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Categories: Desserts, Coffee & Tea [Edit]
Neighborhood: Queen AnneMon-Thu. 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
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Hm, what can I do to kill time until my SIFF Cinema movie starts? Ah--ha! Some place I can get me chai fixin'.
A monday evening... kind of quiet and slow... subdued... Seemed like most of the display munchies were gone. I hopped on one of the window bar seats with my chai-supporting white porcelain cup 'n plate. Was that cinnamon/nutmeg on top?
Not too hot and yummy; how I like it.
It's just a little pretty on the inside, and very pretty on the outside. I was a little mislead because of the vivid signage and high-profile area made me believe that the interior was going to be gorgeous, but albeit, only half gorgeous. Example: one of the couches I was going to sit in was clearly damaged and dirty, but that's beside the point.
The coffee is excellent, as you'd expect when you're neighboring Laddro. The delicious and luxrious pastries, however, are priced exquisitely high (all the way up to $5.50 for a key lime tart or a chocolate tower cake, and $1.95 for a peanut butter cookie that is half the size of one you would get at Starbucks). That's a bit extreme, but you do pay for what you get.
The free wi-fi, very friendly service and subdued atmosphere evened out the experience, so hence, I'm left in a state of mixed feelings that evoke the same emotions as who to take to prom when I was 18 years old.
Sitting there right now: this soy latte is tasty, and was made with an excellent swirly heart. I did have to wait a bit while the sleepy barista got through other orders, but it is Sunday 8am, after all. This is a good place to hit when you're killing time before your friend finishes the Seattle marathon --I'm not usually in the neighborhood any other time and wouldn't go out of my way to come here. But it'll do.
Ok, so I forgot I had an espresso an hour earlier and the second caffeine intake was a mistake.… Read more »
I've been drinking a lot of coffee lately. Normally, I make it at home but in the last few days, I guess you could say that I've gone a bit... well... overboard in my consumption of espresso drinks, ie:
All City 2/17: "I'll have a short Americano. Do you have soy?"
Aster 2/16: "Yeah, can I get a tall Americano. Can you add some soy?"
Monorail Espresso 2/14: "Tall Americano with soy... yes, thank you!"
Yes, I decided to mix things up a bit yesterday afternoon and GET ALL CRAZY at Caffe Zingaro. How did I do this, you ask?
Well, I burst through the door, wearing a Freddy Krueger mask and some of those crazy knife gloves and demanded all the pastries and the petty cash from the register.
...
Okay, so maybe that's not quite how it went down. Halloween isn't for another 8 months, so at least I'm giving everyone fair warning. About the costume. I will never rob anyone. EVER. Of Note: Once, at the tender age of 5 I thought about stealing an eraser from a store and before we left, I started crying, telling my mother than I was sorry because I wanted to steal something, but I didn't, but that I should probably spend some time in my room when I got home so I could think about what I did... or didn't do. Yeah, I was that kid. But I digress...
Back to the review: Instead, I ordered a Chai.
I know... insane, right?
And it was very good. And for all you purists, they make their own chai in-house AND they put a pretty leaf on top of it in cinnamon... and you thought that they could only do this with espresso. Well, think again!
On a more serious note, they have some fabulous looking baked goods. Turnovers, croissants, muffins, and scones. The muffin topped with pumpkin seeds is still fresh in my mind... and something tells me that more of those little buggers will be fresh in the case when I swing by next time.
And I will most certainly partake in one of them. Possibly as Freddy Krueger, but most likely not.
This is where I usually stop for a last coffee on the way to the opera and they serve up a rather nice caffe latte. They may not be worthy of a trip from the Eastside just in themselves but if you're anyway in the area (lower Queen Anne, near Key Arena, McCaw Hall and the theaters), this is a fine pit stop for replenishing your caffeine.
An bijou coffeehouse on Mercer Street that is adorned by soulful art, great seating and a friendly barista. The customers seem to be many creative workaholics, with and without laptops, that pleasure in coffee, tea and/or desserts.
There are many things on the menu......
