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September 24.2026
3 Minutes Read

Trish Rothgeb's Wrecking Ball Coffee: A Comeback Energizing Local Cafés

She coined the term ‘third-wave coffee.’ Now she’s poised for a big comeback

Reviving a Legacy: Trish Rothgeb's Return to the Coffee Scene

In the bustling world of coffee connoisseurs, few names resonate as profoundly as Trish Rothgeb. The coiner of the term 'third-wave coffee,' Rothgeb, a San Francisco native, is making an exciting comeback with the expansion of her coffee empire, Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters. After weathering the storm of the pandemic that saw many businesses fold, Rothgeb is ready to reestablish Wrecking Ball’s presence with not just one but multiple new venues, breathing fresh life into a beloved brand.

Cafes with a Twist: New Locations, New Vibes

Wrecking Ball is set to open a new cafe at 1700 20th St. in Potrero Hill this December, with plans for another in Berkeley on Telegraph Ave. Each location promises unique experiences that cater to diverse tastes. The Potrero cafe, located in a transformed butcher shop, is introducing a bold concept that combines an all-day coffee service with a selection of craft beer and wine in the evenings, creating a community gathering space that extends beyond morning rituals. In Berkeley, the focus shifts to quick, quality grab-and-go food items, ensuring that busy locals can get their caffeine fix along with wholesome meals.

A Dedicated Roastery: Bringing Craft Back to Coffee

Centrally to Rothgeb’s vision is the forthcoming roastery located in Dogpatch, projected to launch in early 2027. This facility will not only house the roasting operation but also feature a coffee bar for tastings and an education space where enthusiasts can deepen their coffee knowledge. As Rothgeb emphasizes, this new venture will be akin to a playground for coffee lovers, with state-of-the-art equipment like the KB90 La Marzocco and the precision of flat-bottom pour-over drippers. Here, Rothgeb plans to reconnect with her roots, focusing on the craft of coffee that once defined Wrecking Ball.

Partners on a Journey: New Faces, Fresh Ideas

The revitalization effort is also attributed to new partnerships. Rothgeb has teamed up with Simon MacGibben and Joey Cannata, both of whom bring vibrant entrepreneurial spirits and innovative ideas to the table. With backgrounds that include founding successful brands and investing in exciting projects, they are set to unlock new potential for Wrecking Ball. Rothgeb’s journey is proof that collaboration can bring renewed energy and vision to established brands.

A Legacy Reimagined: The Future Awaits

Despite experiencing a period in the shadows, Rothgeb’s influence on the coffee scene remains immutable. Her foundation as a charter member of the World Barista Championship and involvement in defining competition standards speaks volumes about her legacy. As she confidently declares, “I feel like a kid in a candy store,” it’s evident that Rothgeb's passion remains undiminished. With the impending expansion of Wrecking Ball, coffee enthusiasts can expect not just a resurgence of taste but a celebration of coffee culture that fosters community connections.

For those eager to taste the evolution of Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters, keep an eye out for the new cafes and the roastery. Trish Rothgeb’s journey illustrates the importance of perseverance and innovation in the face of adversity. The excitement for what lies ahead is palpable, and for local residents, it’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with a brand that embodies the heart of San Francisco.

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