Highlights
- Fireplace
- Great beer selection
- Sports
oChef » Cafe Arta – Seattle
Cafe Arta - Seattle
Photo from Cafe Arta
Cafe Arta at a glance
Seattle Roosevelt
- 🫒 Greek Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 80 of the guests
#391 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#6 Greek Restaurant out of 11 in Seattle
Good
7.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
574
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious cuisine
- Cozy ambiance
Frequently criticized
- Service inconsistency
- Value concerns
The restaurant Cafe Arta, also known as Cafe Arta & Pub at Third Place, is a charming Greek restaurant nestled in Seattle’s vibrant Roosevelt neighborhood. You’ll find a standout fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings, alongside a great beer selection and the option to catch your favorite sports.
It’s a place where comfort meets delicious Mediterranean flavors.
Overview: Introducting Cafe Arta
Cafe Arta offers a distinctive experience, often praised for its delightful culinary creations and a truly unique, cozy atmosphere. Many guests highlight the engaging presence of the owner and the generally attentive approach of the team, contributing to a welcoming feel.
However, some visitors have noted inconsistencies in the overall service, with occasional reports of less-than-friendly interactions. Concerns about perceived value and slow internet connectivity also surface, suggesting areas where the experience could be more consistently positive for every guest.
Good
7.6
out of 10
574
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
108
negative
30
neutral
436
positive
Cafe Arta achieves a solid overall score of 7.6, reflecting a generally positive reception from its patrons. This aligns well with a good Customer Satisfaction rate of 76%, indicating that most diners leave content with their visit.
These figures are drawn from a substantial pool of 574 customer observations, with 436 positive remarks outweighing 108 negative ones. Delving into specifics, Food stands out with an impressive (8.1), while the Ambience also earns high marks at (7.7).
Service is rated as good at (6.9), though it appears to be a more varied experience for some. The Value score of (5.1) suggests this aspect is perceived as average, indicating room for improvement in how pricing aligns with the overall offering.
What people like
- Delicious food variety
- Unique, cozy ambiance
- Personalized owner attention
What people don't like
- Inconsistent staff service
- Perceived high pricing
- Operational and hygiene issues
Cafe Arta presents a compelling option for those seeking quality food and a charming, distinctive setting. The strong culinary performance and inviting atmosphere are definite draws, making it a place worth considering if these are your top priorities.
With a Recommendation Score of 7.8, it’s clear many find it a worthwhile visit. However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in service and value perception.
If you prioritize a unique dining spot and delicious dishes, Cafe Arta could be a good fit, but manage expectations regarding every aspect of your visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Cafe Arta
Food (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 93% of the guests
When it comes to the grub, this spot really shines! With a strong score of 8.1 and an impressive 82.6% customer satisfaction, its clear the food is a hit. Out of 242 comments, a whopping 200 praise the delicious, fresh ingredients and generous portions, especially the Mediterranean Greek options and standout dishes like the Lamb Gyro and Avgolemeno soup.
However, not all experiences are perfect. A smaller number of 22 comments raise concerns, particularly regarding past health inspections and food handling. Some diners also reported issues with cold food, average fries, or disappointing items like doorstop' pancakes and small portion sizes for certain dishes.
Food
242
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
22
negative
20
neutral
200
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious, fresh food
- Generous portions
- Great Mediterranean options
What people don't like
- Health inspection issues
- Cold food served
- Inconsistent portion sizes
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was incredibly positive. The place is super inclusive, offering delicious food and a very homey vibe. The beers were fairly placed and they had a great selection!
- FoodFood:5
- Mediterranean foodenjoys Mediterranean food
- menutried tons on the menu and haven’t made a bad choice yet
- coffeespot for coffee
- drinksThe food, the service, the drinks--they are all excellent.
- beersbeers were fairly placed
- breakfast sandwichThe breakfast sandwich is served with delicious and noticeably fresh ciabatta
- good foodimpressed by good food
- hummusIt's a 10/10 experience. Besides, how many bookstores serve alcohol and make their own hummus? None.
Frequently criticized
- foodThe service was crazy slow, and the kitchen even forgot parts of our orders. After waiting an unbelievable 48 minutes for our food, it arrived ice cold and inedible. The plate was also filthy, and the $17 pancakes were like doorstops with gross eggs.
- FriesFries were very average and some stale
- eggplant sandwichWhile other reviews seem to have had a great time, I'd suggest ordering something other than the eggplant sandwich. It was barely longer than my hand. The fries came with a nice sauce, which was pretty good and somewhat redeemed the main course, which was a disappointment.
- eggsgross eggs on a filthy plate
- espressoTheir espresso is terribly sour
- food and beveragepaying a premium on food and beverage
- food preparationThe food and drinks were very mid and actually very overpriced. Due to several failed inspections, I really cannot trust the food preparation here and avoid eating anything, though I am more comfortable with just drinks. The best thing about being at the pub is that you don’t have to deal with the rude staff at the cafe upstairs.
