Stella Caffe - CLOSED

4.5 star rating
61 reviews Rating Details

Category: Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

1224 1st Ave
(between Seneca St & University St)
Seattle, WA 98101
Neighborhood: Downtown
(206) 624-1299
Price Range:
$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Outdoor Seating:
No
Wi-Fi:
Free
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Yelp Ad Ambrosia Cafe
4.0 star rating
96 reviews

Mandy S. said: "is it bubble or boba tea?  Their tapioca here is super good!  I don't drink bubble tea much but since this is the best bubble tea place in I.D., i had to try it.  They make hot milk tea here and the boba stays chewy!    I wish they had…"   read more »

Review Highlights   

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"Josie and Rob are friendly and make the place feel warm." (in 9 reviews)
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"That Roman Cappuccino is heavenly." (in 10 reviews)
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"Rob made me a cappuccino and it was unbelievable." (in 15 reviews)
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61 reviews in English

  • Review from Corinne H.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    11/30/2010

    I fell in love at Stella. I fall in love with lots of things, everyday. but this particular day, it happened to be a vanilla americano, perfectly prepared, that won my heart...I almost felt a tear when I got to the bottom of the cup....my life is forever changed...nothing else will be up to par.

    ok ok...enough with the melodrama.  And to be more thorough in my review.....everything else about this place is effing awesome!  :)

  • Review from Kyle H.

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    11/12/2010

    I'm a complete drip. Drip coffee, that is. But standing behind a woman that ordered what looked like the best cappuccino ever, I had to get one for myself. Middle of the day, Stella was seeing a fair amount of traffic for lunch, coffee, and even a few bellying up for a beer.

    The waitstaff was so genuinely nice, I was taken aback. Seattleans have a way about them that I'm not used to, coming from the big cold shouldered Midwest. The cappuccino was gorgeous in presentation and the best I've ever had.

    I decided to order a panini, and was impressed by the focus on fresh local ingredients on the menu. My panini featured local produce and Beecher's signature cheese on fresh and toasty bread. I couldn't have chosen a better place to end my nice stay in Seattle.

  • Review from Jeff B.

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    • 59 friends
    • 148 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    10/21/2010

    They do not serve coffee all day... What a bummer.

    I came in figuring I could get myself a shot & an espresso.  That is, a shot of bourbon & and espresso.  I mean, it was happy hour!

    Alas, no.

    Fortunately, they did have an espresso martini which in a bind really satisfied both my need for a drink and a pick me up.

    The space is kind of cool, I appreciate that they left a lot of it fairly intact from the old hotel.

  • Review from Crystal H.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    8/5/2010 ROTD 8/25/2010

    Walking down 1st Avenue after visiting the Market and SAM with three kids and I'm in desperate need of a coffee.  Now typically I would go for Starbucks in this situation as they are consistently crappy and I know what to expect, BUT I was literally standing in front of Stella, it said coffee, and I thought to myself "well at least I'll be able to write a review".  

    So I walked in to this near deserted place, made sure they didn't use Hershey syrup (gag) and ordered.  Got my coffee, took a drink and was pleasantly surprised.  Wow.  I stumbled upon a gem here!  This is some good shhhhh.  Huh.  Who knew?  (Apparently a few ppl looking at the reviews now).

    Other than the fact that I ordered non-fat and she gave me what tasted like 2%, it was really good.  Like almost Vivace good.  Way to go.  I savored that delicious coffee, applauded myself for taking a chance, and made a mental note of where it was for future reference.

  • Review from Matt J.

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    • 34 friends
    • 19 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    1/31/2011

    I share Kzed's frustration, but if it's any consolation, The Diller Room still serves coffee (including the Roman Cappuccino to which I am addicted), and the hours (currently 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily) will--according to the guy I just spoke to on the phone--be expanding in March to open at 11 a.m. or possibly earlier.

    The coffee gets five stars, the reduced access gets one. Average: three.

  • Review from Jen B.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    5/28/2010

    Absolutely great espresso with perfect presentation. The friendly staff makes coming here feel like you're part of the neighborhood- even if the neighborhood is downtown & congested.

    They have very good panini's as far as I can tell, but have only tried the veggie & chicken. The pastry selection isn't the greatest but I come for the coffee. So there.

  • Review from Valentina V.

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    • 251 friends
    • 248 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/6/2009

    I'll tell you a little secret about this place:  ask for a mocha made with one of their dark chocolate truffles. Shhh...don't say I told you about it.

