Showing posts with label coffee house. Show all posts
Showing posts with label coffee house. Show all posts

SKÖG Haus Coffee is ready to wake up your day in Lake Forest Park

Tuesday, August 31, 2021

SKÖG Haus Coffee family
By Cynthia Sheridan

Heather and Dave Skogerson, with sons Vaughn and Finn and nephew Caen, are the family behind SKÖG Haus Coffee, which is open for business on Ballinger Way in Lake Forest Park. 

They had a dream to build a coffee house, and began by ordering a vintage Airstream replica trailer as their place of business. Although the original purchase pre-dated any hint of a national pandemic, actual delivery of their trailer occurred well after the onset of materials, production and shipping delays due to COVID-19. 

Upon arrival in Shoreline, the vehicle then needed endless changes and upgrades to satisfy local code regulations. Meanwhile there was an on-going search for just the right space to rent, buy or lease a parking space.

Throughout the process, Heather and Dave received great on-line support from Instagram members, who have since become customers and friends.

SKÖG Haus is open mornings at 35th NE and Ballinger Way in the parking lot of the Local 104

Finally, on July 28, 2021, with the blessing of a perfect location, Skog Haus opened in the parking lot of the Local 104 restaurant at 18496 Ballinger Way NE 98155 (corner of 35th Ave NE).

SKÖG Haus is open mornings from 6am to 1pm Monday thru Thursday offering espresso/coffee, tea, smoothies, baked goods and amazing customer service all in a drive through, walk up style vintage Airstream replica trailer. Closed Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Check their Facebook page or website for events and time changes.)

SKÖG Haus product partners are Bellingham Coffee Roasters, Metolius Tea, Elli-vated Goods, and Holy Kakow.

We wanted to create something we could be proud of that included all the things that are meaningful to us… family, friends and community, the Pacific Northwest, intentional kindness, love, and compassion, local, sustainable and ethical with an emphasis on a passion for going above and beyond people’s expectations.

What grew from this dream was the idea for SKÖG Haus Coffee, a mobile, specialty coffee business that could serve our wonderful North Seattle community of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park and its surrounding neighborhoods while highlighting local businesses (like Local 104) in the process. 

They offer gift cards on their website - popular for teacher gifts.




Read more...

Black Coffee NW to open Saturday with voter registration drive

Friday, October 16, 2020

New coffee shop opens Oct 17
Photo courtesy Black Coffee NW 

 

Black Coffee NW is set to open their doors Saturday, October 17, 2020 at The Junction in the site where One Cup Coffee was located before the owner's retirement.

The location was vandalized on September 30, 2020 when someone tried to break windows and set a fire on the outside of the building. Anyone with knowledge of that event is asked to contact the arson squad 1-800-55-ARSON.

Black Coffee NW Café, 16743 Aurora Ave N in Shoreline, is co-owned by Black activist Darnesha Weary.

According to their website, 

Black Coffee Northwest is about energy and creativity, and we exist to inspire and energize our community alike. We start with the best coffee and the best baristas around, add amazing local art, and bring you the most interesting publications from the world over.

Grand Opening on October 17 will feature a voter registration event.

Tess Owen at KOMO wrote a report for Seattle Refined about the new coffee shop:

Black Coffee Northwest is more than just a cup of coffee. It’s a movement.

More specifically, it’s a grassroots, youth-driven initiative creating space in a Black-owned cafe and community hub in Shoreline. Co-owner DarNesha Weary has been an activist for the past 20 years, and Black Coffee Northwest offers a tangible home for that work.

Read her article HERE



Read more...

New café at Westgate offers handcrafted espresso, cold-pressed juice, and an international array for breakfast and lunch

Friday, October 9, 2020

Despite the pressures of the pandemic, a new café opened its doors on August 4th. 

Serving the Shoreline, Edmonds, and Lynnwood communities, Jaiiya Café is situated at the Village at Westgate on 100th and Edmonds Way, beside Bartells and just behind Ono Poke in Edmonds. The address is 10032 Edmonds Way, Edmonds. The cafe is open daily 7am-5pm.

Jaiiya Café aims to bring to the area a new way of thinking about coffee, and a fresh (and tasty) take on healthier food and drink. 

The menu includes handcrafted espresso drinks, a vibrant selection of cold-pressed juices served in glass bottles, açai bowls topped with fruit and granola, and an internationally inspired array of breakfast and lunch fare.

