Spike's Coffees and Teas

Great local for coffee to avoid the big chains. Support your locals! Very nice staff, kind and patient to polite tourist visitors.

Such a cute spot in Castro! Stopped in for the logo and loved the drinks so much we came back again before we left SF. Lots of different roasts / origins, including one my friend said is hard to find! The dirty chai was honestly one of the best I've ever had and staff was kind both times. Great spot!

Wonderful coffee in an awesome spot. Was already planning on going and it happened to be open when I was in the area on Thanksgiving day. Great atmosphere, indoor and outdoor seating.

peaceful and they had some pretty nice coffee options for a small coffee shop

If you want a genuinely wonderful coffee experience in SF this is the place to go. Brad had such a warm energy and welcomes everyone in such an authentic way. The coffee is so good and I got a bagel sandwich which was yummy too! The cinnamon snickerdoodle coffee oof.

Castro neighborhood coffee stop that's been SF locally and independently owned 🌈 Excellent coffee selections, from fresh brew to coffee beans, you name it. To top it off, the friendliness is filled in this place, every time we come in☕🥐🤤😉🤩

While visiting a friend in San Francisco my wife and I got a coffee at Spikes two separate times. We had Americanos and pastries each time. The coffee drinks were really good, the pastries were very fresh and delicious. The staff was really friendly and helpful.

My favorite coffee shop in SF - and I get around! The staff is incredibly friendly and will remember you, and they showcase local artists and causes. The coffee and tea selection is excellent (House Fancy coffee blend is my favorite) and the prices lower then average in SF. Most coffee shops have individuals seated and minding their own business. Spike's has a slew of loyal regulars and we enjoy each other's company. A diverse crowd, Spike'd is especially accommodating to the older crowd - people you can learn a thing or two from if you sit and visit. Even dogs love this place: if you bring your furry buddy before 9am they'll likely get a high quality treat and beg you to come back the next Day. And the food! A solid selection of baked goods tempts me daily - some of which made fresh by the owners!

"Brewed Like a Power Chord: My Visit to Spikes" Walking into Spikes felt like strumming an open E--warm, full-bodied, and instantly satisfying. From the moment the door swung open with a little jangle (like the intro of a jangly Rickenbacker tune), I knew I was plugged into something special. The espresso? That was the lead solo. Smooth, sharp, and cut through the morning haze like a Strat through a Marshall stack. It had that perfect crema sustain, like the sweet overdrive of a tube amp pushed just right. Every sip felt like a well-bent note--meant to linger and stir something deep. I went with a cappuccino for the second round, which landed like a jazzy chord voicing--complex, creamy, and just the right amount of foam feedback. The barista, clearly the Hendrix of the La Marzocco, dialed in the shot with precision. Watching them work was like watching someone fingerpick a nylon-string with total finesse--graceful, intentional, and in the pocket. The vibe of the place? Think vintage Telecaster meets lo-fi vinyl shop. Woodgrain tables, amps repurposed as side tables, and album covers hanging like platinum records. Background music was a steady rhythm section of indie, blues, and classic rock--no autoplay nonsense here. Just well-curated tone. Service? On tempo, with no missed notes. The crew was in sync, working in harmony like a tight trio on stage--nodding, smiling, and knowing their gear inside out. If you're looking for a café that hits like a killer chord progression and leaves you buzzing like a fresh set of Ernie Balls, Spikes is your next gig. It's not just coffee--it's a jam session for your taste buds.

TGTG I got the Spinach croissant and it was delicious. So much filling and so much flavor. I can see myself getting a chai and this croissant. Just sit and relax. No work. I'll just keep on visualizing. One day.

Been coming here the past 20 years. Had a very unpleasant exchange with one of the baristas there this morning. Will not be back.

Pumpkin spice latte! Tasted good after a bike ride around the city, I was just spinning through for a weekend. I loved the layout of the friendly store with a lot of great pastries and coffees, this is the type of place I would live at if I lived around here. Great service and nice people.

Spikes Coffee nailed my coffee and peanut butter protein bar like a gold medalist volleyball player securing a match point! After traveling for two days straight to finally arrive in San Fran, Spikes was my refuge. Open early, hot coffee, friendly people, chill vibes, good music, and convenient location. There are a couple small tables inside to have a date or chat with a friend with more seating outside.

