The rise of the independent coffee chain means it’s harder for shops to stand out. The market is competitive, and it seems a new shop pops up practically every day. But San Francisco-based Philz Coffee stands out. The shop serves “pure” coffee and no espresso drinks, like those beloved pumpkin spice lattes, that are common in so-called third wave java spots.
Besides not offering espresso-based drinks even though it caters to that crowd—the company’s website claims that the employees here will make you a drink that’s similar, if not better, to the fancy lattes that you’re used to—Philz specializes in custom coffee blends. Each one ranges from one to seven different coffee beans from around the world—talk about diversity in a cup! Customer service is also a top priority here. If you’re unsure of what to order, you can speak one on one to a barista who can assist you. And the drinks served at Philz read like something out of someone’s dream. Enjoy everything from a mint mojito to gingersnap iced coffees, if you prefer the sweeter stuff. A handful of teas also round out this menu.
Blends here are low in acidity—a common woe for the average coffee drinker. And it seems that Philz’s philosophy of creating a “cup of love” has resonated with others. Since its humble beginnings as a corner shop in San Francisco, the chain has grown exponentially. Philz operates 15 locations in the San Francisco area and one in Santa Monica. Virgin Airlines even pours this coffee on its flights!
But if you won’t be flying anytime soon, you can always visit a shop in person. According to reviews, expect to wait for your drink. The barista will hand make it and call out your order when it’s ready. If you need it in a hurry, consider using the OrderAhead app to expedite the process.
And “slow-coffee” lovers are not the only ones in for a treat. Philz also appeals to the eco-friendly crowd. The company composts about 2,000 pounds—no small number there—of coffee grounds every day. As with many other shops, Philz will give you a discount if you bring your own reusable mug. No matter what size you get, Philz will only charge you for a size small. But the company does ask that you make reasonable drink order requests. Each location also has recycling and composting receptacles to make it easy for visitors to go green.
But what if reading about this coffee has given you a craving and you don’t reside in California? The good news is that you can order beans online. Choose from light, medium and dark roast blends. For the seriously dedicated java junkie, consider getting a coffee subscription so you can have the coffee delivered to you as often as once a week.
Just like Philz has all its beans internationally shipped by trusted carriers, Navis can ship your goods across international waters too. If you need items shipped abroad—anything from coffee beans to large furniture is OK—the company will ensure that your goods are protected and arrive in pristine condition.
Image: Flickr
By Steve Goble, VP of Marketing Communications for Navis Pack & Ship. When he's not spilling packing and shipping secrets, he's spending time with his family at a San Diego Padres or Chargers game. Connect with Steve on Google+ and LinkedIn.
