Seattle and coffee are inseparable. This city is home to some of the most iconic cafés in the country, where quality beans, expert roasting, and welcoming spaces meet. We’ve gathered the top 10 coffee shops in Seattle—highly recommended by locals, travelers, and coffee enthusiasts across blogs, Reddit, and social media.
1. Milstead & Co. (Fremont)
A legend in Seattle’s coffee scene, Milstead & Co. is adored for its rotating selection of world-class roasters and precise brewing methods. A true Reddit favorite, it’s a must-stop for coffee purists.
📍 754 N 34th St, Seattle, WA 98103
2. Elm Coffee Roasters (Pioneer Square)
Minimalist vibes, light-roast excellence, and carefully sourced beans define Elm Coffee Roasters. Regularly featured in travel blogs, this Pioneer Square gem is a Seattle staple.
📍 240 2nd Ave S #103, Seattle, WA 98104
3. Boon Boona Coffee
With its deep roots in African coffee culture, Boon Boona brings a unique flavor experience to Seattle. It’s not just a café but a cultural hub.
📍 1223 E Cherry St, Seattle, WA 98122
4. Ghost Note Coffee (Capitol Hill)
Known for its inventive, cocktail-inspired coffee drinks, Ghost Note stands out for creativity and flavor. It’s a rising favorite among locals and visitors alike.
📍 1623 Bellevue Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
5. Seattle Coffee Works (Downtown)
Right in the heart of downtown, Seattle Coffee Works is loved by travelers for its single-origin brews and educational tasting flights.
📍 108 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101
6. Lighthouse Roasters
A true Seattle institution, Lighthouse Roasters has been a neighborhood favorite since 1993. Their small-batch roasting and community vibe earn rave reviews.
📍 400 N 43rd St, Seattle, WA 98103
7. Herkimer Coffee
Beloved for sustainable sourcing and consistent quality, Herkimer is a neighborhood café that delivers exceptional coffee every time.
📍 7320 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
8. Overcast Coffee Company
A newer addition that quickly became a hot spot, Overcast blends minimalist design with rich flavors and community feel.
📍 250 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
9. Zeitgeist Coffee (Pioneer Square)
Part coffeehouse, part community art space, Zeitgeist Coffee offers both quality brews and a creative atmosphere. A longtime favorite in Pioneer Square.
📍 171 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104
10. Espresso Vivace (Capitol Hill)
An icon in Seattle’s coffee history, Espresso Vivace is known worldwide for its classic espresso drinks and pioneering latte art.
📍 532 Broadway E, Seattle, WA 98102
Closing Note:
From heritage roasters to innovative newcomers, these cafés embody the soul of Seattle’s coffee scene. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just love a good cappuccino, these are the spots that truly define coffee in Seattle.