I came here for some coffee while around Castro. It's a no-frills, old-school place where the people were pretty nice and took the time to explain how their menu works. I ordered a cappuccino, which was pretty strong and unsweetened. I'd come here again for a traditional espresso drink or to try one of their more unique offerings.

Stopped by for a late afternoon drink and was pleasantly surprised by the number and variety of looseleaf teas that Spike's carries. I always love it when coffee shops carry a serious variety of teas. Since it was a hot day, I got an iced oolong tea and a chocolate donut. Service was friendly and efficient. Prices are very fair. The oolong tea was so refreshing and I like that they didn't put too much ice. The donut was just okay (didn't taste very fresh). Don't think there's technically a public restroom, but the employees were so nice and let me to use the employee restroom in the back. Love their bulldog logo too! Will be back.

Super friendly staff, seems like a local favorite. The baristas are knowledgeable and open to you asking questions or making custom drinks. Has outdoor seating so fun to just sit outside and people watch.

Another terrible experience with the morning women crew. Either train them on how to make a drink or fire them. Many bad experiences with that crew.

Instantly welcomed in this quaint little home to the best espresso in Castro. I got a customized drink order in under three minutes, home style hospitality on my first step into the door, and a comfy little bench to get some writing done. Make this place your regular sit & sip!

Beautiful neighborhood, friendly staff, and friendly neighbors. Spikes has a dog for their logo and they don't disappoint. Saw five dogs on the sidewalk and a man walked out from Spikes and gave them all treats. Not sure if he was the owner but he was gathered with some other neighbors inside when we arrived. Staff was kind offered recommendations on Oracle park food for us and were prompt. Good vibes.

This place has probably the BEST latte with oat milk ever. Get a small hot latte with oat milk--you won't regret it if you like deep, dark, and roast-y lattes. The latte flavor was very concentrated and rich (I love it), unlike Tartine's which was way too light and "dilute-tasting" for me! Blueberry scone is also good. Service is great and friendly.

Coffee was good. Had a nice robust flavor. I got an iced latte and you can taste the espresso which I love. Service was nice and friendly. Prices are reasonable and cheaper than other hipster coffees. This place has more of a down to earth vibe. Kinda out of the way from the hustle and bustle of Castro. Parking kinda sucks but it's just typical for the area. They sell coffee beans here, some pastries and some seasonal coffees like banana coconut latte which I wish I had tried instead. Still very pleased with my latte though!

Sidenote: No WiFi Protip: Tether your computer to iPhone wifi Computer: -Select WiFi -choose iPhone from drop down (You may have to enter "iPhone" manually) -enter password

Delicious coffee and great service in a wonderful neighborhood. Castro is my favorite in SF.

The cosiest spot to have tea on a rainy day! My friend and I don't drink coffee so we were excited to find a place with so many tea varietals. We got some advice from the server and tried to lovely loose leaf teas - I enjoyed my peach ginger black tea though it didn't have as much ginger flavor. We had nice mugfuls while people watching by the window. Seems like a sweet neighborhood shop that I hope stays open for a long time to come! They also have pastries, coffee drinks, and other snacks.

Cute spot in a calmer part of the Castro. Relatively quiet, intimate and with friendly baristas. They don't have WiFi and only a few outlets. However, I appreciate the old timey vibes that creates. Definitely the type of place where one would have 3 hour chats getting to know someone.

Trust me when I say the coffee here is superb. I was born in Vietnam- the world's 2nd largest exporter of coffee - and started drinking (coffee!) when I was 10. My aunt would brew a cup for me every AM for breakfast. I also grew up in Seattle and had my first espresso in the 1990s at Espresso Vivace. Then I dated a guy from Trieste, Italy who introduced me to more coffee. So coffee has played a major role in my life. Was walking by with a friend and she smelled the scent of the coffee, we were led to the front of this shop. These days, so many places' coffee no longer smell like coffee should. I got a latte to taste (smooth, silky, was fine without sugar (mark of good coffee for me)) and then bought a bag of the dark house blend. I always start with the simple stuff because if someone can't get that right....how are they going to handle fancier roasts and blends? The bag we brewed at home the last few weeks via our simple drip coffee maker was excellent. Smooth, not bitter, fragrant, with a nice body to it. Strong but not bitter just the way I like it. This is our most recent favorite and beats even Peerless, Los Gatos, Gus' and some other local brands (which are excellent too).

