The Emerald Lounge

Had a hard time finding a place to accommodate our group of eight—we just wanted to unwind after a long day of filming. We stumbled upon this spot and are so glad we did! The setting is atmospheric and a bit unconventional, yet cozy and authentic. We loved the architecture of the hall and building, as well as the dining furniture and overall ambiance. There’s a great variety of drinks, and while it’s not your typical coffee shop, the quality is excellent. Pastry options were plentiful, and we thoroughly enjoyed them. Service could use a little improvement—wait was longer than expected, our orders were a bit mixed up, and one of the group’s orders was forgotten until we reminded the staff. Still, it didn’t ruin our experience. We had a wonderful time enjoying the city and soaking in the beautiful lounge setting.

Location was great. Spacious and lovely place to hang. Service was also really good. We paid approx $13 for a strawberry matcha that was really diluted, which is sad considering how expensive the drink is. The extra strawberry the waiter gave us unfortunately didn’t add much flavor either. We’ve noticed that a lot of cafes in the U.S. seem to serve really diluted matcha lattes and perhaps this is something that’s expected here. It just wasn’t what we wanted or are used to.

Amazing coffee shop in a beautiful setting! Becky is so kind and knowledgeable and made an excellent earl grey matcha that I’ll be thinking about for a long time. A couple of sandwiches available and a beautiful bakery case. Of note, no WiFi nor outlets that I could find, but what a great place to work for a couple hours!

Great relaxed spot, amazing architecture and atmosphere to kick back with a coffee and snack. I also ordered the parfait, which was underwhelming. But, the building is so magnificent with those huge windows, it made up for it all. For those remote workers, there is no WiFi or outlets here, so come with your hotspot and a full battery.

Located in the lobby of 1000 Van Ness. Elegant seating space. No Wi-Fi. Selection of freshly brewed tea and coffee available. The Masala tea is well made as is the Earl Grey Matcha. Friendly staff. Quick and efficient service. No validated parking as Yelp indicates. Some street parking nearby.

Delicious drinks in a gorgeous setting. The owner, Becky, is passionate about the drinks she serves and the flavors she chooses. She told me about her process for developing elderflower mocha and the drink did not disappoint, 10/10!

Yummy ceremonial matcha, beautiful space with wide tables. No wifi nor outlets, but worth charging your computer beforehand. Huge wide marble tables. They have a silver jewelry popup with pieces handcrafted by a friend of the security guard. The baristas are so nice. While I was there, the space next to it organized a Trio Sontana and there was live violin music while I worked. Nice people, community events, elegant and calm setting. Everything I want in a city.

A delightful little accidental find on our way to the movies inside the same building. The building is beautiful, and a historical gem built in the 1920s that originally served as an auto dealership. The staff is friendly, helpful, and unbelievably fast in their service. They have a cute little pastry case with what looked like very tasty treats, and a great menu for drinks with some unique sodas that were also very tempting. We went with a masala chai and a cappuccino, with we’re both served in delightful and pleasing cups—the chai dish even had a divot for the cookie as well as the cup! Very pleasant experience, and I would definitely return.

When I say I LOVED this place, I LOVED IT!! Just the ambiance alone was enough to make me feel like I was in heaven. It's so fancy, but in an unpretentious way. None of the seats in here match, you'll see overstuffed chairs, super plush couches, cozy benches for you and your friends, and small tables tucked away for privacy. It's so cute and whimsical. I felt like I'd walked into a fairytale. And it didn't stop there, just looking at their menu takes you to another time. It's very steam punk-esque. With little sketches of what the drinks look like, in the leather bound menu available at the counter, and the area where they make the pastries and drinks is in what appeared to be the top half of a dirigible, only completely glass. I'm having trouble describing it because it's just something hard for your eyes to process. I ordered the strawberry matcha and it came in this very beautiful glass, that had a straw with a strawberry on it, freshly sliced strawberries on top, and it had the richest, tastiest, creaminess flavor of match and strawberries that I've ever had the pleasure of trying. The display shelf of pastries makes it nearly impossible to not buy one. It's in a glass tower, with each one presented like a rare collectible. I couldn't resist getting a strawberry scone to go with my matcha. I sat in one of the giant, overstuff chairs, enjoyed my matcha and pastry, and had fun people watching. The waitress was so sweet explaining the concept, bringing my order to my table, and recommending other items to buy. I can't wait to be back!