    The beautiful, sun-bathed, exposed-brick, vintage and golden coffee shop will seduce you. That's only foreplay before your coffee experience.

    You will get a cup of coffee just like many like their lovers: hot, creamy, slightly strong, bold and sexy.  The combination of fresh brew and chocolate will swirl on your tongue like a French kiss masterfully given.

    It's almost sexual. Yes, it is!

    (Ask for "Stella Loves You" if you happen to be in the neighborhood with your laptop.  You'll love "her" back.)

    ¡Cinco sexy estrellas!

  • Review from Ted C.

    Clarksville, TN

    4.0 star rating
    8/9/2010 1 photo 1 Check-in Here

    So, we were still looking for a place to continue drinking and after being ignominiously given the cold shoulder by Pike Pub and a failed trip to a wine bar-Argentinian no less. We ended up at this place- it seemed like a bit of a long shot but at this point we were desperate and had a limited time window.

    The sign out front was promising with $3.25 PBRs-not a fan but oh well. However, our bartender was awesome and literally the only person that was able to put up with 10 annoying drunks.  I can't remember how many rounds were order by who but she was pretty gracious and worked quickly with the other bartender to keep us all hydrated/inebriated.

    We got hungry and asked about the pizzas-we ordered 5 which only came out to $25 and after I bad mouthed the pepperoni she slammed me and said that the pepperoni was awesome here and I was stupid to ignore it. She was absolutely right the pepperoni was really good-and keep in mind I hate that meat. The sausage was also very good as well but the pepperoni was so delicious-apparently brought in from New York.

    The one thing I will say is that it's pretty crowded, however with 10 and then an even dozen of us any place is bound to get tight.

  • Review from Ryan B.

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    • 73 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/6/2009

    One of my favorite new coffee shops and my goto spot for coffee when I'm downtown or just need a cozy place to work.  The baristas are incredibly friendly and clearly love working here; no ironic looks or sad faces here!  The decor has more character and charm than just about any other coffee shop I can think of in Seattle.  The front cafe has an inviting arch over the entryway, lovely exposed brick, and a beautiful, classic ceiling.  The back room is actually the lobby of the gone, but not forgotten, Diller Hotel.

    They have free wifi and its network name (Stella Loves You) tells you all you need to know about their attitude and feelings toward their customers.  And let me not forget the most important part: the coffee!  It's fantastic...a bold, rich roast (without being bitter) that just feels wonderful in your mouth.  Add to that delicious desserts, crostinis, sandwiches, beer, and wine, and you have yourself the perfect place to spend the entire day.  I love this place and I'll be coming back for more and more and more!

  • Review from Faith Y.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/17/2009

    One sip and I was back on the slippery cobblestones of Rome. The cobblestones in front of Caffè S. Eustachio to be exact. Although touristy due to its close vicinity to the Pantheon, it was the BEST espresso I had while I lived there for 3 months. (for 1 measly euro by the by!)

    Stella's Roman Cappuccino comes pretty damn close to the flavors of Italia. It must be in the art of the way they prepare the bean: the Roman way. The drink in question starts with a generous helping of raw sugar, some magical European blend of espresso and topped with steaming milk and a dash of 'secret' cocoa powder. Perfection.

    It's ruined me on all other coffees in Seattle. There's nothing I needed to add to the cappuccino, it was just the right balance of strong and lightly sweet. The only difference? In Rome, you knock back espresso like a shot at the bar and say your "arrivedercis" in minutes - at Stella's, you can sip and savor. Ahhhhh

  • Review from Kim E.

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    • 60 friends
    • 39 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    8/20/2009 1 Check-in Here

    Absolutely love, love, LOVE this place! They have an amazing roman cappuccino and the pastries are, literally, to die for. The prices are decent (cheaper than Starbucks for sure) and the décor is very cozy. Rob and Josie (the owners) are fantastic people, they are always very warm and welcoming and even throw in a free truffle on my drink order sometimes.

    My only regret is that I don't work down the street from them anymore so when I do make it to downtown Seattle, I always make a point to stop by here.

  • Review from Jenny N.

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    • 19 friends
    • 69 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    11/19/2008

    Rob Wilson, the guy who has been roasting some of Seattle's finest espresso blends since his return to the area last year, has just opened a retail cafe in the heart of Seattle located at the top of Harbor Steps, across from the Seattle Art Museum, and just a block away from the new Four Seasons.

