Must-Try Cafes & Coffee Shops in Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a city that knows its coffee like no other. Coffee isn’t just a beverage here; it’s a way of life, an art form, and a daily ritual. With a java gem on every corner, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose which cafes & coffee shops in Seattle to try!

Seattle’s coffee scene isn’t confined to one neighborhood: it’s a citywide affair. You’ll find cozy cafes and world-famous roasteries scattered throughout the city, from the bustling downtown to the quirky neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Fremont.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit local roasteries like Starbucks Reserve Roastery, Caffe Vita, and Slate Coffee Roasters. These places are like coffee cathedrals, showcasing the art and science of java. If you prefer a cozier spot, head to Anchorhead Coffee or Café Allegro, and if it’s roasting perfection you’re after, Victrola Coffee Roasters won’t disappoint.

Is your morning cup of Joe calling? Check out these fantastic Seattle coffee shops & cafes to begin your java-fuelled journey!

Why Treksplorer? Founded in 2011 by Ryan O’Rourke, Treksplorer provides travel recommendations and advice to millions of readers every year. Our content is rooted in our writers’ firsthand experiences, in-depth research, and/or collaborations with other experts and locals. Read more about our editorial policy.

Victrola Coffee Roasters

Looking for a Seattle coffee experience that’s both flavorful and artistic? Victrola Coffee Roasters is the place to be where every cup of coffee is a masterpiece, and the aroma is as inviting as the ambiance.

You’ll find Victrola Coffee Roasters on East Pike Street in the heart of Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, where coffee craftsmanship has thrived for years. Warm, rustic interiors with wooden accents welcome you in. Cozy seating arrangements and a laid-back atmosphere invite you to linger. It’s a haven for coffee lovers and artists alike.

Victrola Coffee Roasters

Victrola offers a diverse range of single-origin coffees, each with its unique flavor profile. Whether you prefer a bright Ethiopian or a rich Colombian, there’s something to please your palate. If you’re an espresso enthusiast, try their well-crafted cappuccinos, lattes, or cortados.

Pair your coffee with a delightful pastry or a freshly baked treat. The selection varies, but you can often find croissants, muffins, and cookies that complement your coffee perfectly.

On a sunny day, enjoy your coffee on the outdoor patio. It’s a lovely spot for people-watching and soaking in the Capitol Hill vibe.

Elm Coffee Roasters

If you find yourself in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square and the aroma of freshly roasted beans beckons you, follow your nose to Elm Coffee Roasters. It’s more than just a coffee shop; it’s a coffee lover’s haven with a story as rich as its brews.

Elm Coffee Roasters is a local gem with a passion for quality coffee. Founded in 2011, they’ve been roasting and brewing exceptional beans from around the globe. Expect a thoughtfully curated selection of single-origin coffees. Each batch has its unique flavor profile, from bright and fruity to deep and chocolatey.

Their espresso drinks are top-notch. Whether you’re a fan of lattes, cortados, or a classic Americano, you’re in for a treat. Pair your coffee with delectable pastries sourced from local bakeries. The selection often includes croissants, muffins, and other tasty delights.

Keep an eye out for local art on the walls; Elm often showcases the work of Seattle artists, adding an extra layer of charm to your visit. If you’re on the move, grab a cup of Elm’s brew to take with you as you explore the historic streets of Pioneer Square.

Storyville Coffee Pike Place

Nestled in the heart of the iconic Pike Place Market, Storyville Coffee Pike Place is a cozy nook where you can sip your cup of joe next to a roaring fire!

Storyville Coffee is more than a place; it’s a philosophy. Founded in 2006, they believe everyone deserves a little luxury in their lives, including coffee. They source, roast, and brew their beans, committed to excellence and community.

Storyville Coffee Pike Place

Soft lighting, plush seating, and a crackling fireplace create an ambiance that feels like a welcoming embrace. Storyville’s menu is a love letter to coffee. Each cup is brewed to perfection, from their signature blends to single-origin selections. Their lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos are crafted with precision and love.

Snag a seat by the window, order a buttery croissant to enjoy with your morning cup of joe, and watch all the action in Pike Place Market.

Seattle Coffee Works

Journey into the world of coffee at Seattle Coffee Works. If you need a moment to recharge or simply relish a fantastic cup, this coffee shop is your go-to. You’ll find Seattle Coffee Works in two locations: Pike Street near Pike Place Market and Pine Street in the heart of Downtown Seattle. It’s coffee convenience at its finest!

Seattle Coffee Works

Founded in 2006, Seattle Coffee Works is a true coffee lover’s haven. The coffee menu is a treasure trove of options. Sip single-origin coffees that transport you to far-flung coffee regions or enjoy exceptional espresso-based drinks, from velvety lattes to punchy Americanos. The rotating selection keeps things exciting for regulars.

Whether you’re into pour-over, AeroPress, or the classic drip, Seattle Coffee Works caters to all brewing preferences. They even have a dedicated brew bar where you can watch skilled baristas craft your coffee to perfection.