Mocha Bianca (White Chocolate Mocha) with foam or the Chai Latte are unrivalled evening choices. The desserts are mighty scrumptious too. Traditional favorites can be found with an exotic spin, such as mini-coconut cakes, red brownies and lemon-ginger muffins.
This is the place for a coffee-break in Lower Queen Anne. Enjoy!
The first time I stepped foot into this place was before I lived in Seattle. I'll never forget the 'Chocolate peanut butter heart attack' dessert not only because it was amazing but for the name itself. Now that I live nearby, I pop in once in awhile and find the service, coffee and dessert to be consistent. All in all it has always been a good experience and these days, that says a lot. Highly recommended!
Sunday should never start w/o coffee. Really, no day should, but especially Sunday.
Popped in here to meet up with Jon before Peso's (which turned into elsewhere) and Shakespeare in the park.
Service was VERY slow. Apparently the beans are being grown in the back and must be harvested before one gets coffee.
I can't complain *too* much though, because I did get my breve a full 8 1/2 minutes before Delilah got her large drip coffee. 'Cause they brew it one drip at a time.....right.
The breve was worth the wait, but this would never be my regular "on my way to-" coffee place.. This is more a "let's just sit and chat and sit and chat and sit while we wait for coffee then sit and chat and sip and chat" kind of place.
Delish, though, with adequate ambience and nice people watching piles opportunities
There was horse dung across the street on the sidewalk in front of the market. That was pretty interesting. Thank gawd for those large windows facing the street or I would have missed out on all the excitement. People would stop at the pile, observe (stare, if you will) and move on. Quite entertaining, actually.
I digress. My drip took forever to get to me. At first, I thought well they must brew it drip by drip. Turns out, they just forgot about me...and my order. Sad. 15 min.s later, I came back to the window with my drip and together we enjoyed the throng of amused people across the way.
Oh. Somewhere around here I should probably mention that the drip was good. Not burnt like those Starbucks "pros". Ye-haw.
I am here at least once a day. New in town and lots of intro meetings to hold so I tend to book them at the coffee shop next door to the theater. I am now more familiar with the morning baristas than some of my local friends! (hey matt & james)
Tall Soy Latte is my signature coffee of choice and it always comes out perfect. They use a plain soy so none of the fake vanilla flavor that you find in other shops permeates the taste. And the latte art is done to perfection - obviously this staff is well-trained and has a genuine interest in their work/craft. The drip is great too, never bitter. And the chai gets thumbs up as well - sweet or spicy, hot or cold.
Baked goodies are plentiful - I highly recommend the green tea bread.
Underwhelmed by the coffee, and service. I don't need baristas to be friendly, but I appreciate not being corrected because I don't use your lame lingo to order my mediocre drink.
(Update)
Went back during a return trip to Seattle and had a great experience. The coffee and the service were both considerably better.
I come here every workday morning to get my coffee and scone. The staff are all super nice and eccentric. Like most coffee shops in Seattle the baristas can be a little stand-off-ish if you're not a regular customer at first but over time they have gotten to be really friendly and the coffee keeps me awake throughout my workday.
I *heart* sweet desserts, add sweet coffee to that and Caffe Zingaro is my favorite post-dinner, dessert date stop. Other coffee shops' imported desserts leave me wanting (*cough* Caffe Ladro *cough* Tullys *cough* Starbucks) and Caffe Zingaro's got the best looking mini-cakes: raspberry mousses, chocolate mousse cakes, cheesecakes, etc. etc. It reminded me of the late night sweet dessert shops from back home in Miami. I'm really surprised there aren't more late-night dessert-related shops in Seattle. On a quiet Friday night, my BF and I lingered over their deliciously decadent, melt in your mouth cheesecake with raspberry drizzle. Drool. It was worth every penny (as long as you share!). Its a small coffeehouse ambiance, parking is scarce, and the place shuts down way early on the weekdays (8pm?!) but if you are aching for sweets, coffee, late night, this ain't a bad place to start.
