Haraz Coffee House — Restaurant in San Francisco

This is a new coffee place at Franklin and Bush, a busy intersection. This is the second coffee place that's been there in the last few years. I've been in a couple of times, the first for some pastries, the second for a large black coffee.

First visit for pastries - they have an interesting selection of sweets. I bought a blueberry muffin and a chocolate hazelnut muffin on the first visit. The blueberry was mediocre, but the chocolate hazelnut was a nice surprise. Together, before tax, it was just shy of $12 for the two.

Second visit was just for some coffee. Plain, black, large. I thought it would be quick, but it wasn't. They brew each cup individually, kind of like Vietnamese coffee, so this took longer than I was expecting. I'm not sure how they manage this if it's busy, but I was not in a rush. I was a little disappointed that it wasn't a full cup. Even after adding some cream, there was quite a bit of room left. The flavor of the coffee reminded me of some of the stronger Turkish coffees I've had. Price was $6.50, which seemed a little pricey for a not quite full cup of drip coffee.

The guys behind the counter are very nice and helpful. And, I'm not sure if they have wifi (I assume so), but it seems like a nice neighborhood place to sit and maybe work on the computer or read a book or chat with a friend. Also, both times, I came in from just having walked my dog, and they didn't seem to have a problem with that. I wasn't staying, so not sure if dogs are actually allowed.

Overall, I think that the place has potential and I hope that they can stand the test of time! Having a faster alternative for a standard, black drip coffee would be worth investigating for them. That corner is a pick up spot for travelers hopping on buses, and if they want a quick coffee, they wouldn't get it there, so maybe offering something a little less artisanal, but quicker, à la Pete's Coffee, would be...

Coffee & alternatives are undeniably unique—some drinks with strong robust and distinct flavors—hit or miss but nothing a little sugar or honey cannot fix. With that said, there are ample familiarities like their French press which is not as varied, in other words does not deviate from its original technique and presentation. Their food offerings are great and filling; I find it wonderful for those who would stay longer working, they wouldn’t get bored or hungry.

Atmosphere is great; while its similar to any other modern coffee shop in SF and nothing out of the ordinary, it is a nice spot in the cross section of two streets that don’t have much else (Japan town is probably 10-15 minutes away) other than a laundromat and wheel works. Customers for those places, rejoice! Perfect spot to wait!

Service. At first I was unsure. I’ve been many times but it was a kind of cool transaction. Nothing memorable in terms of good service. I was served and that’s all, which is all I could ever need right? Unfortunately what was memorable was one experience I felt shunned. I stepped to the front of the counter to inquire and pick up my To-Go order and was blatantly ignored for a considerable amount of time. I figured they were busy or it would be better to go to the other end…. Where I was ignored as well. And much to my resentment two people came after me but got served first while I remained largely ignored. I finally lined back up again and was finally given some attention. I politely explained I ordered 5 drinks via their online services and was just wondering if they were ready because I was a little late. It was a smooth and very nice interaction at that point and so I felt no more animosity.

Overall: will be returning. Tomorrow in fact! Have an appointment at a mechanic...

I generally only have good things to say about this place. Aside from wishing it was a little bigger, I find this place wonderful, and hope that it alongside many other wonderful places in the city continues to thrive and helps out our neighborhoods get back on their feet.

What originally got me here, was finding a new place that stays open until 11pm.

What has me coming back is the consistency in checking off a few standard check boxes I usually aim for when checking out a new place to add it to my list of go to spots. Checklist:

Well made, strong, unique, and robust hot beverages. (i.e., Haraz Latte)

Clean and comfy environment. (White Noise: Cafe Category, with soft/med lighting.)

Friendly staff, who are on point with the bustle of a unique cafe in a great location within the beautiful city. (Acknowledgment to a Mr. AIMAN, the barista. He brings great personality and experience to what makes this place work.)

The Views: Window Seats, if you choose to score one. (Like waiting for a flight at an airport cafe and watching busy life travel by on the outside. Great for having a moment to yourself, for personal study, relaxation, or chat with someone you're traveling with, or just met.)

I have been lucky to have found this place so far and look forward to doing so in the future.

(Sorry for long review, and thanks...