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Farley's
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Shopping Books, Mags, Music and Video Coffee & Tea, Books, Mags, Music and Video [Edit]
1315 18th St(between Texas St & Missouri St)
San Francisco, CA 94107
Neighborhood: Potrero Hill
(415) 648-1545
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sat-Sun 7:30 am - 9:30 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
369 reviews for Farley's
Review Highlights
"They have lots of board games so that's kinda fun."
(in 21 reviews)
"It's simply a genuine neighborhood cafe."
(in 8 reviews)
"Laid back atmosphere, good drinks, and big tables."
(in 5 reviews)
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369 reviews in English
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Review from Victor G.
Oakland, CA
12/15/2011
Farley's is a pretty cozy, compact place to hang out. there are couple racks of mags for patrons to browse gratis. the tables and chairs are too close for my comfort. i am really fortunate not to havespin hot coffee on anyone as i exited. it's that cramped here.
drink:
-coffee(2) black as usual
de la paz coffee is featured now. pretty smooth brew,
bold taste, little acidity, no harshness.
not a robust flavor but silky smooth in texture.
coffee drips:
-benches and chairs outside shop as well
-de la paz coffee easily drinkable, could be a rotating fav.
-shop nice but too cramped for me....Listed in: the beans about coffee,,,
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Review from Erika C.
Waited for my Plow table here.
Mediocre mocha using beans from De La Paz roasters. Maybe I'm not a coffee pro yet. My mocha tasted too milky.
Almond croissant was good.
I liked the decor and music. Loved the barista's attitude! Fun, friendly guy. -
Review from Josie M.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2011
De la paz latte $3.50. Solid.
Great mellow spot for doing some work. -
Review from Elisa L.
San Francisco, CA
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Cozy coffee place, I believe they have free wifi (saw from other customers) but I never used it. Their cookies are delicious and fresh (went in during the evening), and also had their Earl Grey Tea. Very reasonable prices!
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Review from Betty and Mike C.
San Francisco, CA
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love this place! Cute neighborhood coffee shop in Portrero Hills. Browse magazines while enjoying your coffee. Is there a better place to spend some relaxation time?
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Review from David B.
Happened upon this spot by accident...needed a pick me up and wandered in while in the neighborhood.
With its well worn entry and base board detail it enamored me right away..Laptop campers here and there, sharing the communal tables..
Ordered up a Drip Coffee for that bold sensation of caffeine that my body was lacking after an early morning wakeup. It was nice and strong.
Took the cup outside to enjoy on the faux green grass patio with tree bench style seating, basked in the sun while waiting for the rain to come..it always does.
Really cozy spot to wake up and grab a coffee at. Simple, satisfying and complete.
Love Potrero Hill!!Listed in: Coffee
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Review from John S.
San Francisco, CA
10/30/2011
What San Francisco coffeehouse doesn't have food? I don't need a seasonal lunch menu or scones to die for or free-range chickens that led happy lives until you decided to slit their throats humanely, but I would appreciate a bagel. Or toast. Or maybe even--gasp--a sandwich.
But Farley's has none of this. What it does have is coffee. And there are games and magazines, so it looks really promising, actually. Except that it's huge. That's a positive thing, right? Well, no, because despite its impressive square footage, it has managed to lay itself out so poorly that there are relatively few places to sit, and all of these places are crowded around one another.
The last time I was here, this blowhard who used to live in the neighborhood was literally walking around striking up conversations with people he used to know/work with/bother. Despite the fact that no one seemed to be interested in what he was saying, he went on and on about how he had to pick up the keys to his Ferrari because his au pair from Denmark wanted to drive it before she returned home and about how he couldn't decide whether to build a house in Marin or Malibu or Miami. I was trying to concentrate on grading, but it was impossible because he kept repeating himself loudly to different people. I was here for at least forty-five minutes, and he was still talking when I left. He hadn't sat down; he was just hovering and carrying on about his shallow, materialistic life.