One of my full-time teaching assignments is an online course, so I find myself needing to be at my computer for long periods at a time. While working at home might seem preferable, my tendency to procrastinate pushed me out of the condo and into a coffeehouse. Still shuddering after my last experience with El Diablo, I decided to walk over to Caffe Zingaro.
Caffe Zingaro has all the draw-ins of a good coffee shop: tables in several sizes to accommodate groups of 1-6, large windows with barstools, Lighthouse coffee, an array of comestibles (my new word for the year), and wireless capability. After ordering my mocha, I looked for an empty table near an outlet. Finding none, I grabbed a table next to a wall and silently thanked myself for charging my laptop battery earlier in the day. An unattended laptop sat at a table next to mine, plugged into the only outlet on that wall.
I sat down, began working and heard a beverage called. The wrong beverage. But that's ok, as the barista taking my order corrected the employee making the espresso, and the beverage I ordered was up in no time. I walked over to the counter to retrieve my paper cupful of caffeine-free goodness. When consuming coffee in paper cups, I prefer lids to keep my beverage warm. I saw the lids to the left of the pick-up counter, took a step to my left, and whammo! Almost fell down the incline directly between the left of the pick-up area. Luckily I caught my balance, but I couldn't help but think placing the lids closer to this counter might prevent klutzes like yours truly from tripping over ourselves. My decaf mocha, for the record, was great.
After working for a while, I noticed the unattended computer belonged to one of the baristas. He was using it in between customer rushes to check email or web surf. Whatever. I sure coulda used that outlet, though.
I enjoyed the room temperature, as sometimes I tend to freeze in coffee shops, especially when I sit near windows on rainy days like today. But then one of the employees got warm and opened up the door. Let me put that sweatshirt back on, then.
The Employee Computer Table began filling with a couple employees arriving for their next shift. It got a little loud with their chatter, but this is a coffee shop. I'm actually glad one of the baristas was getting relieved, as it seemed he was a bit under the weather. He had been sniffling. Not the quick sniffles, but the longer, drawn-out, I'm-going-to-suck-all-the-mucous-out-of-my-throat- type sniffles.
Two fresh employees officially replaced the previous Computer-Toting dudes around 1:00pm. One of the 1:00 fresh employees kept returning to the Employee Computer Table, the computer no longer there but in its place was a guy who appeared to be the employee's friend. I felt a little sorry for the second 1:00 fresh employee, as he seemed to be doing more work than the one visiting with her friend.
Alas, this story comes to an end as my low battery led me to depart Caffe Zingaro. I packed up and headed out, satisfied with my coffee but a little less than satisfied with the ambiance.
One extra hot Mexican mocha, please. And suddenly the morning commute across 520 doesn't seem as daunting.
The cardammon coffee cake and Mighty O donuts help too.
Spotted a minor celebrity here yesterday! What do you expect, with all the performance/rehearsal spaces practically next door?!
I remember when Caffe Zingaro opened. It's come a long way; the coffee drinks are actually pretty good now! Just wish they offered head-sized (20 oz.) drinks; I'd go there more often if they did. Stick with the mochas and basic espressos; their seasonal drinks (egg nog/gingerbread lattes, for example) don't seem to get mastered until the season is practically over.
The staff has great taste in music. You're as likely to hear Stereolab as great urban jazz. The only exception to this is one time when I went in & the gal was playing Sophie B. Hawkins (blech!!!! ). Also, the staff doesn't seem to have too much turnover; at least the one guy seems to have been there from the beginning. They must be doing pretty good now, because I never see the owner working anymore.
Zingaro stays open late on theatre/McCaw Hall event nights. You'd do well to stop there for coconut cake before or after a show . . . oh GOD it's good! You can admire the art, too; mostly they display work that isn't produced by novices, unlike some other (ahem) espresso shops in Seattle (but of course I support all artistic endeavors). Also, there's free 15-minute parking in a teeny lot next door; handy for a.m. commutes.
This is my favorite neighborhood place to go when I want to quietly sip my mocha, surf the net, read, or watch people try to cross Mercer without getting killed at the crosswalk so often unnoticed by motorists :P
Let me start by saying the BEST espresso in town. People may swear by Caffe vita and so on, but they are wrong. My espresso if pulled correctly every time. It never taste burnt or watered down which is often what I get from Caffe vita.
