Sanctuary Coffee — Restaurant in Claremont

Sanctuary is a solid 4 coffee shop that gets a .5 bump for its innovative model and commitment to providing a space for study and community.

The Concept: I absolutely love the model of a non-profit coffee shop. I especially love that, instead of choosing humanitarian efforts that span the globe, Sanctuary chooses to invest in the local community. The blackboard listing opportunities to volunteer or donate through the coffee shop is a wonderful encouragement and witness of the power of community engagement and Christian charity.

The Space: Two levels, large, open, lots of tables, good lighting, and plenty of places to plug in (thank you!). Sanctuary even offers a printer with wireless connectivity. I love that the top of the store is more social while the bottom-level tends to be more quiet/study-focused. The space could be improved with a few adjustments. First, the bottom space is a little cold and lacks the "cozy" of the upstairs. Level tables, better flooring/insulation, and more comfortable seating would really kick it up a notch. Also, the bathroom isn't the cleanest.

Drinks: Large variety of coffee and tea options. I've had the cappuccino, vanilla latte, and iced chai (I'm a creature of habit). The vanilla latte was the best of the three - the other two were mediocre. All hot drinks I've order have been slightly under temperature for my liking. Latte art is a nice touch. I do appreciate that most drinks come in 12 or 16 oz and mugs are provided for dining-in customers upon request. Drinks are ever so slightly overpriced, in my option. But, because the money goes to the community I'm more inclined to overlook the price and be a bit forgiving.

Customer Service: Service is about average. I've never had a terribly long wait for a drink or an order made egregiously wrong. The baristas tend to be a bit lackadaisical, but most are students working a side job. I really appreciate the generally-welcoming attitude of the space and other customers. I never feel self-concious about claiming a table and staying a while. However, I study here a couple times a week (for several hours at a time), I tip well, and I still haven't had a barista introduce himself/herself. Because this is a Christian-oriented non-profit, I do expect a little more of a personal touch than your average coffee shop.

Busyness: Parking at Sanctuary can be a bit trickier than one would anticipate given its location (the Mexican restaurant next door seems very popular). On the weekdays, it is pretty easy to get a table and study. Weekends, not so much.

Caveats: While the noise-level is generally low and conducive to conversation and/or studying, there are a few people who have difficulty reading the room. If you patron this establishment (as with any other restaurant/coffee shop/deli, etc), please be considerate of other customers BY TAKING PHONE CALLS AND FACETIME CALLS OUTSIDE. Second, I really hate to say this, but the new manager has negatively impacted the ambiance the last few times I've visited. She is incredibly loud and can be demeaning and rude to the servers, which I find at-odds with the Christian mission of the shop. I would encourage her to correct work habits of employees away from the eyes and ears...

Let me just say, I dont give out 5 stars lightly, but it is well deserved here. I highly recommend getting a pour over if you truly want to determine the quality of the beans.

The first time I came here I ordered a mocha, it was ok, the milk was over steamed so I just left knowing that when I visit my grandparents I could at least get something better than Starbucks.

I came back during Christmas and ordered a pour over, Ethiopian (A-- strain, cant remeber the spelling). John poured my coffee with my request to have it stronger and can I just say I was blown away by the how well he made it. I choose to just buy the beans and make it myself but he made it EXACTLY how I like it. The flavor was on point. Layers of traditional ethiopian fuitiness. The coffee was fresh, must have been roasted within that week yet fully developed. This experience had me making a point to go back to see my grandparents before going back up to San Francisco.

I went back yesterday and yet again ordered an Ethiopian pour over (A-- strain) and met another bariata (wish I asked for his name). He was very friendly and helpful when it came to determining which bag of beans I should take home with me. I ended up choosing the Ethiopian (Banko strain) since they were knew and he hadnt even tried them yet. I was able to meet the owner Steve upon which I tried to explain to him how much San Francisco needs this coffee and would be willing to pay for it. He wasnt phased or eager to jump on my insight, which I thought was odd but now knowing that Sanctuary Coffee is a non-profit I highly respect him and the companies mission. I wish someone would have told me that it was a Christian company because I would have driven from Orange County to Claremont way more durning this vacation.

Today, I made my Ethiopian (Banko strain) and grant it was roasted on December 27th and should probably sit for another day or two for the flavors to fully develop but wow! I am truly impressed but how much flavor punched my taste buds with bliss. Again like a traditional Ethiopian I experienced fruity and tart notes but with subtle nutty notes that were quite pleasant.

I love their mission and their coffee and will start to order it online....

Sanctuary Coffee lives up to its name—it’s a peaceful, welcoming space with great energy and even better drinks. I ordered the matcha latte with almond milk, and it was absolutely perfect—earthy, smooth, and not overly sweet. I really appreciate that their matcha isn’t pre-sweetened like so many other coffee shops—you can actually taste the quality.

Ben was amazing and took the time to share that Sanctuary is a nonprofit supporting the local community. That mission adds so much depth to the experience—you can feel the heart behind everything they do.

The space is cozy and beautifully designed, with natural light, comfy seating, and an inviting, creative vibe. Whether you’re working, catching up with a friend, or just need a quiet moment, it’s the perfect spot. The staff is kind, the service is thoughtful, and the menu has great plant-based options.

I would absolutely go out of my way to visit this place again. Sanctuary Coffee isn’t just a café—it’s a community haven. One of my favorite finds...