Top Cafes Near Fishermans Wharf, San Francisco: A Comprehensive Guide
Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco is not just a bustling tourist destination known for its famous Ghirardelli Square and seafood restaurants. It is also home to a variety of cafes that serve as the perfect spot for a relaxing break, whether you are visiting for a day or making it your base. This article will guide you through some of the most popular cafes near Fishermans Wharf, San Francisco, offering a comprehensive look at their offerings, locations, and unique features.
1. Caffè Trieste
Caffè Trieste is one of the oldest cafes in San Francisco, and it has been a beloved spot for over 100 years. Located at Pier 35 in Fishermans Wharf, this cozy and charming cafe serves as a perfect retreat. The interior is decorated in the style of a European coffeehouse, with checkered floors and wooden furniture. While there, be sure to try their unique coffee specialties such as the
Est. 1919 latte, which pays homage to the cafe's founding year. It’s the perfect place for a long, leisurely chat over a pint of their famed chocolate cake.
2. Starbucks at Fishermans Wharf
Starbucks at Fishermans Wharf is a great spot for a quick caffeine fix or a simple bite. This location, part of the Fishermans Wharf Pier 49 complex, is conveniently located for both tourists and locals. Whether you prefer a classic Starbucks Mocha or a delightful Green Tea Frappuccino, the cafe also offers a tasty selection of pastries and sandwiches. In addition to its coffee options, this Starbucks also has a section for coffee beans and premium tea, allowing you to take your flavor preferences home with you.
3. Peets Coffee Tea
Peets Coffee Tea is known for its commitment to high-quality coffee and tea blends, sourced from around the world. Their flagship location in Fishermans Wharf offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a morning or afternoon break. The cafe’s blend of house roast coffee and artisanal brewing techniques can provide a unique experience for coffee lovers. Additionally, Peets offers a wide range of pastries, from traditional croissants to more unique items, such as the caramelized banana loaf and the pecan-studded Danish.
4. Blue Bottle Coffee at the Ferry Building
Blue Bottle Coffee at the Ferry Building is renowned for its high-quality, hand-brewed coffee. The cafe is located a short walk from Fishermans Wharf, within the historic Ferry Building Marketplace. This cafe prides itself on its ethical sourcing and commitment to sustainability. They offer a variety of coffee and tea options, from their signature Pour-Over coffee to a seasonal latte. The space is minimalist and chic, making it a great spot for a focused work session or a leisurely chat with friends.
5. Boudin Bakery Cafe
Boudin Bakery Cafe is a must-visit for anyone with a love for San Francisco. Founded in 1849, Boudin is one of the city's oldest businesses. The cafe offers a wide range of items, including sourdough bread, sandwiches, and, of course, coffee. The café serves homemade soups and salads, as well as baked goods, all complemented by a variety of coffee and tea options. The cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating, and it’s a great place to enjoy a meal and people-watch in a historic setting.
6. MOKA
MOKA is a charming cafe known for its artisanal style and cozy ambiance. The cafe serves a variety of coffee and tea blends, as well as homemade pastries, sandwiches, and paninis. MOKA offers a unique, back-to-basic approach to coffee, contributing to the upbeat and friendly atmosphere. Not only is it a great place for a casual coffee break, but it also features artwork and creative displays that make it a pleasure to visit.
7. The Stack at Ghirardelli Square
The Stack at Ghirardelli Square is a coffee shop that is part of the historic Ghirardelli Square complex. The location is conveniently located and offers both a traditional and modern menu. They serve a range of coffee and tea options, including their signature hot chocolate and seasonal drinks. In addition to food and beverages, the cafe also offers gift items from the renowned Ghirardelli store. It’s a great spot for a quick snack and a bite to eat, with a variety of sitting options including a terrace that overlooks the bustling square.
8. Le Marais Bakery
Le Marais Bakery is a small, family-owned bakery that specializes in French pastries and bread. However, they also serve a range of coffee and tea. The ambiance is cozy, and the food and beverages here are known for their quality and taste. It’s a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and a delicate Parisian croissant, or perhaps a warm, flaky epinard tarte. The bakery is a delightful stop for both locals and visitors.
9. Balzac Brasserie Bar
Balzac Brasserie Bar is a trendy spot that combines a brasserie ambiance with a cozy bar atmosphere. It's a great place for both casual café fare and fine dining. The cafe serves coffee, tea, and a variety of pastries, as well as light meals and sandwiches. Balzac is also known for its wine list and cocktail menu, making it a great spot for an afternoon or evening drink.
10. The Coffee Bean Tea Leaf
The Coffee Bean Tea Leaf offers a wide variety of coffee drinks and tea options, as well as a range of pastries and sandwiches. They are known for their high-quality beverages and comfortable ambiance, making it a great place to spend some time. The cafe is part of a larger chain, with multiple locations in San Francisco, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee or a leisurely afternoon, this cafe has a lot to offer.
11. Philz Coffee
Philz Coffee is a unique coffee shop known for its high-quality coffee and cozy atmosphere. Located in Fishermans Wharf, Philz offers a variety of coffee drinks, including single-origin coffee options. They also serve a range of pastries and sandwiches. The cafe has a laid-back, minimalist aesthetic, making it a great spot for a relaxed coffee break or a quick bite. Philz is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts for its preference in using delicious, quality beans and a simple, clean presentation.
12. La Boulangerie de San Francisco
La Boulangerie de San Francisco is a charming bakery that specializes in French pastries and bread. They serve a range of coffee and tea to complement their delicious baked goods. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a focus on quality and tradition. It's a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and a freshly baked croissant or a delicious piece of cake. The bakery is a delightful stop for those who appreciate good coffee and traditional French pastries.
13. Sapore Cafe
Sapore Cafe is a cozy and atmospheric cafe that serves a range of coffee and tea options. They also offer a variety of pastries and light meals, including paninis and quiches. The cafe has a warm and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual coffee break or a quick lunch. Sapore is part of a larger chain, with multiple locations in the city, making it easy to find a nearby spot.
14. Pane e Vino
Pane e Vino is a charming Italian-style cafe that serves a range of coffee and tea options. They also offer a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and paninis, as well as wine by the glass. The cafe has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the food and beverages are known for their quality and taste. One of the highlights here is the pasta served with various sauces, as well as the selection of cheese and cured meats, which makes it an excellent spot for a light meal.
15. Il Caffè
Il Caffè is a high-end coffee shop that focuses on quality and craftsmanship. They serve a range of coffee and tea options, as well as a selection of pastries and sandwiches. The cafe has a sleek and modern aesthetic, making it a great spot for those who prefer a more upscale coffee experience. The focus on quality is evident in the hand-picked beans, the precision brewing techniques, and the attention to detail in each cup of coffee.
Whether you are in the market for a quick coffee or a leisurely lunch, Fishermans Wharf has a wide variety of cafes for you to choose from. These spots not only offer great coffee and tea options, but they also provide a unique and welcoming atmosphere, making it easier to find a place that suits your mood and needs. From cozy and traditional cafes to modern and high-end coffee shops, there is something for everyone in Fishermans Wharf.