Philz Coffee
3101 24th St
(at Folsom St)
San Francisco, CA 94110
Neighborhood: Mission
Rated: ♣♣♣♣♣
Coffee has become a very interesting subject for me. It’s so complex that any minor change in the roasting or brewing process can drastically change the flavor and aromas of a cup of coffee. I’m still new to the coffee scene, but I’m very intrigued. Other than Blue Bottle, Philz is my 2nd taste of gourmet coffee. I’ve been twice in once week and I’m eager to taste more.
The scene:
I went to Philz very first location in the heart of the dirty Mission. This part of the Mission district isn’t like the trendy hot spot where Farina and Bi-Rite are situated, this is the area you’re told to stay away from after dusk. A few trendy hipster spots have been popping up in this part of the Mission by 24th and Folsom, but it still has that gritty ethnic San Francisco feel. I love San Francisco because of this.
About the coffee – We stood at the counter overwhelmed by the different types of coffee on their menu. We were greeted with a warm welcome by Jessie, our barista and shamefully admitted we were somewhat new to Philz… and coffee for that matter. He began asking us a ton of questions to get a feel of what we like. “Do you like a dark or medium roast? Strong or weak? Sweetened or non-sweetened?” I really couldn’t answer any of the questions except for the last. All I knew was that I love lattes with a hint of sugar.
The coffee:
Tesora – Because I’m nearly a coffee virgin, Jessie recommended the Tesora. He said it was a good first-timer’s coffee because it’s not as strong or bitter as the other coffees. He made me a Tesora latte with real cream even though I asked for non-fat milk. No wonder it tasted sinfully delicious! The cream is so fresh, they have too shake it before they pour. He apologized for the mix-up and offered to buy me a coffee the “next” time I come in. Some reason, I don’t think that’ll happen. Anyway, that wasn’t really a big deal. The coffee itself was nutty and chocolatey with a hint of caramel flavor. It is undoubtedly strong compared to what I’m used to, but it was probably the best cup of coffee I’ve ever had. Sorry Blue Bottle! I’m still a fan.
Jacob’s Wonderbar – Jessie recommended this one for K. He took it black so he can really taste the coffee for how it’s supposed to taste. Jacob’s Wonderbar is a non-flavored dark roast. It’s so rich and pure. After your first sip, you automatically understand why it doesn’t need anything added to be perfect. It’s just a good cup of honest coffee.
For you Starbucks lovers out there, you will not find any syrups or whipped cream anywhere close to this coffee joint. You’ll just have to enjoy a good ole cup of joe the way it’s supposed to taste.
