Retrograde Coffee Roasters

Friendly staff with a vibrant atmosphere. I got a flat white, which they call a Milky Way due to the coffee blend of the same name. The drink was well made, for my taste it was too mild and milk forward. I can taste the coffee but it was buried by the milk.

Retrograde is always a must! I've had some of the best mornings and best lattes out front of this shop. Service is fast and accurate, and boy, is the staff friendly!!!! There are many options for everyone. Retrograde is truly inclusive and greets all their customers with a smile. The food is just as impressive as their coffee. You can taste the love and quality in everything they do. No detail goes unnoticed. Don't skip it! Side note: you can purchase 5lb bags of their beans on their website. Shipping is fast and affordable.

Stopped by Retrograde Coffee Roasters for a quick cappuccino, and it was perfect—just the way I was looking for. The café has plenty of seating, making it a great spot to relax or get some work done. The service was quick, and I appreciated that the restrooms, located behind the shop, were well-maintained. Overall, a solid coffee stop, and I’d definitely come again!

Most people give a bad review because of a bad experience. I’m not here to do that. Retrograde, overall, just isn’t really worth going to over any other coffee shop, even in Sebastopol. A large mocha , which isn’t 20 oz like the majority of competing coffee establishments, is about 8 bucks after tax, plus more with tipping obligations. Their merch overall is INSANELY priced, with an 8 ounce thermos being 35 dollars. All that being said, I do like the coffee; it is of decent quality even if wildly overpriced, so I only go maybe once every month or two when I feel I can afford it. The rewards program uses Cash App. Nothing wrong with that…. Except if you don’t use the stars you get with your purchases, they expire. It’s 10 stars for 5 dollars off. Averaging ~10 bucks for coffee, that’s 50 bucks for 5 dollars off…. IF you go often enough to even use the rewards you’re working towards. Now, I know the owner tends to respond by stating that they pay more than the fair trade amount for their coffee and supplies. Cool, you’re supporting other local businesses. On the other hand, you’re just passing that cost to the consumer. Do with that info what you will. On to the atmosphere: Probably the main reason this place is worth being. It’s the only place in Sebastopol I can think of where I actually do want to sit with my laptop and do my schoolwork that isn’t home, but I just can’t afford to be there as often as I’d like. The service leaves much to be desired, but I don’t really blame them. Everywhere I go these days people seem checked out, stressed out, and overall just not caring. I work a public facing job too, and I get it. I don’t want to interact people any more than you do.

We are doing a roadtrip down from Seattle along the Pacific Coast, and we have been trying local coffee shops along the way. I consistently get a mocha each time, as that is my favorite drink. We also had their pumpkin spiced latte, and both drinks have been the best by far on this trip. The breakfast sandwiches we had, one regular and one gluten free, were tasty and delightful. You can tell they care about each ingredient they use. We wish we could have this in our area to become our go-to spot!

Busy little place thats fun to get great coffee drinks and pastry or breakfast sandwich. Always friendly staff. Theres a kids corner w/toy basket & many table spaces indoor & outdoor seating. Excellent special rotating lattes.

Super busy but super fast and quality is not lost. Was amazed by the store front actually! Thanks guys!

Our studio worked with Retrograde Coffee Roasters on a product photography order. The images were delivered and were then used on their website and marketing materials. After delivery and active commercial use of the images, a payment dispute/chargeback was filed by Danielle with their bank. During this time, the images continued to remain live online. We reached out requesting removal of our images due to the unresolved payment. In response, they asked to repay and continue using the photos, but given the dispute and circumstances, we chose not to proceed with any further business. We would be happy to provide documentation to any party who wishes to understand the full facts of this situation.

Stopped at retrograde today to get a coffee, and the experience was exceptional enough that I wanted to write a review right away. When I walked in, the line was about eight or nine people deep, but there was a young lady taking orders for coffee while we were waiting in line. She was just delightful... Such a great personality, warm, friendly and welcoming! When I got to the register, I paid for the coffee then, and that's when I could have ordered a pastry which I opted if not to do... I do love a good pastry though! And they looked delicious The young lady at the register was super friendly and again very welcoming! I ordered an oatmeal latte, and usually I like an extra shot.... But you can get two extra shots for the same price! How can you beat that? All in all, this is a delightful spot, with friendly people and a very efficient operation! The interior space is large, modern with lots of seating and table options... I would imagine that people who work in the area stop here frequently... I know that when I am back in the area I will definitely be stopping in

Stopped to enjoy the downtown and wanted to try the local coffee shop. I loved that this shop has ample seating, because coffee shops should be gathering places! It is very inviting inside with local artists work on the walls, and a hip aesthetic. We ordered the gingerbread latte and it was divine! So yummy, and I appreciate that it was not too sweet. The bold coffee flavor was still there. I'd love to return and try more of their coffee menu and also their food menu. I loved that they had many vegan options. Service was fantastic. I'll definitely be back!

