Espresso Vivace
There’s often a line. Be patient. It’s worth the wait
for what Food & Wine declares, “Seattle’s best coffee
shop.” Espresso Vivace, which originally opened as
a sidewalk bar on Broadway in the 1980s, is widely
credited with the now-ubiquitous craft of coffee
art. But it’s their classic cappuccino that steals the
show. A rich and bold caffeine hit, it delivers all the
espresso-milk flavor you could want without the ex-
cess acidic finish so commonly found in this classic
drink. Though the famed shop has now expanded to
three locations, their sidewalk bar remains a favor-
ite. It offers a few scattered tables and chairs on the
street out front if you want to sit while you sip.
321 Broadway Ave. E
Tougo Coffee Co.
Caffe Vita
While Seattle may be the birthplace of the globally beloved
mermaid-bearing cup, it’s also home to the United States ‘bou-
tique’ favorite — Caffe Vita. This popular chain now pours in all
50 states and has 200 airport locations, but its neighborhood
cafes have maintained the general bar-like feel of its original
Queen Anne home. The consistently well-brewed coffee is
roasted in-house and the beans are sourced from independent
farmers.
Queen Anne location: 813 5th Ave. N
Known for being approachable in its nerdy take on
coffee, Tougo runs a small counter at the Conven-
tion Center and a café at First Hill. But it’s their
original spot in the Central District where you’ll get
a real feel for their impressive variety of brewing
methods so lovingly cultivated and on display. Best
enjoyed with a baked good—of which the café offers
many—you’ll have the chance to try everything from
the classic French press and espresso shots to pour
overs and aero pressed cups of joe.
1410 18th Ave.
kenmoreair.com
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