It’s no secret we’re coffee lovers. I even consider myself a coffee snob. I’m one of those that refuse to shell out 3 bucks for coffee that’s maybe instantaneous or from a random deli. No, my coffee has to be quality, and it has to be good. It’s even better if I know where it comes from up to the coffee plantain’s location. Especially when I know that the coffee pickers received their fair monetary share.

It all stems from my all coffee-consuming household. Mom never went a day without her morning coffee or her afternoon pick-me-up and dad, well dad loves his coffee black and dark whatever time of the day. I started to drink coffee at the age of six, but mom would only let me drink ‘leche con cafe’ (milk with coffee). My early coffee consuming beginnings enhanced a thorough coffee palate that by the time I was in High School, I would skip a class or two for my second dose at the neighboring Whole Foods. It wasn’t until I studied abroad in college in Nicaragua that coffee’s origins influenced my selective taste. Some people love wine, some people craft beer, others are die-hard cheese fans and foodies, but me, I’m a coffee snob. Victor didn’t even drink a drop of coffee until we started dating and now he hasn’t gone a day without his cup of mud.

Victor and I are very very picky when it comes to trying new places because once we find a place that treasures our favorite drink, we stick by it through and through even if we have to drive 30 minutes to get it. One of the first question’s you’ll hear from us ask once you inquire to work with us, ‘what is your favorite coffee drink?’ There’s no real reason other than to get to know you and your taste. I believe that coffee and coffee tables bring people together, to talk to laugh or to wind up day to get started. Needless to say, we’ve tried a range of places and have our favorites, and now we want to share with you! We love trying new quality places but don’t mind coming to these tried and true:

Acre Coffee in Petaluma – For the modern rustic Northern-Bayer who needs a place to study or work. Acre has a wide range of coffee selections and laptop-friendly places! This is one is on Victor’s #1 on his list. They never dissappoint regardless of which barista is preparing your drink.

Tierra Mia in San Francisco – If you’re looking to have a little latin spin to your caffeine dose, look no further. Tierra Mia has been on the top 5 of San Francisco Chronicle known for their special Horchata Latte and Café Cubano (strong coffee). Although Victor sometimes finds it a tad sweet this places brings variety to our coffee mix.

Ritual Coffee in San Francisco – I stumbled upon this place while I was waiting for Victor’s classic barber cut just down the street. I read in GQ magazine that this was the best café in all of San Francisco. Naturally, I had to try to be the judge, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s strong and earthy dense coffee pairs perfectly for a quick meet up or to lounge long hours with a laptop in hand. One of the best things we see every time we walk in is seeing how the owners know the coffee pickers themselves in the countries the coffee originates from!

Tartine Bakery in San Francisco – For the person who is looking for a little Parisian flair in the middle of the big San Francisco, this café doesn’t disappoint. They are internationally famous along with their published book on their highly-sought out after pastries. Although you don’t see many people with laptops, you do see lots of locals and tourists alike waiting an hour or so in line just to place their order. It’s definitely a ‘treat’ kind of a place for a brunch date!

Equator Coffee in Mill Valley – If you’re on your way to Mount Tamalpais or headed to Muir Woods up North, don’t forget to pay a visit to surfer-baristas at Equator Coffee. It’s a red hub full of bicyclists, few tourists, and Mill Valley residents who might stop to chat, work or just swing by. They frequently display beautiful artwork and their coffee beans can be found at Whole Foods and neighboring grocery stores if you can’t make it all the way.

Blue Bottle Coffee, Bay Area – A classic. Who doesn’t know of Blue Bottle? I’ve had friends drive in miles and miles away to savor this pour-over goodness. Best known for their pour over, the variety of coffees and quality is one to beat. The beans may have the slightly over-roasted taste, but it’s designed for those seeking to taste fresh coffee for flavor.

Java Beach Cafe, San Francisco (Beachside)– A rare little gem in the outskirts of Sunset, Beachside Café offers a more select range of coffees and flavors. Every day is a different menu, but the expectations always are higher. The coffee is roasted locally remaining true to their word that everything on their menu is handcrafted. You won’t find people lingering for hours but their long line waiting at the door means there is always something exciting brewing. Catch a cup of joe after a walk on the Ocean Beach and if you’re feeling extra hungry, go for the chicken and waffles. You can thank me later.

You can guarantee that if Victor and I receive a coffee bag from any or all of these places, we will be your best friends for life. What are some coffee places you recommend? We know we live in the cafe-lover hub of the Bay and we’d love to see and visit new places!

PS: Sorry Starbucks or Peet’s not included 😉

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