Iron Horse Coffee Shop

Hidden gem in downtown SF for a great coffee. I tried the iced rose latte, half sweet with oat milk recently and found it to be very well balanced. The coffee itself tasted super smooth, and not too sweet. The hidden spot in the nice alley is a great touch, steps from Union square. Strongly recommend!

Great espresso coffee. Alayna (sorry if I misspelled that) was incredibly welcoming and went out of her way to give me some tips for my first time in SF. Will be back whenever I’m in town!

This is not a coffee shop any longer. Adjusted review since the hours have been fixed. Thank you ~ Slava Ukraine 🇺🇦

Cocktail bar, not a coffee shop.

A lovely oat milk Rose latte! This is open 7:30-2:30pm off maiden lane near union square.

Very nice place in downtown, quiet area, great coffee and pastries. My new favorite spot. Highly highly recommend it.

Delicious coffee, awesome hole in the wall on a beautiful alley near union square. Felt like I was on vacation coming here

Phenomenal coffee. ATM inside but they accept cards. Mainly a to-go coffee spot, however they have about 10 bar stools along a counter so you can sit and rest your legs if needed.

Is this place still open? Went past today. Yelp says open. Door says open. Door locked lights off. Maybe business hours need updating. Not knocking stars as could just be a rough start to the day for someone.

This place is a bar - NOT a coffee place. It's even called Iron Horse Cocktails (not coffee...)

Not sure what to give this place. As someone asked five months ago... "Is this place still open?" Came here 9:05am on a Friday. Neon lights are on and the sign in the entryway is flipped to "Open" but the door is locked and it's dark inside.

The shop is tucked away into a smaller alley, and is quite small. When I went, I don't think there was any seating open for those going to the cafe, but seems like things might have changed. I got a cortado, and it was great. Well balanced roast, with a decent foam cap. One of the better ones I've gotten in the city! Also love that I get the chance to support Ukrainian refugees! Will certainly be back in the future.

I might not have had the chance to visit Iron Horse as a bar but as a quaint coffee shop was so fun. A short walk from Union Square and some of the best shopping, you're whisked to a dark and cozy of a space to enjoy your coffee. Without any tables inside except a community bar seating again the wall, you should actually take the time to sit down. The staff here is super nice and I appreciated the note at the register acknolwedging their story. On a Monday morning around 10am'ish it was super quaint with myself and one other patron. Grabbed my latte and enjoyed myself at Iron Horse and got some laptop work done. Take the time to checkout the back space and see the beautiful bars and woodwork. This place apparently has some epic stories including being the grounds of Marilyn Monroe's marriage.

I Yelped coffee shops within walking distance from my hotel, and Iron Horse was the first to pop up. Fair warning: the shop is tiny and there is only barstool seating! They strictly take orders at the counter and the barista makes the drinks near the same counter. The barista takes orders, makes the drinks, and handles the payment process - so beware, it might take a bit if there's a line out the door! I ordered a macchiato. I watched the barista make it in under 3 minutes. I was initially surprised at how tiny the macchiato was (it was the size of a shot glass)...but it turns out I've just never had a macchiato before, haha. The macchiato's foam was excellent. The taste was fairly bitter, so if you want a sweeter drink you can add sweetener - just let the barista know.

"I was in love with the idea of love.." - Twilight Iron Horse Coffee is perhaps the only speakeasy coffee shop you'll come across in this great city. I stumbled upon Iron Horse many moons ago, in fact just a couple years after the last Twilight saga movie. Yes, I know, but I did, y'know. It seems like a century. Bella Swan no longer in my life, I find myself walking towards nowhere, really. All I know is today is my day off and I'm in need of strong coffee on a frigid morn. And then I remember this unique coffee shop hidden on Maiden Lane on the cusp of the Financial District. I remember to look for that blood red building with sky-blue cafe tables and there she is like time stood still... I was Edward Cullen again! Coffees and adult coffee cocktails on the menu but all I want is a smooth Macchiato with Expresso to kick my immortality! The Ukraine flag proudly hangs above the door as Anastasia greets me. Has it been that long since my last visit? As my Macchiato is being crafted we small talk about life and the uniqueness of Iron Horse Coffee. Just a different type of coffee shop before all the chains took over. I believe Ritual Coffee Roasters is the bean used here. And my Macchiato is ready! I used the cafe tables on Maiden Lane to hold my belongings as I sipped and savored such a smooth Macchiato! A moment in time that made me appreciate life that much more...even if I'm a vampire.

Beautiful space to come in for a coffee, coffee is fine mkd quality but this is a quiet place to read or chat. Person at the counter is always nice, a wonderful hidden spot downtown

This little corner appears to be a speakeasy with its decor and Lively music. My honey latte was creamy, hot and exactly what I was looking for. I will definitely be back once I get another go-around in town.

