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Monorail Espresso
Category: Food Coffee & Tea Coffee & Tea [Edit]
520 Pike St(between 5th Ave & 6th Ave)
Seattle, WA 98101
Neighborhood: Downtown
(206) 625-0449
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 6 am - 6 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
169 reviews for Monorail Espresso
Review Highlights
"The bike messengers are a small price to pay."
(in 15 reviews)
"My Maple Latte was delicious & the service was amazing."
(in 48 reviews)
"My girlfriend also loved her mocha."
(in 26 reviews)
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169 reviews in English
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Review from Jane P.
Torrance, CA
1/21/2012
The first time I went here was in September (2011). The second time, in November. After a 2-month hiatus, I walked by Monorail Espresso today, not even really wanting a cup of coffee, but really just wanting to see and talk to Kostas.
And boy, am I glad to have stopped by-- he really made my day!
Kostas remembered not only my name, but my school, major, hometown, the number of siblings I have, and the drink I ordered the last two times I've been there (mocha). Never have I met someone with as great of a memory as him. Honestly.
The customer service is truly superb-- so personable & kind. I've only been here when Kostas is working (which is on the weekends, he let me know), but I'm sure everyone's great. But seriously, while he was making my drink, he says to me, "Jane, I'm making the drink extra hot because it's really cold and I want you to keep warm." What a nice guy.
And oh, the mocha. I'm not a mocha person anywhere else because I find syrup-based mochas much too sweet & sugary. The mochas here though? The powdered chocolate & steamed milk mocha warms me up so pleasantly. It's the best sensation on a cold winter day. Definitely check this place out! -
Review from Jesse P.
Seattle, WA
12/15/2011
5 stars - double shot espresso
I come here basically every weekday, and if I can't make it, I'm thinking about my double espresso. I wouldn't normally give a coffee shop 5 stars that doesn't roast their beans onsite, but this is my place. Great espresso and the people working there are badass (nice, cool, professional). Don't try to get your punchcard on the machine, I'm not even quite clear how you get your card up there. They will learn your name and remember you though.
They're the best in this part of DT, better than Ladro, which is their only competition. Line moves quick. Cash only. If you don't like it, I'll use my punchcard for you :) -
Review from Ninette C.
Seattle, WA
12/8/2011
Wow who woulda thought!?
My co-worker and I needed a coffee break and he suggested we go here because it's his regular spot. It's a stand, nowhere to sit. The lady there already knew him. He had a shot of espresso (um, who goes to outdoor stands and has a random shot of espresso? lol) and I had a non-fat latte.
The latte was very good. It wasn't too heavy as I sometimes find coffee to be.
This place is cash only, which is problematic as I never carry cash. However, if you're in the area and have cash on you, definitely check out Monorail Espresso. -
Review from Justin C.
Honolulu, HI
12/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Bacon Coffee?
Its better than it sounds! -
Review from Rob L.
Chicago, IL
2/2/2012
Every time I visit Seattle, I make a point to stop here. The staff is always friendly, and the espresso is like none you've ever had. If you've never had a true macchiato before, this is the place to try it. That said, if lattes and mochas are more your thing, they've got you covered there too. I recommend either the Frango mint mocha or the maple latte -- both are excellent.
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Review from Thrill K.
Seattle, WA
11/3/2011 17 Check-ins Here
I love this place. For reals. I go here every weekend. and I only get my coffee from Kostas. (hope I spelled it right) He's the Man.
He's cool as "F". He always remembers our last convo. and I never have to order. As soon as he sees me,He starts up my Mocha.
The Chub cookies are great. I always get one with my Mocha if I'm going to a movie from Monorail.
Once in a while they'll have the Pecan Chubs up for sale. Those are the BOMB!
It's the personal touch that keeps me coming back weekend after weekend.
CASH ONLY KIDS. Oh Yea,the coffee is great too.
This Place Is Thrill Killer approved. Check It OOOUUUTTT!!! -
Review from Cindy T.
11/11/2011
It's almost impossible to find a coffee shop in downtown Seattle that isn't Starbucks. Really. Walked by Monorail Espresso and was immediately drawn in by their sign that said "Maple Bacon Latte." It tasted exactly like it sounds. It wasn't too sweet or salty, either. It was a good mix. Must try!!!