You can bring in food from next-door Hazel's Kitchen, and that's pretty nice. But the ambiance. It's too big and too cramped at the same time. It's really cold, and while it looks the part, it's not really a San Francisco coffeehouse. Its clientele is just a little bit too--well, like that guy. I know not everyone is like him, but if he felt comfortable doing what he did here and if he used to spend time here, it's likely that many other people are like him. Where were the unkempt grad students, the struggling, strung-out artists? Not at Farley's, apparently.
So two stars it would be, except that there's a doozy of a front step, making the place completely inaccessible to wheelchair users. -
Review from DeathandFood b.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 10/16/2011
The poor decisions just keep on coming at Farley's. The new roast which they proudly proclaim costs more (hipsters seem to have a real love of paying more for less quality) is super sour and weak tasting more like starbucks chain coffee than a local custom roast. The folks have had a month to get the grind and roast right so that isn't the issue. Nope like most of the changes it's a matter of taste. Poor taste.
Roger's son has taken over this place and the changes have not been good. I don't care if they worked in Oakland where he lives but the changes he has made like closing earlier, getting rid of seating and adding really uncomfortable seats and crappy hipster stuff don't improve this place at all. I am for change when it actually makes a place better. His changes haven't. Also a coffee shop does not need a "creative director" ever.Listed in: Potrero Hill
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/27/2011
Farley's is a traditional neighborhood coffee shop. It doesn't pretend to be some architecturely… Read more »
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Review from grace v.
San Francisco, CA
11/5/2011
DECEMBER:
I revisited Farley's and the espresso is better now... I still prefer the former roast. Everything else about the place is still great.
NOVEMBER:
I like Farley's a great deal in all of its aspects: Nice space, good baristas, pastries, prices, location, atmosphere, music. I liked the espresso a lot until it just changed this month. I am not especially picky, finicky or pretentious about coffee. So I am totally bummed out because the espresso they just changed to tastes bad to me. I have tried the new espresso on five separate occasions. It is different every time - which is not a great thing - but it just doesn't taste good to me. I hope it will change. I will revisit in a few months - for now I will look for another place.
I want the owner to know this because it is important information to have. Maybe everyone else likes it except me - that would be okay too. Maybe other people will register their opinion of the new coffee. -
Review from Vince E.
12/21/2011
Quaint neighborhood coffee shop in Potrero Hill. Perfect place to stay out of the cold while waiting for a table at plow
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Review from Daniel Q.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2012
I've lived in Potrero Hill for four years and Farley's used to be my standard coffee shop, but La Stazione has replaced it because the Ritual coffee is better (than the previous roaster used by Farley's). Even so, until earlier this year, I was still regularly going to Farley's because it was a great place for work for a few hours while drinking coffee and eating a pastry or two, but the new Farley's is terrible for that. The new (old) "hipster" tables are uncomfortable to use, random heights, and the chairs are even worse. The old Farley's had comfortable seats that I could sit in for more than five minutes. The new random seats are a bloody joke.
Honestly, I haven't tasted the new coffee enough to have an opinion on it because I don't like coming here much nowadays.
Seriously, I think I might go to Starbucks or Whole Foods next time I want to work an hour or two without feeling like an ass. It is that bad now.
They still get three stars because the service is pretty good and the pastries are still excellent (I highly recommend the pumpkin cake with chocolate chips). I have a feeling the new owner will change the pastries too, though. -
Review from Dee Tail G.
San Francisco, CA
11/6/2011
Update: After I wrote my review, I received a personal note from Farley's and I have to say, I was impressed. They are aware that service hasn't been great. But mostly, the message they sent was very considerate. Bumped it up from 2 stars to 3 stars. I really appreciate their concern and it shows a lot about their efforts. Now if that service thing were to improve, it'd be even better. But for now, I'll come back and ignore that other stuff.
