Marcus from San Francisco

About me I'm an SF native and have lived here since forever. I enjoy exploring, both within the city limits and around the area, specifically for places off the beaten path. I grew up near the Haight-Ashbury district and accordingly have developed a passion for the city's colorful music scene. I picked up playing guitar at age 6 and have continued to this day. I am currently in a band with ...

Aug 5, 2025

Sacred Grounds Cafe San Francisco

Coffee house, eats & poetry

""Sacred Grounds Cafe" boasts the longest running open-mic night in San Francisco, with the tradition starting back in 1972. I recommend the poetry nights!"

Sacred Grounds is aptly named. Not only has it been an established cafe for decades, it boasts the longest running open-mic night, with the tradition starting back in 1972. The place really is funky. Proudly featuring the most mismatched decor, the whole cafe itself is a dark, almost underground room adding to the whole poetic mystique that has come to surround this place.

As for the food, it's all quite good and the couple running the place are very friendly and open to conversation. They offer everything from pastries to full breakfasts to deli sandwiches with plenty of eclectic options in between.

The real draw to this place though, and the feature which puts it on the map, is its weekly poetry nights. I've only stopped in for a handful, but it's an admirable tradition that they've maintained for so long. Anyone is welcome to watch or participate; it's a friendly space and everyone watching is supportive and respectful.

I've pretty much grown up on Sacred Grounds, having lived my entire life right down the street. While the neighborhood has undergone substantial change in just about every way, Sacred Grounds Coffee has remained as a constant and shows no signs of changing anytime soon.

Coffee & tea

About this spot

Hayes Street 2095

Sandwich:

US$

4153873859

Social

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