    Rob and his wife, Josie, are bringing in other Italian goods...such as dried pasta, canned tuna in olive oil, and panettone...making this more than a simple coffee house...Rob's intent is to truly be an "alimentare" and bar in the Italian sense: a place for sipping caffe and engaging conversation with neighbors and friends.

    It's a gorgeous space. The main entrance is literally at the SE corner of 1st and University. High ceilings, exposed brick, brick red walls. Long and narrow with an original tile floor. The long wood bar has space to sidle up to for a quick sip of espresso and the exterior wall (along University) is lined with benches, small round tables and chairs for anyone who wants to linger a while.

    Prices are very reasonable, given Seattle's coffee culture. I tried the Roma panino ($5.50) for lunch today: crunchy bread, melt in your mouth cured meat and arugula. Nummy!

    I'm delighted to see the business is already doing well...on its third day open!

  • Review from Kristen S.

    San Jose, CA

    2.0 star rating
    1/18/2010

    5 stars for the vibe, the decor, and the chandelier!  But the coffee was actually a little disappointing to us!  Maybe we set the bar too high when all the coffee-snobs pointed us in the direction of Stella and raved about their drinks.  As far as straight coffee goes, we both felt that it leaves some things to be desired.

    We ordered standard cups of coffee and were dismayed by the watered-down-ness of it all.  It was diluted and not that bold, not that aromatic.  Which is seriously too bad, because we really, really wanted to love this place.  It's very charming on the out and inside.  I realize I'm in the minority to Yelp this place 2 stars, but it's nothing personal.  It's just...I've had better.  And this is supposed to be coffee-capitol of the nation!

  • Review from Lina D.

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    • 62 friends
    • 32 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    7/23/2009

    It's been a while Yelp...It has been a while. Over the last several weeks I have been writing a list of the places I needed to Yelp...but this morning I was pushed over the edge, in the most positive of ways.

    I have been meaning to get up to Stella's for a while. I am sick of Tully's and dislike Starbucks....maybe it is the fact that the beans are burnt or they just don't know how to make a good Latte. When I visit the smaller spots however, I always seem to have a better experience. Stella's being right up the Steps from my gig, seemed to be a great place to experiment.

    This morning, tired and having missed breakfast at home...I walked into Stella's. The owner (I don't know his name) greeted me with sweet Italian pet names and knew that this was my first time. As he took my order, I was able to look around and observe what a cool, funky little joint this is... from the antique display units they have, to the super chill lounge (the Diller Room) in the back. They do happy hour!!

    I ordered a croissant for myself, with strawberry jelly, a Caramel Latte and a cake/pastry type thing for my coworker...HE TOASTED THE CROISSANT AND THE CAKE!!! HOLY TOLEDO, THAT IS THE JOINT RIGHT THERE!!! (BTW: Can someone explain to me how Toledo earned it's Holy status?? )

    Another bonus, among the millions of things I loved about this place....they sell Coke. Not your regular Coke that you get at Safeway, they sell the real stuff...the sugar cane Coke. Ah! No high fructose corn syrup....for realz!

    So...Will I be back? Most definitely. As much as possible!

    I LOVE YOU STELLA'S!!

  • Review from Erik M.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    8/20/2009 1 Check-in Here

    Downtown Seattle is chock full coffeeshops, but in it's relatively young life, Stella Café has established itself as a prime example of what a café should be: welcoming, comfortable, and most perhaps most importantly, inexpensive.

    Husband-and-wife owners Rob and Josie modeled their 1st Avenue establishment after Italian coffeeshops, and they have done a very good job of capturing the atmosphere of a European neighborhood café.  From the vintage tile floor to the marble tabletops to the worn wood of the back bar, everything about the shop exudes a welcoming warmth, perfect for enjoying a casual conversation or reading the morning paper over a cup of coffee.

    Plus, with the recent addition of beer and wine, an expanded food selection, and an expansive back room, Stella is poised to be the premier location for your morning fix, a casual lunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, and even a quick happy hour.

    Apart from the atmosphere, the service is genuinely friendly, the coffee is consistently good, and the prices are about as reasonable as you're going to find anywhere in the city.

    If you haven't experienced it yet, do yourself a favor and drop by.  I guarantee it won't be your last visit.

  • Review from Jennifer C.