**************
I only come here because the location is convenient and they have seating (although it gets full during busy times). But that's about it. Their coffee is okay. I usually get lattes and the ones here have been good or just okay. Food selection is just your typical sweets (cookies, fruit bar stuff, etc.). What I don't care for is the occasional surly, unfriendly face behind the counter. It's not a friendly neighborhood place. Too bad the service sucks. Also they just take cash.
Clientele is fine. Pretty typical city cafe people with their laptops and conversations. Not overrun by any particular type in my opinion. There's an interesting mix on the weekend. -
Review from Sandra S.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2012
Thank you Farley's! Today is the first day of 2012 and you are open, serving some really fine coffee. I was in the neighborhood this morning, wanted something other than St.......ks and remembered your great little place for locals and former locals (me). My americano was so, so tasty and served at just the right temperature. I highly recommend this place. Give it a try.
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Review from Katy L.
San Francisco, CA
9/17/2011
Huge bookshelf of mags, crazy mix of chairs and tables, Mariah Heartbreaker playing, faux grass sitting area outside -that's what you will get here.
I want to come back for the live shows. -
Review from David J.
San Francisco, CA
7/30/2011
I have lived in Potrero Hill for two months and only stumbled upon Farley's about a month ago. I feel as though I have been cheating myself for having not explored my new neighborhood a bit sooner.
The staff is pleasant and professional and the overall atmosphere of the place is comfortable. The refills are free so keep in mind that if we went to Starbucks or Peet's we'd pay for our refills. I really like this place. -
Review from Cynthia L.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2012
Love this funky little place. Very good coffee drinks and tea. Love the atmosphere. One of my favorite places in SF. Check out this great neighborhood in SF. Cute little shops.
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Review from Bobby C.
San Francisco, CA
7/26/2011
I'm not a frequent visitor, but I saw the reviews for this place while I was getting GPS directions, and I was expecting them to visibly spit in my coffee.
I think the management got the message. The staff was gratuitously friendly - like, under orders to be charming. Dude even complimented my T-shirt. Reward their managerial response to your reviews by giving them your business. -
Review from Lee W.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2012
Great cup of coffee! One of my favorite places to go in the city and in a really calm and beautiful neighborhood. Their coffee is among the best in the city and the pastries are great, too!
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Review from Bill B.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 5/14/2011
Great space in a unique SF location - the heart of Potrero Hill.
If you want to be glared at and made to feel like a second class citizen, you no longer have to buy a plane ticket to Paris.
I was so excited when I moved right around the corner from Farley's two years ago. The first few mornings I went in for coffee the people behind the counter were unbelievably rude. I just figured everyone has a bad day, and the place is busy - it is early - the work can be hard. I understand. I waited tables and worked in cafes for ten years before, during and after college.
This experience of INSANELY RUDE servers on the morning shift turned out to be the rule, not the exception. So I started asking my neighbors about their experience at Farley's. Everyone had very similar horrible stories. Some said they still go there out of convenience, but many said they go elsewhere.
Unless you are practicing for your next trip to Paris, avoid Farley's at all costs.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/6/2010
Farley's is hands down the rudest business I've ever frequented, and the coffee is mediocre at best.… Read more »
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Review from Gene t.
San Francisco, CA
11/29/2011
No complaints, great location, good internet, good music (classical or classic rock/new wavey, depending on who's behind counter). Great scones, you can bring in sandwiches from hazel's next door. Great magazine selection. I love it
I've heard people comment on the coffee that it's not like the nuclear 20W50 you get at Peet's or Philz. It isn't, it's good but not viscous/super dark roast. Jes so you know -
Review from Kathryn H.
San Francisco, CA
9/14/2011
I stopped in this morning for some coffee and to hang out and use my computer and have had a good experience. The staff is not exactly friendly but I haven't had any problems with them. I've had two cups of coffee and a scone which I've enjoyed.
The atmosphere has been good for working (good music, some light conversations around, good internet), and I've generally enjoyed myself. I'll likely be back again to hang out and get some work done. -
Review from Bryan W.