I love the coffee and tea options at Spike's! The ambiance is homey but the seating space is limited so it's best to order coffee/tea for takeout or to make your own at home. I like their coffee options but my favorite thing to order is the Blue Eyes herbal tea.

Spike's is just another ordinary coffee shop, especially if it's at the far end of the Castro. Despite a huge variety of coffee selections, I'm still not a fan of coffee since drinks like those will give me jitters. Glad I make it to Spike's few minutes before closing time. I plan on going for take out anyway. Both owners are nice enough to give me several minutes to choose what I like to drink. Even though the cashier didn't tell me which brand she's using, I'm still good with the spices she has given me in a drink. Want coffee? Go to Spike's. They'll give you a drink that you'll be satisfied with.

Let me tell you a little bit about Spikes. If you read all the other reviews, you'll learn that Spikes has great coffees, teas, baked goods and snacks and has a real neighborhood vibe. This is all true. What I will add is that Spikes is also a vital part of our community. From looking out for the elderly regulars to donating coffee and baked goods to the public elementary down the street, Spikes truly takes care of the neighborhood. There are so many wonderful reasons to visit Spikes and support a fantastic business.

Great coffee and friendly baristas make it a neighborhood favorite. Essential stop on your Castro visit

It's easy to see why this no-frills, independent coffee shop is a neighborhood staple -- it's the type of place that has a lot of personality that matches the Castro vibe. Spike's beverages and food offerings are decent, and they certainly have a lot of different types of coffee & tea. Despite their adorable logo, the interior of this shop candidly feels a little run-down, but with a little TLC has a lot of potential.

Once upon a time in early March 2020, we took this lovely thing called a "vacation" and we were fortunate enough to discover Spike's Coffee and Teas! What a delight! Mid afternoon, cruising all of SFCA, we need a touch of something to wet the whistle. Popped in for a water and ended up trying their Hazelnut cream - LORD HAVE MERCY I'M DROOLING WRITING THIS REVIEW! The staff was super friendly and helpful. Prices were on-point. Product (coffee) was PIPING HOT and served in a very timely fashion. Again.... have I mentioned the Hazelnut Cream? Check it out, best wishes to them through this hateful year of 2020... we do hope to visit again and get to try more of your delightful selection!

Great coffee, tea and espresso offerings. Super friendly service and an inviting atmosphere both inside and outside the cafe. It's clear that this spot has a lot of meaningful history in the neighborhood and a ton of regulars who frequent the spot for drinks and treats. There were a few baked goods for sale and some fun candy items for purchase as well. They sold a variety of whole bean coffees by the pound-- light, medium and dark roast options. The staff here are friendly, helpful and just the right amount of chatty to make you feel welcomed! Indoor and outdoor seating options available -- but only if you come when it's not super busy!

Such a cute small coffee shop. Love their pastry options and they carry vegan pastries. Had the pumpkin and banana bread vegan no nuts. So good. They sell not just coffee drinks but coffee beans too. The service was awesome and everyone there is so nice. One of many reasons I love Castro. Overall I definitely recommend this place.

Such nice baristas! Super personable and friendly. Had a cold brew and chai tea latte, both delicious. Don't live nearby but hope to be able to stop by this place more often.

It's been eleven long years since my first review of Spike's, and I was a gushing li'l Yelper at the time dramatically comparing the service one receives there to the feeling of being kowtowed at a high-end Japanese department store. Itadakimasu! Overstate much, Ed U.? Well, Jamie W. and I were back at Spike's after a long absence just because I was looking to have some hot liquid in my body after a brisk walk over the Swish Alps. It's still the same tiny place on 19th Street, but we take up less room so it didn't seem as claustrophobic on this visit. The service was pleasant enough but didn't seem that outstanding. Maybe I've gotten more crotchety over the years. I can cop to that. Get off my lawn! However, I did like the montage of dog photos which we stared at from the round table next to the front window (photo: http://bit.ly/2EwLqwY). This time, we took advantage of their robust tea selection (photo: http://bit.ly/2F9zMW6) and decided on a steeping $2.50 cup of Rooibos (photo: http://bit.ly/2C2YfNT). Jamie, never a fan of hot liquids, went with the $3 Ginger Peach Iced Tea. They offer all sorts of gummy candies, but we were good and stuck with our teas. We decided to replace our collective sweet tooth with subtle eavesdropping skills as we listened to an awkward blind date at the next table where the more interested guy kept laughing like a hyena at anything the other one said. Ah, I remember those days... TEA - 4 stars...nice loose-leaf quality AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...tiny space, crowds quickly SERVICE - 4 stars...good but remember that I am a curmudgeon TOTAL - 4 stars...good to be back, Spike

Spike's is our favorite coffee shop in the The Castro. it stands as a charming neighborhood gem, offering an outstanding variety of coffees and loose teas. The team serve up excellent coffees with a genuine warmth. The patrons reflect the unique character of the neighborhood, contributing to the wonderful ambiance that keeps us coming back. We enjoy sitting and relaxing both indoors and outdoors. We truly adore it.