Inspired by and discovered this place from another Yelper/friend Eric. I didn't know it was a few doors down from the salon I go to. Now I do and I'll continue to get coffee here before my appointments. Coffee shop by day and cocktail bar by night- ingenious! The barista was so friendly and efficient, helping the regulars that walked in while she was making my coffees (I got one for my stylist,too) since she knew their orders already. The back bar part of the space was blocked off, but there were a few stools inside to sit and several tables outside. Since it was a day off and I was treating myself to getting my hair done, I went all in and got one of the Boozy Coffees- and it was epic! I asked her opinion of which I should choose and I went with her recommendation of the About Time. The liquor didn't over power the coffee, and I felt good when it was finished but not tipsy which I appreciated. (If I was close by regularly, this option would be perfect for winding down after dealing with a stressful day at work before tackling life after work.) Added bonus, I love knowing business owners backgrounds and this place is run by Ukrainian refugees. Go support them! I got my stylist the Lavender Latte which apparently his fave there:) It was the barista's recommendation, also. I'd love to come back for the cocktails in the bar.

Down Maiden Lane, you'll find a cocktail bar that opens up early in the day for your coffee fix! They even offer a menu of different coffee cocktails, just in case you needed more than caffeine for the day. There is a nice little barstool area inside and a cute little street seating set up for you to enjoy your drinks on the spot. (P.S.- they use Ritual Coffee!)

Every morning is a pleasure to have this wonderful cup of goodness and to have conversations with amazing person who makes these cups of bliss!!! This makes my gloomy day everyday great!!! If I'm sad she makes me smile .. if works gets me down she cheers me up .. always has a great attitude ..

Was searching for coffee in the union square area, and I came across this hole in the wall gem. Had a great latte with good service! Would recommend over some of these other coffee shops in the area!

Staff was rude and latte was nothing special. I wouldn't go out of my way to come back

Tiny but excellent coffee shop. Apple Maps has the wrong time - it opens at 7:30am (the attached cocktail bar opens later). The owner is really knowledgeable about coffee, and made me an excellent oatmilk latte and a cappuccino. Barstool seating area, with tables outside. Would definitely go here again!

There selection is unique. I tried the lavender latte and it was ok. Luckily there was no line and received my coffee quick. The place seemed kind of dark, the only light was from the entrance way. I prob might come back to try a different flavor but not really priority.

Only reviewing seating. Walked from my hotel for a coffee. They only offered outdoor seating. Barista is at the door. Not allowed to sit inside. I opted to find somewhere else where indoor seating was available as it was cold outside.

Really small coffee, taste okay, banana bread is dry as cardboard. Would not recommend

Iron Horse Coffee is a tiny coffee shop tucked in a lane in the Financial District. It started as a cocktail and still is in the evenings. Now they have a coffee shop that opens in the morning. There's wall seating inside and a few tables outside in the lane. My latte was rich and creamy, but they forgot to put out sugar. If you want a decent cup of coffee, this is a good spot.

Easy, cozy, no fuss coffee spot with incredible espresso. They're connected to the bar of the same name, that serves really solid manhattan's, Ferraris, old pal's, Negronis and other classics.

I was looking for a place to grab coffee downtown before a morning meeting, and Yelp had the perfect recomendation - Iron Horse! Iron Horse is right off Market, on Maidlen lane to be exact. It's a small coffee shop and bar, serving coffee in the mornings and drinks at night. When I came in there was one emplyee working as cashier and barista. I ordered my usual lattee and really enjoyed it! I would come here again and would be very interested in checking out how Iron Horse transforms at night.

An adorable little coffee shop/cocktail bar tucked away on a cute little street in the middle of union square. Great coffee and Ilona is lovely and always greets you with a smile!!

Cute little side street coffee bar at the entrance of a liquor bar. Great service and outdoor seating. They offer both non-alcoholic coffee beverages and alcoholic ones as well. Hot or cold!

This place took a little while to find as it's tucked away in an alley, but the ho ey latte was very good. Apparently it's also a bar at night. The bar area is closed off during the day, but you can peek around the corner and see it.

I barely popped into this place, but from what I saw it was pretty cool! First, I see some of the reviews talking about slow service and long lines. I was there around 8:30 on a Wednesday and the place was completely empty. I ordered my latte and was out in just a couple of minutes. Your mileage may vary, but just saying that it isn't ALWAYS a time suck. Anyhow, I thought the little spot was cute, and after peeking into the cocktail area I can say it'd be a place I'd happily return to for an after-work drink. It's small and cozy and I get the impression that it's not at all a scene, which is exactly what I want after a long day of work. My almond milk latte was A-OK and I like that they had a number of boozy coffee cocktail options. I doubt you can get those to-go, but that would certainly make a morning meeting all that much more manageable...