*Saw a sign that said "We charge 50 cents extra for talking on your phone." LOL -
Review from George I.
12/19/2011
Great coffee and service. The barista is a Bulgarian guy, very friendly . Fast service. The milk for the coffee is hormone free . Make sure you have cash with you
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Review from Thu T.
Garden Grove, CA
11/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
Waking up in Seattle and finding yourself you need a coffee BAD!! =P
My friend yelp this place and we had to go find it.
There was a nice old man behind the counter that took my order and he recommended the maple syrup coffee latte.. sounds good..
Taste wise not to bad.. but the conversation with the interesting old man makes up for the lack in taste of the coffee..
first thing he ask was are you from California? I'm like How do you know?
he responses, Everyone is from California. -
Review from Ross C.
Bainbridge Island, WA
11/29/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I love the coffee but I really go back because of the lovely and friendly Aimee. She has been so wonderful to me as a customer. Everyone there is super nice. Just a little spot of sunshine in a grey city. The bike messengers are a small price to pay.
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Review from Geoffrey B.
Seattle, WA
7/29/2011
After living in Barcelona, visiting family in France and backpacking through Italy, I've learned both the importance and beauty of an espresso. I couldn't imagine surviving one day in an y of these countries without this creamy black caffeinated liquid. Since living in Seattle, a place known for their coffee, I've been hard pressed to find a barista that pulls the perfect and amuses me with the same passionate experience I loved so much in Europe. Here in America, we don't have walk up counters to stand and drink our espresso shots, we're too focused on big complicated coffee drinks to tote around in our fancy thermoses or recyclable to-go cups. Walking downtown with my buddy, I recognized a small hole-in-the-wall (literally) espresso shop, Monorail Espresso.
This little cafe is run by an old Bulgarian man and decorated with photos with his customers dating back to 1980. We ordered two espressos from the sidewalk where he and his maquina-de-cafe faced out on. He prepared our coffee and asked what appeared to be the most important question, "Is this for here or to go?" Noting the small metal counter protruding out from the side of his shop, I responded, "Here of course!" Suddenly he stopped, raised his hands with joy and exclaimed with a thick accent, "A man who knows how to drink espresso!" I've learned that recognizing people for their skill and art, often makes them more happy and passionate. He sprinkled sugar into the ground coffee before making the shot, a technique I had never seen before but tasted great.
We stood against the metal counter sipping our espressos, chatting with the old man and admiring the various photos. The aroma from the espresso and the entire experience was perfect. For just on second, I stood there on busy Pike Street and felt like I was back in Spain enjoying that same delicious cafe I had grown to love. -
Review from Alyssa K.
8/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
I needed a pick-me-up after walking all over downtown Seattle, and I came across this great find.
Walked up and asked what they recommended, and the girl immediately said the burnt creme latte. I got it iced, and wow, it was like drinking chilled liquid creme brulee... awesome. Very refreshing, espresso tasted great, and definitely did the job in waking me up. I got a medium, but I couldn't finish it because it was getting way too sweet (and I LOVE sugar).
If I lived in Seattle, I could definitely see myself being a regular here! -
Review from Kristen D.
Seattle, WA
9/23/2011
I'm going to preface this review with saying I don't like coffee. I know I'm one of those crazy people, but I do love me some monorail espresso. While residing in a coffee town, it is extremely hard to find a good tea drink. Monorail Espresso makes the best London Fog tea (Earl Grey, vanilla syrup, and foam). And they often have yummy breads and cookie type things.
The baristas are also really friendly and knowledgeable. They always talk to me, make small talk, and don't laugh at me when I tell them I don't like coffee!
Definitely a place to checkout while downtown -
Review from rob b.
Sarasota, FL
7/24/2011
If you like Public Domain in Portland Oregon (quality) , this is the place for you.
Although this place is the dialectic opposite of Public Domain in terms of set-up (PD is a minimalist, snooty, hardcore espresso bar that looks like your in MOMA, while ME is a street level walk-up espresso bar favorite of bike messengers), the result is the same. Latttes are made to perfection. Your wasting your time going to chain coffee shops. Go here instead!
The irony behind this coffee bar is that it tries to be "Anit-Hipster" and in doing so it attracts even more "hipsters". Make no mistake about it, this place is "hipster" because the Lattes are the best. If this place sold iPads and PBR it would be Hipster Central.