I have been a supporter of Retrograde since it first opened. I follow the owners on Instagram and Facebook. They are wonderful people who care about the community, being sustainable and eco-friendly, social justice, and making the best coffee around. When you walk in you are greeted with a wonderful ambience and friendly atmosphere. They have rotating art from local artists. They show a map of the surrounding communities where they source all their products from. They make their own syrups, jams and cold drinks. They also sell other local products, merchandise and pastries that are wonderful. They do pour over coffee, which is my favorite way to have coffee. You can also get drip coffee, cold brews and a variety of espresso drinks. As we're about to enter the Fall season I do love their pumpkin spice lattes. Their pumpkin spice syrup is made there and they don't put any artificial flavorings junk in it like Starbucks does. My daughter is especially fond of their cookies and pastries, but I also love their breakfast sandwiches. They do vegan as well as meat filled sandwiches that are excellent! If you haven't been to Retrograde before then it's time to check it out and support this amazing local business!

We stopped into Retrograde while exploring downtown Sebastopol, looking for a post-lunch pick-me-up. The space is inviting, with a large indoor seating area that looks perfect for setting up a laptop and getting some work done. Luckily we're on vacation this time but good to know if we need to work for a few hours on a future visit! Their pastry case was filled with tempting options--scones, croissants, and chocolate chip cookies that looked incredibly appealing. We were too full from lunch to try any, but they definitely caught our eye for next time. We ordered two large iced green teas from the friendly barista and received them before we finished paying! The drinks were refreshing and just what we needed for a hot, relaxing afternoon. We'll definitely be back the next time we're in the area!

Came here with friends. They have a lot of coffee drinks, beans, pastries and other goodies

The cafe is very nicely done and the service was great. Bought a bag of beans for our espresso machine and I will be replacing our regular coffee with retrograde. Looking forward to the Petaluma location opening.

It's always nice to visit coffee spots further away from Bay Area for a change of scenery and more reasonable prices. Their seasonal specialty lattes start at $6 when I'm used to seeing them go for $7.50 on average back in SF. I gave their ube latte a try, but unfortunately, it didn't quite taste like ube. Honestly, it's not an easy thing to get right, and the drink was overall still well made and tasted fine, just not ube. I definitely wouldn't mind coming back for a different drink the next time I'm around!

Wanted to grab some drinks and food here with a group of around 8 of us! There was plenty of seating available inside to accommodate us. Ordering was pretty streamlined, there was someone taking drink orders with a tablet while you were in line and you then order food when you get to the counter. I got a Rocket Man Cold Brew and added in oat milk (available on the outside counter). Everything here is pretty affordable and vibes were good! Would come again (:

Great coffee - give me a single origin pour-over any day! And I get a Red Bird pastry when I'm there, too. Satisfaction! But unfortunately there was a pet in the cafe at my last visit. Dogs inside restaurants is a major buzz kill for me. Also a health code violation. Please do better, Retrograde! Your product deserves a stellar environment!

Love this cafe - the hours are reasonable (open till 5), the coffee is excellent with broad interesting selection in preparation and presentation. I love the cold brew but when I want something sweet I go with the Big Easy Cold Brew (New Orleans inspired cold brew with Chicory syrup...sooooo good). The vibe is great, riding the line between hipster and homey, ideal for hours spent studying or a quick stop in for conversation with friends. Haven't tried the food. Service always super friendly and helpful. Not much more to say - I recommend this spot!

Great place if you are craving a good coffee and great service. Super friendly staff and ambiance is lovely. Lots of people working there. Been there a few times and it has never disappointed. Food is also really tasty! Don't miss out

I really enjoyed my stop at retrograde. Despite there being a long line, service could not have been better. They had someone walking through the line taking the coffee orders. When you got to the register all you did was say your name and give your pastry order and you're out in a few seconds. Plenty of indoor seating and they're comfortable, clean dining area.

Vegan lunch options here! Their coffee drinks are rich, flavorful and artfully made (with plant base milk options). They usually have a creative and eclectic display of artwork on the walls for sale by local artists. A popular spot to work on the computer while enjoying a beverage or to just chill out and watch the world go by.