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    • 60 friends
    • 71 reviews

    Fremont, CA

    4.0 star rating
    7/30/2009 2 photos

    I walked past this cafe last night as it was closing and vowed to return the next day to check it out. As we entered, I was impressed with the interior. Everything was so cute and delicious-looking!

    Since we had literally JUST had coffee, we decided to go for the Summer Special they had advertised on the chalkboard outside: freshly-squeezed lemonade. We walked in and were greeted by Rob, who went out of his way to talk to each customer individually. Loved it. I felt bad for not ordering an actual coffee item, but I can definitely vouch for them and say that everything looked delicious!

    Our lemonade was made to order and came with half a lemon in the drink. That made it a little difficult to stick our straws in, but it's okay because it was delicious. Totally hit the spot! I'd be here a lot if I lived here since it's between SAM and a fine paper store. Wonderful!

  • Review from Sage K.

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    • 59 friends
    • 1 review

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    11/29/2008 1 photo

    Stella Caffe has blessed our neighborhood with the warmth of family.  On a chilly Seattle day, nothing could be more welcoming than Rob and Josie Wilson's café.  

    I first experienced Stella on the eve of their opening, when I stopped to say "Hi" as they installed the sign above their door.  Rob invited me in for a tour, and offered to make me a fresh coffee.   Since then, I've been back every day ... sometimes twice.

    The Coffee: Rob roasts his own coffee at their roastery down on South Fourth.  The espresso is rich, smooth and aromatic; I highly recommend enjoying a Roman Cappuccino at the bar.  

    The Food: Panini.  Hot, delicious panini.  My favorite so far is the Vegetariano, with fresh eggplant, roasted red pepper, zucchini and basil.  Try one and you will become a believer.  If it's breakfast time, opt for a slice of the panettone, sweet Italian holiday bread toasted on the panini press.  

    The best part of Stella, and what makes them stand head and shoulders above all other coffee shops in Seattle, is the warmth of family.  Rob and Josie have infused Stella Caffé with love; you can feel it as soon as you walk in the door.  Their baristas are friendly and interesting, and make it worth staying a while.  Together, they've created an atmosphere that welcomes you in and embraces your soul.

  • Review from Jeff W.

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    • 20 friends
    • 73 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/27/2009 1 photo

    This is an excellent find in the center of downtown. The bright, warm entrance is cozy if you're just looking to sit down, talk with friends, and sip an espresso. The Diller Room in the back is great for group meetings, grabbing a few beers before going out for the night, or getting work done.

    Rob and everyone that works with him are just awesome, always willing to make sure you have a great experience, friendly, and entertaining of course!

    And did I mention, they serve beer, wine, and other libations? I always had trouble deciding between a warm espresso drink and an iced one. Now, throw in excellent beer on tap, or in a bottle, and it's a real conundrum! It's a lot of fun to just chill at the standing bar and sip a cold one.

  • Review from James E.

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    3/14/2009

    When I saw Stella Café open its doors I thought, "Finally, a café like the ones I loved in Italy!" I always saw boxes of panettone stacked in the windows which made me hesitant to enter. I've been in many a café and deli where the owners use Italian goods to decorate, but why not take a cue from Louise Nevelson and have some fun? Especially with SAM literally across the street.

    I love the tables positioned facing the counter, but the counter space is disconcerting. Where do I stand to place an order, and where should I go to wait if I'm ordering take-away?

    GIve me Italian music, not indie rock. Make the café an experience.

    Finally, the coffee. I ordered a doppio but its taste reminded me of Lavazza and illy. It was good but still disappointing.

    If the café gets its alcohol permit, I'll gladly up my rating for Campari & soda with a slice of orange. Prego.

  • Review from Wilma S.

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    • 2 friends
    • 1 review

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    8/12/2009

    I love this place. It reminds me of unpretentious cafes in Italy with coffee and croissants in the morning and beer and wine in the afternoon. The barristas understand the proper proportions for a good Roman cappucino, and, for that reason, they serve the best coffee in town.

    Rob and his wife treat every customer as neighborhood friends.

  • Review from Kzed Z.

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    • 6 friends
    • 27 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    1/20/2011

    Stella,

    You've utterly broken my coffee-ridden heart.

    First, you acted the part of the vampire, sucking out all desire for other lattes and lunchtime sandwiches from my caffeine addled veins. Now, only a couple years into our love affair, you've left your adoring fan behind and become 'The Diller Room' - a bar that opens in the afternoon, leaving me bereft in these dreary Seattle mornings.

    Don't get me wrong, I think the idea of a bar is lovely. I'm sure you've got incredible bartenders and the ambiance still seems the same.

    But Stella Caffe was something really special - a love affair that only comes about once or twice a lifetime. And now, you've gone and changed on me.

    HEY STELLA!.....I miss you. Please come back.

  • Review from Christina O.

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    • 45 friends
    • 149 reviews

    Denver, CO

    3.0 star rating
    3/30/2009

    The Good:

    Friendly barista

    Good cappuccino

    The Great:

    "Baby Cannoli"

    The Somewhat Bad:

    Lacking selection

    All in all, there are probably much better places to get coffee in a java-hub like Seattle. However, the small personally coined "baby cannoli" would lure me back.

  • Review from Landon H.

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    • 17 friends
    • 76 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    7/26/2009

    Wonderful staff. Simple decor. Space in back to type/read/write away your afternoon. Beer on tap as well.

    My favorite aspect is the bar itself; authentic to true Italian cafes. My wife got their famous Roman cappuccino and fell in love. They make their own vanilla extract as well. Will definitely be back.

  • Review from Lisa N.

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    9/29/2010

    Definitely not the cafe I was expecting when I walked in-- cute leather benches line the walls and fresh flowers sit on the tables in little shot glasses while Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck keep you company from their poster on the wall. Ok, that may have dressed it up a tad much: it's more of a bar feel than a cafe feel, but that's definitely not a negative thing. Our barista was friendly and quirky and made small talk that didn't feel like mundane small talk as he got our pastries ready. Because it was a surprisingly warm day we decided against a warm espresso beverage, so I can't speak for the coffee, but I have to say it smelled AMAZING. I will definitely return and have a roman cappuccino, which will likely bump the rating up a full star or two! ;)

  • Review from AL B.

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    • 7 friends
    • 41 reviews

    Staunton, VA

    4.0 star rating
    8/22/2009

    Great addition to downtown! Delish iced americano, lovely sitting/sipping experience inside, back room is awesome & would be a killer date with a jazz band...

    But my major gripe is they're not as Italian as they could be... It wouldn't be as bad if that weren't their major schtick, but when the owner adds the Italian lilt to his pronunciation of prosciutto, that prosciutto had better be thin... and it wasn't.

    I had prosciutto on a salad and was dismayed at how much chewing i had to do. It brought me back to times in Italian markets where the old dudes behind the counter would spend a really long time shaving paperthin- no skinthin- slices, their cigar-like fingers arranging it delicately on vast amounts of white butcher paper. My first time, i thought "what are they DOing back there?!" But, then i draped a bit on my tongue and became one with the prosciutto. Me and a minuscule portion of a gorgeous pig merged and for a brief moment, until it practically dissolved away like a communion wafer, we were one.

    And my Mom who would bring prosciutto home from our Italian market in the US and complain with my Dad about how the kid ruined her prosciutto, slicing it way too thick. "You can't see through this!" Exaggerated chewing ensued.

    That's my major gripe. And, ask any Italian or Italophile, having to gnaw at a thick piece of ham called prosciutto is a deal breaker.

    I'll definitely go back! Just won't order the salad.

  • Review from Wayne E.

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    • 10 friends
    • 97 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    3/2/2009

    Hmmmm.....

    It isn't often that I am impressed with yet another coffee house, but when I have a great experience like my first visit to Stella,  it deserved a nod of appreciation.

    I love the coffee at Cafe Ladro, Vivace, Uptown, and of course Monorail espresso, but Stellas brings a mean cup of coffee along with an atmosphere that says "great to see you and hope you can stay a while".   The barista was warm and more than willing to share the secret of making those mystifying decorate hearts in the inch of perfect foam rising to the top (it is all in the milk and the poor...alas the "secret" is still safe).    I

    If you are on a casual stroll from the market to the pioneer square district, or maybe the other way around,  it is well worth your while to take a break for a relaxing and ultimately satisfying coffee experience!

  • Review from Harley L.

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    • 7 friends
    • 20 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/1/2008

    I was a fan of their coffee when it was a roasting operation in SoDo, and now they have out done themselves.  They have brought Italy to Seattle!!!

    As a Bostonian, I tend to be very critical of everything Italian and Stella has yet to  disappoint.  I loved the  prosciutto Panini with arugula, mozzarella, and olive oil.  The ingredients were fresh and the panini bread was perfect.  They captured the simple elegance that is Italian cuisine.

    Rob and Josie are down to earth and overwhelmingly friendly.  They eliminate the pretentiousness that all too often comes with Seattle coffee houses.

    At the end of the day though, you want good coffee and they do not disappoint.  I am a Cumbia addict, but will drink anything they put in front of me.  

    If you are going to the Seattle Art Museum, do yourself a favor and walk across the street and get a coffee, panini, and a smile!!!

  • Review from Jessie A.

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    • 4 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    8/31/2009

    Was back wandering the streets of my old home town in search for my morning perk and ran across this new downtown coffee spot (at least, new since I lived here). Ordered my old standby - a regular latte, boring, I know - but back in Seattle it's quite a treat to my poor taste-buds which have been suffering some serious LA coffee blues.

    Anywho, Rob, who I see from below reviews, turns out to be the owner, was my morning barista and recommended their specialty cappuccino. Sugar in the coffee, I say? No thank you. But he was so persuasive in his jovial and chatty way that after some deliberation, I cave in. And am I glad I did!

    Sweet and sensational with it's powdered cinnamony-chocolatey shavings and frothy crema! Ah, I am in heaven!

    Thanks for giving me another reason to love Seattle coffee, Stella!

  • Review from Matthew M.

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    • 1 friend
    • 13 reviews

    Vancouver, WA

    5.0 star rating
    10/26/2009

    This is the kind of coffeehouse downtown needs more of.  It has a cool, dual cafe vibe.  By dual cafe, I mean that the area around the bar is kind of brick-exposed urban chic and then they have a separate seating area that's sort of a deep red, 1940s feel.  It's nice to be able to have the option of sitting away from the bar where all the annoying little customers clamor for coffee and sandwiches.  

    Enough about the decor - let's talk coffee.  The barista took the utmost care in pulling a good shot.  She then placed the coffee and ice into a cocktail shaker and shook the hell out of it so it got nice and cold (I ordered an iced americano).  

    What emerged was probably the strongest, richest americano I have ever had.  It was incredibly bold, but was not burned or bitter.  It was strong enough that by the time the ice had melted into the drink, it still tasted like a strong americano!  Definitely worth a try and definitely a good place for the sad downtown coffee scene.

  • Review from Kristin B.

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    • 45 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    1/2/2009

    I love it at Cafe Stella, I was pregnant my first time coming in...and I tried to order my standard decaf cappuccino. Rob promptly recommended very enthusiastically that I try the Orzo which is a nutritious coffee alternative with NO caffeine and lots of nutrients instead.

    I'm a 100% convert (except for when I really do need the caffeine) and love the atmosphere. I love spending lunch breaks here eating a Roma sandwich and my Orzo Cappuccino while reading/writing or browsing on my computer.

    Check it out if you really like personal attention and thoughtful drink/food preparation along with your conversations.

  • Review from Cameron N.

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    • 3 friends
    • 8 reviews

    Bellevue, WA

    5.0 star rating
    7/14/2009

    This cafe deserves five stars with its convenient downtown location and Italian menu offerings alone. But when you add the personal touch of the barista service, you'll have to award this cafe six stars, just as I've done.

    Get to know the owners, Rob and Josie, and you'll find that they're what sets the space apart. You might learn the fascinating story of their acquisition of the recipe for their artisan coffee blend, or hear stories from the coffee trade in Rome.

    The food blows my mind every time. I recently had a little Caprese-inspired antipasto composed of baguette with balsamic vinegar topped with mozzarella and tomato. I usually hate vinegar but it really brought out the flavor of the other ingredients and added complexity to the flavor. I also really enjoy their cannoli with my coffee each morning.

    I suggest ordering an americano as opposed to drip (though savvy coffee-drinkers do enjoy Stella's drip). I think you'll get a better taste of their blend's unique flavor in an americano (or an espresso!).

    Also, another good reason to come here for coffee instead of the other options in the neighborhood is that they've got some cookies for dipping in coffee or simply enjoying on the side that you will not find anywhere else. They are a perfect accompaniment to a cuppa joe.

  • Review from Jacky A.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    8/19/2010

    Wooo, the barista is Hella nice. I was Hella surprise. I love their coffee, I was very new today and looking for a cup of white chocolate mocha maybe. I went into Stella and asked if they have white chocolate, and she apologies and recommend me vanilla. I tried their vanilla latte and it taste extremely good. I like how they have latte art on top and how she served me. but i will only like to enjoy my coffee togo.. I dont really like the dinning area where others can also enjoy a beer the same time u are enjoying your coffee.

  • Review from Diego R.

    •  
    • 26 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Palo Alto, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/5/2011

    Great coffee! Starbucks is across the street. If you want milk with a hint of coffee, go there. For the good stuff, come here.

  • Review from Preston A.

    •  
    • 24 friends
    • 20 reviews

    Yorba Linda, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/27/2010

    Great atmosphere and coffee -- yes, coffee.  The servers were all very attentive and friendly.  I had an americano and plopped myself down in a cushy seat in the back to charge my phone.  The back room was being set up for a private party but they were good about letting people finish.  The food looked very good.  Wish I could go back to try it (I was in town briefly).

  • Review from Denny L.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 12 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    11/17/2010

    have yet to have coffee here, but stumbled in late night before a show for some drinks. bartenders were johnny on the spot, and bossman even gave me a late night liquor education about bitters, busted out his whole selection of amoras for me and my buddy to try.

    waiting to eat the pizzas...

  • Review from Andrea J.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    5/23/2009

    First impression here was very good. Gleaming black marble tables, dark wood floors, and a gorgeous coffee bar really do it for me.  The barista was very warm and friendly and confidently proclaimed that though it was my first time there, after I tried my cappucino I'd be back again and again. She also told me that they roast their own beans and in a month or so they'll start serving beer and wine. This cafe is definitely better than the furniture store that was here and she was right, I will be back.

  • Review from Rassamee H.

    Oakland, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/27/2009

    I just went to Stella Cafe for the first time today. Rob and Josie, the owners, are really the most gracious hosts! Their son is in my kindergarten class, so that is how I found out about the cafe, but after reading fellow Yelpers comments I just had to try it. Rob made me a cappuccino and it was unbelievable. He is so humble about his coffee pouring abilities but really that cup was perfect! I also had a Galleta, which is a yummy flat round cookie-type thing that is perfect for dipping into cappuccinos. I have never been treated like royalty at a cafe but today was the day for me. I also tried one of their vegetarian paninis which was full of roasted veggies and cheese:) Plus a bottle of sparkling water to wash it down. Mind you, all of this was on the house as a thank you for teaching their son. How generous and thoughtful! I just had to write a review to thank them.

    What I noticed as i sat there enjoying my food and espresso is how genuinely happy and welcoming both Rob and Josie are. They seemed to know everyone who came in the door. There must be a slew of regulars. No one was in a rush to leave. Everyone just settled into the booths and chairs to read, study, have a quick business meeting and enjoy fabulous espresso. Their 5 year old son was walking around re-doing the displays of fancy Italian, Australian, and other global goodies into fancy pyramids. He is quite adorable! The window cleaning guy came with his dog who plopped down to wait for his owner to finish his job. This place has a great atmosphere which makes you all comfy and relaxed and at home. AND there is no snobby atmosphere just genuinely nice people enjoying each others' company. This place is not to be missed! Parking can be a bit of a headache but keep trying, it is completely worth it.

  • Review from Andrea H.

    Vancouver, WA

    5.0 star rating
    5/15/2010

    Nice atmosphere, in an old, brick building,  with what seems to be the original floor tile and ceiling, with tasteful modern touches.  A dog hanging out at another customer's table that my daughter found oh-so-entertaining.  Mochas that made my husband's and my eyes roll back in pleasure.  Yummy grilled capri sandwiches (though the tomatoes weren't all we could hope for, but when are they ever).  I'm wishing we lived closer . . . maybe we'll have to visit SAM more often.

  • Review from Mario S.

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    • 9 friends
    • 1 review

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/15/2010

    Man Stella is OFF DA CHAIN!!!!! I love the house vanilla latte, its smooth sweet and almost as lovely as the ladies that work there. The customer service is always good and there music selection is wonderful. And the Diller room is a great place fro a date or to bring friends.

  • Review from aimee h.

    •  
    • 20 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    3/9/2010

    One of my favorite coffee shops in Seattle. I head here for lunch often because its a great atmosphere to take a break from the office, they have yummy panini sandwiches and excellent coffee.

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