Where to Find the Best Coffee in Seattle - Trip Canvas
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Where to Find the Best Coffee in Seattle
Published: September 11, 2023
Written byAAA Travel Editor, CW
Seattle's coffee scene is more than just a beverage; it's a culture that defines the city. Whether exploring the quirky corners of Fremont or diving into the vibrant Little Saigon neighborhood, Seattle's neighborhoods offer unique coffee experiences that fuel locals and visitors. So, grab a coffee and admire the views of Seattle's bustling neighborhoods because experiencing the Emerald City's caffeine culture is a must-do for any urban explorer. These are ten of the best coffee shops in Seattle.
Wikimedia Commons / Joe Mabel / CC BY-SA 3.0
Uptown Espresso
Address: Locations throughout Seattle
Did someone say Velvet Foam? Nestled at the base of Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Uptown Espresso developed this bespoke foamy, creamy goodness in 1984. As a trailblazer in the Seattle coffee scene, Uptown quickly gained a loyal following of coffee enthusiasts who relished the flawless experience offered by the café. Expert hand-crafted bakery sweets and an immersive atmosphere blended to craft a remarkable coffee moment in any of their six locations across the city.
istockphoto.com / Wirestock
C & P Coffee Company
Address: 5612 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA
In the heart of West Seattle, this charming house-turned-coffee shop is a beloved neighborhood stomping ground for locals and visitors alike. C & P Coffee offers more than just a delicious cup of joe; it also serves as a community hub by hosting live music, open mic nights and other events that will have you stay awhile. From the eclectic seating to the lush garden out back, a sense of “your best friend’s kitchen” welcomes everyone who walks through the door. This shop is also a dog-friendly option.
istockphoto.com / pixelfit
Fremont Coffee Company
Address: 459 N 36th St, Seattle, WA
The Fremont Coffee Company has long been a beloved neighborhood hub, providing artisan roasted cups of joe since 2003. Nestled in the heart of Seattle's quirky Fremont district, this charming café exudes a cozy, homey feel, complete with a welcoming porch and plenty of comfy seating. And when it comes to the brews themselves, you can rest easy knowing that every sip is sourced from fair-trade, organic origins, ensuring a rich, robust cup of coffee and a socially responsible shopping experience. So whether you're in the mood for a rich, nutty drip coffee or a frothy, velvety latte, head on down to the Fremont Coffee Company and savor the flavors of this beloved Seattle institution.
istockphoto.com / graphixchon
The Station
Address: 1600 S Roberto Maestas Festival St, Seattle, WA
It's not just about the coffee at Beacon Hill's beloved coffee shop by the light rail station. This spot serves much more than caffeine; it's also about community change. With a passionate team active in community causes, The Station is an excellent gathering place to engage and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're here for their locally sourced coffee or newly expanded wine bar, you won’t regret a stop at this vibrant spot.
Wikimedia Commons / Joe Mabel / CC BY-SA 4.0
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Address: 1124 Pike St, Seattle, WA
Not your average Starbucks, this special Reserve Roastery is set not just in the company’s hometown but possibly in the center of the coffee universe. Catering to the most discerning palettes, this spot goes beyond your average Starbucks menu to offer specially roasted grinds, a tasting room and even an after-hours cocktail bar set amongst a fully working roastery—a must-stop for any coffee enthusiast.
istockphoto.com / Belchenko
Fulcrum Café
Address: 590 Bell St, Seattle, WA
Fulcrum represents Seattle’s coffee scene at its chicest. Founder Blas Aflaro comes from a long line of Costa Rican coffee farmers. His modern Belltown cafe is inviting and the perfect place to indulge in expertly steeped espressos or to try one of his ambitious creations, like the electric pink beetroot latte infused with rosewater and jasmine flowers.
istockphoto.com / alvarez
Hood Famous Cafe + Bar
Address: 504 5th Ave S #107A, Seattle, WA
In the bustling Chinatown International District, Hood Famous Cafe + Bar beckons with its vibrant energy and mouth-watering aromas of Chef Chera Amlag's Filipino treats. Prepare to indulge in pandan lattes alongside decadent bites of ube cheesecake. The cafe offers a range of boldly flavored beverages, such as iced calamansi espresso tonics and a Latik Salted Caramel mocha. Escape into this hip cafe, indulge in the delicious treats and soak up the rich culture of the Chinatown International District.
Wikimedia Commons / Yoshi-dawg / CC BY-SA 4.0
Monorail Espresso
Address: Locations throughout Seattle
Monorail Espresso boasts the title of the world's first espresso cart. In 1980, founder Chuck Beek got a $10 permit to test whether espresso sold on the street would move faster than the line at a cafe. His resoundingly successful proof of concept is now famous for its Risetto-style coffee that fuels Seattlites downtown in four locations with walk-up windows. Their iconic bean blends are also available to take with you as the ultimate Emerald City souvenir.
istockphoto.com / gorodenkoff
Hello Em Việt Coffee & Roastery
Address: 1227 S Weller St, Seattle, WA
Nestled within the vibrant International District lies a beloved gem for food and coffee aficionados alike - Hello Em. The eclectic atmosphere is brimming with the sounds of laughter, music and the gentle hum of machines, all while co-owner Yenvy Pham and her staff effortlessly dance behind the bar, serving patrons with utmost care and precision. Customers are transported to a world of rich flavors and deep-rooted traditions with every sip of their egg-cream latte. With an array of traditional Vietnamese coffee, mouthwatering Banh Mi sandwiches and delectable pastries, it's no wonder customers flock to this spot.
istockphoto.com / fotolgahan
The Birdhouse
Address: 3507 SW Henderson St, Seattle, WA
West Seattle is home to an eclectic stronghold of Pacific Northwest people, traditions and coffee. Stubbornly keeping out the new guard, The Birdhouse represents the heart of the local coffee scene in this legendary neighborhood. Everything here tastes authentic, from the house-made flavored syrups (Mr. Ginger, White Mocha, Cardamom Brown Sugar) to the made-to-order Henderson Hash and PNW Smoked Salmon Bagel. This coffee spot is also one of the most Instagrammable on our list, with its two-story Raven Riding a Bike mural outside the building.
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