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Caffè Fiorè
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
3125 NW 85th St(between N 31st Ave & N 32nd Ave)
Seattle, WA 98117
Neighborhood: Ballard
(206) 706-7580
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 6 am - 6 pm
Sun 7 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
60 reviews for Caffè Fiorè
Review Highlights
"Cute coffeehouse located right by Golden Gardens."
(in 12 reviews)
"The baristas are always nice and personable."
(in 20 reviews)
"...from local favs such as mighty-o and high 5 pies, and..."
(in 4 reviews)
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60 reviews in English
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Review from Rita L.
Seattle, WA
8/22/2011
Cafe that sells Macrina goodies and Mighty-Os?! Yes please!
I love the fact that this place is right smack dab before you take the big drop on down to Golden Gardens, so it's convenient to grab some Joe to Go and pastries before spending the rest of the day as a beach bum. Also, extra star for the board games and cute decor! -
Review from Jonathan B.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 8/29/2011
I was roped into stopping by Fiore in Sunset Hill by a friend who insisted we jump in for a quick coffee. I tried to protest, but then decided I would give the place another go.
It's still a quaint little building, and to be fair, the place seemed a little neater and cleaner than I last remember. The music is still loud, and according to my friend's laptop, the wi-fi is nonexistant. The coffee I ordered was not bad - it's pretty hard to mess up a standard latte - but the barista's attitude bordered on contemptuous. I mean, eyerolling...really? I understand that you're probably hot, tired, and cranky, working in a place with no A/C and kids bugging you for water, but can I just get my drink without the 'tude, please? Yes, you're young and hip, but I'm the one holding the cash.
Again, there are other places in the neighborhood to get a decent coffee without the accompanying angst, so sadly, not much has changed here.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/4/2010
I've tried to like Fiore. Really, I have. But after numerous visits and 3 pounds of beans for home… Read more »
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Review from Jillian A.
Seattle, WA
12/31/2011
The best americano in Seattle. Aside from Columbia City Bakery. Velvety rich and smooth. Do not further adulterate your drink with cream and sugar. It's enough just to cut the delicious espresso with hot water.
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Review from K H.
Seattle, WA
9/18/2011
It's a coffee shop.
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Review from Rafael C.
Los Angeles, CA
9/27/2011 1 photo
I'm not a local Seattlelite, but I come here when I am in Seattle! This little cafe is charming and has pretty good coffee. If you're in the area, pass by, you can also get yourself some coffee/late to go and go down to the park by the sound.
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Review from Scott F.
Seattle, WA
8/22/2011
Despite an initial poor experience, I've been back 2-3 times. Why? The coffee is great, as is the location and the layout of the place - it's a perfect design for a coffee shop, both inside and out. Unfortunately for non-locals, they aren't the least bit interested in non-regulars walking in the door, and heaven forbid you should walk up to the cash register thinking that's where you'll be ordering your coffee. Last weekend I was referred to the "large sign" that says "order here". Okay, I get it, but could we at least lay off the Seattle passive-aggressive during Saturday morning coffee? Another negative is the loud kids running wild throughout the shop - get there before 8:00 a.m. or just deal with it. After my 3rd poor experience I'm finally done with this place, but if you're local to the area, enjoy.
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Review from brendan p.
Seattle, WA
In a city with a million local coffeeshops (and plenty of horrible chain options), Fiore remains one of the best options for great espresso drinks. This Fiore, located right above Golden Gardens, has a warm neighborhood vibe, embedded amongst houses and condos, and next door to Cucina Esperanza.
The baristas are friendly and attentive, and the drinks are flavorful and are great exhibits of the latte art that artisan coffee in Seattle is known for (pioneered by Vivace on Capitol Hill).
It's a small space, so they don't have wifi to prevent people from camping there all day. There's some outdoor seating in adirondack chairs on the sidewalk, and a small patio in front. My dogs appreciate the free dog treats from the glass bowl on the back counter.
Food options are mostly pastries, including the (thankfully) ubiquitous Mighty-O donuts. The toast is reportedly good, though I've never tried it myself.
