Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Coffee Tree – Seattle
Coffee Tree - Seattle
Photo from Coffee Tree
Coffee Tree at a glance
Seattle Central Business District
- ☕ Café
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 45 of the guests
#456 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#48 Café out of 84 in Seattle
Good
7.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
459
Reviews
77.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Quality offerings
- Good atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Price concerns
- Service variations
The cafe Coffee Tree in Seattle’s Central Business District is a delightful spot where you can truly unwind. Known for its great coffee, this establishment offers a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for a quiet moment or a quick catch-up.
Whether you’re starting your day with breakfast or grabbing a quick bite for lunch, you’ll find a welcoming space to enjoy your visit.
Overview: Introducting Coffee Tree
Coffee Tree offers a pleasant spot where many appreciate the quality of their beverages and food items. Customers often highlight the delicious lattes and tasty food, making it a reliable choice for a quick bite or a relaxed coffee break.
The overall atmosphere is frequently described as welcoming and comfortable. However, some experiences suggest inconsistencies, particularly regarding value and occasional service hiccups.
While many find the staff friendly, there are mentions of long waits and some less-than-ideal interactions, especially concerning prices for certain items.
Good
7.5
out of 10
459
Reviews
77.6%
Satisfaction
76
negative
27
neutral
356
positive
Coffee Tree earns a solid 7.5 out of 10, indicating a generally good experience for patrons. This is supported by a strong 77.6% customer satisfaction rate, suggesting most visitors leave content.
The high number of positive remarks (356 out of 459 total customer observations) reinforces this positive sentiment. Looking closer, Food (8.0) is a clear standout, with many praising the quality of their offerings.
The Ambience (7.7) also scores well, creating a comfortable setting. While Service (6.7) is generally good, it’s noted as an area with some room for improvement, and Value (4.8) is perceived as average, with some finding certain items a bit expensive.
What people like
- Delicious coffee and food
- Comfortable, welcoming atmosphere
- Friendly, competent staff
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service speed
- Perceived high prices
- Loud music issues
With a 7.8 recommendation score, Coffee Tree is generally a good option, especially if you prioritize quality food and a pleasant environment. It’s a solid choice for a casual coffee or a light meal, offering a comfortable space to relax or get some work done.
However, be mindful of potential price points on some items and occasional service variations. If you’re seeking exceptional value or consistently swift service, you might find it a mixed bag, but for good coffee and a nice atmosphere, it’s worth considering.
Similar Restaurants in Seattle
- Café
9.3
out of 10
out of 10
526
97.7%
- $$
- Uptown
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Café
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
315
95.9%
- $
- Delridge
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Café
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
93
97.8%
- $
- Alaska Junction
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Café
9.1
out of 10
out of 10
261
95.8%
- $$
- High Point
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Café
9
out of 10
out of 10
628
96.3%
- $
- Fremont
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Café
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
184
95.1%
- $
- Wallingford
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Coffee Tree
Food (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 91% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drinks here, youre in for a treat! With 182 positive remarks out of 214 total, its clear that many love the offerings. Customers are quite satisfied, with a strong 85% approval, and the overall food score sits at a solid 8, which is definitely good.
Patrons frequently praise the delicious breakfast sandwiches, great coffee, and wide variety of goodies, often highlighting how fresh and tasty everything is. However, it's not all perfect, as 17 negative comments suggest some areas for improvement. A few folks found certain items, like the bacon egg and cheese, to be overpriced, and there were mentions of inconsistent quality, particularly with macchiatos.
Some also noted issues with greasy sandwiches or browning avocado, indicating that while generally good, there can be some hit-or-miss moments.
Food
214
Reviews
85%
Satisfaction
17
negative
15
neutral
182
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious breakfast sandwiches
- Great coffee selection
- Fresh, tasty food
What people don't like
- Overpriced items
- Inconsistent drink quality
- Greasy food issues
Often praised
- coffeeI stumbled upon this place by accident and am so glad I did. Now, every time I visit Capitol Hill, I eagerly anticipate stopping in for coffee and a coffee cake, which is one of the best I've ever had. The atmosphere perfectly captures the essence of a neighborhood cafe, being tucked away from the main streets.
- foodI stop in for coffee and maybe a croissant or sandwich whenever I'm in the neighborhood. My experience has been consistently great, with delicious lattes and tasty food. The baristas are always welcoming and competent.
- breakfast sandwichesGood breakfast sandwiches - you can choose something from the menu or create your own
- sandwichesMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great coffee and wonderful sandwiches. The friendly help and efficient service made the meal even better.
