Seattle Coffee in the University District
At first, nothing may seem appealing by this ordinary inconspicuous coffee shop right on the Ave. In fact, chances are you’d walk right by it and not even notice it – I particularly enjoy places like that.
The Sure Shot Cafe is a grungy coffee joint that certainly pushes the bar of discomfort, but it fits right into Seattle’s alternative scene in the U-District quite nicely. It other words, the Sure Shot certainly can find its place among coffee shops in Seattle, and I personally wouldn’t have it any other way.
The word “alternative” has been thrown around a lot over the last twenty years, so, specifically it’s what I would consider the polar opposite of your traditional “mainstream” Starbucks, which is refreshing. It’s not that it’s a bad place to grab a cup of coffee, because the coffee is quite good, it’s just not the kind of coffee shop to sit and catch up with an old friend (or perhaps it is?).
Certainly, if Kurt Cobain had been living near the U-District while he was in high school back in the 80s then this place would certainly be his hang out. Half of the clientele appear to be from a local half-way house nearby – but hey, everyone deserves a good cup of coffee, right?
Though the grubby vibe is welcoming to friends and strangers alike you may find it a bit difficult to hang out in. On the occasions that I came in for one of their well made espressos, they were not apologetic for blasting industrial metal rock over the speakers.
And yet, the Sure Shot does have some positive attributes. For one, the coffee is a good 3 out of 5 stars and the baristas are all friendly and talkative. For those coffee drinkers who like white coffee this place serves it up quite nicely I have been told.
Lately Sure Shot has been featuring mystery and horror movie nights. If you are tired of studying, it’s a great way to take your mind off upcoming deadlines and enjoy a cup of good coffee. This place definitely has regulars who are looking for an alternative and unpretentious surrounding.
They offer free WIFI and also have two or three working computers you can use to get online if you are in a pinch without laptop. If you’re there, you might want to also check out one of the few old school video arcade games they got in the back.
Location: 4505 University Way NE
Neighborhood: University District
Free WiFi & In House Computers for Patron Use
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