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Marin Coffee Roasters
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
546 San Anselmo AveSan Anselmo, CA 94960
(415) 258-9549
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
43 reviews for Marin Coffee Roasters
Review Highlights
"A cool place to see local live music on occasional evenings."
(in 7 reviews)
"unsweetened soy, balanced smooth rich espresso."
(in 10 reviews)
"Excellent people watching spot."
(in 4 reviews)
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43 reviews in English
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Review from Martina M.
Kentfield, CA
11/12/2011
I stumbled upon this place while I was walking down San Anselmo Ave looking for a chill place to plug in my laptop, get work done, and of course drink lots of delicious coffee. Well this is my new favorite place. It's seriously that good. North Beach blend coffee is my new favorite coffee. I'm about to go back and buy a bag of it to have at home. But then I won't get to hang out at their cool cafe and drink it...
I also got the oatmeal pancakes which come with 2 eggs and 2 strips of delicious bacon. I don't know how I can explain how good it was.... If your mouth isn't already watering then you need to just trust me on this and go check it out for yourself. Nom nah nom nom NOM NOM NOM! -
Review from nicole r.
Granada Hills, CA
4/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
WHAT A MAGICAL DELIGHT!!!
I was just looking for a cup of coffee and place to sit for a few. And it's when you're least expecting it or searching for it, gems are just dropped into your hands. As if the magic gods were thinking "gee, this person deserves something special and stupendous, let's blow their mind!!!"
At around 12 in the afternoon, there was live band playing. They were propped in a corner as if to be a jam-band. It was loud but not overwhelming, calming, but still stimulating enough.
There were TONS of seats, must of which were full. I found a bar stool to enjoy my coffee and chocolate.
OH YEAH!! The coffee, the original thing I was looking for. I had a vanilla latte. Plain and simple. The foam on top was thick and creamy, there was a good thick layer of it too. Just the way it should be. I tossed a little cinnamon in there too, just for spiciness. Paired fabulously with a bitter orange milk chocolate square.
People behind the counter were friendly, not overly chatty, or insincerely personable. It was refreshing.
The whole experience reminded quite fondly of waking up at one of my favorite music festivals and grabbing and organic coffee from the stand. One of the most amazing feelings I know.Listed in: Can't live with out you
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Review from Millie B.
Seattle, WA
11/6/2011
The coffee is pretty good, but it would have been better if they'd actually listened to our request to fill our mugs only 3/4. They filled them too full, so our Americanos were watery. We ordered pie and a breakfast sandwich and one arrived on a plate and the other in a bag. Hmmm. And flies! Lots and lots of flies at one end of the counter. Yuck. Put up a fly strip.
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Review from Walkt S.
San Francisco, CA
12/26/2011
Found this place while on a bike ride. The smell of the coffee drew us in. Had a soy mocha ( probably one of the best mochas that I ever had ) We tried one of the specials, turkey chili.. why not. The chili tasted fresh and with effort put into it, like a chili cook off , served with a slice of grilled garlic toast. The turkey, BLT , was nothing short of yummy. Marin Coffee Roasters is a great find, nice people, excellent coffee drinks and , surprisingly fantastic food.. p.s. the pastries are memorable ( had the fresh apricot cobbler with my mocha ... pure attitude adjustment.. in a good way )
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Review from Kate M.
Point Richmond, CA
1/15/2011
You've got to love a place that is buzzing with friendly cyclists, techies, good coffee and is so welcoming to local artists.
Thanks, MCR! -
Review from Brendan W.
San Anselmo, CA
8/21/2010 1 photo
Coffee Roasters is OK, but not for the price. Who wants to pay like seven bucks for a coffee and a muffin that really are just decent. This place is like the local biker hangout, so be prepared.
Coffee Roosters is fine, but Peet's, for a fraction of the price is much better. Don't waste your money. -
Review from Lindsey A.
San Rafael, CA
11/17/2010
Came here on a lazy weekend morning for breakfast. It was quite busy, and unfortunately the guitar player was taking up the ENTIRE corner counter which could have easily sat the 6 people desperately searching for a place to eat their food. It was overpriced, the food wasn't great, and the staff members weren't helpful. After ordering I was told they didn't have any quiche and hadn't for months (...maybe take it off the menu?) and then was tracked down again 10 minutes later to answer more questions about the Mexican Hash. I'd like to believe they were just training new people, but it didn't seem that way.
Also, on a personal pet peeve note, my scrambled eggs were SUPER dry and overdone. I don't like them runny at all but these stuck in my mouth, they weren't even worth eating. -
Review from Michael H.
San Anselmo, CA
11/16/2010
I stop by every morning on the way to work and enjoy the good coffee and friendly service.