the inside of this coffee shop is soo vibey! i don't know but something about it was giving harry potter to me! the staff was soo friendly and even helped me narrow down my order. i got an iced vanilla bean latte and my friend got the iced strawberry matcha. my friend likes a sweeter matcha, so it was not really her thing. i thought the matcha was pretty good, but i will say i could barely taste the strawberry. my latte was really good, but i also barely tasted the vanilla bean. i do think they are a little overpriced, but i am glad i got to try it!

I recently stopped by Emerald Lounge on the way to work. They recently extended their hours which makes it easier for me to stop by either before or after work. They have a pretty extensive drink menu, a combination of coffee, matcha, and non caffeinated drinks. I didn't have time to sit in the lounge area. But I love the atmosphere from what I saw. I ended up ordering the earl grey matcha latte and it was amazing. The drink was perfectly sweetened and you can taste both the matcha and a hint of the earl grey. I will definitely return to try some of their other drinks. So many interesting flavors!

It's so beautiful cafe located inside of the Van Ness cinema. It's so hidden, only the local neighborhood knows about this place. The person taking my order was very pleasant. I asked what's your cafe known for, he said the Matcha specially the Earl Grey Matcha. So I went ahead and ordered it. He was right about the order! It's definitely not your typical order. It has a slightly sweeter than normal matcha. I can taste the strong tea with a strong tea fragrant. Pricing, it's a little bit higher than your typical Matcha/ coffee shop. It's range from $8-$13. Will stop by to try more coffee and will try their pastry next!

I have yet to patronize the multiplex at 1000 Van Ness since it changed ownership from AMC to Apple Cinema. Meantime, an evocative new cafe has opened in the lobby where the ticket office used to be. Owner Rebecca Fox has done a great job of leveraging the 1920's-era period decor and setting up the stylish kiosk into a fully functional coffee bar surrounded by furniture set up like a vintage tearoom. Ironically I bypassed the coffee and went for one of the cold drinks displayed on individual placards, the $7.50 Lemon Verbena Iced Tea. It proved to be quite refreshing and not overly sweet. I was also seduced by the baked goods and ordered the $5.50 Chocolate Croissant which arrived warm, flaky, and oozing with melted chocolate (Photo 9). Now I have a good reason to go to the movies. BEVERAGE / FOOD - 5 stars...an excellent citrusy iced tea and a decadent croissant AMBIANCE - 5 stars...stays true to the period flavor of the building SERVICE - 5 stars...quite attentive and proactive TOTAL - 5 stars...a nice respite on Van Ness RELATED - Exploring the Tenderloin? Here's a collection of places l've visited and reviewed: https://yelp.to/wl_u0oDej3

This is a hidden gem for some yummy matcha. I got my fix right before they closed and wasnt disappointed.

I was excited to the Emerald Lounge open up as a new cafe specializing in curated lattes and matcha. I heard good things about the Earl Grey Matcha and knew I had to stop by. I came on a Friday morning and this cafe was empty. It's located in a lovely 1920s historic building that used to be an AMC theatre but the neighborhood isn't the best. There are nice lounge chairs as well as a few tables to stay for a bit. We got the vanilla bean latte (per our barista's recommendation) and the earl grey latte. Loved that you can adjust the sweetness and alternative milks is complimentary. The vanilla bean latte was nice and strong with a subtle vanilla flavor. The earl grey matcha is really what you have to try. The earl grey syrup is subtle and works really well with the matcha. It only comes iced so I'd recommend asking for less ice so the matcha flavor isn't diluted but otherwise it's has a great bergamot and floral aroma without being artificial and not too sweet (we asked for less syrup)! Just note that there isn't wifi available if you're looking for a place to work but the seating is really cute and it would be a great spot to catch up with friends especially as the building seems fairly quiet.

