Welcome back to another edition of the Coffee Talk series! This post will be on Philz Coffee. The good news is there are so many great Philz locations at this point, that you can even enjoy them outside of the Bay Area as well. The bad news is, that is way too many locations for me to cover, so I’ve narrowed it down to my top three favorites thus far.

Philz Facts

The Beginning: Phil Jaber, the founder of Philz Coffee, began his journey in the Mission District of San Francisco. Before coffee became his world, he owned and operated a corner grocery store for 25 years. During that time, Phil developed a passion for coffee and embarked on a quest to make "a really great cup of coffee." He wanted it to be flavorful, smooth, and less acidic, without the bitterness commonly found in many brews.

Experimentation: For seven years, Phil experimented with countless beans from around the world, mixing them in different combinations until he developed his first perfect blend. His dedication was meticulous, and his approach was all about focusing on single, drip coffee rather than the more prevalent espresso-based drinks. This would set Philz apart in the coffee scene.

The Coffee Shop Era: In 2003, on the corner of 24th and Folsom, the first Philz Coffee shop opened its doors. With the unique concept of making one cup of coffee at a time, tailored to individual customer preferences, it quickly gained a dedicated following. People didn’t just come for the coffee but for the personal connection and the experience.

Spreading the Love: Phil’s son, Jacob Jaber, recognized the potential of this unique coffee experience. Under his leadership as CEO, the company expanded rapidly. Today, Philz Coffee has numerous locations across the United States in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Washington D.C., and Chicago, among others.

What Makes Philz Special?

Several elements distinguish Philz from other coffee chains:

• Unique Blends: Instead of espresso machines, Philz focuses on over 20 customized blends, each with its distinct flavor profile.

• Customization: Every cup is brewed one at a time and can be customized according to the customer's taste.

• Community Feel: The cafes often have a neighborhood vibe, where baristas know the regulars by name, and there's an emphasis on connection and community.

• Ethical Sourcing: Philz takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and ethically sourced beans.

Philz Coffee is more than just another coffee chain. It’s a story of passion, innovation, and community. Phil Jaber started with a dream of creating the best coffee, and with dedication and the support of the community and his family, especially his son Jacob, that dream not only came true but also expanded far beyond the streets of San Francisco.

Popular and beloved drinks from Philz:

• Mint Mojito Iced Coffee: A signature Philz drink, this refreshing concoction combines iced coffee, fresh mint, and cream, resulting in a beverage that's both invigorating and indulgent.

• Jacob's Wonderbar: A dark roast with rich, nutty, and chocolaty notes. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bold and robust coffee flavor.

• Tesora: Often referred to as the "house blend," Tesora is a medium roast with a smooth and sweet profile. It's well-loved for its balanced taste, making it a favorite for many Philz regulars.

• Philtered Soul: A medium roast blend that offers a mix of hazelnut and chocolate flavors. It's a go-to for anyone seeking a subtly sweet coffee without added sugar.

• Silken Splendor: Known for its smooth finish, this blend has earthy notes with a hint of spiciness. It's a treat for those who enjoy complex coffee profiles.

• Ambrosia Coffee of God: A lighter roast with bright and fruity undertones. This blend is an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter, more aromatic coffee experience.

• Iced Rosé Coffee: A unique Philz creation that combines their coffee with rose water for a floral twist.

• Cardamom Latte: A fragrant and flavorful option that combines the aromatic spice with creamy milk and coffee.

If you're unsure about what to try, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. Given the chain's focus on individualized brews, there's something for every coffee enthusiast at Philz!

Philz also has many yummy pastry items, bagels, pretzels, breakfast sandwiches, and my personal favorite- sausage breakfast burrito.

DOGPATCH

1258 Minnesota St, San Francisco, CA 94107

Hours: Mon-Fri 5:30am-4:30pm, Sat 6am-5pm, Sun 6am-4:30pm

In San Francisco's rapidly evolving Dogpatch district, Philz Coffee stands out as a beacon of warm and aromatic delights.

RUSSIAN HILL

2234 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Hours: Mon-Fri 5:30am-5pm, Sat & Sun 6am-5:30pm

Residents of San Francisco have long cherished the charm of Philz Coffee. Still, for travelers, the Polk Street location offers a slice of local life. Just a stroll away from notable landmarks, it's a perfect spot to recharge and people-watch.

CORTE MADERA

403 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, CA 94925

Hours: Mon-Sun 5:30am-5:30pm

Unlike the urban hustle associated with many of its city counterparts, the Philz location in North Bay’s Corte Madera offers a tranquil setting. Corte Madera is a town celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and community-centric vibe.

Happy 20th Anniversary Philz!

Thanks for reading! 🙏 

All my best,

Mina Bahrami, Taste of SF