The Chorizo breakfast wrap is my favorite treat. The bacon wrap is also delicious.
The atmosphere is typical Marin fair with a lot of people who look like they don't have a care in the world with lots of dogs. -
Review from Aaron D.
Green Brae, CA
8/14/2010 8 Check-ins Here
Excellent coffee
friendly service
all of their baked goods are super tasty -
Review from zach h.
Greenbrae, CA
11/8/2010
A great cafe. Their sandwiches are very good, and they have a rather large selection of drinks, which are also very good. The atmosphere is also very nice, and it is right next to the park.
A great cafe. Their sandwiches are very good, and they have a rather large selection of drinks, which are also very good. The atmosphere is also very nice, and it is right next to the park. -
Review from Stacey E.
Fairfax, CA
Updated - 3/26/2009 ROTD 5/28/2009
Finally... unsweetened soy, balanced smooth rich espresso. Soy latte Win!
I enjoyed some local musical talent here the other day and have been working my way through the assortment of baked goods they carry - so far so good. Croissants are great if you can nab one in the morning when they're soft and flakey.Listed in: Soy Lattes I have known
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/23/2008
Soy lattes here are not great. A little sweet, watery and low on coffee. I had a soy hot chocolate… Read more »
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Review from jill j.
Mill Valley, CA
11/13/2007
The Coffee Roasters is:
* A congenial coffee house with good coffee, some tasty grub, standard but friendly service, and a nice earthy pre-Starbucks coffee-shop vibe
* A cool place to see local live music on occasional evenings
* A central place to meet up with someone in San Anselmo
* A place to get out of the rain (hmmm ... except during that creek flood last January)
* A caffeine stop before biking over the hill to West Marin
and, sadly ...
* A place to come with your laptop so that you can say you are out of the house but still not need to interact with any non-electronic actual human beings ... except for ordering your coffee.
Sigh. I know, most coffee shops are turning into computer labs, but I wish for a little more from a cool, earthy Marin coffee shop like this.
I still go. I still like it. I don't use the wi-fi though. -
Review from Jason R.
San Francisco, CA
9/27/2007
I'm giving 5 stars based on fond memories of their old location across the street. That long and narrow hallway to caffeinated heaven would have deserved 6 stars.
Coffee Roasters makes a great espresso drink and they could always be counted to employ at least one sexy hippie chick. Great combo. -
Review from jack w.
Concord, CA
5/5/2009
Good product,
Good atmosphere,
Pretentious,
Too loud live crappy music,
Slooooow disorganized service
Pricey -
Review from Joshua N.
Marin, CA
11/17/2010
Stuck up jerks that make it clear they don't want your money, and if you don't have on either a bike outfit or flaunt excessive wealth you are not welcome. Food sucks too, service guys are jerks.
New place down the street opening up should put them in their place. -
Review from Susanne C.
Fairfax, CA
12/9/2006 1 photo
This place is like my second living room. I love to hang out here with a
cafe au lait or a pot of green tea from mighty leaf and read, write in a journal or just hang out with friends. The coffee is locally roasted and
they do free trade and organic products whenever possible. The community came together after last years flood on New Years day and
helped to clean and get the place up and running by Monday.
They have local musicians who play on Saturdays and Sundays and often times have evening events as well. The food is not bad either
espeically like the tomato basil soup. -
Review from Jennifer B.
San Anselmo, CA
7/7/2009
I love this place! Every week I stroll down to get a bag of the Organic North Beach Blend...comes with a free cup of coffee. Granted, I get my coffee, hang out on the front tables outside, chat with some of the locals and get on with my day. So with that purpose it's a great place. The people have always been super nice...employees and patrons. The blueberry muffins and breakfast burritos are to-die-for. The service has always been efficient.
Best to go on weekday mornings to avoid the herd..but even then it's been fine and I love the live music! -
Review from Joe M.
12/28/2008 1 photo
Marin Coffee Roasters is one of my hometown's many great local cafes. My go-to place for the last year or so, I love dropping in for a cup of Joe while people-watching and taking advantage of their high-speed WiFi offering.
On this trip, I decided to change it up and try their equivalent of Starbucks' mocha frappacino. The actual name escapes me at the moment, but it was basically the same idea. To be honest, I actually like the Starbucks version better as they tend to blend them a bit smoother and the turn out less icy than the Coffee Roasters' take on it.
There are a few things that I would modify about the overall package of Marin Coffee Roasters' offering such as making it more laptop friendly, but all in all, it's another great example amongst the abundant Marin cafes.
Food: 6/10
Service: 6/10
Price: $
Atmosphere: 7/10 -
Review from Nora G.
