Coffee Conscious

Coffee Conscious stands out as a distinctive coffee shop and tea house nestled in the vibrant heart of Berkeley at 1312 Gilman St. This delightful locale offers more than just your typical caffeine fix — it’s a sanctuary for coffee and tea connoisseurs who crave specialty beverages with a thoughtful, conscious twist.

At Coffee Conscious, the menu is a carefully curated blend of classic espresso-based drinks and innovative combinations that elevate your daily ritual. Whether you crave a robust Red Eye with Steamed Almond Milk to kickstart your day or a delicately crafted Turkish Cortado that offers a unique cultural flair, every sip is a journey of flavor and balance. The offerings don’t stop there — indulge in a creamy Maple Oat Cappuccino or warm your spirits with their signature Vanilla Clove Latte that intertwines comforting spices with velvety smoothness. Matcha lovers will find solace in their perfectly brewed Matcha Latte, an earthy green tea experience complemented by an irresistible assortment of vegan treats.

The food selection here deserves as much praise as the drinks. Coffee Conscious has earnestly gained a reputation for boasting some of the Bay Area’s best vegan donuts, enchanting customers with delicate textures and captivating flavors. From the lightly dusted Cinnamon Sugar Donut to the uniquely flavorful Matcha Vegan Donut, each baked good is artfully paired — your palate will rejoice exploring combinations like the Iced Chai Latte with Almond Milk accompanied by a chocolate-sprinkled donut. Other sweet indulgences such as the Blueberry Glazed Doughnut or the festive Panettone add a worldly charm and an inviting sweetness to complete your café experience.

What makes Coffee Conscious truly compelling is its genuine, welcoming atmosphere. Customers often comment on the friendly and knowledgeable baristas who take time to craft each beverage with care and personality. Anna Mallardi raves about the “amazing iced coffee with coffee ice cubes and oatmilk,” emphasizing the warmth and attentiveness of the staff. Eli appreciates the balanced flavors of the specialty coffee despite acknowledging the slightly steeper prices — a testament to the quality and craftsmanship poured into every cup. Rob Perica was touched by the thoughtful heart-shaped foam on his latte during his first visit, highlighting that this is more than just a cog in the café machine — it’s a place that connects with its guests on a personal level.

The ambiance is another highlight, with a subtle moody vibe and carefully curated background music setting the perfect tone for relaxation and conversation. Victoria Ayala describes the vibe as “great little moody,” with an inviting playlist that complements the enticing aroma of freshly brewed espresso around you.

For those seeking a mindful and flavorful coffee or tea experience in Berkeley, Coffee Conscious delivers an exquisite combination of specialty drinks, superbly crafted vegan pastries, and an atmosphere that feels like a genuine neighborhood gem. Whether you’re an aficionado of traditional espresso drinks, an adventurous tea lover, or simply in search of a cozy spot with conscientious choices, Coffee Conscious invites you to savor every sip and bite — making every visit feel like a thoughtful, elevated pause in your day.