Take a piece of Seattle’s coffee scene home with you. Seattle Coffee Works has a retail section to purchase beans, brewing equipment, and other coffee-related goodies.

Moore Coffee Shop

When strolling through Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood and your caffeine radar is tingling, make a beeline for Moore Coffee Shop. Set on 2nd Avenue, this little gem is a local favorite for its unique blend of coffee and creativity.

Modern décor with a touch of industrial charm creates a chic and cozy space. The artistic touches on the walls and the warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect spot for both work and leisure.

Moore Coffee Shop takes pride in its carefully curated coffee menu. You can explore a range of beans, from bold and earthy to bright and fruity. Single-origin options are a highlight for those who appreciate distinct flavor profiles.

If espresso is your jam, their menu features a range of beautifully crafted drinks, from classic cappuccinos to unique creations that’ll leave you pleasantly surprised. They often feature unique latte art designs, showcasing local artists’ talents. Keep an eye out for these limited-time creations; they’re not just delicious but Instagram-worthy too!

Grab a seat by the window and enjoy some people-watching while you sip your brew. They also offer free Wi-Fi so that you can mix productivity with pleasure!

Milstead & Co.

Craftsmanship and caffeine come together in perfect harmony at Milstead & Co. Located in the heart of the charming Fremont district, this cozy and beloved local favorite has earned its reputation as a jewel in the city’s coffee scene.

Founded in 2010 by Andrew Milstead, Milstead & Co. has pioneered a new level of craftsmanship in Seattle’s coffee culture. Over the years, it’s garnered a dedicated following of coffee connoisseurs and curious caffeine seekers.

At Milstead & Co., they’re all about celebrating coffee’s diverse flavors. You can explore a range of beans, from bright and fruity African options to earthy and complex Central and South American varieties. They take the espresso experience to the next level!

Milstead & Co. is known for its expertise in manual brewing methods. Whether it’s pour-over, AeroPress, or Chemex, they’re dedicated to making your coffee the best way possible. Watching the baristas at work is like witnessing a coffee symphony.

Keep an eye out for their seasonal specials. From spiced fall lattes to refreshing summer cold brews, these limited-time creations add extra excitement to your coffee adventures. You can also enjoy coffee and chocolate pairings to experience the intricate flavors in harmony.

Cafe Allegro

Cafe Allegro is not just a coffee shop; it’s a slice of Seattle’s coffee history. The coffee shop has been serving exceptional brews since 1975, making it one of Seattle’s coffee landmarks. Cafe Allegro is a beloved spot among students, locals, and coffee fans in the heart of Seattle’s University District.

Cafe Allegro boasts a cozy and unassuming space that exudes character. The ambiance is relaxed and unpretentious, making it the perfect place for a leisurely coffee, a study session, or catching up with friends.

You’ll find a variety of beans on the menu, often featuring single-origin options that highlight the distinct flavors of different regions. Expect to find bold and earthy notes and bright and fruity profiles.

You can enjoy your coffee through various methods like pour-over, Chemex, and AeroPress. Of course, they serve espresso, and it’s nothing short of excellent. Whether you’re a fan of a classic shot or a velvety latte, the baristas here know how to pull a perfect shot.

Cafe Allegro often features special seasonal drinks. From pumpkin spice lattes in the fall to refreshing iced beverages in the summer, they keep things interesting year-round. On a sunny day, their outdoor seating area is a hidden gem. It’s a lovely spot to soak up the Seattle sun while enjoying your coffee.

Espresso Vivace Capitol Hill

If you love your latte with an artistic touch, pop into Espresso Vivace Capitol Hill. The pursuit of espresso perfection meets the creativity of latte art in this little corner of Seattle’s vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood.

Espresso Vivace is a name synonymous with excellence in Seattle’s coffee culture. Founded by David Schomer in 1988, it quickly became renowned for its commitment to crafting the perfect espresso. Schomer is a pioneer in the world of latte art, and his dedication to the art of espresso is evident in every cup.

When it comes to latte art magic, the baristas here are true artists. Your latte will arrive adorned with exquisite latte art, a testament to the skill and passion that goes into each cup. Their espresso shots are also nothing short of perfection, and you can choose from various single-origin beans for a truly unique experience.

Espresso Vivace often features seasonal specials that showcase the finest beans of the moment. Whether it’s a winter-inspired mocha or a refreshing iced coffee for the summer, these limited-time creations add extra flair to your visit. You can take home the same beans used in your favorite drinks. It’s a perfect souvenir for coffee lovers.

Caffé Vita Coffee Roasting

Another great coffee shop to try while in Capitol Hill is Caffé Vita Coffee Roasting. This iconic coffee roaster on Pike Street has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s coffee scene since 1995.

