Hey there , what a cool little spot- nice aesthetic, friendly and groovy staff too! I enjoyed my first ever charcoal latte with less milk than normal as I prefer it that way. I was a charcoal virgin,a neophyte. I would have had a cigarette after, but I quit smoking back in the 70s. BTW: Don't be frightened by the appearance because it sort of resembles what happens when exhaust from a car tailpipe discolors the snow, or maybe the inside of a Dyson vacuum cleaner? The following is what I enjoyed: Iced Charcoal Latte Our delicious espresso 2oz, steamed with milk of your choice and activated charcoal made from organic coconuts. Northwest Biscotti, LLC - Orange Cranberry Biscotti Two pieces of orange flavored biscotti with dried cranberries. This biscotti tasted a little bit like shortbread and I and I liked it very much. I just might have to make this joynt part of my regular routine. I hope you do too. (Pics include area graffiti.) Return visit: It's been a minute and only gets better, nice visit today. A latte for the boss and a regular brew and a delicious blueberry muffin 4 me. Simply Devine. Attentive multi tasking staff as good as the product served! read more

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I've been coming here regularly since they opened -- the coffee is decent, it's close to home, and I'm glad to support a Black-owned business. But the customer service has consistently been awful. I'm rarely acknowledged when I walk in. A simple "hi" or "welcome" isn't a lot to ask, especially when there are only one or two people in the shop. I've walked out multiple times after being second in line. Today was the last straw. I waited 4-5 minutes while the barista made a drink for the only other customer. Another woman came in, tied her dog up outside, and got in line behind me. My dog (also outside) started barking at hers, so I stepped out for 10-15 seconds to check on him. When I came back in, the barista was already serving the woman who'd been behind me. No acknowledgment, no "I'll be right with you." I waited another 30 seconds and left. This is the third time something like this has happened, and it doesn't happen at any other local coffee shop I go to. read more

Came here for an afternoon pick-me-up and the vibes were great. Mildly busy for midday Friday, some seating inside, but more outside. Friendly staff and polite customers. I ordered the seasonal candied yam latte and it's the perfect mix of balanced flavor with velvet texture, pleasantly surprised (not too sweet or strong). The iced drinks I saw others order looked delicious, as do the pastries. I told a coworker I came here during my break and he had no idea there was a Red Bay in Berkeley, and I had no idea it's a chain - the more you know! This location is nestled on a side street with minimal parking, but walkable from Ashby Bart station. read more

Red Bay Coffee - Coffee beans for sale - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Visited Red Bay Coffee Bar for the first time on a late weekday morning and had a great experience. The location on Alcatraz Avenue was easy to find, and the space itself is a cute, Black-owned coffee bar with both indoor and outdoor seating. I ordered a hot vanilla bean latte with oat milk, and it was actually delicious. The staff member working was very friendly and took the time to share which drinks are popular, as well as explain that they rotate seasonal offerings, which I appreciated.They also have a solid selection of whole bean coffee available for purchase, which is a nice bonus if you want to take something home. I'll definitely be back to try more drinks. read more

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I was excited to come to this neighborhood coffee spot. The person working was kind and skilled, however, the company does not accept cash. Not accepting legal US tender is damaging in several real world ways that negatively and directly affect working class people and communities at large. Please educate yourself. I will not be returning here. I will keep my money circulating in the community, not draining it through service charges owed by the big banks. read more

This was my 1st time visiting this location of Red Bay Coffee. It's a small yet quaint coffee house that feels welcoming. My mother and I both had an Iced Vanilla Bean Latte. It was very delicious and refreshing. I recommend this location if you're in the area. read more