San Anselmo, CA
3/15/2009 36 Check-ins Here
When I walk in, they already know what I want. I like that. It's like Cheers....where everybody knows your name....so they may not know my name, but at least they know my drink. Only problem I've come across is the soy coagulating in my coffee. So I just use the lowfat milk now.
Doing homework, running into people from the neighborhood, people-watching. It's all good. -
Review from Krishnan S.
San Francisco, CA
9/10/2008
My main goal is to find a good place to work from, hence I rate my establishments based on wifi connectivity, comfort and laptop friendliness.
Pros:
1. Great coffee
2. Good people watching place, the foot and bike traffic that roll by the centre of San Anselmo's main shopping distrct
3. Yummy snacks, It does not offer meals but the brownies I got the other day were great.
4. Takes credit cards (no Amex though)
5. Great coffee
Cons:
1. Poor internet wi fi connection
2. Limited power outlets for laptops
3. Can get crowded and busy... during the weekend they have a live band play which can be great but not if you are trying to work (or pretend to work in my case)
Overall: I shamelessly use coffee shops for their wifi connectivity so it does fit well with my needs. However they have won awards for the quality of their coffee and if you want to chill, hangout and people watch then this would be great venue. -
Review from christina c.
Mill Valley, CA
3/26/2011
Best coffee in all of the bay area! They offer a great tea selection an the Latte was perfect!
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Review from H S.
San Anselmo, CA
2/19/2008
Let's start off with the good stuff; the food. The best croissants anywhere and fresh fruit and burgers, etc. that are so delicious.
But the espresso is awful. The people manning the espresso machine have no clue what they are creating. I can only guess that they either don't like coffee or just don't ever taste it. It's bitter water. I'm regretful every time I buy it. So third time is the charm and never again.
That said, the owner would be doing himself and everyone in the area a service if he sent his people to Stumptown in Portland where I lived for a year. There is no such thing as a crummy cup of jack up there. They get it. Sadly, I'm sure that Mr. Roaster is too proud or "successful" to admit that he's serving swill. -
Review from Breena M.
Greenbrae, CA
12/4/2010
It's nice to find a coffee house that understands a good time! I was surprised the first time I stumbled in on a Saturday morning to see/hear a band, awesome! And they make great coffee/espresso (I've worked in 2 different coffee shops, for over 2 1/2 years... I know good coffee). And they serve wine? AND food-- of which I have not yet tried... so I can't say if the other reviews are true to my opinion. I came here again this morning for some velvet foam and left smiling once again.
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Review from m h.
San Francisco, CA
12/27/2010
Solid espresso. They let you pour in your own hot water for an Americano and they are always friendly or at LEAST professional and fast. Fair prices too! Good live music (some great!), albeit a bit loud at times.
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Review from Amanda W.
Naples, FL
4/17/2010
free WIFI
good coffee and treats
i have spent quite a few DAYS in here
staff super friendly -
Review from Sarah B.
San Anselmo, CA
10/22/2010
After trying Marin Coffee Roasters several times, I am compelled inform yelpers that this place is not so great. Always dirty dishes left on tables and counters, poor service, even the manager is more about having his own good time rather than moving the line along. I am really looking forward to the new coffee place opening up around the corner. Maybe some healthy competition will put MCR butts in gear. Until then, I will have my coffee in Fairfax!
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Review from Stephanie S.
Newport Beach, CA
10/3/2010
Amazing quality roasted coffee! A neighborhood favorite, Marin Coffee Roasters is a North Bay classic small town coffee shop. Bikers, artisans, students, and those who work "on the Avenue" can feel at home for a cup of coffee here. My favorite pastry is the raspberry scone, flaky cornbread-eque dough with raspberry preserves in the middle. I've enjoyed quiche and the PB&J here as well, but I've not really tried most of the food here. Excellent espresso drinks, like a mocha with homemade whipped cream or a soy cinnamon latte. The baristas at Marin Coffee Roasters are friendly and quickly learn your face if you're a local.
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Review from Alisha T.
San Rafael, CA
11/29/2010
I frequent this place at least 4 times a week for my morning Caramel Latte. The staff is one of the concrete factors of why I come here. Chris and Johnny are definitely my favorites, and the Owner is awesome. They connect to their patrons on a personal level, and if you've been there more than twice, will probably remember your name and drink selection.
Saturday and Sundays are always crowded with Cyclists, locals and young families. I do not mind waiting in the line to order, and when it is too crowded to sit, there is always a friendly patron to start a conversation with. Making friends with the other coffee shop goers is easy, and I enjoy the live music that is there on the weekends. If you want "star bucks" or Peet's like service, or undivided attention (it's not a restaurant people!) don't come here, but if you want personalized, family friendly, type service, come here. It's not boughy and it's not for the "I think I'm all that" type person either.
