The Grinder

Great coffee, fabulous barista! A quintessential Seattle espresso stand. I’m lucky to live close enough to walk here!
If you’re in the area stop here instead of the chain next door!

I am super impressed with this place — in business for 12 years and always in the same location — and like others, I can’t believe I spent almost two months going to the chain coffee store before entering The Grinder. So glad I did. Equivalent prices, MUCH better lattes, and the service/​atmosphere (even for a little shop) just kills the other guys.

I recently met her (the famed Kristen) when a coworker brought me here. How could I have been so close to this place for so long and not seen it? What a perfect place for a quick cup.

This is a great example of a small coffee house making it through personal service, great coffee, and a super atmosphere. Kristen will provide the smiling face that you need but doesn’t dawdle as she gets what you really came for — that cuppa! It’s tough to match this level of service, great price, and perfect cup anywhere. Keep it up!

If you’re in the area, you have to get your coffee here from Kristen. Not only is she the friendliest barista you’ll ever meet, she also makes fantastic drinks! Screw that mega chain that has a store on practically every Seattle corner! Kristen offers all the same stuff you can get there, unless you’re craving a 750-​calorie soggy breakfast sandwich. Kristen is worth your loyalty. She got my office hooked by offering us all free drinks to start. The second time I went back, she remembered my drink and my name AND my coffee-​break co-​workers drinks and names! She offers a loyalty card, buy 8 get your 9^th free. She takes cash and check only. If you are a regular customer and it’s the day before payday, she’ll let you pay the next day. Seriously, where else can you do that? Her prices are less than what you pay at a chain PLUS she tops off your drink with a chocolate covered coffee bean. Often times we’ve crossed the street to Kristen’s little store to join the crowd inside. I’ve seen at times up to 7 or 8 people crammed in that small space and I’ve never waited longer than a few seconds for Kristen to acknowledge me and my friends by name and ask us if it’s the usual. Then, we have our drinks in just a few minutes and off we go. Good coffee and friendly conversation topped off with a smile and contagious laughter help me get my morning started off right!

I found The Grinder about 4 years ago and have been a loyal customer since. Within the second time I went into the store, Kristin (the owner) had remembered my drink. Her prices are extrememly reasonable, especiall since she gives you your 9^th drink free.
If you want a good cup of coffee and great service… The Grinder is the place to go!

The women who owns this espresso stand is VERY nice. She has good coffee, bagels, pastries and a smile to start your day. They also give you a chocolate covered espresso bean with your drink. If you have a chance drop in and get a cup.

A little out of the way if you’re not on that side of the hill, but if you live close or are visiting SPU, check this place out. Normal prices and always some fun conversation. Nothing too out of the ordinary, but just a great, friendly place to get your drink just how you like it and a smile to start your day off!