But First, Coffee

Where to Find the Best Coffee in the Seattle Area

Last Updated: August 21, 2025

The Seattle area is known for its coffee, but don't limit yourself to giant chains.

If you're looking for the best coffee places in Seattle, don't overlook Seattle Southside, the region just south of the city. Here, you'll find a world of international brews, premium roasters, and unique flavors to try. This exceptionally diverse region is home to people from all over the globe, and you can see that reflected in the cafes. Read on to see some of our favorites.

Pictured: The coffee at Quarterdeck in Des Moines is sourced from Anchor House Coffee Roasters in Buckley, Washington
Locally Roasted
Global Flavors
Cozy and Quaint
Friendly Drive-Thrus

Locally Roasted

Locally Roasted, Ethically Sourced Coffee at Second Love

Before opening a brick-and-mortar shop in Des Moines, Second Love Coffee Roasters had already gained a following for its high-quality, thoughtfully sourced coffee beans. Run by two friends, the brand sets itself apart for its radical transparency, commitment to quality, and community focus. The cafe, opened in 2025, offers top-notch espresso drinks as well as great music and a peek-a-boo view of Puget Sound from the patio.

Must-Try Drink: A classic steamed latte is always a safe bet, but if you're feeling adventurous, try it with black sesame and vanilla.

Also Worth Trying: Check for seasonal specials, like espresso with Coca-Cola and lime, and a rotating selection of baked goods from small, local bakeries.

22331 Marine View Dr S, Des Moines, WA 98198

Pictured: Philip Mendoza, co-owner of Second Love Coffee in Des Moines, serves a classic latte.

Single-Origin Ethiopian Coffee at Kappa Espresso

Kappa Espresso in SeaTac roasts its own beans, which it sources from Ethiopia. Not to be mistaken for traditional Ethiopian coffee, Kappa has a full espresso menu with lattes, mochas, and inventive seasonal flavors like peanut butter and jelly. This small but mighty café, with its cherry red exterior and art-filled walls, serves as a community hub where regulars gather at the counter to chat over drinks.

Must-Try Drink: The Ethiopian Breve, a rich drink made with espresso, steamed creamer, and honey ginger syrup, is a modern twist on traditional Ethiopian coffee. While it's prepared like a typical espresso drink, the flavors were inspired by the regulars who asked for these additions to be mixed into their drinks.

Also Worth Trying: The pastry case is stocked with locally sourced pastries and sandwiches made in-house.

15061 Military Rd S, SeaTac, WA 98188

Pictured: The bright red exterior at Kappa Espresso mirrors the warm, friendly service at this local favorite.

Premium Coffee with a Waterfront View at Quarterdeck

Sipping an espresso drink at Quarterdeck in Des Moines is a simple pleasure with a spectacular backdrop. The café sits right on the marina, so every cup comes with sweeping views of the water and boats drifting in and out of the harbor. The cafe gets all its beans from Anchor House Roasting in Buckley, Washington.

Must-Try Drink: A simple Americano lets the high-quality espresso shine.

Also Worth Trying: Pair your brew with pastries and breakfast sandwiches.

22307 Dock Ave S #1, Des Moines, WA 98198

Pictured: Coffee at Quarterdeck is a waterfront treat.
Credit: Olivia Frances @shewillbewondering

Global Flavors

Vietnamese Coffee with a Twist at Drip & Sip

Vietnamese coffee is in a class of its own. Made with sweetened condensed milk and bold brewed coffee, it's strong, sweet, and sometimes even a bit savory. Drip & Sip, a Vietnamese coffee shop in Tukwila, features an extensive menu full of creative twists on the genre, and the sleek, modern setting makes for a relaxing place to enjoy your drink.

Must-Try Drink: You can't go wrong with the classic iced Vietnamese coffee.

Also Worth Trying: If you want to try some less typical flavors like salted coffee or egg cream, order a flight and sample several drinks. Complete your meal with a banh mi (sandwich) or a cup of rich stew.

12930 E Marginal Wy S, Tukwila, WA 98168

Filipino Fusion Coffee at Neighborhood Cafe

Neighborhood Café stands out as one of the best spots for coffee thanks to its creative blend of Filipino fusion flavors. With flavors like black sesame, ube, pandan, and mint mojito, this is not your typical coffee menu.

Must-Try Drink: The ube latte is rich, velvety, and lightly sweet, with the distinctive purple yam flavor that adds both a vibrant hue and a unique twist to your daily caffeine fix.

Also Worth Trying: Can't decide what to get? Order a coffee flight and try four small glasses! You can also get phenomenal Filipino-inspired brunch fare.

17165 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila, WA 98188

Pictured: Coffee flight at Neighborhood Cafe in Tukwila, Washington
Credit: @OnAirplaneMode

Thai Flavors at Chayen Coffee

Chayen Coffee began as a small trailer traveling to markets around the region, but became so popular that it opened a permanent location within Tukwila's Hotel Interurban in 2025. Run by the Hiranworawuthikul siblings, it specializes in Thai iced coffees and teas.

Must-Try Drink: Chayen's signature drink is traditional Thai iced coffee. It's a rich, refreshing pick-me-up made with bold brewed coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and cream. If you want to try a modern twist, you can also order a version of this drink made with espresso shots.

