The Coffee Movement

1737 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA

★★★★★4.8(565 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This Richmond District gem earns its name by actually moving the needle on specialty coffee in San Francisco, with their signature three-way tastings that let you experience a single origin prepared as espresso, pour over, and filter to really understand its nuances. The space is compact and perpetually buzzing with the energy of serious coffee lovers, but the real draw is their obsessive attention to quality—whether you're ordering a meticulously balanced espresso tonic with citrus twists or a chai latte that actually tastes handcrafted rather than automated. Pair your coffee with their excellent pastries and you've got a consistently excellent third-wave experience that keeps locals coming back as their favorite spot in the city.

What to expect

PastriesTraditional drinksEspresso focusedSignature drinksQuick grabPour overSpecialty drinks

Google Reviews

Andrew
★★★★★a month ago

By the name, The Coffee Movement, I was hesitant—historically, places with “movement” or “project” in the name are often skips. This one was an exception. I ordered immediately but then went back to the menu, worried I’d rushed my choice. The barista noticed my interest in a coffee and offered me a taster while I waited—a small gesture that’s so rare in San Francisco, and even rarer in coffee shops. When my order arrived, I realized I had been mistaken about making the best coffee at home. The slow drip was worth every $10, and the attentive service has me excited to come back. Don’t judge a book by its cover—or a business by its name. Thanks to the baristas for the thoughtful touch that made me write this review.

Stefano DellaVigna
★★★★★2 months ago

Terrific third wave, stopped here on the way to cheering the SF half marathon. I love that they do the 3 way tasting, with a coffee prepared 3 ways, I had a very floral coffee. Pastries are good too.

Dharma M
★★★★★3 months ago

Here’s a polished and natural rewrite of your review: --- A nice coffee shop in the Richmond District. It’s usually busy, and the space isn’t very large, though there is some seating available. What they’re best known for, as far as I know, is the tasting flight — three featured coffees of the day served either as different pours or prepared in different ways. They also offer several types of coffee beans. There are three workers behind the counter preparing drinks, and they work very efficiently. Orders come out quickly. We ordered the tasting flight, a cocoa cappuccino, a latte, and some pastries. I really enjoyed the tasting flight — it’s a unique way to sample three different coffees or brewing styles. It was a great experience. We usually stop by whenever we’re in the area. The prices are reasonable and affordable. I also really like their espresso machine. ☕ Parking is on the street and could be challenging near the shop.

F Francis
★★★★★3 months ago

The chai latte is well-spiced and creamy—easily one of the better ones around. Espresso drinks are good too, made with quality beans, and the espresso tonic is nicely balanced with lime/orange twist. Friendly spot with decent pastries and outdoor seating. Worth checking out. Close to golden gate park and de young museum.

Jarrod W
★★★★★6 months ago

Really excellent coffee experience here, especially if you enjoy specialty coffee. Far and away my favorite spot in SF. Would recommend giving the coffee flight a shot if you’re interested in a little variety. Baristas are super friendly and knowledgeable about the rotating list of coffees. As far as location, this spot on Balboa was my favorite. Give it a shot!

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