Third Wave Coffee Pioneer Trish Rothgeb Plans Bay Area Comeback
Trish Rothgeb, the founder of Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters and credited with coining the term 'third wave coffee,' is making a strong comeback in the Bay Area coffee scene with plans for new cafes and a roastery.
San Francisco Oakland San Jose, CA, September 24, 2026 —
Trish Rothgeb, a notable figure in the specialty coffee industry and widely credited with popularizing the term “third wave coffee,” is set to make a significant return to the Bay Area coffee landscape. Rothgeb, who previously founded Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters, has announced plans to establish new cafes and a roastery in the region.
The announcement signals a renewed focus on the Bay Area for Rothgeb, whose initial venture, Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters, was a key establishment in the development of what became known as the “third wave” coffee movement. This movement emphasizes high-quality, artisanal coffee, often focusing on single-origin beans, lighter roast profiles, and precise brewing methods.
Specific details regarding the locations of the planned new cafes and the roastery have not yet been fully disclosed. Similarly, a definitive timeline for the opening of these new establishments or further information about the venture’s name and operational structure were not immediately available. The scope of the expansion, including the exact number of cafes anticipated, also remains pending.
Rothgeb’s contribution to the coffee world is recognized through her role in elevating coffee from a commodity to a craft, akin to wine or craft beer. Her past work with Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters is often cited as an example of the early establishments that defined the standards for specialty coffee preparation and sourcing.
The Bay Area has a well-established specialty coffee culture, and Rothgeb’s return is expected to generate interest among coffee enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Further announcements are anticipated as her plans develop and more information becomes available regarding the new cafes and roastery.
Story summarized from the original created by Paolo Bicchieri on sfstandard.com, see more information here.