In honor of Earth Day today, I'm shouting out a rad local coffee shop, Retrograde Coffee Roasters. Did you know that they are a CA certified green business? All of their to-go items are recyclable or compostable (of course you can drink/dine in and enjoy reusable items). Their coffee bags are zero-waste - bring them back to recycle them! They compost coffee grounds and donate leftover food items to local ranchers and organizations...just to name a few of their green initiatives! They focus on freshly roasted small-batch coffee and on community. I love their hip inviting interior, filled with plants and a rotation of local art. There are plenty of tables to sit at and/or work from, plus some seats outside. Service is friendly and fast. They are always offering fun, creative, seasonal and holiday drink specials! And I believe that most of their delicious pastries come from nearby bakeries. Love the sense of community and partnership! I'm a sucker for a simple latte and I really enjoy theirs (hot on a cold day and iced on a hot day!). I find their espresso to be smooth and easy-to-drink so I make sure to buy a bag of beans whenever I visit. Just finished a bag, so I need to visit again soon! Cheers to Retrograde and their awesome team! Thanks for all you do for our community and for Mother Earth!

Yummy lattes in a cozy atmosphere. I tried the tiramisu latte and white mocha, and both drinks were tasty. The ambiance at Retrograde Coffee Roasters is inviting, with friendly staff who clearly know their stuff. If you're in Sebastopol, this spot is a must-visit for coffee lovers! 5/5 Would definitely return when I'm back in town.

Gosh I feel so lucky that I still get to enjoy Retrograde coffee every day even tho I live in Las Vegas. I signed up for their subscription and receive my coffee to my door step biweekly. Neil and Casey roast the beans to perfection then package and send them out so quickly I get them fresh within days of being roasted. I use my French press most days but occasionally we will make a pour over. I sometimes combine decaf and caffeinated beans to get the perfect afternoon iced coffee. Their decaf is one of the best Iv tasted. I really really miss stopping in at the Cafe to see all the sweethearts that work there. I was always greeted with a smile in a gorgeous cafe with fresh art happy plants and a solid team of people always ready to make my day. Thank you for everything Retrograde. I enjoyed my coffee iced by the pool today and I was Thinking of all of you. Ps. Iv been saving my empty bean bags to get back to you and recycle one day.

what I got from @retrograderoasters - banana pudding espresso (8/10) : coffee was good but the banana pudding tasted like water-down. - matcha with lavender & vanilla (5/10) : not enough flavor despite the add-ons. the place was nice and the atmosphere was pleasant. would like to go again to try something new.

Really nice staff. One of the best cappuccinos I have ever had. Really amazing coffee!! I also had a grilled turkey pesto sandwich. It was so freaking good. Homemade pesto and grilled onions. Will be thinking about this sandwich for awhile

One of the best lattes I've had! The avocado toast with pickled onions is delicious. It gets pretty busy but service was great, the baristas are so kind!

Wanted a scone but I saw flies on it NOT GOOD !!!! So I didn't buy !!! Sad Your coffee is good

Enjoyed my almond milk latte, I do think it is very overpriced! I wouldn't come here to purchase anything to eat or drink I would just use the area to study. Staff is very attentive and welcome.

Terrible experience and the most dumbest policy I've ever encountered. We tried to buy 10 pastries for our team, but were told there's a 6-per-customer limit. We offered to make two separate purchases, but they refused because we came together. That makes absolutely no sense--why turn away paying customers who just want to enjoy your pastries? Very disappointing experience and poor customer service. Not coming back here!

A very popular local coffee shop in the North Bay. They have a variety of cold brew, single origin coffee and house made syrups (e.g. vanilla, cinnamon, chicory, lavender). Ask the barista about their preferred cold brew and went with Big Easy Cold Brew. The description sounded similar to the New Orleans style from Blue Bottle. I appreciated that they gave us a sample of their Milky Way Nitro Coffee. Big Easy Cold Brew: Your choice of milk. Very smooth and creamy. I wished the chicory flavors were a bit more forward. Milky Way Nitro Coffee: On the acidic side and not for everyone. The coffee flavors were also very mellow. I wished the nitro added more creaminess. A good option for those who prefer beer over coffee.

This stylish and inviting coffee shop is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee, a delicious snack and relax. We went mid morning on a weekday and there was a steady stream of people coming in. We were lucky enough to find a comfy corner to enjoy our coffees and pastries. I had the nitro cold brew and a ham and cheese croissant. Their pastries come from Red Bird bakery so you know they are amazing. My friend had an iced chai and cinnamon roll which she also enjoyed. No photos as we were busy chatting and people watching.