Caffé Vita Coffee Roasting takes pride in sourcing the finest beans from around the world. Their selection spans the coffee flavor spectrum from rich, chocolatey South American varieties to bright, fruity African beans.

Enjoy single-origin offerings with unique characteristics, from the citrusy notes of Yirgacheffe to the earthy richness of Sumatra. Each cup tells a story of the place it comes from. Explore the unique flavors of different beans with different brewing methods like pour-over coffee and AeroPress.

When it comes to roasting coffee beans, Caffé Vita Coffee Roasting masters. Their vintage Probat roasters, lovingly named Betty and Linda, play a significant role in crafting the nuanced flavors that define Caffé Vita’s coffee. The beans are roasted with precision, resulting in both bold and nuanced cups, a testament to their dedication to quality.

Caffé Vita hosts coffee classes on Sundays, perfect for those looking to deepen their coffee knowledge. The outdoor seating area is a delightful spot to enjoy coffee and soak in the Capitol Hill ambiance on a sunny day.

Analog Coffee

Celebrate Seattle’s coffee culture and creative spirit with a cuppa joe at Analog Coffee. Tucked away on Summit Avenue in Capitol Hill, this charming coffee shop is a testament to the city’s creative spirit, where coffee becomes an art form.

Founded by Danny Hanlon and Tim Hayden, Analog Coffee is a relatively new addition to the city’s coffee scene, but it’s already made a big splash with its innovative approach. The cozy cafe is adorned with artwork and an assortment of vinyl records. It’s a place to sip your coffee and let your creative ideas flow.

Analog Coffee takes pride in curating a diverse selection of coffee beans from various roasters. You can explore different flavors, from bright and citrusy to deep and chocolatey. You’ll find everything on the menu, from classic cappuccinos to unique specialty drinks. And if you love a good brew, Analog offers a variety of methods, including pour-over, AeroPress, and more.

Bring your notebook, sketchpad, or laptop. Analog Coffee’s creative atmosphere is an excellent space for working on projects or simply letting your imagination roam! Take a moment to appreciate the local artwork displayed on their walls. You might discover a new favorite artist while sipping your coffee.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Starbucks is a name that’s synonymous with Seattle and the city’s iconic coffee culture. Drawing on this, Starbucks Reserve Roastery takes the coffee experience to the next level. It’s a journey into the heart and soul of coffee.

Located on Pike Street in the vibrant Pike/Pine area of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Starbucks Reserve Roastery blends classic coffeehouse charm and modern design. It’s spacious, inviting, and filled with the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Starbucks Reserve is all about sourcing the most unique and rare coffee beans from around the world. Each cup offers a taste of something extraordinary. Watch as skilled roasters craft batches of beans right before your eyes, filling the air with the enticing scent of freshly roasted coffee. It’s a sensory experience!

Consider booking a Reserve Tasting Experience. It’s a guided coffee journey that takes you through the Roastery’s rarest and most exceptional coffees. Don’t forget to check out the Roastery’s merchandise. You can take home a piece of the magic, from coffee beans to mugs.

Anchorhead Coffee

Wandering through Downtown Seattle and need a coffee fix? Look no further than Anchorhead Coffee. Nestled in the heart of the city, this cozy coffee spot is a perfect pitstop during your city adventures.

Anchorhead Coffee had humble beginnings in a garage and has since become a beloved fixture in Seattle’s coffee scene. Warm, rustic décor and an inviting atmosphere make this cozy nook an ideal spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Sustainably sourced beans are roasted in-house, ensuring that each cup is bursting with flavor. Expect a rotating selection of single-origin and blends that cater to every palate. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a velvety latte, the baristas are masters at pulling the perfect shot. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations; they love helping you find your ideal brew.

If you’re into pour-over coffee, you’re in for a treat. Anchorhead takes this method seriously, delivering a rich, nuanced, and oh-so-satisfying cup. Keep an eye out for their seasonal and limited-edition drinks. From unique lattes to creative cold brew concoctions, there’s always something new and exciting to try.

If you’re exploring the city, grab a to-go cup of their coffee. It’s the perfect companion for strolling through downtown.

Treksplorer

Ryan O'Rourke is a seasoned traveler and the founder & editor of Treksplorer, a fiercely independent guide to mid-range luxury travel for busy people. With over 20 years of extensive travel experience, Ryan has journeyed through over 50 countries, uncovering hidden gems and sharing firsthand, unsponsored insights on what to see & do and where to eat, drink & stay. Backed by his travel experience and in-depth research, Ryan’s travel advice and writing has been featured in publications like the Huffington Post and Matador Network. You can connect with Ryan on Twitter/X at @rtorourke.

DISCLAIMER: Treksplorer is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and its affiliated international sites.

DISCLAIMER: You'll notice that from time to time I link out to recommended hotels/tours/products/services. If you purchase anything through these links, I'll receive a commission. It won't cost you anything extra, but it will help keep me trekkin' on and delivering more free (and unsponsored!) travel information to you. Thanks :)