But what makes Zingaro even better is the staff. They are friendly, fun, patient, and helpful. They aren't your normal "I am so cool because I work at a coffee shop" workers, nor are they the snobby "I know it all about coffee." And they don't have to be, there product speaks for itself.
Q: How do you know if a coffee shop really welcomes you to stay and hang out for a while (hint: it's not the couches)?
A: Power strips and electric outlets. Lots of 'em.
Good coffee lounge with password-secured WiFi so it doesn't bog down. I only wish they offered some savory food and that I could find free parking nearby...
Pros:
- Best pseudo secure free Wi Fi I've seen. It's WEP but it's still better than open networks.
- Plenty of outlets
Cons:
- Next to the tourist trap that is Seattle Center
- No free parking
- Limited choices of nibbles.
One thing I totally look forward to when in Seattle is the COFFEE - I swear, you know how to do coffee right!
I went there twice. First day, this guy made my drink and it was divine! It also had that cute little leaf pattern swirl on top.
Second day I went and a lady made my drink and I had to throw it out - maybe she's from California? :)
Anyway, if you have the guy make your coffee drink, you'll love it. The decor is really nice and the chairs are real comfortable.
Happy Coffee Day!
You walk in, the place says, "Welcome. Enjoy."
You order, the barista is nice enough.
You walk out, the place says, "What? You're not going to stay? Do some homework, read The Stranger, observe the passerby on my outside deck?"
You give in and stay. It's that comfortable.
My relationship with Zingaro started off like a mediocre blind date:
My first time there, I went in with high hopes (yelp reviews were positive, if scarce and its SO close to where I live). But then i got there and it was a little deflating: it was a little crowed, a little noisy, the staff was lukewarm. I liked it...but I didn't. It was a more of a "I'll call you sometime" situation. And with that, I left and didn't plan on returning.
However, not too long ago, when the weather was so hot you could literally roast alive, I needed a cooler place to study than my apartment and since it was too hot to walk any further than Zingaro, I found myself on another date with my cafe. Turns out Zingaro is not so bad, by the third or fourth encounter I was actually quite smitten. Dare I say I've actually fallen hard for their americanos, the great music, the interesting customers, and the great tables to study at. I think its too soon to profess my love for Zingaro...those three little words "I love you" can be so hard to say...but maybe after a few more visits I won't be able to deny it any longer.
Bring cash. Anything less than $5 purchase wins you an extra 25 cent charge to your credit card.
Good egg nog latte.
Nice space (a better choice and a better cup than Ladro around the corner).
Currently hosting Jennifer Seller's originals on the walls (acrylic doggie portraits - we have one of our pup, Vida, on our wall).
Next to the Seattle Repertory Theatre.
Very nice cup of coffee. I think spending some time in Seattle I'm finally developing a taste for good coffee, and this was a pleasant experience. The atmosphere was nice enough that I'm considering going down there to do some sketching some time.
When I was paying, the barista tried out a new technique she's developing of trying to rope customers into buying baked goods by just acting as though they had already ordered them. It almost worked on me.
with new staff they're still doing a great job. Ive found myself here quite often enjoying great pastries, and the best baristas seattle has to offer
The best coffee hands down. Friendly staff, great pastries, and the best coffee in the city.
I freaking love this place.
I work across the Seattle Center near 2nd and John. There's a Starbucks within spitting distance from the front gate of where I work, but I take the half mile walk over the half block walk to get my coffee any day. And not just because Starbucks sucks. :)
Lighthouse coffee, as I've recently been told, is the best coffee on the planet -- or in Seattle at least. I've not ventured to other shops that serve it, but I can definitely tell you that Zingaro serves the best cup of coffee in town. I tend to go there 3-5 times a week (paycheck permitting) and have never been let down.
Also, the Batistas in the morning are all foam artists (as I like to call them) and make pretty designs on top of the foam. As a former Barista myself, I know this is easier said than done, and I'm always impressed with the designs they come up with.
