Cafe Reviews/San Francisco/The Coffee Movement

The Coffee Movement

1030 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Reviewed by Chris JordanMay 2025

Location

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Overall Score Score: 9.4 out of 10
9.4
Overall Score
Coffee Score: 9.5 out of 10
9.5
Coffee
Atmosphere Score: 9.2 out of 10
9.2
Atmosphere
Service Score: 9.6 out of 10
9.6
Service
Vibe Score9.0 / 10

The Story

Born out of a desire to bring world-class coffee to a neighborhood pocket of San Francisco, this spot quickly became a destination for both locals and visiting aficionados. The founders envisioned a community-driven cafe, hosting innovative guest roasters and fostering a culture of barista creativity. Over the years, their commitment to collaboration and quality has drawn acclaim, with recognition in national coffee guides and passionate word-of-mouth. Their ongoing mission is to elevate the coffee experience while remaining approachable and genuinely connected to the city’s spirit.

Craft & Expertise

Baristas here approach each drink with precision, offering a rotating selection of beans from acclaimed roasters and crafting each cup to highlight its unique character. Espresso is pulled on a top-tier Modbar system, ensuring consistency and clarity in every shot. Seasonal signature drinks and a well-executed filter program appeal to both purists and adventurous palates. The small footprint means most seating is outside, and drinks are served in elegant ceramics or sturdy to-go vessels. The food menu, while concise, features fresh pastries and thoughtful pairings that round out the experience.

What Sets This Cafe Apart

A constantly changing lineup of international guest roasters keeps the menu fresh and exciting, ensuring no two visits are ever quite the same. The barista-first focus is evident in every detail, from the meticulous preparation to the inventive seasonal drinks. The minimalist, standing-room space transforms the sidewalk into a lively gathering place, blurring the line between cafe and neighborhood hangout. This dedication to both craft and community sets it apart from more traditional, static coffee shops.