This cozy coffeehouse is a hidden gem, offering expertly roasted blends and tasty pastries in a charming, though snug, setting perfect for a quick caffeine fix.
"Wrecking Ball’s Trish Rothgeb is known for her well-balanced espresso drinks and precise, technologically advanced pour-overs — plus, she coined the now popular “waves of coffee” terminology. Visit the original Cow Hollow location and order an espresso or any of their specialty drinks, such as the shop’s espresso citron tonic, plus a bag of beans for the road." - Dianne de Guzman, Paolo Bicchieri
"Dark, medium or light? That is the question that comes out of what is literally a hole in the wall. Owner Zac Green will set you up with the finest pour over coffee in North Beach. While you are waiting, strike up a conversation with him or one of the other local denizens. After all, that is why he spends the time serving pour over instead of slinging coffees - conversation and coffee is what it's all about. Also try the ice coffee, fresh coconut water or the loose leaf teas from SF Herb Company." - Volume
"At Wrecking Ball Coffee in Cow Hollow, you’ll be in and out within five minutes—this isn’t one of those coffee shops where you can linger with a book or yap with a friend for hours. The takeout-only operation does standard espresso drinks to go, along with pastries by Neighbor Bakehouse like croissants and cookies. You’re probably not going out of your way to pick up a cortado or latte here, but if you’re in the area and need a jolt of caffeine, it always works." - Julia Chen
"Wrecking Ball’s Trish Rothgeb is known for her well-balanced espresso drinks and precise, technologically advanced pour-overs — plus, she coined the now popular “waves of coffee” terminology. The Berkeley location of her business closed, so the Cow Hollow outpost will have to be as great as two coffee shops." - Paolo Bicchieri, Lauren Saria
"Nick Cho of Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters explains the challenges coffee shops face in resuming late afternoon hours, including changes in commute patterns and the importance of staff consensus in reopening decisions. The Berkeley location is open for takeout only due to its size and airflow, while the smaller San Francisco shop remains more restricted." - Clair Lorell