San Francisco, CA
6/12/2011
the coffee, crowd, and games is worth every step I take up the hill to get my caffeine rush.. well its good for my glutes too...since, in this town everyone is advertising their arse one way or another...thus I get to take care of both my fave ass-ets!!
Some snaps and clenches for the CARD program...it keeps me coming back! -
Review from Eric B.
5/1/2011
Farley's is my benchmark on which I measure other coffee houses. And if I look at their recent "franchising" into the East Bay, their java vision has appeared to have traveled well.
Farley's had me years ago starting with the Lincoln Logs, magazines, and a cool "living room" environment. They also do black coffee (and the right nosh to go with it) very well.
Beyond that, I love the somewhat hard to find Potrero Hill location, the warm interior and hangout comfort, and the fun and sometimes educational people watching and conversation. Best of all is that with all the shiny new things out there, this Farley's keeps staying who they are. It's a place that I could spend hours (and have). -
Review from Susan C.
San Francisco, CA
4/15/2011
Lovely space, decent menu, great magazine selection, free wifi should be worth a few stars eh?
Most appalling service to the point that I'm of the opinion that anybody who has ever worked in the hospitality industry and has any pride in the trade should blackball this café on principle alone. Hospitality can be an art but most of the time a good attitude will cover you. Farley's staff, you fail. -
Review from Joseph M.
San Francisco, CA
4/30/2011
I really want to love this place but the attitude is just a little too much. The coffee is good but not great. My advice is go up or down the hill.
Skip it. -
Review from Anilorac S.
Oakland, CA
11/13/2011
Until recently, I was a HUGE Farley's customer. Won't be going back for 2 reasons:
1) They recently changed roasters, and the decision was a very bad one - they chose a poor quality roaster. New house blend SUCKS. There is no other word for it. They had a great balanced blend, the F'd up big time replacing it with crappy light roasted beans.
2) WORSE, they raised their prices from $12/lb to $14 for 12 oz. BAD FORM. That's a 56% price increase!
I'm going back to Uncommon Grounds for my beans. Like their t-shirt reads, "Life is Too Short for Shitty Coffee". -
Review from Jim T.
Hayward, CA
2/19/2011
Simply the most unfriendliest bunch of pseudo-hipsters running a coffee shop that I have ever run into. Trust me, your coffee's not that good. You need to show at least some human emotions when taking my money instead of acting like I'm bothering you for a cup of coffee.
I started working in the area about two weeks ago. I like the 18th street area and it's convenient for me even if I have to climb that deadly hill. In the 5 times I've been in Farley's, I've actually gotten maybe five words out of the zombies that work in that place, none of which were, "What would you like?".
Get a clue, I stopped going there and now walk an extra two blocks to go to Starbucks in the UCSF campus. You represent the worst of San Francisco posers. -
Review from Tom C.
San Francisco, CA
1/30/2011
OMG - Farley's what happened? Are you serious, you charge? I tried to give you ZERO stars but Yelp didn't let me.
Ok, here's the scoop:
Either the poser with the ugly tattoo on his forearm and his coffee mate, the wicked witch with the nasty spider rings, are the following:
A) Haters of the SF Giants and my baseball cap
B) Haters of paying customers
C) HOMOPHOBIC (maybe hates gays who love their City and their Giants team and this odd combination)? I was waiting in line with my boyfriend and waiting with our proud caps.
I have no idea why these disorganized jerks would think they have a right to be so rude to paying customers? What did I do? I hate to say it Farley lovers but I think it is C above. I have never gotten such rude treatment. These baristas (vitriolic baristas) were very angry. I hope that they are not now the owners? I remember the old gentleman years ago who would be quite hospitable to coffee entusiasts - he was the owner and drew a loyal following.
This is so sad. Farley's was the best place in the ate 80's and early 90's to go, hang out, read and enjoy some peace and quiet with smart, nice folks.
Now it's a nasty place. If this what their idea of being a hipster is about in the Big City, give me San Jose any day.
Get lost vitriol Tattoo Man and Witch coffee attendees! -
Review from Miika m.