- lattegrab a latte and a couple of pastries
- americanoMy experience at this cute little place was delightful. The baristas made a delicious americano, and the almond croissant was a great afternoon treat. The atmosphere and food were both rated a perfect 5, and service also received a 5.
- breakfast sandwichMy experience at the restaurant was very positive. I enjoyed a great latte and a delicious breakfast sandwich, which included sausage, egg, and cheese on a bagel. The restaurant also offered a good amount of seating and featured nice artwork on the walls, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere.
- drinksAwesome food and drinks. Tastes soooo good.
- lattestheir lattes are the best I’ve had
- pastriesI also tried their really tasty lunch paninis and would definitely recommend them. They have a so many pastries to choose from, which is a great variety.
Frequently criticized
- breakfast sandwichesMy experience at this restaurant was quite unsatisfactory. The prices were very expensive; two coffees and breakfast sandwiches cost over $30. The service was also a major issue.
- drip coffeeLittle annoying that they never have drip coffee past noon
- avocadoAvocado was browning bad
- bacon egg and cheesein what world is this an $8 bacon egg and cheese … both pieces of bread were the tiny loaf ends 🙈 it did taste good even though it was teeny tiny
- bagelMy bagel was really really hard on one side
- breakfast sandwichI've been here at least 100 times and even purchased iced coffee and a breakfast sandwich today, though they are extremely overpriced. I walked in again and asked for a bag and was told I could not receive a bag unless I make a purchase.
- coffeedo not serve coffee after 12:00 pm
- coffeesMy experience at this restaurant was quite unsatisfactory. The prices were very expensive; two coffees and breakfast sandwiches cost over $30. The service was also a major issue.
- drinkThe cashier got my drink wrong
- drink and foodmessed up my drink and food
If youre looking for a spot with generally delicious coffee and a great selection of breakfast and lunch items, this place is worth a visit. Just be mindful that some items might feel a bit pricey, and quality can occasionally vary, but overall, its a solid choice for your cravings.
Service (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 72% of the guests
Based on 78 positive comments out of 119 total, many guests rave about the friendly staff and welcoming baristas, often noting the quick service. The overall service score sits at a 6.7, indicating a generally good experience, though customer satisfaction is a more mixed 65.5%. However, 38 negative remarks point to some inconsistencies.
Concerns include occasional slow service, issues with order accuracy, and unfortunately, some instances of poor staff attitude or even problematic owner/manager behavior. This suggests that while often good, service can be a bit hit-or-miss.
Service
119
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
38
negative
3
neutral
78
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Quick service
- Welcoming baristas
What people don't like
- Rude owner/manager
- Slow service
- Order accuracy issues
Often praised
- staffThe staff is super nice even during rush hours and they’re running around.
- serviceI enjoyed the great coffee and wonderful sandwiches. The friendly help and efficient service made the meal even better. I only wish there was a location in my neighborhood.
- baristasMy experience has been consistently great, with delicious lattes and tasty food. The baristas are always welcoming and competent. Thanks!
- peoplethe people are wonderful
- crewRyan and Mary and the entire crew are the best.
- customer serviceThe veggie sandwich was nice and fresh, and it came with a salad and a pickle. The seating area was nice and spacious, and the customer service was friendly and polite.
- ownerThey are absolutely amazing. The staff is nice and the owner works incredibly hard. It's a shame that I didn't find this place sooner.
- Nice peopleNice people
- ServiceService:5
- baristaby the friendly barista
Frequently criticized
- servicethe past handful of times I’ve come in I’ve had to wait 10+ minutes
- cashierI recently moved nearby and have been ordering the same thing consistently, but they always mess up my order. The same cashier looks at me like I'm an idiot every single time. I've even laminated my order and given it to him, and they still managed to mess up my drink and food.
- staffAs a customer, it saddens me when owners or managers in the service industry lack management and leadership skills. A feedback for the man who seemed like the owner: do better, and treat your staff better, even if there is a learning curve.
- Asian workerthe same Asian worker was speaking to me across and in front of customers
- Staff and OwnerStaff and Owner are not particularly nice
- attentionsince he wasn’t paying attention
- attitudeWhat a horrible attitude
- bagI've been here at least 100 times and even purchased iced coffee and a breakfast sandwich today, though they are extremely overpriced. I walked in again and asked for a bag and was told I could not receive a bag unless I make a purchase. What a horrible attitude.
- baristarude towards the barista and putting her down
- bathroom usageThe staff and owner weren't particularly nice, but again, that's understandable given the apparent stress of owning a business. They are awkwardly strict about bathroom usage. They openly admit there's nothing special about their coffee or menu, making the experience purely transactional.