Awesome Lattes! -
Review from Rachel M.
Danville, CA
11/26/2011
Loved the maple syrup latte I got here. It's such a cute place, literally a hole in the wall. it's easy to miss as you're walking by. Simple, no frills menu, but has pretty much anything you want.
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Review from Emily T.
3/30/2011 6 photos
While vacationing in Seattle for the weekend, I called a friend to meet up a Monorail Espresso. I figured it was just any standard coffee shop, with tables and chairs and such.
I was running a little late, and my friend got there before I did. She called me asking if it's right that there's nowhere to sit inside and I told her I didn't know and that I would rush over immediately.
Sure enough, I passed right by without even noticing it. Monorail Espresso is quite literally a "hole-in-the-wall." I found my friend sitting on a crate inside of a coffee shop the size of my closet! Hardly enough room for one person, the man working invited us all in.
My friend went on to explain how she walked about 20 feet away from Monorail to sit down and wait for us, but the man working left his shop, walked over to her, and invited her into his warm working space.
HOW SWEET!
I love cute, old men! He allowed us to watch him make a couple cups of coffee. Then we proceeded to order our own coffee. I went with the almond latte, which ended up being absolutely perfect and delightful. The almond syrup complimented the coffee well. My friend got a cherry white mocha drink (the special), and it was delicious! Nothing was overwhelmingly sweet (as Starbucks often is).
Monorail is a quick stop coffee shop. You will not be disappointed. The man working is sweet. The signs outside are entertaining and funny. I am in LOVE with Monorail and I made sure to tell all my friends to visit!Listed in: Where everyone knows your name
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Review from Dan W.
Arlington, VA
6/28/2011
Small shop located at what used to be the ticket booth of the grand theatre, now a giant Banana Republic. Not easily detected in all the retailers, but it would be your lost to miss it.
Best cup of expresso and of course have to get the chubbies to go with it. The owner is a funny old guy, got some good stories to tell (if the line is short). -
Review from Geoffrey G.
Brooklyn, NY
5/15/2011
Excellent!! This is exactly what it says it is. Mono rail...one rail...one machine...one man, making GREAT coffee!! Just walk right up to the window, the service is excellent, the coffee equally so! I had a latte and was a bit skeptical when he made it so quickly, but it was fantastic.
A true HOLE IN THE WALL, this is an easy one to walk by, but should not be missed. I have put myself on a mission to try as many coffee shops in Seattle as I can, and this is at the top of my list so far.
Not for those looking to sit down, open a laptop, read a book. This is the place if you want/need a GREAT cup of coffee on the go. Delicious -
Review from Evan J.
Seattle, WA
5/19/2011
It was 6:30AM and I'd been walking all night. All I wanted was a decent non-Hershey's mocha. Pegasus, Coffee Works and Dilettante were all closed. I'd heard good things about this place, and had half-decent coffee here myself.
Well, first off, any place that uses powdered chocolate for a mocha, please please please pull the shots into it, rather than steaming it into the milk. It destroys the texture of the milk along with the flavor of the chocolate while creating its own bitterness.
But also, how does one pull off an 8oz drink from a 32oz pitcher? Not well. The milk had zero texture, the drink was bitter (from the shots or the chocolate-steaming, I'm not sure), and it was even not quite hot enough to get a nice sweetness on the milk.
The price at $3, however, is probably unbeatable. Customer service was awesome. And the coffee was as I'd remembered, half-decent. Plus, they were open!
Overall, three stars for doing probably everything but the milk & chocolate right. -
Review from Shekinah S.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 2/20/2011
When my old standby coffee shop began sucking more than just a little (http://www.yelp.com/bi...) Monorail became my new go to. The baristas are super nice and the lattes are super good. I even like the regular (not iced) ones! Star Upgrade in order!!
CASH ONLYListed in: Best of Seattle, Latte List
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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2/12/2009
My 16oz latte with a shot of caramel was only $3.50!! $3.50!
I asked the barista if that was right… Read more »
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Review from Courtney S.