“Our vision for this cafe is to not only have amazing quality food and drink but to always think outside of the box,” said owner Chee Wong. 


When opening Jaiiya Café, he wanted to bring together the warmth and atmosphere of a traditional coffeehouse with the spirit of culinary experimentation / exploration.

They also wanted to introduce açai bowls to the area, as they noticed options were limited for those in Shoreline and Lynnwood looking for the cool treat.

Where Jaiiya differs from other coffee shops and quick service cafés is their quality over quantity mentality.

The goal isn’t just to serve as many customers as quickly as possible, but rather to give each customer they serve a truly unique experience.

Take their newest drink special for example: a Housemade spiced apple cider. Each cup of cider is served with a fresh twist of orange rind, a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a slice of granny smith apple, rolled in brown sugar and torched to caramelized perfection right in front of the customer.

When designing the menu, the owners kept an eye on fresh and local. They believe the best tasting ingredients are the ones grown locally and aimed to source from the community as much as possible.

This includes fresh walnut bread from local artisanal bakery the Cottage at Blueridge.

Beyond the ingredients themselves, owners Chee and Sherlyn Wong drew inspiration from international treats and cuisines.

“Our menu is based on different cultures from around the world. Dalgona Whipped Coffee from Korea, Thai inspired buckwheat noodle salad, açai bowls with the super fruit from Brazil, and of course our Turkish Eggs. 
"This is the core of what our logo means: The circles in our logo represent wholeness and balance in life. Not only are we inspired by cultures from around the world, but we also try to incorporate a balance of healthy food in our lives.”



Several favorites have emerged among their many offerings, according to their customers: their Pumpkin Spice Latte made with real pumpkin and topped with a hearty pumpkin whipped cream, the aforementioned Turkish Eggs – herbed Greek yogurt topped with two runny poached eggs and Aleppo butter, paired with two crispy pieces of walnut toast – and their peanut butter açai power bowl, a protein and antioxidant packed way to start the day.

The next time you’re in the mood for something fresh and new, or even just a great cappuccino, stop by Jaiiya Café and their friendly staff is sure to help you find your new favorite treat.



Read more...

WSDOT temporarily suspends free coffee program at statewide safety rest areas

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Rest stops remain open - but no coffee
Google maps
As state and national efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 continue, the Washington State Department of Transportation is temporarily suspending the Free Coffee Volunteer Program at safety rest areas, beginning Monday, March 16, until further notice. 

Statewide, 37 of 47 safety rest areas offer the Free Coffee Program. This is a continuation of efforts to slow the spread of the virus through social distancing, minimizing touch points and limiting close personal contact.

Visitors to the Evergreen State have been receiving free coffee via the popular volunteer-run stations for more than 20 years. The program benefits drivers and allows groups to collect donations for nonprofits.

It is important to note, that all of the state’s 47 rest areas remain open. WSDOT has implemented additional precautions to disinfect rest areas including more frequent cleaning of touch points, and refilling of soap and hand sanitizer.


Read more...

One Cup Coffee opens drive-thru window

Sunday, January 28, 2018

One Cup Coffee on Aurora
drive thru window now open
One Cup Coffee on 170th and Aurora celebrates the opening of a drive thru window

One Cup Coffee at The Junction has been in business in Shoreline since 2014.

It is the third of four coffee houses owned by Christian Kar.

See previous article

One Cup, which boasts the largest interior of any coffee shop in the area, is located on southbound Aurora - a natural for a drive thru.

The entrance is just past N 170th and the corner lot owned by Chuck Olson Auto at the large sign that says The Junction.

The window will be open Monday, January 29, 2018.




Read more...

Shoreline’s living room: Vibrant coffee shop builds community

Thursday, March 16, 2017

One Cup Coffee at The Junction provides a warm atmosphere on a grey and rainy day.
Photo by Anran Lin


By Anran Lin

While Shoreline’s coffee business is stagnant, One Cup Coffee is flourishing by using philanthropy, a community feel, and great coffee.

Located at 16743 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, One Cup Coffee opened in late 2014 and has been popular with locals ranging from students, to business people, and to construction workers, and City Councilmembers.

One Cup Coffee owner Christian Kar has been roasting and retailing coffees in Washington for more than two decades. Launched in 2010, the One Cup brand now runs three shops, with a fourth underway in the heart of Greenwood.