Updated - 1/4/2011
Adoration.
I'm so happy to see this place still here amidst the changing environment for most cafes sprouting up all over the city. Farley's has held steadfast with the unassuming exterior and extremely warm interior.
On a recent stroll through the neighborhood, there is no such definitive that lies behind temptation with this establishment. I always find myself drawn in. The wooden plank floors. The books that are out in the open requesting the flipping of the cover or pages, as one feels inclined. The baristas here are warm and conducive to the caffeinated environment and during the summers, the sniffing done by passing dogs is always a warm welcome to my toes in flip flops. Farley's does a fabulous job of inviting the public, especially the locals, in for their daily ration of black gold.
My Breve Latte came foaming over the lip in the traditional large porcelain cup. I took this, cradled between two hands, to one of the many quaint tables and a copy of The Captain's Daughter. I had recently finished reading a Steig Larsson book (upon the recommendation of a friend who had just finished the Millennium series) and had found the modern fiction somewhat entertaining, if not a hard return to reality, given the subject material in that specific title. My latte did a fantastic job of erasing such thoughts. Hot. Creamy. Perfect.
I had a supper gathering to attend to later, so after finishing my latte, decided it was high time to walk further down the block to kill time and rev up my metabolism for what I knew was a feast awaiting me.Listed in: Orgasm for the brain
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/16/2006
For the quiet seduction cast by the warm glow of the wood floor and the inadvertent light emanating… Read more »
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Review from Katja J.
Palo Alto, CA
10/25/2011
Very nice coffeeshop in Potrero Hill! Love the location. If you walk one block up you have a great skyline view. Veeery good coffee with thick milk foam on top. Great magazine selection! And nice outdoor seating!
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Review from Kevin J.
San Francisco, CA
This place is nice and trendy and the coffee is good to boot! Portrero Hill is slowly becoming the place to be in San Francisco. It's on the top of the hill with gorgeous views of downtown San Francisco and the bay. So whether you want to grab your coffee, relax inside with one of their wide variety of magazines or grab your drink to go and walk around in the warm weather that's up to you, but the coffee is gooooooooooood here.
Try an iced latte. It packs a punch. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Berkeley, CA
1/15/2011
Farley's reminded me of being back in Brooklyn, NY, in a bad way. That was the first time I've really experienced "hipsters" outside of NYC, and I can now confidently say that they're just as annoying on the West coast.
I ordered a small cappuccino with skim milk. The barrista proceeded to ask me if i "was sure" I wanted skim milk, then told me "it's mostly air anyway." He didn't say this in a nice, friendly way, either. I'm all about barristas making good recommendations, but don't be condescending and lecture me on my choice of milk. I asked for skim milk, so give me skim milk please.
I asked another barrista where the bathroom was and she was equally as unfriendly. Then when I was in the bathroom, they have this "Dear Ms. Manners" letter posted on the paper towel dispenser about how it's bad practice to use more than one paper towel when drying your hands because it's bad for the environment. I'm all about saving trees, but next time skip the passive aggressive sign that I wasted 5 minutes of my life reading, and just post a nice friendly reminder to be considerate of the environment, like most places do.
I must say, however, that the cappuccino itself was good. The espresso they used was quite tasty. However, the quality of the drinks, for me personally, is not worth the condescending preachy barristas and the hipster vibe. -
Review from Kevin S.
San Francisco, CA
11/15/2010
I've alwayed the coffee, location, and magazine rack at Farley's. On several occasions, its been the only reason I've taken an afternoon to get some work done when I'm near Potrero.
And yet I seem to forget that Farley's seemed staffed by people who are incapable of being nice. So much so that they seem to take some nasty pleasure in being just a little less than polite, a little cold rather than helpful, and a little to eager to tell you what they can't do rather than what they can.