Seattle, WA
10/20/2011
This is my favorite go to coffee shop in Downtown Seattle. I work right across the street and wanted to find something other than Starbucks. The place is cash only which is sometimes a problem for me since I dont like to carry cash. Now I find myself always wanting to carry a bit of cash for a mid morning coffee pick me up. The girls that work the place are always the best! They are great at remembering you and what you drink when you become a regular. They also really seem to care about their customers. I have not once walked away disappointed. I am even sipping the most amazing Egg Nog Latte right now. Thank you ladies!
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Review from Mark K.
Seattle, WA
10/15/2011
Great coffee
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Review from Tanya J.
I do love me some monorail espresso. The highlights of this yummy sidewalk coffee bar are the specialty coffee drinks with a strong bold flavor with out being too sweet like most places. My favorite specialty drink to date is their Soy Mint Frango Mocha. Other highlights include the friendly baristas who are very fast and efficient in getting your orders quickly and making excellent drinks. After my 2nd visit, the girls knew me and my drink. Lastly, the chubby cookies are amazing and I find myself giving in every so often.
Monorail Espresso is a downtown must if you're looking for a great cup of coffee on the go!Listed in: Best Kept Secrets, Coffee!
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Review from James E.
1/4/2011
Not to knock some of my fellow Yelpers, but the kindly gentleman who prepares beverages on the weekend is from Bulgaria. Not Italy. The guy will even tell you this if you ask him. I mean honestly.
Saturday and Sunday mornings do not officially begin until we walk to Monorail Espresso for a small soy latte. Dog treats are offered in abundance to my special little guy who knows a sure thing when he sniffs it. Our soy lattes never disappoint, and they're made by a machine that kills hipsters. This alone grants Monorail eternal 5-star ratings.
If you're downtown and you opt for any other espresso other than Monorail, shame--no, DAMN you. Damn you for all eternity. -
Review from Sergio R.
Claremont, CA
4/28/2011
I made it my goal to try as much coffee as possible while in Seattle and this tiny walk-up joint was by far the best. The roast of the beans, the deep flavor of the espresso.. mmm so good
We liked it so much that we chose to buy some beans to go.
When I asked the price the man said it would be $10 for a bag, but if we bought 2 the second one would be $10. Hu??? "Hahahaha!" I laughed at what I thought was a joke but his reaction lead me to believe otherwise. "You ask me how much it cost, I tell you!" HU??? I don't think he realized what he said. I woulda thought one who operates a store with funny signs outside charging for directions would...ah nevermind. Misunderstanding I guess.
We proceeded to purchase two bags of coffee and he thanked us very much. GREAT purchase by the way! Delicious
I'll be looking forward to visiting this place again soon -
Review from Heather I.
Riverside, CA
2/16/2011 3 Check-ins Here
There is a good reason this place has rave reviews.
On my trip to Seattle I was determined to not step foot in a starbucks, so I wanted to find the smaller places with Baristas who knew how to properly steam milk. (I LOVE me some good milk foam).
I loved the service here and the espresso was delicious. I went 3 times and the first day was the best, the other two days were still good, but not as good. I recommend the white mocha. It is delicious. -
Review from Woody S.
Seattle, WA
2/27/2011
Often, I like to wander around downtown in hopes of finding cool hole in the wall places, with good food, good drinks, or just cool weird stuff.
On a recent jaunt, I was passing by Monorail Espresso, and jonesing for a cup of coffee. I've often noticed that there is a group of bike messengers that hangs out in front of the shop, and on this particular trip I reasoned that:
1)Bike messengers probably know downtown fairly well.
2)Out of all the coffee shops in downtown, they choose to hang at this one.
3) There must be something special about a shop where they hang at, even though there's not really any place to sit comfortably.
So, I tried it. Turns out they have some pretty bad ass coffee. -
Review from Stephanie L.
Seattle, WA
12/1/2011
i went here on thanksgiving morning, on the way to visit my dad, who is currently at virginia mason for a month. the older gentleman who helped me was the sweetest thing ever & made my morning. i also really like amy who works there, she is a sweetheart. :)
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Review from Amie S.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 9/29/2010 1 Check-in Here
Monorail Espresso continues to be my "go-to" place for a warm, sweet latte downtown.
My favorite barista guy is ADORABLE, and continues to remember our drinks even though we only stop in every 2-3 weeks (and even though he continues to think we're from South Africa - for some unknown reason).