- food quantityFood was less quantity than expected
- health inspectionsmany of their health inspections have an "unsatisfactory" result
- hot chocolatetheir hot chocolate is super watery
Overall, the food here generally hits the mark, offering delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes with generous portions that most customers love. While there are some past concerns about food handling and occasional inconsistencies, it seems like a solid choice for a tasty meal, especially if you stick to their popular Greek options.
Service (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 85% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot has some real shining moments! Many guests rave about the friendly staff, often highlighting the personal touch from owner Arta and the genuine hospitality they receive. With 103 positive remarks out of 157 total, its clear that many appreciate the service and care, contributing to a respectable score of 6.9.
However, the experience isnt universally stellar, with customer satisfaction sitting at a mixed 65.6%. A notable 52 negative comments point to concerns like rude staff and instances where the owner berates staff publicly, creating an uneasy atmosphere. Issues such as waiting time and poor communication also occasionally surface, suggesting areas for improvement.
Service
157
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
52
negative
2
neutral
103
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Owner's hospitality
- Attentive service
What people don't like
- Rude staff
- Owner berates staff
- Slow service
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The atmosphere was great, and the service was incredibly fast, swift, and extremely kind. I ordered the pub burger, and it was delicious, cooked exactly to my request.
- staffThis is one of the hidden gems of Seattle. I experienced a lovely atmosphere, great staff, and delicious food. Everything I’ve tried here has been spectacular.
- ownerMy experience was fantastic. When I mentioned to the owner that I was dining alone on my birthday and was comfortable with that, she really took care of me. The server was very attentive and friendly, and Arta herself is lovely and checked in often.
- ArtaWhen I mentioned to the owner that I was dining alone on my birthday and was comfortable with that, she really took care of me. The server was very attentive and friendly, and Arta herself is lovely and checked in often. I enjoyed the avgolemono, lamb souvlaki, and rice pudding, all of which were delicious!
- ServiceService:5
- friendly staffIn my many visits, I've been consistently impressed by the good food, innovative offerings, and friendly staff. I'm also impressed that the owner is often present, seemingly doing whatever is necessary to ensure a great experience.
- customer servicethe customer service is the best
- serverWhen I mentioned to the owner that I was dining alone on my birthday and was comfortable with that, she really took care of me. The server was very attentive and friendly, and Arta herself is lovely and checked in often. I enjoyed the avgolemono, lamb souvlaki, and rice pudding, all of which were delicious!
- European coupleThe European couple that run the cafe and bar are very outgoing
- WiFi passwordasked someone taking orders what the WiFi password was, who was very friendly and told me
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience today was disappointing due to the service. I witnessed two different staff members being rude to two different parties. On the positive side, the food was prepared correctly and the fruit was fresh, but it lacked significant flavor.
- customer serviceMy experience at this restaurant was the worst customer service experience I've had, and it reminds me of why I dislike visiting Seattle. I suggest you educate your employees on how to care for customers.
- ownerhow the owner treat other people
- managerthe manager approached and in a very confrontational and rude way told me
- staff memberI was enjoying my time reading in a lovely bookstore near this restaurant when a staff member from the restaurant rudely and loudly asked me to leave because I hadn’t made a purchase there. There was no sign indicating a “no purchase, no seating” policy, and this was the first time I’d ever experienced something like this.
- apologyNo apology
- bar staffsame self righteous and inattentive bar staff
- cafe managerthe cafe manager is terrible
- communicationMy issue isn’t with the policy itself, which is completely understandable. The concern is the manner in which it was communicated. The interaction was unnecessarily aggressive and could have been handled with more professionalism.
- computer/cashier systemupgrade their computer/cashier system from 1970
If youre looking for a place with a personal touch and often friendly faces, youll likely enjoy the service here. However, be aware that some experiences have been marred by rudeness or long waits, so it might be a bit of a gamble.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 79% of the guests
Based on 126 positive remarks, the ambience here truly shines! With a solid score of 7.7 and customer satisfaction at 79.7%, guests often rave about the cozy feel and great atmosphere of this bookstore cafe. It's frequently praised for being kid friendly and offering a welcoming vibe for all.
However, 25 critical comments out of 158 total opinions point to some areas for improvement. Some found an uneasy atmosphere due to signage that felt unwelcoming, especially regarding seating policies. Others noted issues with the internet, which could make it less ideal for working or extended stays.
Ambience
158
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
25
negative
7
neutral
126
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy bookstore vibe
- Kid-friendly space
- Great atmosphere
What people don't like
- Unwelcoming signage
- Slow internet
- Strict seating rules
Often praised
- atmosphereThe atmosphere of a coffee shop with an internet cafe in a bookstore was EVERYTHING I was looking for
- ambiancethe ambiance exudes a serene and tranquil atmosphere
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- bookstoretucked away in the back of a bookstore which feels so cozy
- vibethe vibe - all fantastic.
- placeThe place is cute and intimate
- ambienceloved the ambience
- dining areaMy experience at the restaurant featured a beautiful wood finished pub area downstairs and a bright dining area upstairs. The lamb and beef skewers were too notch.
- environmentreally nice environment. Seriously, beautiful building
- familyThey make you feel like family
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was mixed. While the food looks good, the overall atmosphere made me feel unwelcome. There are signs everywhere that separate customers who are only drinking coffee, which is off-putting.