I can't believe I've never been here before!! I grabbed coffee with a girlfriend today and we sat in the alleyway at cute red tables while we drank and it was wonderful. I ordered my usual oat milk latte and it was a pretty standard San Francisco price but much larger than I was expecting. Obviously a good thing. The foam had an interesting (and delicious) burnt? taste, almost like creme brûlée somehow which was unexpected. I will return - likely tomorrow!

Do you like alcohol? Do you like coffee? Do you like a very kind enthusiastic Hispanic man treating you like an old friend every time you order? Then Iron Horse Coffee is just the place for you! 'About Time' $11 Whiskey, Grand Marnier, Kahlúa, Double Shot of Espresso in Steamed Milk, Orange Twist = your new morning routine.

Adult coffee on Maiden lane. Come for an eye opener (liquor + espresso) or just some good strong espresso. Don't come expecting Starbucks, this is proper espresso we're talking about.

Decor/Ambiance: The decor reminded me of being in a saloon with the dark setting and wooden floor. When you approach the shop, you see the cashier counter and the equipment and supplies for your daily dose of caffeine to the right. And on the left, you'll see lids, napkins, straws, and sugar. Along the hallway, you'll see a bar like counter on the left and a fenced off area in the back (probably for when alcohol starts being served). Cleanliness: Place seemed nice. I mean it was early in the morning so maybe they just cleaned before opening up. Service: The service was good. I walked to the entrance and the barista welcomed me right away. He was quick in getting everyone's drink prepared. He makes it right in front of you! Drinks: I tried their Honey latte with soy milk. It was good! Not too sweet and I tasted a hint of honey and cinnamon. They also have alcoholic coffee!! Cost: Price was on the expensive side. I paid almost $6 for my small cup of latte. Wait times: The wait to order was not very bad. I went a little before 9am on a weekday and there was only a lady before me. A few other people came a few minutes after me so I guess there may be a wait depending on what time you go. The wait to get my drink only took like 2 minutes. Parking: No parking unfortunately due to it being in an alley. Location: I love how this tiny coffee shop is in an alley down Maiden Lane. You wouldn't see it unless you WALKED by.

You should go to this compact coffee hideaway before the influx of badly dressed tourists make it intolerable. Right now the lines consist mostly of young start-up lemmings who already the caffeine is well treated here. The irony is that this closet of a kiosk is located on Maiden Lane between Kearny and Grant, the heart of the tourist congestion zone presuming it has a heart. The young Dutch barista was quite friendly, and there are a dozen hot beverages offered including the $3.25 Cafe Au Lait I ordered which was brewed from Ritual coffee beans (photo: http://bit.ly/2r8g8nG). While others took their drinks to go and it was too wet outside to take advantage of their makeshift patio, I sat along the narrow wooden counter where I looked at the vintage cocktail lounge as the staff was preparing to open for the evening (photo: http://bit.ly/2JHEMCv). Take advantage of its low profile while you still can. COFFEE - 4 stars...quite smooth as it is Ritual after all AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...tight inside though hardly anyone sits and drinks their beverage there SERVICE - 4 stars...friendly and unhurried TOTAL - 4 stars...a hole in the wall worth exploring

Wow, smooth yet strong espresso - double shot with soy $4.5. Reminded me of being in Europe. I was pleasantly surprised by the kick from this coffee - way prefer this to the blue bottle oji or philz ecstatic or Tesora Place is tucked away- which is even more awesome bc that meant no line. Outdoor patio seats available, will definitely be back Tip: for spaniards, they make cortados!

Was strolling around union square and the branded shops. I'm a sucker for unique not so chain coffee shops. Came across this on maiden lane - a small alleyway that has cute little chairs where you can sit and enjoy your coffee. They offer boozy coffee - a bit pricey but the lady offered a free pastry as well. When she closes down, this place turns into a bar! Ordered a latté with soy milk and my man ordered a boozy coffee, not sure which one but it was good!

Very nice place in downtown, quiet area, great coffee and pastries. My new favorite spot. Highly highly recommend it.

First time coming by after passing by this great cocktail and coffee hole-in-the-wall many times over the last few years! Their iced honey latte (tastes like real honey with a sprinkle of cinnamon) is amazing refreshing, would just come back here for that! Service was quick and was so glad they took Applepay as well!

Probably not an old business can say it's new and really good place to go on weekdays , so many people recommend me to visit them and finally I did and which makes me happy to listen to other sometimes as well. I did enjoyed every minute that I spend here and the people who works inside are really polite . Coffee is great and the atmosphere is great as well. Love to see this kinda business around .