To address a few recent reviews that got me to bother writing a review: living a few blocks away, I've been there dozens and dozens of times, and have never once had an issue with cleanliness or burnt beans. That someone would recommend a Starbucks over this is, frankly, inconceivable. -
Review from Yann R.
Seattle, WA
9/4/2011
Probably the best roast in town, and organic at that. It's a must-stop option when driving to golden gardens. They also have a beautiful place with very interesting light shining through.
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Review from Stephanie M.
Seattle, WA
5/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Stopped here right before heading down to Golden Gardens. I ordered a caramel chai with caramel and to be honest, it wasn't very tasty at all. Service was great and I do like that they roast their own organic beans, but not my favorite coffee. Also, I think this is one location that doesn't have Wi-Fi so not ideal for people wanting to study. Meh.
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Review from Edward W.
Renton, WA
8/23/2011
Good atmosphere. No wifi so be prepared.
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Review from Diego S.
7/24/2010
Well the non fat vanilla latte was good as per my date.
My Dirty Chai was left me wondering if it was just heated dirty water...? The Chai was non existent and left me wondering if I just got 1 shot of coffee instead of the 2 I asked for? I opened the cup up when I got to the house, and there was no foam or froth, I had only taken 2 drinks.. was wondering, I had to add sugar and stir the chai up to get a bit of taste from just the minute coffee flavor..... i'll try this place 1 more time, if it doesn't get better than I'll pass!
The croissant I ordered was delicious !
Oh yeah they show the cool pic made in the foam, well I didn't see neither in either cups when I got to the house.. don't believe the hype! -
Review from kelli c.
Seattle, WA
9/10/2010
This place sucks...all of the locations are filled with the same pretentious, hipster barrista losers who can't make a decent cuppa to save a life.
These stores try so hard (and thus fail as hard) to be the snobby coffee place. And the irony is that the beans taste burned and bitter. Ugh.
My advice: skip it. Hit Neptune, Lladro, or even Starbucks for better coffee, more human barristas and a far less self conscious atmosphere. -
Review from Katie S.
San Francisco, CA
7/30/2008
Rockin' tunes by Kings of Leon and The Hold Steady.
What else do I need in a coffee shop, you ask?
A LOT.
*Good Coffee- my iced Americano was pretty good. Fiore beans have a nice, smooth, mild nutty flavor.. there was no bitterness to be had.
*Good food- my pesto bagel was the most pesto-y bagel I've consumed to date.
*Good Peeps- my barist-o was nice and sarcastic.. and in that order.
*Charm- comfortable, mismatched furniture, lovely hand blown lighting, lots of natural light, and outdoor seating, both tables and Adirondack chairs.
*No pretentiousness- didn't see any here
*Wi-Fi- this location doesn't have it.. but they 'kind of' do if you gets my drifts..
Check, Check, Check, Check, Check, and Check!
Right up on the corner of NW 85th and 32nd, at the top of Golden Gardens.
Sit. Eat. Drink. And be Merry.
It really doesn't get anymore 'neighborhoody' that this, as far as coffee shops go.Listed in: Coffee Tawwwk..., Yes, I'm proud to order an…
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Review from Vanessa J.
Seattle, WA
2/3/2010
I was nervous when I walked in the door for the first time, planning to meet someone I had no idea how to recognize. But the Barista was dressed as Max from Where the Wild Things are, and things dissolved into surreal perfection from there.
And then I realized it was Halloween. But what a great first impression!
So I ordered the zucchini bread (num num) and a macchiato, which I consider to be the ultimate test of any barista and bean roast. Oh. My. God. Unrivaled goodness of godlike magnitude: holy perfect macchiato.
Sold! -
Review from Trish R.
9/29/2006
I would award Caffe Fiore 3.5 stars, but since I cannot do so, I'm assigning the place a 4-star review because, a) I enjoyed my coffee, and b) it was a beautiful sunny day today.
I arranged to meet a colleague at Caffe Fiore this afternoon. Her program at our college was eliminated and she subsequently lost her job. She was actually notified by telephone message, if you can believe that. But, well, I digress.
