Farm: Table, San Francisco (Tenderloin)

This shop has a too-small-but-really-cute environment. The whole worker-owned store is designed to promote conversation and connection: the only seating inside is a huge, communal table! You really have no choice but to enjoy your cup and converse with the people who happened to find themselves in the coffee bar with you at the time. The decor is clean, simple, and very homey. The first store I've seen with hardwood. I liked that. And dark wood countertops as a motif.

They get major points for heating their "for here" mugs on the top of the espresso machine. I had tea, and the first cup was piping hot.

Oh ya, and the service was great! I'm sure it had something to do with the fact that they own the store and love what they do; they've got a vested interest.

I'd definitely go here for a casual hang out...

K got stressed out at the too-cramped square room but the mirror was really cool. Made the place seem huge. Tea tasted like soap.

Cup 'a Joe, San Francisco (Nob Hill)

This coffee house has the beer-drinker vibe... probably cuz of the 10-or-so options on tap and the street-side seating where almost everyone's got a pint. The house has free wi-fi, a full menu, and a pretty comfortable environment. Bryan (?), the guy that helped us get our coffee was up for a friendly chat and gave us some good info on why "cash only" is a great way to go. Overall, I (Z) give it a conservative thumbs up.

[As a general side note, this is the first of our super-local - meaning within three or so blocks - coffee shops K and I have visited. As such, I become an uber-snob. So factoring in my bias as you will: I like the place, but there are certainly holes in their business...]

K thinks the name is just awkward.