A Johnson

While Seattle might have a ton of options when it comes to coffee, this place is a stand-out gem. Coffee's fresh, made to order, and delicious. Staff are friendly and accommodating. The store itself is full of comfortable seating and the large windows overlooking the mini-forest of REI across the street make this place feel like a cafe retreat in the woods. Pastries are good, too, but it would be nice if they had more savory options (and not just some sweaty quiche, as other coffee shops have).

Used to really like this place (went about once a week), but things have gone down hill (maybe more of a crash and burn). They were closed for the holidays and it doesn't seem like they cleaned a thing once they reopened. Wish they'd have at least cleaned the oven.... My pizza had a bunch of ash and debris on it. They've also cut back significantly on toppings such that what you get's very disappointing (maybe raise the price a bit instead of cheapening out?). Won't be back any time soon.