In 2014, One Cup opened its shop in Shoreline when the lead pastor of Bethany Community Church, Scott Sund, reached out to Kar. Sund believed in Kar’s community contribution ethic and his philosophy of creating neighborhood-centric coffee shops, which he thought could potentially build a “living room” setting in the Shoreline community.

“We wanted to make a positive impact on this part of Aurora Avenue,” said Sund.

Located on Aurora Avenue North among car dealerships and aging buildings, One Cup Coffee in The Junction building stands out with its bright and modern look.

Beside being known for its coffees, One Cup Coffee also sells sweet and
savory pastries purchased from local bakeries.
Photo by Anran Lin 
 

People have the misconception that One Cup Coffee is part of the church and that it’s a religious organization, but we are not, said Kar.

“We both just have a common mission to be involved in the community, and make a positive impact in the world.” Kar said.

Since opening, One Cup had been setting aside a portion of every sale and donating that directly to local charities providing critical services in the community.

One such example is Food4Kids – a backpack program to provide at risk youth with food for after school and weekends when they may typically have bare cupboards at home.

At the moment, Kar is revamping his local charitable programs, hoping to come up with a more impactful community service model. Kar says, “We are working to give back in other ways. We want to support the community that supports us.”

In the meantime, One Cup continues to offer its ‘suspended coffee’ program where customers can buy a cup of coffee for someone in need.

Located at a unique spot, One Cup Coffee is within a minute’s walk of Shorewood High School, Shoreline Community College, a methadone clinic and a variety of businesses. A typical day at One Cup Coffee serves clientele that range from city staff, to soccer moms and their kids, to patients from the methadone clinic. Construction companies hold early morning coffee sessions there before going on site.

The large and open space boasts a variety of tables from two person to a large wooden table that seats 10-12 people. There are seating areas with big comfortable chairs and coffee tables.

“We have all kinds of people here every day,” One Cup Coffee manager Tonia Hume said.

The majority of the clientele are long-term customers, like the Bethany Community Church, whose offices are in the back part of the building. Every Tuesday, One Cup Coffee lends a spot to the church where they set up tables out on the sidewalk to give away free coffees and donuts to community members who could really use more caring and kindness in their lives. 

The espresso bar at One Cup Coffee. Art hangs on the walls.
Photo by Anran Lin 

“The partnership with One Cup has been beautiful and we continue to believe we are called to make a difference together,” said Sund.

Huge wall murals of the Interurban Trolley that recall Shoreline’s history are not accidental.

Kar says, “Connection to history and perhaps a simpler, more relational way of life, is a hallmark of our brand. Our local coffee shops endeavor to create and enhance the sense of local community.”

When he opens a new shop, it becomes part of that community’s history. “We like to showcase that history with photos and memories.”