I love their food. Their Turkey Chili, BLT surpremes and their Lattes are the Bees Knees. -
Review from Keane B.
San Anselmo, CA
6/14/2010
I come here about 3 times a week or so. Its great. There are lots of nice folks who pet me. The breakfast burritos smell delicious and from the very, very small bite of strawberry scone I stole the other day, their baked goods are great. Its a very nice place and I would recommend it.
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Review from Fabiola S.
San Anselmo, CA
11/20/2009
I'm a new resident in Marin County, and the Marin Coffee Roasters is an absolutely awesome place to get a wonderful cup of coffee, tea, or even breakfast or lunch. I try and make any excuse to always swing by and grab a tea, sit with a book and relax. This is the place to meet a lot of the locals, as everyone is very friendly and welcoming. Last but not least, the service is excellent! Always with a smile! You'll even find live entertainment twice a week! Absolutely love it and highly recommend it!
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Review from Allison L.
Berkeley, CA
11/21/2009
I'm totally into this place! Laid back, clean, funny as hell ("no camping" sign with a wifi signal; Mocha Muffs; Mexican Hash) and just overall very relaxing. Free wifi and yummy peanut butter cookies. Best cafe I've seen in Marin thus far!
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Review from Cinnamon F.
Napa, CA
12/8/2007
Free WiFi + ample electrical outlets + good organic coffee + sexy bad boys behind the counter = perfect cafe.
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Review from Stacey K.
San Anselmo, CA
4/18/2007
I can't believe this place only has one review. Its the most popular hub in the area. Everyone hangs out here on Sunday mornings. The masses of bike riders cruising out to west marin stop here. Its also got great food and really cool friendly employees.
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Review from Peter E.
San Rafael, CA
Updated - 3/31/2010
Free coffee when you buy a bag of beans...? This place is just getting better...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/29/2010
This is my hangout for coffee and work. Easy access to internet (and it is free). Since I'm an… Read more »
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Review from Jenn F.
Sausalito, CA
6/6/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I have to give the place a few stars for their setup with wifi and outlets for the computer dependent like myself. However, the drinks left a lot to be desired. Because they were out of both the tapioca for the bubble drinks, and the chillo powder for the chillo drinks we had an Iced Mocha, and a Mexican Mocha.
Maybe I'm spoiled from making my own mochas and coffees at home, but this one just wasn't very good. It tasted like house coffee, with a bit of chocolate powder, over ice. No espresso, no balanced chocolate and coffee flavor. Honestly it was just not good. Granted I like my coffee strong. The sort of strong blend so opaque that light cannot escape it. I usually opt not to add additional sugar to any drink that involves the words 'mocha', 'frap', 'chillo', etc. Yet, I added sugar and chocolate powder to this drink in an attempt to make it palatable.
The mex mocha was not better. It tasted like a pseudo mocha, with cinnamon on top. That's it. Not blended, not particularly chocolaty, or strong on the coffee flavor. So overall, 'eh. I've had better. -
Review from Hollis K.
San Rafael, CA
10/9/2009
Refreshingly the best.....and they don't write my name on the espresso cup.....the guys working here are cool enough.....just xlnt
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Review from Meghan H.
Denver, CO
9/14/2009
The coffee is good, the pastries are decent (can't get over the fact that there's usually a fly or two buzzing around the pastry case), and the morning staff is awesome! Specifically the morning staff b/c I don't drink much coffee in the afternoon and the last time I went there in the afternoon, the person helping me was sub-par. If you go after they've just baked chocolate chip cookies, get one!!! I don't know about the live music that other dude was complaining about, they don't have it all of the time and when they do it seems to add a nice background ambience.
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Review from mark h.
San Francisco, CA
4/29/2010
Marin Coffee Roasters at first impression is "alright." I went in for some beans when I first moved to San Anselmo. At first the employees weren't very friendly. They had a pretty good spread on bean selection, I asked a few questions about their different roasts and the kid behind the counter acted as if it was a bother to humor my questions. That's a pretty big turn off for me when it comes to places such as coffee shops.
I ended up with a pound of their Hawaiian peaberry, and it just wasn't that great, on par with peets or starbucks. I do want to get back soon to try out another roast and will update my review upon another visit. I really do hope my next visit satisfies my need in a coffee roaster since they are a short walk from the house. -
Review from Jesus G.
Riverside, CA
8/27/2009
One of the best coffee shops in California. I love the laid back atmosphere and great staff. Always a joy to stop there after a bike ride. Excellent people watching spot.
Listed in: Tourist
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Review from Denise L.
San Francisco, CA
5/18/2009
Fun place to kick back, enjoy a cup with some music and people watch. Free WiFi too. Basic but good.