If youre looking for a place with generally friendly faces and efficient service, its worth a try. Just be aware that some experiences have been marred by slow service or staff issues, so manage your expectations.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 65% of the guests
The ambience here scores a solid 7.7, which is pretty good, and customers seem quite happy with it, showing a strong 84.3% satisfaction rate. Many of the 91 positive opinions praise the comfy seating, nice atmosphere, and cozy place vibes, even noting its "dog friendly. " It sounds like a welcoming spot to relax or get some work done, based on 108 total mentions.
However, not everyone is thrilled, with 12 negative opinions pointing out some areas for improvement. Some found the "music" too loud, others noted "no wifi" or "not many outlets, " which can be a bummer if youre looking to work. A few even described the atmosphere as cold and unwelcoming, suggesting it might not always hit the mark for everyone.
Ambience
108
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
12
negative
5
neutral
91
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Comfy seating
- Cozy atmosphere
- Dog friendly
What people don't like
- Loud music
- No Wi-Fi
- Limited outlets
Often praised
- atmosphereHowever, I'm very glad that places like this exist, as they are a significant part of what makes Seattle unique. Cafes like this are often the best places to simply 'be' and live in Seattle, and the atmosphere here is very good. I will likely return to this cafe when I'm back in the area.
- coffee shopMy experience at this coffee shop was very positive. I found it to be a good coffee shop with a nice menu and selection of foods. The drip coffee was excellent, and the crew was friendly and engaging.
- musicindie electronic music playing which made the place feel more warm
- cozy placeI visit this cozy place whenever I go to seattle
- placecomfortable place to sit and chat
- dog friendlyThey are very dog friendly
- environmentMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great coffee and the great environment. The service was super fast and efficient.
- lightingthe lighting and decor was calming
- locationThe food and sandwiches were surprisingly delicious, much better than a typical coffee shop. The people were always friendly, making it a great location to grab a quick breakfast or do some laptop work. They also offer to-go options.
- seatingGood amount of seating
Frequently criticized
- atmospheredinging this rating for atmosphere
- music4/27) the guy on the morning shift (this was 10: 45 am) was incredibly rude! We were meeting in the back and could not hear ourselves speak because the music was so loud. Two of us talked with him three different times, and his response was that 'the song would pass', 'the speakers were in the front' and then finally told me he 'wouldn't play my game', and that we should go to the library.
- Wi-Fiyou need to get their ever-changing code for Wi-Fi.
- coffee shopI've never had a coffee shop tell me I NEEDED to buy something
- cold and unwelcomingoverall demeanor toward me was often cold and unwelcoming
- outletsnot many outlets making long stretches of working difficult.
- ownerOwner is restless and is making noise all the time
- parking spotThere isn’t quite parking spot
- unique coffee shopNot for someone looking to explore a unique coffee shop
- wifiNo wifi though
If you're seeking a cozy, dog-friendly spot with a generally pleasant vibe to unwind or grab a coffee, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that if you plan on working for extended periods or need a quiet space, the loud music, lack of Wi-Fi, and limited outlets might be a dealbreaker for you.
Value (4.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 16% of the guests
When it comes to value, some folks find this spot offers a nice, cheap cafe bite and is generally priced well, especially if youre looking for something reasonably priced or appreciate a free newspaper with your order. Out of 18 customer comments, 5 leaned positive, contributing to an average score of 4.8. However, a significant number of customers, 9 out of 18, felt the opposite, often describing items as overpriced, particularly snacks and oatmeal, and even macchiatos.
Some were also put off by charges for a plastic cup of water. This sentiment is reflected in a rather poor customer satisfaction of just 27.8%, suggesting theres definitely room for improvement in their pricing strategy.
Value
18
Reviews
27%
Satisfaction
9
negative
4
neutral
5
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable cafe bites
- Reasonable pricing
- Free newspaper offered
What people don't like
- Items often overpriced
- Snacks steeply priced
- Charge for water
Often praised
- price$35 for 3 people for coffees and breakfast
- cheap cafe bitenice if you’re looking to get a cheap cafe bite
- free newspaperget a free newspaper if I spend a certain amount
- pricesPriced well
Frequently criticized
- priceWhile they offer great beverage options, the food was a letdown. I ordered a ham and cheese croissant which was very thin for $14. I found a similar croissant sandwich, double the thickness, for $8 just four blocks away, making this a poor value proposition.
- macchiatosMacchiatos are pricey
- overpricedI've been here at least 100 times and even purchased iced coffee and a breakfast sandwich today, though they are extremely overpriced. I walked in again and asked for a bag and was told I could not receive a bag unless I make a purchase.