When it comes down to it, Kar says, “We like to say the 'world comes together over coffee'. Now there’s a nice place for that to happen right here in Shoreline.“
~~~

Special for readers of the Shoreline Area News

Mention the Shoreline Area News at One Cup between now and the end of March 2017 to receive a FREE 12oz prepared beverage + your choice of Sweetbread. One per customer - excludes blended beverages.
Enjoy!


Read more...

Shoreline coffee spots in new book

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Eclectic Coffee Spots in Puget Sound by Marsha Glazière  

Tacoma’s Marsha Glazière uses her artist’s sensibilities to capture the ambiance, architectural character, motifs, furnishings, curb appeal, and distinguishing personality of 120 Eclectic Coffee Spots in Puget Sound. Her new book features 41 paintings of those that inspire her most, text, photos, maps, and recipes.

"Who better than an artist to weave the Pacific Northwest's most romantic tale? As though she were recovering buried treasure, Marsha expertly guides us through Latte Land, from proud bean to magical elixir, sharing both coffee and her delight ... one cup at a time. Seek out your favorite corner table, order your favorite espresso drink, and spend an afternoon with your new favorite coffee table book."
~ Laurie Cheeley, Roastmaster for Highlands Coffee Company

Several coffee spots known to local residents are mentioned in the book.

Drawing by Marsha Glazière  

Caffé Appassionato - a walk-up
15505 Westminster Way N. Central Market / Shoreline

The silo structure that houses the tiny Caffé Appassionato within the Central Market adds distinctive architectural character to the entire grocery store. Seating barely exists, virtually making it a walk-up coffee bar within this abundant food emporium. It is a fun place to get fortified with caffeine before embarking on an over-the top shopping experience. The name Appassionato pays homage to Beethoven by naming the company after his sonata entitled Appasionata, while also acknowledging the composer’s reputation as a coffee lover. Clearly Caffé Appassionato has a harmony all its own.

Diva Espresso (dba Highlands Coffee on 145th and Greenwood) 
14419 Greenwood Avenue North, Seattle, WA
(206) 417-1639

Diva roasts what they refer to as ‘Magical Beans’ which are purchased directly from independent farmers in many countries.

Cafe Allegro was Starbucks’ first wholesale customer, roasting an espresso blend especially for them until 2004. Allegro’s beans have since been roasted by Brown’s Coffee in Shoreline.
Café Allegro is in Seattle’s University District and is Seattle’s oldest coffee shop)

Eclectic Coffee Spots in Puget Sound is a great guide for exploring the region via its coffee shops, and if anyone would like a signed copy for a holiday gift, Marsha will be signing books December 1 at Vivace Espresso Bar at Brix, 532 Broadway Ave. E., Seattle 6-8 p.m.


Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Sky Nursery

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend.  To see the other coffee shops in this series, look under Features in the first column of our webpage.

The main entrance to Sky Nursery and the coffee shop
has been on the north end since the new greenhouses were built.
Photo by Vicki Michels

SKY NURSERY COFFEE
18528 Aurora Avenue North

By Vicki Michels

OK, this is not exactly a "coffee shop", but it is a wonderful stop along (atop?) the Interurban Trail! Just inside the front doors of the greenhouse you will find a full-service counter selling hot and cold drinks, just perfect to carry with you as you survey the beautiful plantings.

Or you can sit at one of the little nearby tables with a drink and a munchie, and just listen to the birds and inhale the peace and scented air.

The coffee shop is right by the north entrance
Photo by Vicki Michels

The coffee itself comes from Fidalgo Bay roaster in Burlington; they are organic, fair trade, and kosher. I recently had a white macadamia latte that was marvelous.

HOURS:
Open – Mon-Sat 9 a.m.; Sun 10 a.m.
Close - Mon-Sat 4 p.m.; Sun. 4 p.m.

FOOD:
The counter sells only pre-made goodies, but such goodies they are! There are "Uncle Seth" pink cookies, both regular and mini. Biscotti. Cookies, of course. And wonderful breads, including blueberry, sour-cream walnut, lowfat lemon poppyseed, and my fave: yogurt mandarin.

Sky Coffee
Photo by Vicki Michels

PARKING:
There is plenty of parking for the nursery, both in the main lot and also some at the side along Aurora Avenue.
(By the way, one can still enter from Aurora, coming either direction, but the main entrance is off Midvale, a block or so north of the police station. The Midvale street turn is across from Bartells Drug Store.)

SEATING:
Inside the nursery there are benches and little places to perch everywhere. Just near the coffee kiosk are perhaps three little tables with 2-3 chairs at each. Certainly sufficient to meet a friend for coffee.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:
There is no access right now, though the barrista says she has been nagging. . .


Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Diva Espresso on 145th

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Corrected 02-29-2012 1:09pm 
Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.

Exterior of Diva Espresso
Photo by Vicki Michels


DIVA ESPRESSO
14419 Greenwood N
(SW corner of 145th and Greenwood)
206-417-1639

By Vicki Michels

Situated in what looks to me like an old garage space, the modern Diva Espresso provides a cozy stop. The location is the north edge of a strip of shops on the west side of the street. The Seattle Golf and Country Club is just north across 145th, providing a quiet, green view.

DIVA is part of a chain of six coffee shops, owned by partners in Seattle. Others you may have seen are located in West Seattle, Greenlake, Harborview, Downtown, and Lake City. The beans are roasted by the Highlands Coffee Company, which attributes their fine quality to "human dignity" based on "decent, evenhanded, fair and equitable relationships between grower, broker, roaster, and consumer."

Counter at Diva Espresso
Photo by Vicki Michels

The shop provides all the standards: lattes, coffees, smoothies, soft drinks, and baked goods. (I visited this last summer and had a "Creamsicle Princess" – it was wonderful! )

This is a fairly intimate place, not really kid-friendly. It is more of a place to drop in, meet friends, hang out for a while and chat or work on a computer. It is not exactly "in" Shoreline, but located just across the street.

HOURS:
Open – Mon-Fri, 5:30 a.m.; Sat, 6 a.m.; Sun, 7 a.m.
Close – Mon-Fri, 9 p.m.; Sat, 9 p.m.; Sun, 8 pm.

FOOD:
There is a limited selection of baked goods. The focus here is more on the coffee and specialty drinks.

PARKING:
There are perhaps 10 spaces. Parking is in front of the building and along the driveway, usable by anyone shopping in the strip.

Not large, but welcoming
Photo by Vicki Michels

SEATING:
There are two cushy loveseats and 5 tables. This is not a large place, but is welcoming.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:
Wi-Fi is provided. The password is simply posted and available to everyone to use.



Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Third Place Commons

Monday, January 30, 2012

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.


THIRD PLACE COMMONS
17171 Bothell Way Northeast
(Bothell Way and Ballinger Way)
Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
206-366-3333

By Vicki Michels

According to Ray Oldenberg, PhD, there are three places that you spend your time. The first is home, of course. The second is work. The third place is a location where people gather for social interaction and fun.

To quote their website: "With a large public commons, five restaurants, free wireless internet, a community room, a stage, and over one thousand free public events every year, Third Place Books has something for everyone. Whether you need to study, host a community meeting, or get out of the house for the evening, we hope you will make this your third place."
Third Place Books adjoins The Commons
Photo by Vicki Michels

Within that main entrance you will find not only a large and enthusiastic book store selling both new and used volumes, but also one glassed-in room which can be rented for private gatherings, multiple restaurants, numerous tables in various configurations, and a full stage for public presentations and performances.

This place has virtually everything you might want. The Third Place Commons website will name all the upcoming events -- everything from free banjo concerts to holiday flower festivals.

Honey Bear Bakery at Third Place Commons
Photo by Vicki Michels

The most prominent eating area is the Honey Bear Bakery. It serves breakfasts and lunches, soups, sandwiches, and daily specials. There are also coffees and teas, soft drinks, etc. See the menu on their website, above, for a sample of their delicious daily offerings.

Honeybear Bakery, The Commons and the bookstore are on the upper level, west end of a large community center, the Lake Forest Park Towne Centre. At that location you will also find such things as the Lake Forest Park Library, Albertson's, Rite Aid Drugs, Wild Birds Unlimited, Baskin-Robbins, jewelry stores, bread stores, fishing lures, and the adjacent City Hall, police station and court.

HOURS:
Open - Daily, at 9 a.m.
Close - Monday-Saturday 10 p.m.; Sunday 8 p.m.

FOOD:
The food is wonderful. Breakfast and lunch, plus baked goods and desserts – even wedding cakes! Take look at the menu: Memorable home-made soups, grilled or fresh sandwiches, waffles, omelets, fruit, pot pies…

PARKING:
I've never had a problem. There is parking for the entire center on both the upstairs level and also for the stores below. (By the way, there are both elevators and escalators for those who may have limited mobility.)

Lots of places to sit, no matter which restaurant you choose
Photo by Vicki Michels

EATING:
There are a great many tables and chairs throughout, so unless the gathering is huge (as for an evening musical performance) there should never be a problem finding a place to sit.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:
There is free WiFi access, so of course you can bring your own computer. Many outlets are available on walls and on the supporting posts within the eating area.



Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Brown's Cafe

Monday, January 16, 2012