Interior is absolutely gorgeous, servers are kind and working hard, and the price isn't bad either. Lots of seating for reading or working. My brother got the chai which came with a little cookie and said it was good. I got the parfait which was super sour, but had strawberry jam/sweetened oats on top. There are sunflower seeds in the oats, just a heads up. It's definitely not for everybody because it doesn't taste pleasant. Both were a little small but at least it wasn't like $10 per item, it was $6.5 and $7 respectively. I would come back exclusive to work but not for the menu items I got this time.

The space and service are both top notch, but my matcha was not something I'd go back for alone. I got the earl grey matcha latte with almond milk and the cold foam was so light that I couldn't really taste it. The drink mostly tasted like honey and almond milk. There was some earl grey flavor coming through, but very weak matcha. There were tons of beautiful chairs and tables and it seems like a nice space to hang out and read a book, but if I went back I'd go for a coffee. Also, the prices are high ($8.69 for a drink).

This is where you can get an earl grey matcha! If you know, you know - this is an iconic historic building in the city. Previously an active movie theater, this fairly new renovated area is now functioning as an immersive lounge with beautifully cozy interior, perfect for unwinding. Their cafe menu features drinks and bites that are locally sourced and well curated with seasonal ingredients and no processed sugars. The earl grey matcha consists of fresh, fragrant tea that is then house made into a syrup and also added to their cold foam topping. Overall the drink was a smooth blend of flavor without being too sweet. Service from staff is super friendly!

One of the best cafes in the city! The Emerald lounge is a great place to catch up with friends or get some work done. The building is super unique and cozy, the drinks are creative and delicious, and the staff is super friendly. Can't recommend this place enough!

Ladies and gents, get your caffeine- and sustenance-starved butts to The Emerald Lounge. Surroundings: Classy in the beautiful, lux 1921 historic building sense. Beautiful upholstered couches and chairs and sleek leather Mad Men-style chairs live side-by-side in stylish luxury to host your bum. Marble tables await your beverage, pastry and sandwich as determined by the offerings of the day. Don't sleep on: The Guava Danish. ***WHOA***. I say, get this if they have it! The very charming Lounge owner shared it is her favorite. I can see why. I think I have only had some mild guava in some Odwalla multi-fruit amalgamation smoothie, but this, readers, it's a new world. I got it warmed up today and I think it's the best pastry I have ever had, no joke. And I do not joke about carbs. Worth your indulgence. Quench your thirst with: The iced cherry soda drink (sorry, I do not know its formal name but scroll down if needed to order!). DELICIOUS. I even borrowed my husband's fork to fish out the fresh cherries from the crushed ice. Definite farmer's market epicness. Note: My iPhone photos today do not do true justice to these treats, but believe me, you should try them! :-D Parking: If you cannot find paid street parking, there is the very close 1000 Van Ness Garage, entrance located at 950 O'Farrell Street, open Monday-Thursday 7am-11pm, Friday-Saturday 7am-12:30am and Sunday 7am-11pm.

I met two friends at the Emerald Lounge for coffee and conversation. What a refreshing change from the corporate feel of Startbuck, Peet's and Philz. The interior space is spectacular. The are sofas, tables with soft fabric benches and comfortable and elegant chairs. My Americano was outstanding. It was served in a beautiful cup with a small pitcher of milk, with a small silver spoon, all delivered to the table on an elegant tray. My friends had an equally outstanding experience. This wonderful coffee house will be our new weekly meeting place in the future. No more Peet's! I highly recommend the Emerald Lounge if you want an old school coffee house experience.