We each wanted a nonfat iced mocha, one of us decaf. I patiently stood waiting while the barista completed the order ahead of me. I looked at the menu board while there. Holy criminy! $3.75 for a mocha! That's an extra 25-50 cents I'll never get back by coming to Fiore.
Still waiting to be acknowledged.
Finally, the youthful dude behind the bar smiled widely and greeted me, asking how I was doing. I ordered, and while I waited for my beverages, other customers came to the bar. I stopped feeling so good when these individuals were greeted immediately. I tried not to take it personally.
I brought my mocha outside, into the glorious sunlight, and slid the shades off my head and onto the bridge of my nose.
75 degrees, sitting on a wooden deck chair in the sun and sippin' my lead-free nectar. Ah. I had to wait a smidge to be greeted, and the price was a little steep, but being able to soak up the rays made my criticisms seem petty. -
Review from Ryan B.
Seattle, WA
7/10/2009
In my humble opinion, Caffe Fiore makes the best Americano in Seattle. It has this sublime, licorice quality that I absolutely adore and it always keeps me coming back for more.
I love all three locations, but the Sunset Hill shop is my favorite. I love the neighborhood feel. In the summer, it's a great stop before or after a day at the beach. But in the winter I think I like it even more. It has the feel of a remote coffee outpost almost. Love going there on a cold, windy day and getting warmed by a cup of delicious coffee.
Only one complaint....I wish you were open later!Listed in: Favorite Coffee/Tea Shops in…
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Review from Mike K.
Farmington, UT
3/31/2010 3 photos
We visited on a Tuesday at 12:30pm. Very slow. Latte and Vanilla Soy Latte, biscotti, and donut. Nice little corner building.
The good:
1. Nice girl working the coffee bar.
2. Very old, small building with a cool historical vibe. Used to be a head shop years ago for those of you who live in the area.
3. Soy latte was good, regualr latte was ok.
Pastries were fresh. (as far as a biscotti can be fresh...lol)
4. Parking was easy at this time of day.
5. At the top of a cliff near a park, marina, a dog park. Access via very steep stairs to go down to the water.
Not so good:
1. Interior though nice, was on the dirty side somewhat.
2. Music was way too loud and obnoxious. Hard to have a conversation.
HINT: If parking is tough there is a little dirt lot directly behind the building. Although there is a warning sign about getting your car towed, the property is for parking at the coffee shop....but there is no sign that tells you it's ok as a Caffe Fiore patron. -
Review from Michelle B.
Seattle, WA
9/10/2006 1 photo
Great coffee shop to cozy up in when the weather is bad, or when the weather is actually nice you can hang out on the deck to soak up the sun. You could also get your coffee to go and try to make it down the hill to Golden Gardens since it's just so darn close.
Their Baristas are friendly and know how to make a good cup-o-coffee. Mighty-o donuts are also served but seem to run out by mid-morning leaving those of us who have a disdain for mornings and therefor a true need for coffee and a sugar fix to fend for ourselves. -
Review from Michelle D.
Seattle, WA
This place makes me wish I still lived in Ballard. I've moved to the other side of the city, but I still find myself in Ballard - and at this Fiore - a couple of times a week. It is THAT good. I love this place because it's not only a neighborhood I love, but it is also rarely if ever busy, the all fair trade organic beans can't be beat, the space itself is comfortable and homey...and it is the perfect incentive for finishing a the stairclimb up from Golden Gardens.
The best Ameicanos, the best soy drinks, best chocolate for the mochas - and all made by baristas who know what they are doing and take the time to get it right for you.
Oh, and I would say that if you are taking beans home for the weekend Fiore can't be beat. I like Stumptown, too, but if you can - go to Fiore for your whole bean needs. You won't be sorry. This store always has a good supply.Listed in: My Favorites.
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Review from Mike P.
Brooklyn, NY
8/13/2007
I am somewhat of a coffee snob. I am a huge Zoka fan but wanted to try something new. The great part about Fiore is that they achieve a very difficult task: to have high end coffee without complete snob baristas. While I was there two individuals spilled there coffee everywhere and both of the baristas were incredibly nice and helpful... not a reaction you see at many places
My one huge complaint: no WiFi. Yes, it is true... do not believe other websites that say there is free wifi.