Oh, yeah. They have a pretty nice selection of "delectables," as well. I would also like to see a bit more in the savory variety, but I opt for one of their amazing bagels or the awesome Rosemary Scones.
Also, right around the corner there are 3 30 minute zones that aren't designated for trucks or permitted vehicles, so it's totally a breeze to run in and grab my morning coffee before work.
Zingaro is a great place to hang out with friends or get some studying done. They have WiFi and plenty of tables/couches. The staff is always pleasant, but not overly friendly. This is a good solid coffee shop. And they have a revolving art gallery that always adds some visual interest.
Oh, and this review wouldn't be complete without mention of the coconut cake. It's white, it's moist, it's covered in coconut, and it's expensive. But, damn, is it good!
pros: tasty tea selections; adequate seating; WiFi;
cons: pricey pastries
They use Lighthouse Roasters... which I think has the best beans in Seattle. I love Cafe Solstice in the University District specifically because of the coffee. I'm glad Cafe Zingaro is right in my neighborhood.
The atmosphere is welcoming. Layout is kind of like between a Starbucks and a corner coffee shop. You could easily sit at this place with friends for good conversations.
Oh man... the Pecan Tart...
When I first came in here to get a cup on coffee, I didn't like it. I felt like it was a little bit pretentious, plus they charge an extra 25 cents on card purchases under $5, which is annoying. Everyone uses debit these days!
Anyhow, I've been back a few times since and have liked it much better. Baristas are generally friendly, coffee is smooth and the cookie I had there was good. The pot of tea is not worth it - it's like $2 for 14 ounces. I'm just finishing up an italian soda right now which was really good. The space is a little spare, but they do have rotating photo exhibits. Free wi-fi. Pretty nice.
Gets snaps for:
- The barista recommending a double shot over ice when asked, "What's your favorite iced drink?"
- Playing Portishead:Live and then an in-studio bootleg of Radiohead's "Blow Out" that brought me back to the heyday of (free) Napster.
- Decorated in colors I'd use for my house
That 2nd one was just lucky timing, but timing counts, dog.
Their Mexican Coffee is good. This is not my usual coffee joint, but it's a nice stop as I'm heading out of town and need a caffeine pick-me-up. The service is fine, atmosphere is nice, all in all, a nice neighborhood coffee joint.
I was staying 'round the corner at the Inn @ Queen Anne, and this was a welcome stop early in the a.m. before check-out. Delicious!
Wow! They make the best latte! Try it out if you've never been there before! It will win you over and you will NEVER go anywhere else in Queen Anne!
This place is great to hang out. It has free wi-fi for all its customers. It's usually not too busy or loud; some people like to do their work there.
They have several fancy kinds of tea that's worth trying out. Their desserts also look pretty good. I've had a carrot cake and a coconut cake, and they both were tasty.
If you don't want to stay home but have no idea of where to hang out, perhaps you can visit this nice place easily for a long period of time.
Caffe Zingaro is a great place near the Seattle Center that has coffee, tea and delectables! An excellent place to cool off on a hot sunny day or even sit by the big windows and watch cars splash by in the rain. I had a great glass of Vanilla Rubios iced tea. There is also some great artwork on the walls!
I second the recommendation of the cardamom coffee cake. Tasty lattes with intricate foam designs. I enjoy the atmosphere here, although I've never spent more than an hour so I can't say whether it'd be a good place to work on a longer-term basis. Four stars vs five because some employees are friendlier/more helpful/less likely to forget orders than others.
Delicious chai made sweet-to-your-liking (i.e. not Oregon Chai from a box). Lots of tea to choose from. Pretty latte art, if that is your passion.
All I ever want in a cup of coffee and more. The staff is uber friendly, and everyone of them knows how to make a great latte. A bonus for having Mighty O Doughnuts, really tasty pastries and a great selection of teas. I find it to be a perfect place for a either quick cup on-the-go or to sit in and waste time.
lovely tea, unique and beautiful sweets
Grab and go healthy breakfast
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