Though I was able to justify my 10$ latte with the preserved rococo style architecture of the building, the enjoyable view, and the wonderful service, I will say there need be improving in certain areas. For example, the loud yuppie coffee shop music takes away from the atmospheric nature of this place and was really annoying + the cups they use feel like they were crafted in a beginner high school pottery course. Yes i am being meticulous here, and yes i still enjoyed my experience, but small changes like these would really help elevate the place.

Located in the lobby of 1000 Van Ness. Elegant seating space. No Wi-Fi. Selection of freshly brewed tea and coffee available. The Masala tea is well made as is the Earl Grey Matcha. Friendly staff. Quick and efficient service. No validated parking as Yelp indicates. Some street parking nearby.

Great spot to enjoy a beverage in the elegant atmosphere of the former Cadillac dealership on Van Ness. Innovative teas and coffees, quiet comfortable seating. This is your spot to meet with friends or have a meeting without congestion, crowds, noise, or other distractions. Friendly staff.

We chose this coffee shop because we wanted to be in a beautiful environment where we would enjoy our drinks. The staff was so kind and welcoming, they went above and beyond by serving our drinks to us and offering to bring anything else we might need. As someone who used to be a barista, I can confidently say I've never had drinks this good as they were crafted perfectly and tasted incredible. The atmosphere was absolutely beautiful, which is what initially drew us in, but the quality of the drinks and service are what made this such a memorable stop. I left seriously impressed and will be telling everyone about this place! Beware it is a little pricey but that is to be expected as most every other place in the city is as well!

Great ambiance, ample seating. The early grey matcha was fire. Love that they have a "for here" option to get your drink in glasses and mugs - super sustainable.

I don't usually write reviews but this place took my breath away This place just opened but I think it's already the best coffee spot in the city. The coffee and food is amazing and the location BEAUTIFUL!!! The Elderflower Mocha & the Earl Grey Matcha are personal favorites drinks. Their avocado toast is my current addiction. It looks so simple but damn it's so good.

So happy with this place. I actually stumbled upon it as I was going somewhere else. Great coffee and amazing ambiance! The lady helping us order gave a great recommendation! She also checked in after we were done to see how we enjoyed her recommendation.....can't wait to come back

A true gem of a cafe! The ambience is incredibly elegant, and I love their commitment to the emerald theme, down to the dark green napkins and takeaway bags. The staff was friendly, and the latte and chocolate croissant were top-notch. I would have been happy to see any kind of establishment bringing the space back to life, but I'm ecstatic to find that it's what seems to be one of the best cafes in the city.

quiet seating space kind staff pretty to go cups no parking $8 gong on $9 mocha that doesn't even taste good (has elderflower and cardamom).. tastes more like an experiment I was not impressed and I won't be returning

Very comfortable.... furnishings inviting and makes me want to stay longer Excellent staff.

Great coffee and service!! The owner is amazing and enjoys explaining her creations to her customers. The space and building is beautiful as well. Highly recommend!!

Its an absolutely stunning setting and it's the place to meet friends for a delicious matcha or coffee. I'm so delighted not one guest was on their computer, too! I gave it four stars as it could use several more food options. There are plenty of sweets along with couple of quiche and sandwich choices. Maybe considering some healthy yogurt/granola cups or salads would entice me to return for lunch.

New favorite matcha spot!! The earl gray matcha is only sweetened with honey and was delicious! Such a cool space and great quiet area for reading or working

Read about this place on Reddit this morning and decided to check it out. Glad to hear the movie theater is coming back and to see the ré-purposing of this portion of the building for lounging and snacking. Feels like a European train station. Most importantly, coffee is delicious. Bonus, I got the spicy Indian street food veggie sandwich. Could not be happier. Serious treat. Staff was uber kind. Will be back.

Beautiful space, friendly staff, and a delicious vanilla latte! I'm glad it's finally open!

best matcha I've had in SF. staff is very knowledgeable on the matcha making process and it comes out excellent every time. my personal fav is the strawberry matcha. super cute ambiance, definately a one of a kind dining experience!