Wow this coffee is really good! Tastes totally different than SBUX. Enjoyed our visit

I simply couldn't love this cafe any more than I already do. I love that they make their own syrups (never too sweet) and rotate their specials and are always doing cool flavored beverages. I love that they roast their own beans and have a recycling program for their bags. I love that they use local ingredients and support local vendors (and are a pickup site for a local CSA). I love that they support local artists and display different art all the time. I love that they have gluten free options and vegan options to appeal to lots of different folks. The list is unending! Danielle and Casey are constantly improving things all around, thinking of ways to create an even better experience. Still my favorite coffee shop even since I moved 30 minutes away 5 years ago. Keep up the great work!

Love love love this cafe situated on a busy street in sebastopol. The inside ambiance is SO cozy and inviting for rainy cool days in winter like it was today. Staff was also so friendly and inviting. I got a s'mores iced latte which came with toasted marshmellows - loved the flavors and sweet levels were just right ( not overly sweet). They also sell honey, cups and coffee appliances, and coffee beans to go.

It has been years since I have been here and so from a recommendation for the folks at our CSA, we popped on in. Did my usual cappuccino test, and they make a delicious version (no sugar or sweetener needed). The pastries are equally delicious (see pictures). The chap next to me had one of their breakfast sandwiches, I had to ask what he had because it looked so good. He let me know, he always drizzles it in honey as well - so you know what I will be doing next time I am their. Fabulous Sebastopol coffee shop. Nice comfortable place to hang out with friends and or work.

So I called the Sebastopol cafe to ask about beans and the nice girl told me about a kiosk at barn 54 I was so happy to hear my dream beans were just down the way from me casa so I figured they had a small store there and walked in to see a modest shelf with fresh beans in beautiful blue bags just staring at me grabbed a bag and realized I didn't know how to pay I had exactly one ten spot one 5 spot and three ones I was like it's a miracle it was meant to beans I was so happy to see it all worked perfectly thanks for my beautiful beans damn they smell deeeeeelicious !!!! Thanks for roasting so good and close by !!!

Love the energy in here. Friendly, efficient. Interesting drinks with good explanations and an eye on being healthy. And Red Bird baked goods rock! Saved me a trip over there. Having said that I was surprised that none of their alternative milks were unsweetened. Today I got a latte with their house made coconut-hemp milk which is sweetened with dates. Great - I often blend a date into my home brew. This was much sweeter though I still give them BIG kudos for taking this step! My drink was solid otherwise but it was a wobble for me. Got a turmeric latte awhile back which was pretty intense but I'm still going to go back and try again to find my drink here 'cuz I still like this place.

My favorite coffee place in Sonoma County. The atmosphere is so energizing, warm, and inviting to all! The employees are so nice, and always seem genuinely happy to be there. I always feel happy supporting a business where the employees seem to be happy & treated well! And on top of all that, the espresso drinks are consistently delicious and they have a rotating selection of fun & creative seasonal drinks.

I had an excellent cappuccino (shoutout to the barista), and my son wolfed down his cinnamon roll, which was from Red Bird Bakery but sold at Retrograde. The staff is very friendly, and the cafe has a very nice atmosphere. There were games and books to keep us entertained, too!

I had never been but heard great things. I ordered online which was super easy. I ordered a a breakfast sandwich with bacon and an americano. The ambience was really fun, and the branding was really something. The sandwich was delicious, the English muffin was so delicious. I really loved all the hot sauce choices they had as well! I definitely will be back!!

A nice clean ice coffee. If the indoor area is too busy, if you go around the corner to the right, there's an outdoor seating area that's pretty nice too.

Nice spot. My go-to place to do some work if I'm in the area. It feels cozy. Coffee is good. It's all just good vibes.

this place ticks all the boxes, great coffee, great atmosphere, kid friendly and great service. I want to specifically mention the service, my daughter and I went the day after Thanksgiving. It was super busy, the line was really long, I had never been there and I had a lot of questions about the menu because I didn't see it until I was literally at the register ordering, I felt the pressure because of the amount of people behind me, but nobody made me feel rushed or inconvenienced that I had questions and I appreciated that so much. They were staffed appropriately for the amount of people they were serving. I know for me, with eating out being so expensive these days, service matters. It will literally make or break the place for me. So I appreciate the good service reasonable prices great ambience my daughter and I will definitely go back, ps try the pumpkin butter

Out of towners looking for coffee & breakfast options. This was a great spot for coffee, pastries & breakfast sandwiches. The drip coffee and pour overs were great. Friendly service! Lots of vegan options if you need. The pastries were great! Nice community atmosphere. Clean & cozy.

