Walking into Philz coffee for the first time is quite an experience. If you can make it past the anxiety of what kind of coffee to order, you’re in good shape. I’ll be the first to admit that the giant chalkboard full of Philz options can be overwhelming, but just trust me when I tell you that it’s oh-so worth it. The number one complaint from conformist coffee drinkers is the seemingly chaotic and lengthy queue that forms when ordering your coffee. But you’ve got to hand it to the baristas for being able to multi-manage the numerous orders and throngs of coffee junkies who eagerly hover around the counter. Be forewarned: this is NOT your average cup of joe. It’s ROCKET FUEL. What’s special about Philz is that each cup is ground and brewed just for you, which is why you wait a little longer than at most cafes. Of the 20-something varieties of coffee they serve, my favorites are the Canopy of Heaven (a lighter roast, creamy and smooth), the Philharmonic (aftertastes of cardamom, sort of toasty), and the New Manhattan (speed!). I recommend black or cream-only to be able to savor the complexities of each roast. Brace yourself and enjoy!