Brown's Coffee has closed but Neil Brown continues roasting coffee and selling it online.

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.

Brown's Coffee. The Arabella Apartments are across the street.
Photo by Vicki Michels
Brown's company car in front of building
Photo by Marc Weinberg


Brown's Coffee
19042 15th NE, North City
(East side of 15th NE, across from the Door store, and just south of Les Schwab)
206-367-2070
(website is under construction)


By Vicki Michels

This is a warm, friendly little shop that roasts their own coffee and serves great food.

The big draw here is probably the food. They serve a full menu for breakfast and lunch, including Eggs Benedict with a proper hollandaise sauce, and home-made corned beef. The sandwich chef won “best sandwich” prize in Seattle when owned his own shop in the University District.

There are the usual baked goods, lattes, teas and coffees. They roast their own: see the large roaster prominent in the middle of the room! Fresh coffee is for sale by the pound. The owner takes great interest and pride in his place.

Family breakfast at Brown's
Photo by Vicki Michels

I talked to a woman with three kids (niece and two nephews, she said) devouring breakfast. She’d eaten there once, and was so impressed she brought more family. (Mumbled spontaneous editorial comment from one boy: "mm, mm, mm, mm, UMMM!)

There is a small stage, with piano. But it is not used. Apparently the noise is a problem for the other tenants in the building.

HOURS:

Open - Mon-Fri 7 a.m, Saturday 8 a.m., Sunday 9 a.m.
Lunch - served all day, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Close - 5:00 p.m. every day

FOOD:

Great breakfasts, yummy lunches, and snacks and baked goods. Coffee drinks are served, along with teas, juices, soft drinks, and the usual array of bottled beverages.

Owner Neal Brown is in the middle of the process of getting a license to serve beer and wine. Then he plans to stay open for dinner and expand the menu.

PARKING:

Big drawback: Parking is terrible! There are maybe six spaces. Adjacent storefronts have posted parking for only their own clients. I cheated and parked in a lot belonging to someone else. Even street-side parking is limited, but can be found if you don’t mind walking a block.

Tables and chairs come in all sizes
Photo by Vicki Michels

SEATING:

There are a couple of booths along the window, perhaps ten tables. This is not a large place, and is generally quite busy. There are folding chairs available for additional seating if you need more.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:

There is free WiFi access, so of course you can bring your own computer.

In general, I look forward to returning here some morning for a yummy breakfast with a special latte!

Read more...

Coffee with a friend: Richmond Beach Coffee Company

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.

The Richmond Beach Coffee Company
Photo by Vicki Michels

Richmond Beach Coffee Company
1442 Northwest Richmond Beach Road
Shoreline, WA 98177
205-542-05511


By Vicki Michels

I'm looking for any excuse to come back here! This shop is in a delightfully converted garage (as are many coffee shops, I discover. I believe this used to be Earl's Auto Repair.) The shop has been a neighborhood fave for over eight years. (They are at the northeast corner of the intersection, off the street behind an airy fence.)

To me, the primary draw here is the best panini I've ever had. It was 11 a.m., and I bypassed the baked goods and tried a grilled ham with cheese luncheon sandwich. With a cup of homemade split pea soup… Heaven!

Front counter. Photo by Vicki Michels.


There is a great variety of food and drinks. (I don’t know if you can read the board, from my fuzzy photography.)

Newspapers, toys, and games are available, and it appears to be a community gathering place; many customers are greeted on a first-name basis. The coffee shop takes pride in welcoming folks from the local Veterans' Center.

Customers chat while waiting in line.
Photo by Vicki Michels

During the warm summer, the old "garage" door is lifted to provide open-air ambiance, and people can dine outside. Apparently there is also drive-thru service.

On perhaps two weekends per month, during the summer, there are Music Nights. Check the website for performance artists and dates. If you yourself are interested in performing, please call the number listed above for information.

Performance area. Photo by Vicki Michels

HOURS:

Open – Mon-Fri 6 a.m.; Sat-Sun 7 a.m.

Close - Mon-Thu, Sun. 6 p.m.; Fri, Sat 7 p.m.

But on music nights, will stay open until 10 p.m.

FOOD:

Sandwiches, both hot and cold; panini; muffins, chips, cookies, cakes; crepes! Drinks are everything you might want, from latte, coffee, tea, bubble tea, and espresso, to soft drinks, juices, beer and wine.

PARKING:

There are at least 12 spaces, and more can be found in neighboring areas.

A cozy seating area. Photo by Vicki Michels

SEATING:

Virtually everything is available for your comfort. Perhaps six inside tables have chairs or benches, and in various places there are sofas, loveseats, overstuffed chairs and settees for lounging, reading, and conversation. A counter with around eight stools runs along inside the "garage" doors, which will be opened up in the summer for fresh air. Outside there are a few tables and chairs for use in good weather.