So I will not be back. But, please get WiFi as I'd love to make this a regular place. -
Review from David M.
Seattle, WA
11/11/2007
I like this place a lot. It seems to have a lot of the great things about other Seattle cafes (for example, Adirondack chairs that I used to enjoy at the QA Ladro, delicious baked goods from Essential, shared copy of the NY Times), as well as fairly good coffee.
If I hadn't experienced some of the same "classic seattle barista chick" behavior as other reviewers, this would be a five star review for me. Great neighborhood joint with great weekend morning (or afternoon) atmosphere.
An interesting note - this is yet another place that uses the IMO smarter "order from the barista, not the cashier" system, but is laid out horribly for said system. Add easily distracted employees to the mix, and getting your drink can be a little exasperating. -
Review from Doug C.
5/12/2009
It seems every couple of blocks throughout Seattle, there are a few neighborhood shops which lets you be within walking distance of at least something no matter where you live. True to form, anchoring the apex after the ascent from Golden Gardens Park is Café Fiore.
It's a cozy little corner coffeeshop with friendly baristas although more mediocre coffee. Some of that is a matter of personal taste: the beans are a little bit more smooth and mellow here. I tend to prefer my coffee to be a bit more intense; I need it to kick-start my heart. However, the biscotti here is pretty sweet.
The seating inside is limited but intimate and the front patio has a sweet 270 degree view of the street and the Golden Gate stairs. Along the side of the building are some partially reclined wood chairs. These seem perfect to sprawl out in, coffee cup in hand, and hit up passers-by for spare change.Listed in: Ballard Living, Coffee Crawl?
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Review from Alice C.
Updated - 12/18/2009
Eh... Why was my iced americano and slice of zuccini bread 7 bucks... before tip? 2.5 stars for that. Rent may be high, my barista sweetie, but Im sorry- your prices are just ridiculous.
And whats with charging for whip? I know you're local, independent, whacka whacka whacka, but seriously? Almost fifty cents for whip on that hot chocolate I ordered a couple weeks ago? SERIOUSLY? I get it- trying to differentiate from Sbux,,, okay. Whatevs.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/6/2009
Solid americanos, pastries, and a cool hang out space. Although, the lady working bar did the… Read more »
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Review from Bryan R.
Seattle, WA
5/14/2011
Our favorite tasting coffee in Seattle. Their baked goods are also hard to resist.
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Review from Marian M.
Seattle, WA
4/18/2008
A stone's throw from my house... I walk my pooches by this place daily, and if my budget and waistline allowed, I'd also walk INTO this place daily for a perfect latte and a tiny MIghty-O donut.
I try to make it a habit to only drink local brews, and Caffe Fiore is by far my favorite. The espresso is never harsh or bitter-- just smooth, rich, caramel-y goodness.
Just thinking of it makes me want to walk there right now... -
Review from Mike T.
Seattle, WA
7/14/2009
As a newly minted couple of leisure, Mrs. T and I spent the morning at playing laptops at Cafe Fiore.
Take a moment to look around the space. The ceiling, the menu, the furniture, and the clock near the back wall. I love the colors and the floral designs that adorn the room.
The all fair trade organic coffee is pressed to perfection by the baristas and there is ample space to to find a seat an hunker down for a while and chat with friends, read, or play laptops. If you flying solo, they have a nice round community table, but I'm sure the folks busily studying, working, etc. at the other table would be willing to share. I know I would.Listed in: Favorite Coffee Haunts
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Review from shon r.
West Springfield, VA
2/16/2008
Fantastic coffee and a great cafe.
The title of best coffee house in Ballard has to go to this place. It's a bit off the path, but definitely worth the journey. The fact that the baristas are usually very easy on the eyes may be influencing my stars, but each time I have gone here I have gotten a great cup of coffee.
Definitely seems to be a haven for coffee snobs, but even they are friendly .
But the coffee is truly good and definitely on par with others in the city. Add that with consistency and you've got a great place to grab a cup and enjoy an afternoon.
Highly recommended.Listed in: Best Coffee Shops
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Review from shala d.