Case in point: I'm writing this review from Farley's. I ordered an iced coffee 10 minutes ago, which was delicious. The fellow behind the counter began our interaction not with "hello" or "what can I get for you?" but with "the line is on this side of the counter." (Hey, jerk. There isn't anyone else ordering. a) how was I to know that b) what difference does it make and c) you beginning our transaction by scolding me makes me want to turn around and leave). After getting my coffee, I asked him for less ice, which he ignored. I then paid, tipped him anyway, at which point he didn't say thank you and waved his hand over his shoulder when I asked where the cream was.
Farley's, I understand everyone has a bad day. This is at least the 4th time I've had this kind of rude, careless service at your counter. It is not cool, it is not fashionable, it isn't "just our vibe." Rude is rude.
Would it kill you to be nice people? If the answer is anything other than "no, it would not" I would be happy to leave and never come back. -
Review from Michelle P.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2010
Wow, Farley's - don't look me in the eye when I order a coffee, and then instead of giving me my change back - you put it in the tip jar?
I'll be getting my coffee elsewhere from now on. -
Review from Lisa A.
Sunnyvale, CA
7/31/2011
The house coffee is great here. But what a bunch of unhappy, rude youngsters working here! They won't even look you in the face when taking your order. The girl at the counter was literally facing the other way as she dropped change in my hand. If you are so unhappy to be working here, why not find another job? Or are you also like this outside of work? I would much prefer to get my coffee from the friendly folks at Piccino's.
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Review from Erin W.
9/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Nothing bad to say about this place! Love the new parklet in front, fake grass and all. The boardgames are also a great offering, and the magazines are always a fun distraction. I travel across the city sometimes to spend an afternoon at Farley's...need I say more to convince you of its splendor?
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Review from P F.
Palo Alto, CA
5/28/2011
I love Farley's! I am biased because I'm in the neighborhood, but as neighborhood coffee shops go, it's the best. They carry delicious pastries, their coffee is good, and it's full of local regulars. It's a really unique/artsy/dive-y place with a lot of character. And to make it even better, you can bring your breakfast bagel or sandwich from Hazel's next door to eat.
It can get pretty crowded at peak hours, but if you get a table, it's a great place to work, provided you have good headphones (if you need quiet).
I recommend their maple-apple-bacon or ginger scones if you're there for breakfast.
The baristas are a little hit or miss, but some are really great. Some are a little snooty-acting, but not in an annoying hipster or trendy way. Just...different. -
Review from Julie P.
San Francisco, CA
7/10/2011
Some people may complain in their reviews about the staff here, but honestly its a cup of coffee for $1.75, what are they supposed to do? Kiss your ass for it? They do ask you what you want, you tell them, they get it for you, and you pay them... Not too out of the ordinary. Plus they have an awesome rewards card - buy 9 get the 10th one free, something Starbucks doesn't necessarily indulge in. Anyway, if you want no free coffee ever, and you like your ass to be kissed by someone pouring you a cup of coffee because your lazy self couldn't make any that morning, maybe you should get over your obsession with corporations. If you want some awesome coffee in a rad little neighborhood barely tucked away from the city, go to Farleys!! Plus they support the art and music scene, and they have an extensive selection of magazines to look through. Win.
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Review from Lindsay S.
San Francisco, CA
9/17/2011
I am sitting in Farley's at this very moment. Although I am a fan of the coffee, I am definitely not a fan of the head banging music in the background. Not conducive to working.
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Review from CeeLo L.
San Francisco, CA
2/9/2011
I love coming here when I know who's working the front. Evan and another dude with a beard and tattoos (so sorry I forgot your name) are so awesome and interesting to talk to. They're great for catching up with for a few minutes. On the other hand, the Vince Gallo wannabe and his merry band of hipster-cronies are assholes so I just keep walking when I see any of them up front.
It's great for what it is, a local coffee shop. I live around the corner so it's not as if I'm making some holy pilgrimage for a cup of coffee. So I don't take it personally if someone gives me attitude, I just learn my lesson and keep walking down to Chats instead.
If Evan and Epic Beard Guy ever leave, that would probably be it for me*