Really solid coffee drinks at a reasonable price. Had I tried any of the "adult" coffee drinks I may have added that last star ( or two). Friendly and fast.

If you blink, you might miss this quirky little coffee shop (coffee nook might be a more appropriate term) near Union Square, but it's worth finding if you like checking out unusual indie coffee shops. This coffee bar share's space with an actual bar - Iron Horse is right inside the front door in a small nook....not tons of counter space, but clearly enough room to make some good coffee! The barista working there when we visited was really friendly and happy to give a sample of the coffee. There's a countertop that runs along the opposite wall with some stools to hang out at for a bit out of the cold. Prices are pretty reasonable for San Francisco, and even if it might not be a big spot you could spend all day in, it's worth the visit to check out this little coffee shop! In the later morning they put out chairs and tables in the street outside -- they were putting them out as we were leaving; on a warmer day with the sun overhead this would probably be a great place to chill for a while (there's free wifi).

Great little coffee post on Maiden Lane. Such a great find after a long day of shopping! Loved the outside tables under those magic bistro lights! Tried their lavender latte!

Wanna cocktail with your coffee? How bout a shot of whisky with that morning latte? As far from a Starbucks vibe as you could get. Actually well crafted delicious coffee that's not expensive. I paid $6 for an average latte in LA few days ago. Please. Shameful it was. This place is a teeny coffee front and in the back few feet away is the bar bar. Need a quick one served by a young guy who when he asks how's your day really wants to know the answer, come here.

Nice decor inside the coffee house. Coffee is all right. Little acidic for me. I toned down with milk. It is better with milk for me.

The coffee here is liquid crack, proper cappuccino jolt with a nice foam. The barista was charming and bright and sincerely apologetic for the wait (he was just on break) But I understand the grind. The place is a little narrow curio of a coffee bar and actual bar serving coffee centric cocktails. I need to come back and try one of those "jolting" drinks ;) other than that, nice service and sufficient coffee.

Serious coffee and espresso pours. That's it. Better than bluestone, and less hassle than the big chains. No wifi, just coffee. Oh and it's a dive bar after 4 PM. What's not to like.

Traveling here for the weekend & saw this Cocktail Bar in the area with great reviews so I had to check it out to see for myself! Happily giving it another 5 Stars! Great atmosphere, delicious drinks, good music, and excellent service! Had Anastasia as my bartender & she was very attentive & friendly! It was a pleasure!

I m a coffeeholic, i need coffee to feed my life almost every single day. I have to say this is the best soy latte I ve ever tried in the financial district!! The taste of the coffee blended well together with the soymilk, and it tasted so silky and smooth. You never go wrong with this hidden gem, coffee that doesn't suck!

Love. Where good coffee and friendly service meet a bohemian discotheque lounge. A nice addition to the famed Maiden Lane. I had a quality almond milk latte and chilled out in the pink, black and leopard print lounge upstairs. I was attending a conference and needed a place to escape, chill and get some work done. Mission accomplished. In the mean time I discovered a new favorite. The carpets need replaced, but whatever. Look out for the Romper Room sign, walk in and find the Iron Horse. Will definitely be returning. Soon. Pro tip: Free Wifi

Omg it's liquid gold!!!! I ordered a cortado and it was just perfect! It's a one man show so don't go if you're in a rush. Even so, the barista was a gentleman and knows his craft. They take Apple Pay which is a super plus for me. I'll certainly be back for more!!!

The place which serves amazing drinks, hard to find in the whole city. The service is amazing. Perfect hidden spot in such a beautiful city! Love it!

This is the cutest and smartest way to buy all your daily necessities: coffee by day and a cocktail by night! Lol! The honey latte is so delicious! And the barista was so nice and fast! My friends and I were visiting from out of town and after a day of shopping we made our coffee stop. We had moved on to another store when I realized I left my Zara shopping bag. Thankfully they had put it away up stairs for safe keeping. Thank you Iron Horse for great coffee and for saving the day!

Iron Horse is a beacon of coffee light in the hustle and bustle of Union Square. Drop onto Maiden Lane (an awesome pedestrian side street with up-scale shopping #Louboutins) for a quick pick-me-up. Coffee shop with a liquor licence? Only in America! Thanks to the Yelp app, we found this place mid-afternoon and walked in with no queue. Dude behind the bar is a friendly Buffalonian who specializes in boozy espresso delights. Think Christmas morning coffee. I had a perfect americano and my friends had boozy bevvies including the Horseshoe (Jameson, Baileys and espresso), YUM! Treat yo self to a lil buzz and some free wifi. NB - super clean loo's!