In the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Divisadero Street stands The Mill, a charming café and bakery that has become a beloved local hotspot. Known for its iconic thick-cut toast and craft coffee, The Mill San Francisco is more than just a café — it’s a cultural experience that combines simplicity, craftsmanship, and community in a warm, rustic setting.
In this article, we explore what makes The Mill San Francisco so special, from its roots and menu to the people behind its success. Whether you’re a foodie, coffee lover, or curious traveler, this guide will give you everything you need to know before visiting this San Francisco gem.
A Brief History of The Mill San Francisco
The Mill San Francisco opened in 2013 as a collaboration between two of the city’s most respected food artisans: Josey Baker, the founder of Josey Baker Bread, and the team at Four Barrel Coffee, a roaster known for its direct-sourced beans and precise brewing.
Josey Baker, originally a science teacher, began baking bread as a hobby in 2010. With a strong interest in natural fermentation and whole grains, he built a reputation in the city’s food circles for baking some of the most flavorful and health-conscious loaves around. When he teamed up with Four Barrel Coffee, the result was The Mill — a space that celebrates high-quality bread and expertly brewed coffee in a relaxed, design-forward environment.
Why People Love The Mill San Francisco
The Famous Toasts
One of the biggest attractions at The Mill San Francisco is the toast. Yes — just toast. But not just any toast. Thick, rustic slices of naturally leavened bread, toasted to perfection and topped with delicious spreads, have become the café’s signature offering.
Here are some toast favorites:
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast: A crispy slice of whole wheat toast covered in a blend of butter, cinnamon, and organic cane sugar
- Almond Butter with Sea Salt: Rich house-made almond butter with a pinch of flaky sea salt
- Avocado Toast: A classic Californian favorite, topped with fresh avocado, olive oil, and sea salt
- House Ricotta & Seasonal Jam: Creamy ricotta paired with locally made jam or preserves
Customers are often surprised at how satisfying these toasts can be, turning a simple snack into a full-blown culinary experience.
Quality Coffee by Four Barrel
Pair your toast with a cup of artisan coffee brewed by Four Barrel. The beans are roasted in small batches and brewed with precision. Options include:
- Espresso drinks like cappuccinos and lattes
- Hand-poured drip coffee
- Cold brew on tap
- Seasonal specialty drinks
Each coffee is served without the fuss – no syrups or fancy names, just honest, well-prepared coffee that speaks for itself.
Aesthetic and Atmosphere
The Mill San Francisco is a photographer’s dream. With its high ceilings, white brick walls, wooden communal tables, and vintage decor, it creates a calming yet lively vibe. Whether you’re writing on your laptop, catching up with a friend, or reading a book by the window, the atmosphere welcomes all.
There’s a sense of community here too. People from all walks of life gather at The Mill — artists, students, tech workers, and tourists — drawn in by the authenticity and charm.
The Bread That Started It All
The bread at The Mill is the heart and soul of the place. Made using natural fermentation and stone-ground whole grains, the loaves are flavorful, dense, and nutritious.
Types of bread baked on-site include:
- Country Bread: The most versatile loaf with a mildly tangy flavor
- Whole Wheat: Hearty, earthy, and ideal for toast
- Adventure Bread: Gluten-free, nut- and seed-packed, and incredibly filling
- Dark Mountain Rye: A strong-flavored bread perfect with butter or cheese
Josey Baker and his team bake the bread daily in the open kitchen behind the counter. Customers can watch the process, which adds a personal and artisanal touch to every visit.
The Philosophy Behind The Mill San Francisco
The Mill’s philosophy is rooted in intentionality — doing simple things extremely well.
Transparency: From sourcing ingredients to the way food is prepared, everything is visible and traceable.
Craftsmanship: Every product is made with care, whether it’s a loaf of bread or a shot of espresso.
Community Focus: The space encourages social interaction and often hosts pop-ups, events, and workshops related to baking or coffee.
More Than Just Toast and Coffee
While toast and coffee are the stars, The Mill also offers:
- Granola and yogurt bowls
- Pastries like scones and cookies
- Fresh juice and kombucha
- Retail shelves stocked with bags of Josey Baker Bread flour, jams, and other local goodies
There’s even a mini-library inside where you can pick up Josey Baker’s bread baking cookbook, which teaches home bakers how to make similar loaves from scratch.
Tips for Visiting The Mill San Francisco
Go early for fresh bread
Bread sells out quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving before noon gives you the best selection.
Expect a line
The Mill is popular. Mornings and brunch hours can get crowded, but the service is fast and friendly.
Try something new
Instead of your usual coffee order, ask the barista for their favorite. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to help.
Take home a loaf
You’ll want a slice of The Mill at home.
How The Mill Fits Into San Francisco’s Culture
San Francisco is known for innovation, creativity, and culinary excellence — and The Mill embodies all three. It’s a place that turns a humble breakfast into an art form, where you’re encouraged to slow down and savor every bite.
It also reflects the city’s emphasis on local ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and ethical practices. For many San Franciscans, The Mill is more than a coffee shop — it’s a part of their weekly routine and personal identity.
Nearby Attractions and Things to Do
Located on Divisadero Street in the Alamo Square neighborhood, The Mill is surrounded by other local favorites and attractions:
- Alamo Square Park and the Painted Ladies – Just a short walk away
- Bi-Rite Market – A small but mighty grocery store known for gourmet foods
- Nopa – One of the city’s top restaurants for organic California cuisine
- Rare Device – A curated shop for art, books, and home decor
- Local boutiques and bookstores – Great for post-toast browsing
Final Thoughts: Is The Mill San Francisco Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
Whether you’re a local who hasn’t been yet or a visitor looking for the real San Francisco, The Mill is a must. It’s a reminder that everyday things like toast can become extraordinary when made with passion and care.
So next time you’re in the city, grab a thick slice of Cinnamon Sugar toast, sip on a smooth Four Barrel espresso, and enjoy a few quiet moments inside The Mill San Francisco. It’s a small but unforgettable part of the city’s rich food story.
Do Follow USA Glory On Instagram
Read Next – Onyx Coffee Lab Bentonville: A Coffee Lover’s Dream Spot
