Coffee

Seattle is widely considered a key birthplace and ongoing epicenter of the specialty coffee movement in the United States. Its unique coffee culture has fueled the national specialty revolution in distinct historical waves.  

It began with pioneering roasters … in the early 1970s, the original Starbucks opened at Pike Place Market, selling high-quality roasted beans and equipment, Starbucks expanded rapidly after being purchased by Howard Schultz in 1987. The company played an unparalleled role in introducing espresso drinks like lattes and cappuccinos to the American mainstream.  At the same time, Seattle's Best Coffee began, focusing on a smoother, lighter roast style than Starbucks. It pioneered direct-trade practices with farmers to secure high quality beans.

Independent roasters followed Seattle's Best's lead by focusing on direct trade, sustainability, and ethical sourcing. This emphasis on bean origin and responsible practices became a hallmark of the Seattle coffee movement.

Artisan craftsmanship in neighborhoods, like Capitol Hill, became local hubs with baristas and roasters treating coffee as a craft similar to fine wine. This focus on quality over convenience contrasted with the corporate expansion of larger specialty coffee chains, like Starbucks and Seattle’s best.

Today there are approximately 300 specialty coffee roasters across Washington state, producing some of the very finest specialty coffees in the country.