WA
12/31/2006
I love caffe Fiore! The coffee is nutty, rich with a hint of chocolate and smooth. Everyone is so nice and they treat you like a friend. Lauren has been there for along time and she makes the best foam in the city. I kid you not! I'm a Latte snob and have been to almost every cafe in Seattle and else where. An extra bonus.. They strive to be organic when possible. Good people - Good coffee!
Thanks Fiore! -
Review from Wil T.
Seattle, WA
4/13/2009
Fiore earns solid marks for getting the basics right:
+ Excellent espresso EVERY TIME
+ Friendly, attentive baristas
+ Clean tables, clean counters, clean bathroom and clean floors!
This is a neighborhood cafe with limited space. Don't be shy! The locals are glad to make room for you at the big, round common table. Kids are welcome and well-behaved tots are the norm.
I want to add that during the winter 2008 snow storms this place was open on time every day. -
Review from Danielle J.
Seattle, WA
9/3/2009
Cute coffeehouse located right by Golden Gardens... I enjoy that their drop coffee is a sumatra bold blend. Their donuts are okay (a bit dry for me), but I saw a few other pastry items I look forward to trying in the future. The girl working was very friendly and I learned that they get their pastries from various bakeries in the Seattle area, so I can't wait to test more out.
Great outdoor seating area for a sunny morning, otherwise, the inside decor is welcoming and adorable. -
Review from Liberte L.
Seattle, WA
11/7/2006
I absolutely adore this neighborhood cafe! The baristi are friendly, bright, attractive (both the ladies & the gents) and they remain employed.
This is the coffee house dreams are made of from- the sleek yet warm design, earthy colors, outstanding pour, and Fiore is even family owned so feel fantastic dropping dollars here.
In fact just the other day I was sitting next to the owner who was very approachable and he articulated how much he values his employees and their contributions. It made my hot lil Italian heart leap with hope at the recognition of a business owner getting it. May the spirit of this fine establishment inspire other attitude coffee shops to evolve.
Truly, Liberte -
Review from Andy L.
Seattle, WA
2/22/2007
Whenever I leave Seattle I have a bit of anxiety about when and where I'll be getting my coffee. I don't require copious amounts, just the perfect short americano to get me going in the morning. I don't drink lattes and my much loved mochas are a thing of the past.
This is because I've become accustomed to Caffe Fiore's delicious coffee perfectly pulled by multi-talented and friendly baristas. The coffee is organic as is pretty much everything else there. When I got my first iced drink of the season a couple of days ago, i found that the to-go cups are now made from biodegradable rice material. That's what you pay for there.
It's not a secret haunt anymore and the line can get long during peak times but they are quick and it's worth the wait. -
Review from Megan M.
4/19/2009
Awesome coffee and awesome deck. Perfect place to hang out on a sunny day!
I had a tall latte and it was about $3.50. More expensive than most places but I guess it's organic so that's cool. It tasted excellent and the foam was done very nicely. -
Review from Gwen C.
4/24/2009
Fiore doesn't miss, it doesn't disappoint, and it's got the friendliest service around. I'm not a regular at this one or the one in Old Ballard but they're still really nice and pull a great shot of espresso. They also never seem to remember to charge extra for soy. Shuckydarns.
The deck's great. Wifi is fast and free and they don't seem to have a problem with jerk camper types.
Highly recommended. Try the green tea chai with soy milk, and thank me later. -
Review from Carrie H.
Seattle, WA
3/21/2007
I enjoy it here. I love the atmosphere, and the baristas know what they are doing. I like going here because if I go here as opposed to other places, I'll normally get a mocha, and the mochas here are great (side note as to why a mocha, and not the vanilla latte? They use Monet syrups, and the vanilla tastes... odd. YES I AM A SNOB, I SAID IT.).
On a nice spring or summer day, it's great to sit outside and watch the passersby with their cute dogs or kids.
Not a 5 star because their pastries are not the best... but then again, I go for the coffee, not the pastries. Take it or leave it, I guess. -
Review from Justin P.
