Whether you have a special someone in your life at the moment – or whether it’s complicated – there are a few pleasurable things we can do this Valentine’s Day here in Seattle – all with coffee, of course!
If you’re looking of a great place to enjoy great coffee and life’s other small indulgences like pastries, wine, or chocolate, I’ve put together a small list of potential sites, experiences, and gestures of love…
Cafes…
Louisa’s Café and Bakery – Eastlake
Address: 2379 Eastlake Ave E Seattle, WA 98102
Hmm… every time I go to Louisa’s, I am greeted by friendly staff, bright bay windows and a wonderful assortment of fresh breads, pastries, and coffee. They have recently switched to Herkimer Coffee, a move that owner, Alcena, is proud about (and I’m happy about). Offering wine and beer, they also offer a great happy hour too. A favorite of locals and sailors alike, Louisa’s is one of my favorite spots in Eastlake.
Arabica Lounge – Capitol Hill
Address: 1550 E Olive Way Seattle, WA 98102
My original post: Here.
The Arabica Lounge on Capitol Hill is a perfect café to get a cup of coffee or homemade pastries. They also have a deep menu of food for even the pickiest tastes. The trendy scene is comfortable, relaxed, and makes a perfect place to, well, lounge. No two visits are quite the same as the owner is always trying to make the food and coffee experience the best it can be.
Chocolati Café – Greenwood
Address: 8319 Greenwood Ave N Seattle, WA 98103
My original post: Here
I love coffee – and I happen to love chocolate too. Chocolati Café combines my two gastronomical loves into one happy and warm place. If you haven’t been, it’s worth a stop.But be prepared to get a warm welcome and take some chocolate home with you.
Junction Bakery & Café – West Seattle
Address: 4541 California Ave. SW Seattle, WA 98116
You might know this place as Coffee to a Tea. They recently changed their name, but it’s still a great place to get cupcakes, take home cakes, and of course, treat yourself to a well-made coffee in West Seattle and it’s a kid-friendly environment to boot. They have house-made soups and sandwiches, but try on of their cupcakes to compliment the Vashon Island Coffee they serve.
Agua Verde Café – University District
Address: 1303 NE Boat St Seattle, WA 98105
Café Verde has it all – Horchata-chai coffee, house-made Mexican food, and views of the Lake Union cut. While their Kayak rentals don’t open up for another month or so, you can and start Valentine’s Day right with their famous breakfast burritos. The café, who uses locally roasted beans to create their own coffee blend, is currently celebrating their Quinceanera, or 15th birthday this year. This Valentine’s Day they will have a live band and offer a candle-lit atmosphere for guests. (Reservations are a must!)
Pettiroso Café – Capitol Hill (Pike Area)
Address: 1101 E Pike St Seattle, WA 98122
My Original Post Here
An excellent place to enjoy Valentine’s Day with that special someone. Or you can meet up with your single friends and have a beer. Either way it’s a win-win situation. If you haven’t yet been here, this place should be top on your list.
Pegasus Coffee or Black Bird Café – Bainbridge Island
A short ferry ride away is Bainbridge Island, has several great restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Consider visiting Pegasus Coffee or Blackbird Bakery. These two cafes are popular spots on the island.
Coffee Dates & Excursions…
If you want more than just hanging out at a café, consider a couple of Seattle’s best coffee tours. I think they make for a great outing and you get to learn quite a bit about the history of Seattle too.
SeattleByFoot Coffee Tours – Near Pike Place Market
My Original Post Here
Heather offers a great coffee tour for locals and long-time residents alike who want to experience Seattle’s thriving coffee scene. Check them out – they also offer a variety of coffee and pub crawls that you’ll enjoy!
Market Ghost Tours & Espresso – Pike Place Market
Tour owner and lead tour guide, Mercedes offers a unique Seattle ghost tour that starts off at their café. With a cappuccino in hand, you can visit Pike Place Market’s ghostly past with friends, family, or that someone special.
My original Post Here.
How about roasting your own coffee?
If you feel like staying in on Valentine’s Day, you can still be involved in Seattle’s coffee scene by becoming an amateur home roaster. It’s easier than you think and it can be good family fun. You can order your green beans online at Sweet Maria’s or you can pick up a bag of green beans at Vivace Espresso on Capitol Hill.
For more information on how to home roast, check out my original post here.