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Headed back in to the east bay, making a stop in Berkeley, my husband was looking for hot cocoa and a baked good to satisfy breakfast. In the area of Ashby we landed on Red Bay Coffee. For the last year, I have ordered their whole bean selections, specifically the East Fourteenth. This was my first time visiting a store location. My husband went inside to order. He came back with a blueberry muffin for our little one, a Saigon latte for me and a hot cocoa and pastry for himself. He said the service was fast and friendly. My Saigon latte is a blend of spices nestled in oat milk (as requested). The temperature is perfect and the silkiness of the drink coats the tongue releasing a sympathy of flavors balanced perfectly. My husband said the hot chocolate was favorable but it is not his top. He said he would definitely order it again. Our daughter took a few bites of her muffin with a mmmm mmmm accompanying it. Let's say she gives their blueberry muffin two thumbs up. I would definitely venture back to this location when I'm in Berkeley. Supporting local businesses is a must and Black owned businesses is at the top of my list for that. read more

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Today I wanted a charcoal latte which is my favorite drink. It's smooth and delicious with the charcoal notes throughout. The service was quick and friendly and they made it extra hot like I requested. If I lived closer I would have this drink at least three times a week. read more

Red Bay Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

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The service was amazing, and the staff were very friendly. The coffee was good and I loved their mushroom shaped ice cubes. The interior of the cafe was very nice and outdoor seating is a plus if you want to study there. read more

Red Bay Coffee - Iced vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

I came in a few days ago just to buy a pastry. When I got in line the customer in front of me informed me he was the last person being served because the barista was alone and needed to go on break. I understood and was ready to leave. However, the barista began telling us very aggressively that he would not be serving anyone else. The tone felt unnecessarily harsh from the start, even before anyone said anything. A woman behind me asked if she could at least buy a bag of coffee and I understand how that may have frustrated him further, but his reaction escalated even more. It became a very uncomfortable situation for everyone involved. I walked out feeling uneasy. understand he needed his break, but the situation should never have reached that point. On another visit this week, I had a barista who seemed extremely dismissive. I ordered a yam latte and a sesame rice crispy and she barely spoke to me during the interaction. When my order was ready, she didn't call out my name or say anythiny. I eventually discovered it just sitting there. Today I came back and ordered a pastry again. Because I'm driving, I needed it in a bag but the barista told me they haven't had bags for a while. Again, this isn't on the staff. They're doing what they can, but they shouldn't have to apologize for something as simple as a basic supply shortage. Management needs to ensure baristas aren't left alone during rushes and that the store stays properly stocked, especially for a coffee shop that serves baked goods. I don't know what's happening behind the scenes but it feels like the baristas are carrying the burden of poor management decisions. They look stressed, overwhelmed, and unsupported and it truly makes me feel for them. They deserve better. After three unpleasant visits in a row, I think I'm going to wait and see if management works to improve the environment for their staff. I genuinely hope things get better for the baristas because they're the ones keeping this place running. For now I won't be visiting for a while and I'll be letting my family, also frequent this café, know as well. read more

Red Bay Coffee - Napkin fused to my sesame seed Rice Krispy. Peeled what I could, but bits are still stuck. Gross. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

Such a cute spot!! Chill and inviting atmosphere, and the Vietnamese cold brew is delicious! Would totally come back and take my coffee for a walk around the artsy block read more

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Winner-Winner, I want coffee for dinner!!! I am so excited that I found this super cute and cozy Red Bay coffee shop! It's super convenient, located right on Alcatraz. The service is absolutely stellar, and the sunlight is perfection. They have a few indoor seats and even a small patio area. read more

The only reason I'm not giving them 5 stars is because they started using that awful oatmilk again. They used to use Califa oatmilk which is really creamy and delicious. Why change milks when you've got a good thing that the customers prefer? The new milk is watery and I hate it. I won't be buying my lattes there any more until they go back to Califa. read more

I have always wanted to come to this brand but it is so far out of the way. But I was coming home from a training and figured that I'd stop on by and I'm glad that I did. The guy there wasn't a regular in this spot, he works at the Fruitvale location, but my charcoal mocha was good. I wanted the sweet potato but they don't have it. Next time I come, I hope they have it here. This is closer to my home. The person who worked there was very nice and greeted me. This is a cute, very clean coffee space and I'm very glad that I went. I don't know when I'll be back, but when I return, I really hope that they have the sweet potato coffee. read more

Red Bay Coffee - The swan, charcoal style. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

They're never consistently open during the hours posted, and it's annoying AF! The management is incompetent and rude.

