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Contributing Writer | Allison Thompson

 

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San Francisco is known for many iconic elements: the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, etc. However, my recent trip to the city last month included a different motivation: visiting Blue Bottle Coffee.

Blue Bottle is a hidden gem; it is tucked away a few blocks from bustling Market Street in downtown San Francisco. Tourists visiting the city often frequent Union Square and the Westfield Mall in downtown, but do not venture to the hidden cafe.

The reason why I say it is hidden is because it is located on a corner amidst large office buildings. It is not well advertised; it simply has a small metal sign of a blue bottle.

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I have visited Blue Bottle twice now, and each time I was impressed by not only the taste of the coffee but also the quality of coffee-brewing methods and the barista’s knowledge. Upon entering the small shop, customers are greeted by two baristas. There is one espresso machine and numerous coffee brewers; the most notable being the Kyoto machine. The Kyoto slow drip coffee machine comes from Kyoto, Japan and produces iced coffee for a relatively higher price.

I had never seen this machine before, so I was immediately intrigued. It looks like a piece of laboratory equipment, but it produced some of the smoothest iced coffee I’ve ever tasted.

There is also merchandise available for purchase inside the cafe, including a large bound book detailing Blue Bottle’s coffee selection process, brewing method and various coffee offerings. The first time I visited the shop I purchased a pound of the El Salvador blend, which is a lighter roast. I am normally a medium or dark roast drinker, but Blue Bottle’s El Salvador blend is one that even medium roast lovers can enjoy.

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The interior of the shop is relatively simple and industrial; it features gray cabinets, black counter tops and steel elements throughout. There are a good number of tables available for guests as well as bar seating in front of the Kyoto machine.

The shop is inviting and perfect for coffee snobs and new-drinkers alike. Customers can take a few minutes to sit down, relax and sip on a cup of high-quality coffee while in the midst of a bustling downtown city.