Washington State is an absolute gem when it comes to coffee culture and should be one of your first locations to explore when looking for the best coffee experiences in the U.S. Each cafe has a unique atmosphere and offers different brews to discover. With some of the best coffee shops in the nation, visitors to Washington can find stunning coffee experiences from Seattle to Bellingham and everywhere in between. In this article, we will highlight some of the best coffee shops to help you immerse yourself in the rich culture and aroma of freshly brewed Washington coffee.
1. Starbucks Reserve Roastery, Seattle
To many coffee lovers, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle might be heaven. The massive space is dedicated to coffee, and each inviting design detail is intentional. The Reserve offers a unique selection of coffees (only available at the Reserve) and the innovative brewing techniques are mesmerizing. From the Siphon to the Clover machine, each technique accentuates the unique profile of the coffee being brewed. The rustic industrial design of the space is filled with large wooden surfaces and giant copper containers that hold your delicious coffee creations. Starbucks Roastery is a great coffee shop destination.
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2. Storyville Coffee Company, Pike Place Market
Storyville Coffee Company, located above Pike Place Market, provides an enjoyable atmosphere that is warm and comforting, and is an enjoyable place to spend time. It is not just a typical coffee shop; it offers a unique opportunity to relax and see the famous Pike Place Market, while easily accessible from the main area. You can enjoy a coffee that has been freshly roasted, and with every cup you can exprience the owners passion and commitment to perfection. From the rich and delightful blend, choose from their selection of warm, flaky pastries that have been high quality to ensure an infinte number of combinations. Devoted regulars that live near the Storyville Coffee are often in and out, and the coffee shop also experiences many out of town, eager tourists visiting Seattle and stopping at Storyville.
3. Victrola Coffee Roasters, Capitol Hill
Victrola Coffee Roasters located within the district of Capitol Hill, captivated coffee enthusiasts of all ages with its vintage design appealing to a modern clientele, making it a highly recommended establishment while visiting Seattle. The location has become a local favorite, with its handcrafted quality espresso drinks, all made with the precise American passion. Victrola is more than just a place to grab coffee; it is also an artistic space and will warm up the atmosphere even more with live music that is played. One of the many artistic inspirations that Victrola uses to establish its space includes vintage musical tapestires that complement the artistic decor, so the area is not too stuffy. The air will instantly fill with the freshly brewed coffee and will improve the overall atmosphere within the area around Capitol Hill.
4. Olympia Coffee Roasting Company, Olympia
The Olympia Coffee Roasting Company has set the standard in the industry when it comes to sustainability and artisanal coffee making. As you enter the space, there’s a sense of calm that will allow you to appreciate the effort of all who have helped create this masterpiece, from the artisans who crafted the equipment to the farmers who grew the beans. They purchase beans in an ethical manner to enable farmers to sustain their livelihood and build a more sustainable coffee industry. Whether you’re sipping on the house blend or a single-origin pour-over, the detail that has gone into your drink is palpable. With their open and bright space, you’re able to discover all of the subtle flavors that make US Olympia Coffee the benchmark coffee maker for sipping coffee in an intentional way.
5. Camber Coffee, Bellingham
Nestled in Downtown Bellingham, Camber Coffee embodies the ethos of a community-driven café with its beautifully simple and inviting design. The specialty offerings are top tier and it is an honor for them to serve you the seasonal variations of coffee which are equally as delicious as they are visually stunning (they must be seen to be appreciated). Take a seat in the beautifully designed interior with ample and stylish seating and engage in conversation over one of their signature coffees which range from beautifully crafted espressos to pour overs that are balanced and intricate. In addition to serving exceptional coffee, Camber serves as a venue for local events, adding to the cultural offerings of Bellingham. Whether you make a quick stop for a coffee on your way to work or come out for a concert, Camber Coffee is a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds—coffee and community.