You guys need to try the charcoal latte it's so yummy! i got it with oat milk and agave syrup, Im not a hot drink kinda person but this changed my perspective on them. Service was great and they have a really cool seating area read more

Headed to Emeryville early to hit the Granite Expo and needed a coffee post shopping. We were lucky to find Red Bay in neighboring Berkeley, thanks to my fellow yelpers! And it did not disappoint! This is a tiny shop in a quiet neighborhood. We were warmly greeted when we walked in and our barista quickly took our order. We indulged in an almond and a spinach feta croissant. Bothe were yum, and I appreciated that the spinach wasn't chopped to bits but made with whole spinach leaves. We had almond milk lattes and the drinks were delicious! The coffee had a lovely toasted taste, not at all bitter, with a tinge of floral notes. There was a steady stream of customers coming in while we sat on the front patio--clearly the locals know about this place! We'd definitely stop again when in the area. Plus, this is a Black-owned and Certified B Corporation! (Look that up if you aren't familiar!) read more

Red Bay Coffee - Latte and spinach feta croissant. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

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First visit. Wasn't familiar with the chain/brand before. Lovely coffee shop and patio, and some of the best cold brew I've ever had. But: Barista assistance is needed for entry into office building for restroom. read more

Best coffee ever... Leaves me smiling every morning. East 14th is my favorite, followed by Brazilian Cake Lady read more

I used to go to the headquarters exclusively until I realized there was a location near me. I expected the same great energy. Drinks are always great and service has been cool until today. I hate even having to leave this review because I respect the business so much. It's really weird to overhear your barista and coworker (people you just greeted pleasantly) talking shit about you. I'm not sure why they thought I wouldn't hear, I was the only person in the store. At least wait until I leave. read more

Red Bay has done an excellent job of getting me addicted to their vanilla charcoal latte! Jokes aside, this place is awesome. It's a nice spot to pick up a latte and go, or to grab a coffee and sit down with your laptop for a little while. I am especially fond of their seasonal drinks! read more

Red Bay Coffee - Charcoal Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

My local coffee shop. Cute little shop I like to walk to, staff is friendly enough and informative. The coffee is really good though and I can tell they put care into their food. read more

Red Bay Coffee - sweet potato latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

Lattes were very good and tasty. My friend got the hot charcoal latte and it tasted amazing! I got the hot matcha latte w/ oat milk & honey. The service was good and the cafe has cute decorations/seating inside and outside. Definitely coming back! read more

Red Bay Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

Loved the coffee - I got an iced oat milk latte with cinnamon, tasted like horchata! Walkable from many houses nearby. Some indoor and outdoor seating. Very friendly atmosphere. Only downside is no restroom or outlets - I studied here for about 3 hours before I had to leave to plug in my laptop read more

Red Bay Coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I needed a caffeine fix this morning, so I headed straight for Red Bay because it was the closest thing to me. I got here right before they opened at 7:30 and was really surprised to see 2 other people already in line. I think that's how you know it's a good spot. They have a pretty solid menu - the essentials as well as some creative drinks as well. I loved the decorations, the indoor /outdoor seating, and the huge windows. It really looks like a great spot to sit down and get some work done or just chill and read a book. The person working was by herself, and she did a great job balancing everything. I appreciated that she took the time and gave me honest opinions on the drinks I wanted to order. I got the saigon latte half sweet, and it was perfect for me. Would definitely come back here :) read more

Good spot if you're in the neighborhood and looking for convenient but also decent coffee.