Seattle, WA
4/2/2011
They roast their own beans, their baristas care, and a GREAT neighborhood vibe. I don't typically fall for quiet cafe settings, however this location is perfect as it sits atop the entrance to Golden Gardens.
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Review from Julia L.
Seattle, WA
9/24/2009
Most mornings I make due with the less-than-mediocre coffee near my office or I drink some tea because it's convenient. But there are some days when I say "I need some effing good coffee, damnit!" and this is when I head to Cafe Fiore in Ballard. Not only is the coffee fantastic, there's never a long line (and when there is it moves fast, even with one barista behind the counter) and it's service with a genuine smile and conversation. I get to start my day with some amazing coffee, and the sense of being virtuous for patronizing a business that uses all kinds of compostable materials and organic pastries.
This place is also an amazing place to hang out at. It's got kind of a steampunk/basement with 1920s lighting thing going on. I've spent a few afternoons working on projects here, and it's a great spot to have a quick one-on-one meeting. -
Review from Kate L.
Seattle, WA
10/17/2010
I've noticed this place a handful of times while driving to Golden Gardens and finally took the opportunity to wander over for some latte this morning. Burnt orange colored walls peppered with artwork (I imagine from local artists) add a comforting/autumn-ish vibe. My mom and I ordered an orange flavored latte...delicious. There's wooden tables, benches, and chairs for seating (outdoor seating in the front of the coffee shop as well). Kid friendly too (a small play area in the back corner for the kiddos). Overall, great ambiance and tasty cup o' jo.
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Review from Kristen F.
Seattle, WA
1/20/2011
There are a few reasons that Greenwood living has been a difficult adjustment for me. The first is that I moved from Capitol Hill, thus endured a significant culture shock. The second is being far removed from everything I had loved, including my choice among the snobby, higher quality coffee shops that seem to begin with the letter "V."
Enter: Caffe Fiore.
This place works for four reasons: 1) It is only a 2-mile (maybe less?) jaunt from my perch on top of Ballard/Crown Hill/Greenwood. 2) The baristas, though occasionally hostile or pretentious, pour an excellent latte - the best in a 2 mile radius- which appeases Kristen the Latte Monster. 3) Toasted bagels with butter. It sounds simple, but they manage to not mess this up, and when I'm dealing with a hangry hang-over, it's perfect. 4) When it's sunny outside, a small army of aridondack chairs lined up along the brick building welcome you to sit back, crack a book, and start producing some desperately needed vitamin D.
Despite these enticing traits, Fiore only clocks in at only three stars. It has potential - I would have trouble arguing that Voxx makes a better latte, and frankly, the location is fairly convenient for my weekend jaunts around the neighborhood or for a great post-Golden Gardens-run cool-down. Frankly, I think the space is more inviting than other cafes that I've reviewed. The problem? It's too small and it's normally crammed with pretentious Seattle moms and their screaming, undisciplined children. My space is constantly invaded, my focus interrupted, and my patience quickly tested when I'm trying to enjoy a latte here. Furthermore, they usually clean the place out of bagels pretty early on. One could argue that I should just wait until it's time for those kids to be in bed, but wait! Fiore closes at 6. SIX! Greenwood/Crown Hill/Ballard is certainly sleepier than the hill, but my god! It's not a nursing home! Seeing as how I generally work until 6 or later and face at least 45 minutes by bike to get home, this fails to help me in any way whatsoever. This turns Fiore into a weekend indulgence and by the time the moms and kids have retired on Saturdays to do whatever it is that they do, I'm drinking bourbon instead of coffee.
Long story made short: go on a sunny day, say yes to the latte, say yes to the sevilla mocha if you're in the mood for something sweeter, say yes to the toasted bagel with butter. Just make sure to get it early, get it to go, and mentally tell the hostile baristas to stuff it while you smile sweetly and forget to tip. -
Review from Chris L.
Seattle, WA
1/29/2010
The coffee is great as is the environment. So why 3 stars? Because like so many places in this provincial town, they:
1) Don't have wi-fi (never mind what Yelp says)
2) They close at 6:00
Seriously, Seattle pretends to be a major city and that means wi-fi and not rolling up the carpet the minute the sun sets.