This coffee spot is my absolute favorite coffee spot and today I tried the lavender addition to your coffee and it makes it super crazy delicious and it enhances your coffee it doesn't take over at all and I will most likely order it every time I come here they also have a chicory flavor as well. We also ordered the breakfast sandwich it comes on a fresh made English muffin and it's spectacular fluffy moist and crazy delicious came with eggs with spinach yes please cheddar cheese and of course bacon it was delicious perfection and I want another one like right now!!! We also got the pop-tart a nice treat crisp sweet yummy. Everything we tried was just delicious oh they have really cute Merch I got an adorable black sweatshirt with their moon man holding a coffee of course lol it's crazy popular they most likely will have a long line so let that go chill on your phone it's worth the wait super delicious I am already planning to swing by tomorrow maybe I'll see you there clink clink. Cheers all see you on Yelp #307 review 01/22/23

The food and drinks were fine. However, the place was very crowded and noisy. Maybe just not a good fit for my personality?

This is our favorite coffee shop in the area. Super friendly and great coffee with a wide variety of drinks and monthly specials. We get their coffee ground for our home espresso too! The owners really care about service and the coffee experience and are always improving the space.

This place wins award for most unique latte flavors! We tried the beet latte, which hit the spot for an afternoon energy boost without the caffeine. The drink was reminiscent of chai with a beet juice flavor and subtle sweetness (which can be adjusted). Great service and roomy, pleasant ambiance.

Wonderful coffee, great breakfast sandwich, positive vibe. Love their decaf. The owners are lovely and kind people who run their business with the utmost integrity. A beautiful illustration of Sebastopol community! I love this cafe.

Just average at best. Owners are arrogant and they don't seem to care what the customer actually wants because... well, they know best lol Dont even bother telling them if they get your order wrong. It won't go well.

There are a bunch of coffee shops in this very small town, each has their charm, or, just happens to be the closest to the consumer: a lot people need their coffee immediately in the morning, and that dictates their location, and I get year, but I would suggest this location above others simply because the coffee is exceptional, and it's a beautiful place. I was able to get a bunch of paperwork done, and I recommended to anyone it's worth the distance, some people may drive by it and never see it, it's just one of those things... Or requires street parking, but it's worth it.

This is a solid coffee shop. Personally, the coffee is too acidic for me, but you might like it! I ordered a Vanilla Latte, a Dirty Chai with oat milk, and a Mocha with whole milk. I didn't love the vanilla syrup, it tasted kinda artificial, but overall it was a pretty standard latte. The Dirty Chai was super strong and too bitter for my taste, but if you like it strong, I recommend! The Mocha was kind of chalky and I didn't love the flavor, but if you like a darker/richer coffee, I also recommend this drink. The cookies are SO GOOD!! I definitely recommend getting one or a couple...It is soft on the inside but crisp on the outside and nice and sweet! Please note: this is all just my opinion! You could totally enjoy their coffee, I just haven't tried any coffee drinks from here that I absolutely love. Parking is relatively easy if you come at a less busy time of day. The service is good (very nice and friendly) and the business as a whole is super open, pretty and cute! They have a full and delicious looking pastry case and their other food looks so good, which I plan to try one day. :)

Retrograde is my favorite coffee shop. The staff are extremely warm and welcoming, the food and drinks are delicious, and the owners (Danielle & Casey) are dedicated to supporting our local community. It is clear that they have chosen to run their business in a way that is uplifting for staff, environmentally conscious, and invested in community engagement. I always look forward to my visits to Retrograde and reliably crave that turkey pesto sandwich!

[REVIEW WRITTEN: 12/3] This place is a dream - YUM, YUM coffee in your belly! Plus, this shop has great swag! TLDR Deets: + Inside & 2 outdoor patio (parklet in front, patio in back! ROFL - that sounded mullet-like) + Loyalty reward program - sign up! They will send specials and discounts via text message! + Free Wi-Fi + Parking is available on the street (tough to grab a spot sometimes), but there is a free city lot kitty-corner to the shop. + Check-in on Yelp and receive a bonus (at the time the review was written - it was a $1 off) + Food and pastries are available. Vegan options as well. :) + Cool, unique drinks - check out their menu

Wonderful roastery! The coffee came in 8 o cups which i love. The barista was nice and the cashier even took the time to tell me about the flowers i was looking at and what farm they come from and that they can do arrangements and weekly deliveries! Everyone was doing their job well :) The space itself had natural light and plants and art so it won all the points as far as im concerned and .. there is a bathroom in the courtyard behind the cafe !

The Iced Cardamom Rose Latte was alright. It tasted good and I still finished it, but it wasn't too memorable for me. I thought it was a bit expensive, given the size of the latte. It seemed like a nice coffee shop to chill with friends. It was pretty loud when I was there, so I don't know if it would be a good study spot (depending on when you go).