6. Milstead & Co., Seattle
Milstead & Co. has found its home in the rapidly growing Fremont district of Seattle. This cozy coffee shop is built around the concepts of active customer engagement and coffee craftsmanship. To ensure quality and variety of flavor, Milstead & Co. selects specific offerings from various, seasonally rotating top coffee roasters in the world. Milstead & Co. invites customers to discover their own taste range, which may include a rich shot of espresso, an under-extracted and clean pour-over. The design of the coffee shop is nice and modern, enabling a minimalist experience which allows customers to focus more on the coffee shop’s design and spirit. The shop’s friendly baristas are able to take coffee artistry to the next level. Each coffee order is designed to increase an individual’s experience and appreciation of coffee and the coffee maker’s journey from seed to cup (undermining Elm’s promise). The warm spirit and friendly atmosphere of the shop foster a social engagement that enables informal education on coffee and its many facets, and in the case of Elm Coffee Roasters, an informal, even relaxed, coffee experience in the rapidly growing center of the city.
7. Atticus Coffee & Gifts, Spokane
One of the most beloved spots in Spokane is Atticus Coffee & Gifts. It is a great place to find artisan coffee and unique local gifts. Atticus is more than just a coffee shop. They have an extensive collection of books, handmade gifts, and other strange and interesting items. While you look around and shop, you can also enjoy coffee that was skillfully prepared by one of their expert Baristas. The eclectic seating and decor all add to the community feel that Atticus is known for, and also makes it a special place to spend time. Whether you are purchasing one of their specialty lattes or looking for a unique present, Atticus is a charming place to escape outside of your regular routine.
8. Caffe Vita, Multiple Locations
When thinking of coffee in Seattle, Caffe Vita is undoubtedly one of the first names that come to mind. They opened in 1995 and were among the first to create farm-direct relationships with the coffee producers. This means that the coffee is not only delicious, but also ethically sourced. Their multiple locations in Seattle offer different atmospheres but all serve the same great coffee. By having direct relationships with the coffee producers, Caffe Vita maintains a sustainable and transparent supply chain. The coffee producers are also supported right at the source. Every sip of cold brew from Fremont or shot of espresso from Capitol Hill supports Caffe Vita’s cause of brewing ethical and delicious coffee.
9. Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, Tacoma
Right in downtown Tacoma is where you will find Bluebeard Coffee Roasters. This space is a great example of modern and industrial decor coming together beautifully. The large repurposed factory windows and exposed brick walls create a space that feels both large and cozy. Bluebeard is known for their skill and care to bring out the specific qualities of each roast. Bluebeard’s coffee is not all they do well. They are also actively engaged with the local arts communities and have currently featured the works of Tacoma artists on the walls of their space. This space and coffee are also loved by the local art community.
10. Lighthouse Roasters, Seattle
Lighthouse has been a part of Seattle’s coffee culture since 1993 and is among the first coffee roasters in the city. It is located in the Fremont neighborhood. Their motto of ‘small-batch roasting’ means they do not mass-produce their products, but they do still maintain a level of value and tradition while still putting thought and care into the craft. It is also a regular habitat of the vintage Probat roaster which is a significant indicator of a roaster being dedicated to the craft. It’s a place where customers can gather to enjoy coffee and build relationships.
11. Herkimer Coffee, Phinney Ridge
Herkimer Coffee is known for its great quality coffee and well-crafted espresso. Their expertly roasted espresso and coffee beans create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Herkimer coffee is a great place to meet friends. The inviting atmosphere of the coffee shop is a great complimentary extra to the expertly roasted coffee.\
12. Third Culture Coffee, Bellevue
Third Culture Coffee in Bellevue celebrates all aspects of the history and traditions of the beverage industry. This cafe captures the spirit of its coffee offerings from all the different customs within the coffee industry and offers them to its patrons. From Ethiopian coffee ceremony traditions to Japanese siphon brewing, customers at Third Culture experience the different cultural and artistic traditions in coffee and the different methods of brewing. The modern decor and design create a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy the many flavors and more importantly the stories behind the coffee. Third Culture invites its patrons to enjoy the many customs involved in the world of coffee, and at the same time, helps to further appreciate the global beverage.