Work counter by windows
Photo by Vicki Michels

COMPUTER/INTERNET:

Wi-Fi is free, and each stool/station on the counter has an outlet. There is one computer available, free for customers to use.

When I asked her, the manager expressed some apprehension about the Point Wells project. She hopes it will bring in business, but fears that it might instead destroy the chummy neighborhood.

Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Whole Latte Love in Ballinger Village

Monday, November 28, 2011

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.


Ballinger Village Market Thriftway
Photo by Vicki Michels

WHOLE LATTE LOVE
west end of Ballinger Village Market Thriftway
20150 Ballinger Way NE
Shoreline WA 98155


By Vicki Michels

This used to be a different coffee shop, but Whole Latte Love has been open for several months at the west end of the Thriftway grocery, 20150 Ballinger Way Northeast. From inside the Thriftway store, turn left through the flower shop; from outside, use the separate entrance west of the main doors.

Baristas at Whole Latte Love coffee shop
Photo by Vicki Michels

It's a pleasant place to stop in while shopping. There are a few comfy chairs and benches if you want to stay for a bit, and also some stools near the window for a quick exit. It is your basic grocery store coffee stop, but this one has very friendly barristas and a good selection.

A variety of seating at Whole Latte Love
Photo by Vicki Michels

They have the basic coffee shop fare, but they also advertise a breakfast sandwich. I ordered one with a mocha latte, and there arrived a full 6-inch toasted bagel, slathered with cheese, egg, and sausage!


Outside tables for good weather
Photo by Vicki Michels

Outside seating is available outside on the apron in front of the store, tucked back under shade and pleasantly near the flower shop.

HOURS:

The hours are basically store hours, but note that on Sunday mornings you get a free donut, and daily there is a "happy hour" from 2 pm to 6 pm.

FOOD:

Basic coffee and tea drinks, baked goods, donuts, scones, coffee cake, and breakfast sandwiches. The coffee is locally roasted Mazza Espresso. Sample of price: my Mocha latte was $2.75.

PARKING:

No problem! There is a full lot for the grocery store and other adjoining businesses in the area.

SEATING:

As mentioned, there is a long bench with tables and chairs, and also some stools and a counter by the window.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:

WiFi is free, but there are no outlets. If you want to work on your computer, be sure it is fully charged.

Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Café Aroma

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.


Café Aroma
509 NE 165th Street
kitty-corner from Crest Theater
in the Ridgecrest Neighborhood
206-440-0690

by Vicki Michels

This is a nice little "mom-and-pop" coffee shop right in the neighborhood. It's a great place to drop in before or after a movie at the Crest.

Café Aroma has been doing business since 1982; the owners are Terry and Leanne Scott. Very friendly people and fast service make this a nice neighborhood drop-in.

The Back Room at Cafe Aroma
Photo by Vicki Michels

There are the usual games, TV, and kids' toys. Seating is in the back room, which has a couple of tables, a sofa and chair for chatting. It feels a little spare, but the warmth of the people compensates. There is also a small patio outside with tables.

Outdoor seating area at Cafe Aroma
Photo by Vicki Michels

You can tell from the photographs it was a bit rainy the day I was there. But the hot almond milk latte made up for it!

HOURS:

Open – Mon-Fri 5:30 a.m.; Sat 7 a.m.; Sun 8 a.m.
Close - Mon-Thu 5 p.m.; Sat 10 p.m.; Sun. 4 p.m.

FOOD:

Food is mostly freshly pre-packaged. One can get breakfast snacks and sandwiches, including Panini. They also have soups and hot dogs. To drink there is everything from smoothies to varieties of beer and wine, sugar-free flavored lattes to locally roasted robust coffee.

PARKING:

There are a few spaces on either side of the building. Street parking is also available, though it is probably harder to find when the Crest is open.

SEATING:

Seating is minimal, as you can see from the photographs. This would be primarily a place to grab a quick coffee and breakfast sandwich to go, or maybe stop after a movie with a friend for a cup of soup or a glass of wine.

COMPUTER/INTERNET:

There was no WiFi when I was there, but they were planning to install it. Laptops are welcome but make sure your batteries are charged. No outlets.

Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: the Blu Cafe at New Hope Church

Monday, October 31, 2011

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins in search of information to share with our readers.

Signs point to the Blu Cafe.
Photo by Vicki Michels

BLU CAFÉ
at New Hope Church
19350 Firlands Way North
206-595-5929 (Manager Steve Moll's cell phone)

By Vicki Michels

There is nothing really remarkable about this little hole-in-the-wall except that it is welcoming, light, and spacious. There is no charge for anything – except, of course, they dearly appreciate donations. If you're ever broke but jonesing for a caffeine fix, come on in. But I always drop a $5 bill into the jar for a bagel and a mocha/macadamia latte.