Quick update. Just popped in here this morning @ about 8:15 AM. Noticed they have ever changing art work on the walls. My guess, is they may support local artists, if so, how cool is that. Always a good cup of Jo and they fill it to the "brim", which I love. Pastry case was full and everything super fresh. But dang me, no matter how early I get there, within a few minutes the "locals" start showing up and taking up all 3 outside cocktail tables for several hours. Some folks don't even support the business by making a purchase, they just sit down. Which fair enough, who doesn't love to support their local business ~ But ~ seriously guys, this isn't your dining room table. Please limit your "sit time" to maybe an hour" so others can enjoy the outside seating. I believe there is a time limit on sitting inside. Maybe this needs to be implemented outside as well. It's slowly becoming a turn off for me, as there is NEVER ANY OUTSIDE SEATING for others. And clearly no place to add any more tables or chairs. Its like tricker treat for dogs as one fella brings bags of dog treats for the local dogs and their owners. It's a party if you will. I get it, but again, PLEASE share this wonderful space with others.

I came to spikes today before heading off to work and am so glad I stopped by! My boss told me to meet them at this cute little coffee shop located right in the heart of the Castro. I had never been here but she said that she has came here for YEARS and always loves it! There's seating inside and outside and street parking. They have everything from bagels, cookies, bread, coffees, teas, everything delicious! What really made me like Spikes is the friendly service I got when I walked in. Since it was my first time I wasn't sure what to get, but they were so friendly giving me recommendations, I ended up getting the sweet potato bread with a large chai. The chai was amazing - hot, spicy, great taste! The loaf was also amazing, I've never had sweet potato bread before, so I had to get it! Next time I'm in the Castro looking for coffee or a snack, I know where to go!

Totally hidden coffee shop tucked on the west side of the Castro. Totally didn't know about it until one day walking back from voting...low and behold there it is. Friendly folk, chill vibe.

The perfect coffee shop nestled in the heart of the Castro. I'll always love coming here.

I popped in here after the closure of reveille and Philz (both temporary) and was pleasantly surprised. Tons of whole beans to choose from, and a solid cappuccino. Great little local spot if you're feeling something less corporate.

Decent iced latte, they did light ice as I requested, but the coffee was almost sour, and not in a good way. It was fine and it grew on me, but not my favorite. The staff were a bit snarky, not overtly but there were undertones of snark, but they were fine. The chocolate croissant was also fine. They asked if I wanted it warmed up, and that was a decent suggestion. There was a steady line but nothing crazy, and my wait was about 5-7 minutes total from entering to having my wares. Average prices--medium iced latte and the croissant for $7.25 plus tip. They use compostable cups and straws; e straws are paper but they hold up for a bit. There's not much seating if that's your jam--2 or 3 tables outside, 2 in the window inside, and another 4 or so small tables across from the counter inside. Conveniently located near the heart of the Castro, but a block or two away.

I have known Spikes for many years but have not lived in the neighborhood for a long time. Recently I began spending more time in the Castro and have revisited Spikes several times. There is such a wonderful feeling of community and family there and they make the very best chai from scratch bar none!!

Fantastic little cafe with a wide variety of coffees and eats. I came here in the afternoon with some friends while visiting SF and needed a quick caffeine fix-up and ordered a Cafe au Lait with soymilk as per advice from my coffee-loving Italian friend. Before ordering, I was allowed to same each different brew and decide which one I wanted in my drink. I had never tasted a soymilk based drink so smooth or clean-tasting in my life. Normally soy makes a pretty obvious substitution for milk, but this time I really enjoyed the slightly nutty flavor that it gave off. The pastries also looked excellent; my friends ordered an almond croissant and a lemon muffin which I nibbled off of. Both were decent. Overall a great first coffee experience in SF; would easily come back to try different blends of coffee.