- plastic cup of watercharge me 75 cents for a plastic cup of water
- pricesThe prices were very expensive
- snacks and oatmealthe snacks and oatmeal are steeply priced
If youre seeking a quick, reasonably priced bite and dont mind potentially higher costs for certain items like snacks or specialty drinks, this place might work. However, be prepared that many find the overall value proposition a bit steep, especially given the low customer satisfaction.
How are the prices at Coffee Tree?
You’re looking at roughly 14 per person – reported by 45 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Cafe, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most guests find themselves spending in this $11–$20 bracket, though there are also quite a few options for those looking to spend a bit less, around $1–$10.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 45 reviews.
How this Cafe’s value stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for a Cafe, especially in Seattle. It offers good value for a mid-range experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Coffee Tree
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Solo Dining
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
A Welcoming Coffee Shop for Work and Coffee
My experience was great! I wish I had taken some pictures. It's a great place to pop in, do some work, and enjoy some coffee and breakfast.
The service was excellent, with everyone being friendly and cheerful. The baristas were kind and polite. The vibe is upbeat and immersive; the indie electronic music playing made the place feel warm, enjoyable, and propulsive for flow.
Overall, it's a tasty coffee shop where you feel welcomed like home and a wonderful place to be transcended into a beautiful work flow. I worked for an hour and a half on Tuesday morning (7: 45 am) and time just flew by! Thankfully, it wasn’t too busy or noisy — just a perfect blend of medium-light traffic and low noise.
I will definitely be coming back sometime.
- coffee and breakfast8
- service10
- baristas9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
A Satisfying and Memorable Cup
My experience was centered around a truly enjoyable cup. The brew itself was remarkable, boasting a bold aroma and a flavor that felt wonderfully rounded and full. The smooth body made each sip a pleasure.
Complementing the excellent drink, the staff was welcoming and efficient, adding a genuine warmth to the visit. The experience concluded with a finish that lingered pleasantly, leaving a lasting, positive note. Overall, it was a satisfying and memorable cup.
- bold aroma9
- flavor9
- body8
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
7
Great Panini, But Water Price is Outrageous
My experience at this restaurant was mixed. I enjoyed a great panini, and the coffee was okay. The cleanliness and service were decent, with a food score of 5 and atmosphere score of 5.
However, I was shocked to be charged 75 cents for a plastic cup of water. This pricing for water felt like a significant overcharge.
- panini9
- coffee6
- cleanliness7
- plastic cup of water2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
8
Great food, but a hard bagel
My experience at the restaurant was mostly positive, with the food being awesome as always. However, my bagel was really, really hard on one side. Perhaps the toaster is on break lol.
Aside from that, everything was awesome as always.
- food9
- bagel2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Great Chicken Sandwich and Quiet Atmosphere
My experience at the restaurant was very positive. I enjoyed a great chicken sandwich for lunch and a mocha for breakfast. The area is nice and quiet, offering a peaceful escape from the downtown noise.
😍
- chicken sandwich9
- mocha9
- area9
What Coffee Tree offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Lunch
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Quick bite
- Coffee
Dining options
- Seating
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Onsite services
Parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Quiet
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at Coffee Tree in Seattle?
At Coffee Tree, you’ll discover a cozy, casual, and quiet atmosphere, making it a trendy spot in Seattle’s Central Business District. They are celebrated for their great coffee and an impressive tea selection. You can stop by for a quick bite, enjoy breakfast or lunch, or simply grab a coffee or dessert.
Is Coffee Tree accessible for everyone and a good place to visit with kids?
Yes, Coffee Tree is designed to be accessible, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom. It’s also considered good for kids, making it a convenient choice for families. You’ll find amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms, with usually plenty of paid street parking available nearby.
What are the main strengths of Coffee Tree according to customer feedback?
Customers frequently praise Coffee Tree for its delicious coffee and food, particularly lattes and breakfast sandwiches. The atmosphere is often described as cozy and welcoming, with many enjoying the comfortable seating and calming decor.
What are the common criticisms or areas for improvement at Coffee Tree?
Some customers have noted that certain items, like macchiatos or breakfast sandwiches, can be pricey, leading to concerns about value. There are also occasional reports of slow service, rude staff interactions, and issues with loud music affecting the ambience.
How does Coffee Tree score overall, and what are its strongest and weakest aspects?
Coffee Tree has an overall score of 7.5 out of 10, indicating a good experience for most. Its strongest aspects are Food (8.0) and Ambience (7.7). Service (6.7) is generally good but has some mixed feedback, while Value (4.8) is considered average, with some finding prices high.