doesn't do espresso drinks. Just the pour over. And there are numerous blends from which to choose. My favorite is Silken Splendor, "Philz Way" (medium cream, medium sugar). It is definitely "silken". Its a medium blend with "dark cocoa, citrus and butterscotch" notes. I really do love this coffee as well. I also love hanging out in the cafe, using the free wifi to get some work done and of course, people watching.
Both places are great and both have exceptional coffee. If you get a chance, check out Blue Bottle at the Ferry Building. But you should visit the original Hayes Valley Kiosk on Linden St. for a history lesson. For a fabulous pour over check out Philz at number of locations in the City. I love the Mission on Folsom and 24th, but the one on Castro Street is also a favorite.
Stay tuned for Part 2