The BLU CAFÉ is very casual, and part of the "outreach" to the community. Everyone is quite welcome. It's not a very visible place, and the manager volunteer Steve Moll is delightful and hungry for company. (He also has a memory like an elephant! A month after I first visited, when I came in, he said "Hello, Vicki! How ya' doing?")

The church pastor was originally from Kauai – thus the "tropical" accents of palm trees and pineapples. The feeling is a Hawaiian concept of community as "family".

There is a lot of room for meetings and groups. More visitors would be most welcome. Police and firefighters often stop there for quiet coffee and conversation.

The Blu Cafe has a full counter, pastries, espresso, and  tables for two.
Photo by Vicki Michels

A little curtained stage area holds kids' toys and a play area. The photos here were taken on August 2, and advertise their "National Night Out" with munchies, hot dogs, popcorn, three bands, and a dunk tank.

(This is not so much a business as it is a community parlor. One should never feel shy about coming here. Note that your writer here is an atheist, and I still felt totally warm, welcome, and comfortable.)

HOURS: Note this shop is open only three days a week.

Open – Tue, Wed, Thu 9:00 a.m.
Close – Tue, Wed, Thu 5:00 p.m.

The Cafe has its own mugs, with logo.
Photo by Vicki Michels
FOOD:

There are pre-packaged baked goods (bagels, sweet rolls, cookies). The ones I have bought are fresh and yummy. Again, payment is by donation.

PARKING:

There is plenty of parking available, both outside the café itself and also above in the church parking lot.

SEATING:

Besides a few comfy lounge chairs with coffee table toward the back, there are perhaps 12 tables with chairs. The tables could be easily moved around for whatever seating you like. During good weather, there are tables outside for a bit of sunlight and fresh air.

The church pastor is from Hawaii, which inspired the grass umbrellas.
Photo by Vicki Michels

COMPUTER/INTERNET:

Outlets are scarce, but there is free Wi-Fi for folks with their own laptops.

HOW TO GET THERE:

The New Hope Foursquare Church sign can be seen on Aurora, but the area must be entered from Firlands, the street behind the church.  For easiest access travel west on 192nd (at the Park and Ride), then turn north/right on Firlands, and turn east into the parking lot.


Read more...

Coffee with a Friend: Laughing Ladies in North City

Monday, October 10, 2011

Vicki Michels is a woman on a mission - and that mission is to find every coffee shop in the area where you can get a good cup of coffee and sit down to enjoy it with a friend. She has consumed many mocha mint non-fat sugar-free lattes and raspberry muffins to share this information with our readers.

Laughing Ladies Cafe on 15th NE. Photo by Vicki Michels

LAUGHING LADIES CAFÉ
17551 – 15th Avenue Northeast
(south of Texaco station, west side of 15th)
(206) 362-2026

By Vicki Michels 

On a Tuesday morning in late June, around 11 am. there were enough people for the coffee shop to feel active, but not at all hectic. Besides those settled in for a time, there was drop-in foot traffic. 

Laughing Ladies has books, magazines, and newspapers at hand. In one corner, toys and books are available for children. Paintings and photographs on the wall are for sale. 

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights there are often live acts and music. And on Sunday nights, classic movies are shown at 6 p.m. ("Pink Panther" was advertised that week).

The menu is on the wall and fresh baked goods in the display case.
Photo by Vicki Michels
HOURS: 

Open - Daily, at 7 a.m. 

Close - Mon-Thu 8 p.m.; Fri-Sat-Sun 10 p.m.


FOOD: 

Good breakfasts are available, and selections of sandwiches and snacks. Coffee drinks are served, along with teas, juices, soft drinks, and the usual array of bottled beverages.

PARKING: 

Street parking is available for up to three cars. But there is also a large lot down behind the building.


Photo by Vicki Michels
SEATING: 
There are several comfortable chairs for people to relax and read, converse, or do whatever else they prefer with their hair down and their feet up (!). 

Additionally, there are several tables seating anywhere from one to eight people. When I was there, two gentlemen were seated in lounge chairs in the corner, chatting; one man was quickly perusing a newspaper, greedily downing his latte; one girl was in a cozy chair, reading; one woman was involved with a desktop computer; and other folks were stopping by to grab chai tea and coffee cake. 

Comfy chairs and magazines.  Photo by Vicki Michels
COMPUTER/INTERNET: 
There is free WiFi access, so of course you can bring your own computer. There are also four computers that you can rent. The first 15 minutes are free (so you could briefly check your email without payment). After that, the price rises to 10 cents per minute; at that price I would not recommend renting the computer to play war games for six hours! 

In all, Laughing Lady Café is warming, welcome, and has a lot of space for singles or large groups equally.


Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP