Baristas in the hood: Cafe La Taza

Today, we profile Cafe La Taza, in the heart of Union Square, home of tourists, tourism employees, hotel laborers, hustlers, office nine-to-fivers, shoppers and art students.

The popular java house, established in 2004, serves up a delicious beverages and edibles, and is one of three locations in the local chain—the first La Taza opened in the Mission in 1997, with the Castro shop following Union Square in 2009.

In addition to drinks, La Taza serves scrumptious foods like an assortment of homemade breakfast sandwiches (with eggs and fresh bacon hot off the skillet) and daily lunch specials.

What is your name?

Lisa.

What are the peak hours of Cafe La Taza?

I’d say we’re busiest between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., with a lunch rush between 11 a.m and 2 p.m.

How would you describe the clientele?

It’s a mixed crowd—business people, young school kids, and tourists.

Ever have any celebrities stop in for a quick bite?

We don’t get too many movie stars, but Tom Hanks did come in once.

Who is your most remarkable customer?

I don’t have one in particular, but there have been a few customers who were incredibly honest. For example, if they got undercharged, they came back in to pay the rest.

Do you have a favorite regular customer?

There is a guy named Byron who works as a sound engineer. He’s always traveling and has interesting stories to tell; a good conversationalist. He works in the building upstairs.

What is the most popular food item on your menu?

Probably the pulled pork panini, or the La Taza salad [mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, tomato, feta cheese, bacon, cranberries and toasted almonds tossed in a homemade red wine vinaigrette].

How about the most popular drink?

Our latte.

How would you describe the neighborhood?

It’s busy! Just the other day there was a marching band playing outside. There’s always some commotion going on.

What is your favorite part of working at Cafe La Taza?

Interacting with the customers is the highlight for me, it always keeps the work day going, keeps it fresh and interesting.

Cafe La Taza is located at 470 Post Street (between Mason & Powell Streets), San Francisco, CA 94102.