Excellent coffee, whether house drip or espresso variants. Warm and friendly folks behind the counter. Pastries were of excellent quality and variety. A great, one-of-a kind neighborhood place, a real find.

I love Spike's. A bit old-fashioned, yet definitely worth a trip. They've got a collection of beans displayed in front to choose from. Really enjoyed my "small" cup of skinny latte though it was as huge as a basin...very smooth taste.

I really like this place it has great customer service, delicious pastries, and best of all yummy coffee. I've been coming here for a few weeks since I now have to drive through this area every morning. My visits have always been positive. The establishment is not the issue for me, it's their prices. I'm sad that I can't afford to come here every morning to get my daily dose of coffee because their coffee is really good just expensive. I chose to eliminate my almond milk latte and just go with regular coffee hoping that would allow me more visits. I served myself a cup of coffee yesterday and after paying I felt like the price was high. I thought maybe if I bring my own cup tomorrow it will be substantially cheaper. Well I did and it didn't help the price much. I was hoping to slip them a dollar and fill up. I've worked and patronized many coffee shops in my day, I guess I've been spoiled by the $1.00/coffee exchange. In their defense, the coffee shop is in the Castro and rent here is astronomical so I understand the prices. I'm just bummed I can't make it a staple in my daily commute.

Great local spot with friendly baristas and tasty coffee! Not much of a coffee guy, but this place seems nice

Love this little coffee shop. Friendly staff, cozy feel, lovely varieties of teas, coffees, and pastries. I'm so impressed every time I go in this place. My tip is: if you like Earl Grey, this is the best I've found in the city.

What a homey, wonderful gem Spikes is in the Castro. So cozy and welcoming, like walking into someone's home. They make excellent sugar-free vanilla latte's. Delicious! The staff are all friendly and professional...especially now that my friend Brad works there! He used to work at the Starbucks near my office...what a nice surprise to see him again! Unfortunately I live in Hercules so I don't have the opportunity to visit as often as I would like, otherwise I'd get my daily coffee fix at Spikes! Though my husband and I come to the Castro every Saturday, and I get my hair cut a couple of doors down, so I'll definitely be back soon!

The fact that this coffee shop has a dog as its logo and is basically the ONLY place in the castro that does not allow dogs is not lost on me.

Up the street from Philz but worth the extra block walk. They really do have THE BEST LATTE just like they said! Place is tiny--this is the reason I'm only giving 4 stars. Right when you walk in, there are a few small tables and chairs to the left and to the right is a huge selection of coffee beans for purchase by the pound. There is a decent sized outside patio with tables and seating but on a beautiful sunny day like today, everything was taken up. All the way at the back of the shop is where you order. There is one cashier and one barista. Once you place your order, there's hardly any space to even stand to wait for your order without blocking the cream counter and trash cans. However, they work quickly to get you your drink so it's not too bad. You can have any hot drink iced for extra $0.50. This has got to be the best decaf iced latte I've had in the city of San Francisco. A lot of places can't get decaf right. Spike's decaf latte was very rich and robust--perfect with whole milk on ice. I'll definitely come by again for another iced latte when I'm in the neighborhood!

Stopped by Spike's this morning. The mocha was made perfectly per my specifications. Grabbed some croissants for my sons and they loved them! Nice atmosphere. Will be back for sure. Highly recommend! How

Just OK sums it up. Now that Reveille has closed, this is the closest coffee shop for me that does lattes aside from Starbucks. I sometimes go here in a pinch but the coffee leaves a lot to be desired. It's clearly some kind of legacy business and survives on the nostalgia and familiarity it provides for certain older types in the Castro. That seems to be the case for a lot of businesses in the neighborhood. If I'm gonna go out for a latte and pay $6, I expect it to be better quality and this place just isn't it.

The best coffee shop on earth. I love everything and everyone about Spike's. If my personality was a business, it would be Spike's. Which is why they should really consult me before they choose their new interior paint colors next time. After all, those colors ARE going to represent MY personality, so... I should have a say. ;)

I stopped by on a whim on a Friday afternoon and it was such a great experience! The staff was friendly and hilarious! They talk to you like old friends and have great senses of humor all around. I ordered a 16 ounce White Chocolate Mocha and it was delicious! Dare I say better than Starbucks and it was only $4. There were a lot of dogs outside and there were pictures of them everywhere which makes the cafe feel really homey and comfortable