Why Locals Love Sun Bear Specialty Coffee Roasters
Nestled within the eco-conscious walls of Sans Market in St. Petersburg, Sun Bear Specialty Coffee Roasters is much more than just your run-of-the-mill coffee shop—it’s a sanctuary for coffee aficionados craving an unparalleled, artisan coffee experience. This gem at 1037 Central Ave offers a carefully curated lineup of expertly roasted coffees that will captivate both casual coffee drinkers and passionate connoisseurs.
Sun Bear’s menu showcases a masterful range of beverages, from a robust Espresso ($3.00) to elegant, velvety drinks like the Latte and Cappuccino (both $6.00). Their Pour Over coffee, praised by customers like Logan Hobbs, is a revelation—brewed personally by the roaster himself, it rivals the best single-origin light roasts you've ever tasted. For those who seek exciting flavors, the co-fermentation options deliver complex, juicy flavor bombs that elevate the coffee experience to a new level. The menu also features enticing choices such as the creamy Dirty Chai ($7.00) and refreshing matcha ($7.00), as well as the rich and smooth Cold Brew ($6.00).
Beyond the drink menu, the coffee itself is a story of deep relationships and ethical sourcing. As shared enthusiastically by Corey Wenzel, the roaster maintains direct partnerships with farmers around the globe, ensuring the beans are carefully harvested and sustainably acquired. This dedication shines in every cup, delivering freshness and authenticity that true coffee lovers will savor.
What truly sets Sun Bear apart is its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Tucked inside Sans Market, a zero-waste, eco-friendly store, the coffee shop carries a vibe that feels as warm and genuine as the first sip of their meticulously brewed coffee. Customers like Michele Merced highlight the friendly smiles and the delightful conversations that make each visit memorable. If you’re lucky, you might even get a personalized coffee brewing lesson from the owner, who is as passionate about his craft as he is approachable.
For the uninitiated, finding the spot may pose a little adventure—Lan Lvea’s experience of walking past and then discovering it hidden in the back adds to the thrill of unearthing a local treasure. Once inside, the aromatic allure and attentive service quickly win you over.
If you’re in the St. Petersburg area and desire a coffee experience that combines expert craftsmanship, ethically sourced beans, and a personal touch, Sun Bear Specialty Coffee Roasters is an absolute must-visit. Whether savoring a smooth Vietnamese coffee, indulging in a seasonal flavored drip coffee, or grabbing a bag of freshly roasted beans to take home, the passion and precision in every cup will leave a lasting impression.
Contact: +1 727-598-7171 | Location: 1037 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Identifies as veteran-owned
- Small Business
- On-site services
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Delivery
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Coffee
- Prepared foods
- Dessert
- Toilet
- Wi-Fi
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
- Trendy
- Tourists
- Accepts reservations
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Real Reviews from the Community
- Mar 7, 2026
Had a pour over from the master himself - best pour-over I've had to date. This place is offering some of the best beans especially if you're into light roasted single-origin or experimental collabs with some of the best coffee growers in the world. He has co-ferment options to for those seeking juicy flavor bombs. On top of that, your pour over is made by the roaster himself. The owner/roaster is a legend in the coffee community. If you're into 3rd wave coffee or just seeking a delicious cup, you've got to stop in and talk coffee with Kenny!
- Feb 26, 2026
Sun Bear coffee is incredible, local coffee at its finest! We met the roast master while visiting Sans Market. We talked for a while about the entire process from harvest to brewing and he was extremely knowledgeable. He explained how their beans are harvested and purchased directly from farmers he has a direct relationship with. I was so impressed by his knowledge and his coffee he made me, I bought a bag of the coffee and make it at home now. It's coffee tastes unbelievable even with regular drip coffee! Will definitely buy more bags in the near future
- Feb 19, 2026
Great coffee and the friendliest staff. I had their Ethiopian blend and it was so good I had to buy a bag to take back home (they were kind enough to grind it as well). Must try if you’re in the area.
- Jan 31, 2026
The guy was so friendly and nice. I couldn’t find the place at first and walked past it. They’re inside a shop in the back. Be on the look out for the signs. Coffee was great!
- Jan 10, 2026
Very friendly service, great chats! Located inside my favorite eco friendly zero waste store Sans Market. The coffee was excellent l thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ll definitely be back for the vegan cinnamon rolls
- Dec 14, 2025
Was in St Pete for a few days. Sun bear is a cool 3rd wave coffee roaster with lighter roasts and some interesting co ferments. Would highly recommend if you like lighter roasted coffee. Prices are reasonable for speciality coffee. Had a cool talk with Forrest. I had the passion fruit co ferment. Really good.
- Dec 14, 2025
Have been knowing Sun Bear Coffee for a few years and I am so happy they have their own physical location in the heart of St. Pete. One of the few places I can get a pour over made and just enjoy a cup of coffee. You definitely need to come check it out for yourself. The owner is a coffee nerd and that just makes the experience so much better. He truly loves what he does and it makes me happy to see it. If you are craving a refreshing coffee, get the “espresso tonic” I can’t wait to go back and get one.
- Dec 13, 2025
Great coffee. Was visiting St Pete for a long weekend and came here every morning of my stay for a fantastic pour over. We tried various different beans and they were all great. Our favorite was the lychee coferment. Wonderful, friendly staff as well.