I'm sure they get enough business from employees that work around the area, but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE go there and give it more. They've been in business since the 80s, and I'd hate for that stop. Ever.Listed in: Coffee Coffee
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/12/2009
I love, love, LOVE this place - and sadly I'm not even downtown enough to frequent it. But man -… Read more »
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Review from Eric s.
Los Angeles, CA
9/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Great little hole in the wall coffee joint. Very friendly staff and they take their time to prepare your drinks right.
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Review from Jolorene G.
Seattle, WA
The best lattes/mochas I've had.. have yet to find better.
Read reviews on here before trying this place out.
FRANGO MOCHA has become a new addiction.
You've gotta try it! -
Review from Daren D.
5/20/2011
A truly unique and original shop! The dyed-blond barista gal was friendly with a cheery vibe and frequent smile. I was saddened when I noticed they had Oregon Chai and I've read on here that once upon a time they had Big Train. Oh well, still good to me! I wonder if they switched or just rotate or what.
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Review from Ryan A.
Seattle, WA
3/15/2011
I ride by this place everyday and have been waiting (too long) to check it out. Little urban coffee stops like this one always put a smile on my face, and after the service and awesome mocha, I have good reason.
So far, probably the best mocha I've had in the city. Big ups. -
Review from Matt V.
San Francisco, CA
11/30/2010 1 Check-in Here
While there is NO doubt this place is better than the major chains around, I wasn't completely blown away like some readers.
My recommendation would be to get the smallest sized latte with two shots. The 16oz was too milky for my liking.
Would I go back you ask...you betcha! -
Review from michael m.
Portland, OR
9/20/2010 1 Check-in Here
So as I was visiting Seattle, I asked myself, "Self, in a town rich with coffee brewers, which is the best?" I turned to the Yelp community for the answer.
The best coffee closest to your hotel is Monorail Espresso. You know what, Yelp for the win. The Burnt Creme Latte is pretty freaking amazing.
If you find yourself near the Seattle Public Library, walk the five blocks to this coffee hole-in-the-wall. -
Review from Aisha M.
Irvine, CA
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Found this place through Yelp a few years ago, and it's pretty darn good. Not the BEST coffee I've had, but pretty good :-)
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Review from Mailani w.
Seattle, WA
11/5/2010
Damn, do I love me some Monorail Espresso.
The baristas are sweet and effortlessly can make a smooth latte before you could snap out a Z-formation. Even if you don't know what the hell you feel like, they got yo back in making something you will be impressed with. Just come correct with some cash. There is an unspoken douche-free zone about the size of a Sear's gardening shed that must be followed.
Order like a human being: get off the iphone, stop talking to the bluetooth like a jackass, or ask for princess orders for your drink to be at 107.9 degrees, comprende? And don't forget to tip like you mean it. -
Review from Katie S.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2009
Damn fine espresso from some damn fine people.
Each cup here is made with loving care. From the pumpkin spice latte to the Italian soda, nothing but love... and choice ingredients go into the drinks here. This is Seattle's OG coffee cart.
If someone asks me where they should go for coffee in Seattle, this place will be at the top of the list...
but bring cash. That's a negative on plastic... roger that. -
Review from Victoria M.
Oakland, CA
5/30/2011
Great espresso and great Seattle experience. Hipster free coffee with walk-by window service. This is a simple cappuccino not to be confused with gourmet types. Perfect for a no fuss coffee. Cheerful owner greets each and every guest. He clearly has a love for his community because he knew most of the customers before me by name.Bring cash because it is cash only. Pastries looked good but I resisted. Perfect place for sidewalk sitting and people watching. Bravo on a unique coffee stop.
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Review from Michelle B.
Seattle, WA
1/9/2007
Who knew you could walk up to a window on the side of the downtown Banana Republic and demand the best damn vanilla soy latte this side of Broadway? Yelpers did! I had been reading so many great reviews of this place that when I found myself downtown and a little sluggish I walked two blocks out of my way in the rain to try it, and whooo boy am I glad I did!
Monorail Espresso is now my second favorite coffee joint in the city.
They only take cash, they don't have indoor seating, and there are a lot of bike messengers hanging out there. Regardless of these minor annoyances I'm going back to Monorail Espresso since it's the only monorail related entity that actually exists, oh and they serve really good lattes.
