Best Coffee Shops in Seattle for Espresso Lovers
Seattle, Washington, is known as one of the coffee capitals of the world, and it’s easy to see why. Home to the first Starbucks and countless independent coffee shops scattered across the city, Seattle has become a haven for coffee enthusiasts. If you’re an espresso lover, Seattle is bursting with spots that serve a perfect shot of robust, smooth espresso. Whether you’re visiting the Emerald City or are a local looking to find your next favorite cup, here’s a guide to some of the best coffee shops in Seattle for espresso lovers.
- Espresso Vivace
Espresso Vivace is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates expertly crafted espresso. This coffee house is considered legendary in Seattle’s coffee scene and is often credited with introducing latte art to the United States. They specialize in the Northern Italian style of roasting, which brings out sweet and rich flavors in their espresso. Whether you prefer a straight shot or a creamy cappuccino, Espresso Vivace delivers every single time. They have multiple locations around the city, including a café on Broadway, so you’re never too far from a great cup.
- Milstead & Co.
Located in the Fremont neighborhood, Milstead & Co. is a modern coffee shop that takes espresso very seriously. They focus on quality and work with some of the best roasters in the country, including Intelligentsia and Heart Coffee Roasters. Their baristas are highly skilled and pay close attention to every step of the coffee-making process. The espresso here is nothing short of exceptional—balanced, full-bodied, and satisfying down to the last sip. Milstead’s cozy atmosphere and large windows make it a great place to relax while enjoying your coffee.
- Storyville Coffee
Tucked away in Pike Place Market, Storyville Coffee offers a warm, inviting space perfect for espresso lovers. Their house blend espresso is smooth and slightly sweet, with hints of cocoa and caramel—a treat for your taste buds! The shop itself has a cozy vibe, with comfortable seating, soft music, and even a fireplace. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the market while sipping on some top-notch espresso. Storyville also offers a selection of pastries that pair perfectly with your coffee.
- Elm Coffee Roasters
Elm Coffee Roasters is located in the Pioneer Square neighborhood and is known for its clean, approachable style of roasting. Their espresso is crisp and bright, showcasing the distinct flavors of the coffee beans they source carefully from small farms. Elm’s minimalist design and friendly staff make it a welcoming spot for coffee enthusiasts, whether you’re new to espresso or a seasoned pro. It’s the type of place where you can sit back, enjoy your coffee, and appreciate the craft that goes into every single cup.
- Analog Coffee
If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to grab a high-quality espresso, Analog Coffee in Capitol Hill might be your new favorite. This quirky coffee shop is beloved by locals for its retro vibe, complete with vinyl records and vintage décor. The espresso at Analog Coffee is bold, rich, and perfectly balanced. They use beans from top-notch roasters and have plenty of classic espresso drinks on the menu. Grab a latte, chat with the friendly baristas, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
- Diva Espresso
Diva Espresso is one of Seattle’s hidden coffee gems, with a commitment to serving high-quality coffee every day. They’ve been around since 1992, and their espresso is consistently excellent. Diva roasts their beans locally, ensuring fresh and flavorful coffee. With multiple locations around the city, Diva Espresso offers accessibility along with great-tasting drinks. Their welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to sit down and enjoy your espresso at your own pace.
- Victrola Coffee Roasters
Victrola Coffee Roasters has been a staple in Seattle’s coffee scene since 2000. Known for their dedication to sourcing and roasting exceptional beans, Victrola delivers well-rounded espresso that stands out. Whether you want a simple shot or something more extravagant like a mocha or macchiato, their espresso is always smooth and delicious. The shop on 15th Avenue East has an especially cozy vibe, featuring big windows, comfy seating, and even occasional live music events.
- Fulcrum Café
Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, Fulcrum Café is a modern coffee shop with a passion for quality coffee. They roast their beans in-house, ensuring that every cup is packed with fresh flavor. Their espresso is balanced and smooth, appealing to both seasoned espresso aficionados and casual coffee drinkers. Fulcrum Café also offers a variety of innovative espresso-based drinks, making it a fun spot to try something new.
Seattle’s coffee culture is vibrant and diverse, and the city has no shortage of amazing espresso spots. Whether you prefer your espresso straight up, blended into a latte, or paired with a delicious pastry, these coffee shops offer some of the best espresso in town. Next time you’re in Seattle, make sure to add these cafes to your list. You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy espresso!