Also Worth Trying: Check for rotating seasonal specials, and pair your drink with a pastry from local bakeries or a sandwich made in-house.

223 Andover Park E Hotel Interurban, Tukwila, WA 98188

Pictured: Chayen Coffee frequently rolls out seasonal specials, like a summery, pink Peony Latte.

Traditional Ethiopian Coffee at Star Coffee

Star Coffee Restaurant in SeaTac is a full-service Ethiopian restaurant serving traditional Ethiopian food. This locally owned spot is a hub for the local community and attracts plenty of travelers flying in and out of SEA airport.

Must-Try Drink: Traditional, black Ethiopian coffee steals the show here. It's dark, smooth, and not bitter at all.

Also Worth Trying: The Veggie Combo comes with more than enough to share, with a variety of lentils and stews to enjoy with injera (a type of flat, spongey bread).

16005 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188

Pictured: Finish a hearty meal at Star Coffee with a cup of strong, black Ethiopian coffee.

Single-Origin Brazilian Coffee at Kitanda

Kitanda brings the vibrant flavors of Brazil to Seattle Southside. This Seattle-based business sources its single-origin coffee from small farms in Mantiqueira de Minas, a mountainous region known worldwide for its coffee farming. The beans, which are roasted in Seattle, have a distinctive, full-bodied, low-acidity flavor, making them ideal for espresso drinks. Located inside Westfield Southcenter, the Tukwila location makes for a nice stop on a shopping trip.

Must-Try Drink: The refreshing Cold Oat combines cold brew with sweetened condensed milk and oat milk.

Also Worth Trying: Check out sandwiches, small bites, and a small, curated selection of imported South American groceries.

2800 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila, WA 98188

Pictured: The iced lattes at Kitanda make for a refreshing stop on a shopping trip.

Cozy and Quaint

Cozy Neighborhood Vibes at Auntie Irene's

If you love a cafe that feels right out of a Hallmark holiday movie or an episode of Gilmore Girls, you'll love Auntie Irene's. This storied spot in downtown Des Moines is the ultimate neighborhood joint. It goes all out with seasonal decor, the baristas know all the regulars by name, and there are plenty of places to post up and chat or work. There's even a tiny kid's table with toys.

Must-Try Drink: The Auntie I's Fav, made with almond flavor, brown sugar, and honey, is a unique treat that's sure to sweeten your day.

Also Worth Trying: The homemade breakfast paninis and bagels are legendary.

22504 Marine View Dr S, Des Moines, WA 98198

Pictured: Auntie Irene's is the quintessential neighborhood spot, with a kid's corner and cozy, seasonal decor.

Italian Tradition at Impresso Espresso

Impresso Espresso in SeaTac is a family-owned gem where the art of espresso meets heartfelt hospitality. There’s a good chance your latte will be made and handed to you by a member of the Liguori family, who own and operate the cafe. This cozy café features both drive-thru convenience and inviting indoor seating, making it a popular spot for locals and travelers on their way to and from the airport. The beans are sourced from Dillanos Coffee Roasters in nearby Sumner.

Must-Try Drink: This cafe has more milk substitutes than any you'll ever find, so take the opportunity to order a creamy latte made with macadamia or pistachio milk.

Also Worth Trying: Italian gelato and fresh-baked pastries pair perfectly with your coffee.

16260 Military Rd S, SeaTac, WA 98188

Pictured: The Liguori family proudly owns and operates SeaTac's Impresso Espresso.

Coffee in a Pastry Paradise at Paris Baguette

There's something extra fun about getting a drink with a bite at Paris Baguette, where you can pick and choose from dozens of pastries. Fill up your tray with a mountain of goodies, then order from a full espresso bar and enjoy your treats in the bright, cheery setting. It's casual enough to feel comfortable bringing kids of any age, but nice enough to feel like a treat.

Must-Try Drink: The Cookie Butter Macchiato just seems right in a place devoted to sweet indulgences.

Also Worth Trying: The coffee croissant donut is but one of dozens of delectable baked goods.

17095 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila, WA 98188

Pictured: The fresh pastries at Paris Baguette pair perfectly with a seasonal latte.

Friendly Drive-Thrus

Somali Flavors at Fivestar Coffee

The cheerful blue paint and small front patio of Five Star Coffee almost make this SeaTac drive-thru look like a small house. Fittingly, it's usually the owner at the window, who serves everyone with a big smile. It's no surprise this is a popular spot with locals.

Must-Try Drink: The Somali Latte is an original creation flavored with ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom.

Also Worth Trying: Five Star serves a variety of baked goods, including Somali specialties such as sambusas (fried dough stuffed with various fillings) or malawax (a soft, thick crepe) made in-house.

16402 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188

Pictured: Abdullahi Abdi, the owner at Fivestar Coffee in SeaTac, makes customers feel at home.

Dreamy Flavors at Cloud Coffee

Cloud Coffee is a drive-thru coffee stand worth a special stop on your way to the Des Moines Marina or nearby attractions. This locally owned spot is always brewing up something creative and seasonal, whether it's a latte with banana cold foam or a "Hawaiian Cloud" with white chocolate and coconut.

Must-Try Drink: For fall lovers, the pumpkin spice cold foam is a dream.

Also Worth Trying: This spot also makes a mean blended coffee drink.

21853 Marine View Dr S, Des Moines, WA 98198

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