Ballast Coffee
$ • Coffee Shops
Hours:
329 W Portal Ave, San Francisco
About Ballast Coffee
Customers' Favorites
Vegetable Quiche
Ube Iced Latte
Avocado Toast
Barako Crush
Ballast Coffee Reviews
Ratings
Menu
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Hours
Monday | 7:30AM - 5PM |
Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5PM |
Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5PM |
Thursday | 7:30AM - 5PM |
Friday | 7:30AM - 5PM |
Saturday | 7:30AM - 4PM |
Sunday | 7:30AM - 4PM |
Ballast Coffee is a charming spot for a late coffee or remote work. The cafe serves dark roast coffee and can accommodate special requests. It features multiple spaces for studying or working, including a cozy outdoor area and a quiet study room in the back. The menu offers unique items like ube lattes, barako, and ballast signature drinks, as well as mochi donuts, veggie quiche, and chicken empanada with chimichurri. Despite being busy, the service is quick and attentive, although some customers have noted service issues during crowded times. The ube latte remains a standout, with rich flavor that pairs well with the coffee. Many consider it the best they’ve tried, and the lattes are smooth and well-balanced.
The cafe has undergone recent renovations, which have changed some of its charm. The hours have been reduced from 8pm to 5pm on weekdays, making it less ideal for late-night work or study sessions. Some seating has been removed, and the atmosphere in the back room now feels more conference-like. While the coffee and service are praised, some customers feel the cafe has lost some of its special qualities. Despite these changes, Ballast Coffee continues to be a cozy local spot perfect for a coffee break or remote work session, although there are suggestions for improved outdoor seating and better management of busy times.