Last Updated on February 8, 2025 by Karen
Check out 11th Hour Coffee in Santa Cruz with a review of their quality coffee, tasty menu options, and welcoming atmosphere. From cold brew to vegan-friendly treats, see what makes this local coffee shop a must-visit.
If you’re ever in the mood for a great cup of coffee, a delicious breakfast, and a cozy atmosphere, 11th Hour Coffee in Santa Cruz is definitely worth checking out. I recently had the chance to visit this local coffee shop and was genuinely impressed. Whether you’re in the mood for a warm cup of coffee, a sweet treat, or even some avocado toast, 11th Hour has something for everyone. Here’s my honest review of this delightful coffee roastery!
What Makes 11th Hour Coffee Special?
Founded by Brayden Estby and Joel Estby, 11th Hour Coffee is a family-run coffee shop located in Santa Cruz. The shop is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s a great place to relax, work, or meet up with friends. Known for their core values of supporting local farmers and crafting quality coffee, 11th Hour is committed to serving up coffee that’s fresh, flavorful, and brewed with care.
I love that 11th Hour is not only a local gem but also places a big emphasis on sustainability and community. Their relationship with local farmers ensures they are always offering the freshest beans possible, and the support for small businesses is clearly reflected in the space’s cozy, inviting atmosphere. They also have a second location in Santa Cruz, expanding their reach and giving even more people access to their delicious brews.
The Coffee
The coffee at 11th Hour Coffee is what truly stands out, offering a fantastic range of drinks made from high-quality beans. Whether you prefer your coffee hot or cold, black or with added flavor, there’s something for every coffee lover.
During my visit, I tried the cold brew, which was wonderfully smooth, rich, and refreshing. It’s not overly bitter, and the coffee’s natural flavors shine through. The cold brew is perfect for those who enjoy a strong yet balanced cup of coffee, especially in warmer weather. If you’re more of a hot coffee person, their regular coffee is just as delightful, with a perfectly brewed, robust flavor that isn’t too overwhelming.
For those who like their coffee with a bit of sweetness, 11th Hour also offers a salted caramel latte, which I found to be the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The richness of the caramel doesn’t overpower the coffee, and the salted touch gives it a unique twist. If you’re in the mood for something different, they also offer seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice and their special latte kits for home brewing.
When it comes to milk options, 11th Hour makes sure that everyone has something to suit their taste and dietary preferences. They offer a variety of dairy-free milk alternatives, including oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. This is great for anyone following a vegan diet or those who are lactose intolerant. For those who prefer a creamier, more traditional taste, whole milk and half-and-half are also available. Their milk creamers are perfect for adding just the right touch of richness without overdoing it, and they even offer a variety of flavors to customize your coffee just the way you like it.
In addition to the usual milk alternatives, 11th Hour also provides a vegan-friendly menu for those who avoid animal products. You can opt for plant-based milks in any of their drinks, and they even offer vegan pastries to complement your coffee.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit less traditional, the coffee bags they offer are a great way to enjoy your coffee at home. They come with prefilled single-serve coffee filters, making it easy to brew your favorite coffee quickly. These are convenient, especially for busy mornings when you don’t have much time for preparation.
For those watching their sugar intake, sugar-free syrups are also available, so you can enjoy a flavorful coffee without added sugar. And for a truly customizable experience, you can choose to add as much creamer as you like or skip it entirely—whatever suits your personal taste.
The Menu
The menu at 11th Hour Coffee offers a great variety of delicious choices, catering to different dietary preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for something hearty to kickstart your day or just a light snack to enjoy with your coffee, they’ve got you covered.
For those who enjoy a savory breakfast, their breakfast sandwiches are a must-try. Made with fresh ingredients, these sandwiches are hearty and flavorful, perfect for those mornings when you need something filling. If you’re in the mood for something a bit sweeter, the cinnamon roll is a fan favorite. It’s soft, perfectly spiced, and a great complement to your cup of coffee.
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, the overnight oats are an excellent option. These are creamy, satisfying, and packed with healthy ingredients, making them a perfect choice for a wholesome breakfast. For a more substantial meal, their avocado toast is a popular pick—served on fresh bread with ripe, creamy avocado, topped with seasonings to bring out its natural flavor.
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, 11th Hour also offers gluten-free options, including a gluten-free bagel that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. If you’re vegan, don’t worry! They offer vegan-friendly options like plant-based milk alternatives for your coffee and even a vegan breakfast sandwich. The café prides itself on providing sugar-free syrups for those who are watching their sugar intake but still want a flavorful coffee drink.
If you’re looking to keep things lighter or watch your sugar intake, there are also sugar-free options available for many of their beverages. You can opt for a sugar-free salted caramel latte or enjoy a simple cup of coffee without the extra sweetness, allowing the natural coffee flavor to shine through. If you’re vegan and prefer a lighter option, they also have dairy-free milk alternatives like oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk.
For those with nut allergies or other dietary restrictions, it’s always a good idea to check with the staff about specific options. They’re usually happy to help you navigate the menu and offer alternatives where needed.
And let’s not forget the best bagel at 11th Hour, a perfect snack if you’re craving something savory and satisfying to go with your coffee. It’s a great option for any meal type and pairs wonderfully with any drink on the menu.
Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or simply looking to make healthier choices, 11th Hour’s menu is accommodating, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at 11th Hour Coffee is exactly what you’d expect from a local, community-driven coffee shop. It’s cozy, inviting, and features an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your coffee while taking in the fresh air. The Santa Cruz Art Center is just around the corner, making it the perfect place to grab a coffee and enjoy some local art.
The downtown location offers plenty of charm, with an inviting vibe that makes it feel like the perfect place to work remotely or meet up with friends.
However, I did notice that the indoor seating area can get a little cramped during peak hours. The outdoor seating area is a great option (and there are plenty of seats!), but the indoor seating can fill up quickly, and during busy times, it can be hard to find a comfortable spot to sit. If you’re planning to visit during rush hour, be prepared for a more hustle-and-bustle vibe.
It’s not too busy, so you can usually find a seat, and the staff is super friendly, which makes the experience all the more enjoyable. Customer service here is excellent—everyone is kind and quick to help. The best part is that the team genuinely seems to care about creating a welcoming space for their customers.
Is 11th Hour Coffee Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you’re in the Santa Cruz area, 11th Hour Coffee should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re grabbing a Starbucks card for a friend or want to enjoy a cup of coffee while people-watching on Center St., this is a place where you can truly enjoy both great coffee and a great atmosphere.
For anyone in need of enterprise solutions like a reliable, quiet spot to work, 11th Hour provides a welcoming place to do just that. The coffee is always consistent, and the treats are perfect for pairing with your favorite brew. Plus, with their gift card options, you can share the experience with friends or keep it for yourself!
All in all, 11th Hour Coffee in Santa Cruz is a perfect place for anyone who loves quality coffee, a great atmosphere, and tasty treats. From their cold brew to their cinnamon roll and everything in between, it’s clear that this coffee shop values both the quality of the products and the experience they provide. So, if you’re in town, stop by and grab a cup of coffee—you won’t be disappointed!