While staying in Berkley for a weekend, we were so lucky to have been in walking distance to this Red Bay Coffee. Though it's a small shop inside, the ambiance is cute, chill, and has a cute outdoor seating area. But the real deal is the coffee here. It is made fresh and absolutely delicious! Lattes are also really good here as well! When we got there, there was only one gentleman doing everything, and he was fantastic at what he did. He was friendly, quick, and still made everything perfectly. Unfortunately, I don't live anywhere near this place, but if I am in the area, I know there's at least one good coffee spot for me to go to in the morning! And if YOU'RE in the area, I recommend giving this location a shot! read more

Cool neighborhood gem. Free convenient parking. Nice outdoor patio for chatting or working. Food is from Starter bakery so you know it's good. Service is great! It's a little out of my way since there are three other coffee houses closer. Totally worth the effort. read more

Red Bay Coffee - Menu - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Great products and lovely space, but the customer service is on a steady decline. The staff at the Berkeley location are often rude and act like they don't want to be there. For example, this morning the staff announced to the patrons "does anyone else want to do this job?" And proceeded to be rude and disinterested while taking orders. He slammed items around and threw my purchases at me. It was to the extent that I was scared to drink my latte for fear he might've done something to it. My visit before this morning was about a week ago, and there was another rude angry staff member who was also visibly annoyed and throwing products around. It's a very uncomfortable experience. I really like the cafe but the Berkeley location definitely needs better staff that want to be there. read more

Great matcha and pastry! Great vibe to sit and chill. Love the outdoor seating area. Lovely people at the register.

Delicious cold brew and croissants in the Bay Area- love this location and there's a cool record shop across the street!

This location officially opens for business June 5th. This entire week has been their "soft launch." Its a cute lil coffee shop that has an old school chill vibe. Everything from lattes to quiche and cute lil impulse buys! They sell baguette and olive oil loaves from Starter Bakery. The staff is so friendly! Cute lil addition to Alcatraz community. Get the Vietnamese Cold Brew! HELLA GOOD!! The pretzels are super tasty as well! Plenty of outside seating...no public restrooms. read more

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I went to Red Bay on Alcatraz to support the business, as I have read that it has been struggling. Then I get there, at 3:45 pm on a Wednesday -- when its own website says that it is still open (until 4:00 pm) -- and the gates are closed, with no one home. If you can't even be bothered to respect the time of your customers and stay true to your own posted hours, then I'm done. Either change your hours or at least post something on the door explaining why, uncharacteristically, you had to close early that day. It's just really inconsiderate. (I'm giving one star -- not zero -- only because Yelp requires me to). read more

The pistachio & berry pastry is the best I've EVER had! The latte with oat milk was delicious! I liked the vibe--locals walking dogs and dropping in for a coffee. I sat in the corner where there are two comfy chairs, read a book and enjoyed a great breakfast. read more

I am so excited for this coffee bar to take over this space from a former coop. Conveniently located on Alcatraz off Adeline, this is a nice addition to the Santa Fe neighborhood. Inside there's a cute seating area decorated with plants and out the window you can see the nice murals of the other businesses. There's also an outdoor patio that's semi enclosed and shaded. The sweet lattes are not too sweet and my go to is the Saigon latte with oatmilk. They have pastries from Starter bakery as well. Staff here were so friendly and excited to be opening this location! Props to the guy who made my latte and did his first latte art :) read more

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Coffee was good, barista was not lmao. It sucks bc this is a good spot but I don't want to give money to these people

This shop is down the street from my studio and you'd think I'd be stoked to have a local coffee shop. The barista was berating the counter person about how poor of an employ he was... she was insulting him openly while I was trying to order. I would not recommend this environment to anyone. Having a miserable employee degrade another employee in front of customers is so insanely uncalled for & extremely uncomfortable. Poor guy doesn't deserve to be talked to or treated like that. read more

Delicious coffee and friendly service! I am always looking for a new coffee spot, and love trying new places, so when I came across this little gem I was so happy! It's small and quaint with a very relaxing atmosphere, lots of windows, and seating available outside as well. I have tried several of their custom made drinks also purchased some beans and let me say they never disappoint! Will always come here when I'm in the area. read more

great, reliably solid cup of coffee every time. Staff always friendly and warm and welcoming (especially Erika and Brian!). simple, tasteful seating and environment. the perfect local joint! read more

Very kind staff who have gone the extra mile to be particularly accommodating and ask questions to get the drink how I like it even when I haven't asked for it. And excellent shots of espresso to boot. read more