Best Coffee Shops in Seattle

Pour-over is a manual brewing method where hot water is poured over grounds in a controlled manner, highlighting the coffee's unique flavors. Drip coffee is batch-brewed. Pour-over takes longer but offers a more nuanced cup.

Yes! Tipping 15-20% or at least $1 per drink is standard. Baristas work hard to craft your drink perfectly and appreciate the support.

Try a latte or cappuccino—the milk balances the coffee's bitterness. You can also ask for a lighter roast, which tends to be less bitter. Many Seattle shops avoid over-roasting, so their coffee is naturally less bitter than chain coffee.

Most coffee shops welcome laptop users, especially during off-peak hours. Be courteous—buy drinks regularly, don't hog tables during busy times, and respect any posted laptop-free hours or areas.

Third-wave coffee treats coffee as an artisanal product, like wine. It emphasizes single-origin beans, lighter roasts that highlight unique flavors, precise brewing methods, and direct relationships with farmers. Seattle is a third-wave coffee pioneer.

Not at all! Seattle baristas are generally friendly and happy to explain options. If you're unsure, just describe what you like (strong, mild, sweet, etc.) and they'll recommend something.

Absolutely! Most shops sell their freshly roasted beans. Ask for recommendations based on your brewing method at home. Beans are usually best within 2-4 weeks of roasting.

Visit multiple shops to compare styles. Try both espresso and pour-over. Talk to baristas about their coffee. Take your time and savor the experience—Seattle coffee culture is about appreciation, not just caffeine.