1. Storyville Coffee
With their assortment of pastries baked in house (including chocolate cake rounds, lemon cake, and waffles) homemade syrups, and excellent espresso... You really can't go wrong. Best of all, the profits go toward anti-human trafficking efforts. If you find yourself in need of a cozy coffee shop to nestle up with a book, visit their Downtown shop in Pikes Place - it's a little difficult to find, but once you do you won't regret it.
2. Ballard Coffee Works
There is nothing I love more than a coffee joint that specializes in just that - simple coffee. If you are a lover of French press, Aeropress, or Chemex brewed coffees then don't hesitate to swing by downtown Ballard. Situated where all the nightlife takes place, Ballard Coffee Works has a variety of blends that are perfect for at home brewing. This shop is especially friendly for those who have allergies (I myself am celiac). I really love that they offer hemp milk as an alternative, as well as seasonal pastries that are both gluten and dairy free... I'm currently finding their pumpkin bread to die for.
3. Broadcast Coffee
If I hadn't gotten stranded on the outskirts of the Wallingford and Greenlake area waiting for the bus, I don't think I would have ever discovered this place. It's interior has a minimalist aesthetic typical of hipster coffee shops - but without the snooty attitude. I love how straightforward the baristas here are and how I've never been let down by a crappy drink. While this isn't an espresso-oriented drink, I highly recommend trying out their Chai lattes - it's a decision you won't regret.
4. Miir
Located on the outskirts of downtown Fremont, Miir offers a menu that is simple, short, and sweet. Espresso drinks are offered at a maximum size of 12 ounces with the option of homemade vanilla syrups. The most unique thing about the store is that they 'seek to empower,' which means that each drink they sell provides the funds to give clean water to someone in need. Miir also carries products by companies such as Krochet Kids and The Giving Keys which also seek to give back to others.
5. Slate
I'd have to argue - this might be one of the more authentic coffee experiences I've had in Seattle. I never would've thought there was a such thing as a 'deconstructed latte,' yet Slate proved me wrong. The process of the deconstructed latte flight consists of espresso and milk served separately, which is supposed to allow your tastebuds to experience all the notes in the final product, or latte. Best of all, they've now opened locations outside of Ballard in the University District and Pioneer Square.
6. Anchored Ship
Whenever I visit this coffee shop I never cease to have an endless stream of creative ideas. The interior has an artsy-homey vibe and the walls are adorned with work from local artists. The shop also has a lofted study area, sprinkled with vintage couches, fans, and various trinkets. I especially love visiting because whenever I pull out art supplies the clientele are curious and kind about what I'm doing. Located in the heart of Ballard, Anchored Ship is one of those great mom-and-pop style neighborhood shops. While any of their drinks are excellent, I recommend trying out their macchiatos.
7. Java Bean
Similar to Anchored Ship, Java Bean definitely has a mom-and-pop vibe, but with a spin that's all it's own. The entire shop is covered in vintage outdoors posters, and littered with Polaroids taken of regular customers. An endless list of syrups are offered - my personal favorite being raspberry paired with a mocha. Located on the outskirts of downtown Ballard, this is a great shop to hang out in when you want to have a relaxing day to read, or need to cram for finals.
9. Milstead
Oh, Milstead. I could go on about how great this place is - one reason being that right outside the shop there's an amazing view of the Fremont warf that just seems magical during the winter. But besides its prime location, the variety of poured brews (my friend swears by their Aeropress) they offer are amazing. I'm personally in love with the Chai they serve. Made with real tea (versus a liquid mix) it's just the right amount of sweet and spicy. With the option of indoor or outdoor seating (their outdoor seating has a firetruck, whale, and other trinkets lying about) this shop is great to visit if you want to catch up with a friend, or show Seattle off to someone from out of town.
10. Bauhaus
This is my number one go-to coffee shop when it's midterms or finals season. Maybe it's a sense of camaraderie (since every time I walk in everybody seems to either have their head tucked behind a laptop screen, or nose in a book) but I always am able to whip out that last minute essay, or presentation that I (may) have procrastinated on. Since I always find myself studying here, I always order black coffee in drip or an Americano. Either one is sure to give you that caffeine fix to push through.