- internetthe internet is super slow.
- signssigns everywhere that separate you if you are only drinking coffee
- Wi-Fithe wifi is too slow to actually work here
- drinks sectionsitting in the crowded “only drinks” section
- experienceThere was no sign indicating a “no purchase, no seating” policy, and this was the first time I’d ever experienced something like this. It completely ruined my experience reading in the bookstore. After checking Google reviews of this place, I found other one-star reviews describing the exact same issue.
- food safety proceduresfollow the food safety procedures
- health department safety ratingconcerning due to the health department safety rating
- kitchenrun your kitchen in a clean manner
- platehow filthy that plate was
If youre looking for a unique, cozy spot with a great vibe, especially if you love books or have kids, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that some policies and the internet might create a less-than-ideal experience if youre planning to work or linger without ordering food.
Value (5.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 13% of the guests
Many guests appreciate the value here, especially when it comes to the convenience of parking – with several folks mentioning a free and plentiful parking space. You'll find comments about the price being good, with some calling it a very affordable place to grab dinner, based on 7 positive remarks. However, the overall value experience is a bit of a mixed bag, reflected in an average score of 5.1 and customer satisfaction at a mixed 41.2%.
With 9 negative remarks out of 17 total, some guests found the prices quite pricey or even overpriced. Concerns include a minimum charge policy and feeling pressured into ordering a larger meal.
Value
17
Reviews
41%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
7
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Free, ample parking
- Reasonably priced options
What people don't like
- Prices can be high
- Minimum charge policy
- Some items overpriced
Often praised
- parkingplenty of free parking available
- pricesgreat prices
- affordable placevery affordable place to grab dinner
- parking spacePlenty of parking
- priceat a good price
Frequently criticized
- priceHowever, calling it an "internet cafe" when the internet is super slow makes absolutely no sense. The food and drinks were very mid and actually very overpriced. Due to several failed inspections, I really cannot trust the food preparation here and avoid eating anything, though I am more comfortable with just drinks.
- amount paidamount we ended up paying was about 30 dollars
- lunch plateexpensive side ($30 ish for a lunch plate)
- minimum chargeordered $30 worth of food EACH
- ordering a larger mealtold to leave because I was not ordering a larger meal
- policyputting a minimum charge in a group
- pricesprices being $20 a dish
- priceyVery pricey
If free parking and potentially affordable prices for some items are your priority, this spot might work. However, be wary of potentially high prices for certain dishes and minimum charge policies, which could make it feel less like a good deal.
How are the prices at Cafe Arta?
On average, you’ll spend around 24 $ per person – from 80 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $21–$30 category. For a Greek Restaurant in Seattle, that’s comfortably mid-range, maybe a touch above.
Interestingly, while the average is 24 $, a good number of diners actually spend a bit less, with the biggest group (38 guests) falling into the $11–$20 range, and another 27 in the $21–$30 bracket. This shows a nice spread, offering choices for different budgets.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 80 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Greek Restaurant in Seattle. It offers a good range of options, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank, or splurge a little for a special occasion.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Cafe Arta
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
2
Awkward Atmosphere, Okay Food
My experience at this restaurant was mixed. The food was okay, and the general vibe was that of a normal Seattle café. However, the owner shouting at employees in front of customers was a significant dealbreaker.
This behavior created an awkward, unprofessional, and stressful environment. It's evident there's high turnover, and I won't be returning. The only positive note was the bartender at the pub, who provided the only welcoming energy in the place.
- food5
- bartender8
- owner shouting at employees1
- atmosphere2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
3
Uncomfortable Atmosphere, Okay Food
My experience at this restaurant was quite uncomfortable due to the owner or manager yelling at employees in front of customers. It seemed like they always had new staff, except for the bartender and manager. Dining in a place where employees are openly berated and abused made for a really uncomfortable atmosphere.
The food was fine, but it wasn't worth witnessing employees being screamed at. I hope the employees find better jobs or the owner gets a wake-up call. Overall, it was a really bizarre experience.
- food6
- owner yelling1
- new staff4
- atmosphere2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Service Issues Overshadow Serviceable Food
I've stopped in a few times over the past months. The food is serviceable, and the space feels like a standard Seattle café. What stood out, unfortunately, was the way the owner speaks to staff — a raised voice, harsh tone, and public reprimands in front of customers.
This creates an uneasy atmosphere and explains the constant rotation of employees. It's not a place I'll continue visiting.
- food5
- space5
- owner speaks to staff2
- public reprimands2
- uneasy atmosphere2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Excellent Soup and Service by the Window
My experience at the restaurant was excellent. I had a cup of avgolemno soup which was served with warm pita bread. It was the perfect amount and tasted excellent.
The service was friendly and helpful. I also enjoyed sitting by the windows, which provided a lot of natural light and contributed to a pleasant atmosphere.
- avgolemno soup10
- warm pita bread8
- perfect amount9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Disappointing Experience with Owner's Behavior
I make an effort to support local cafés, but this establishment didn't meet my expectations. While the food is decent and the atmosphere could be pleasant, the owner's habit of openly berating staff in front of customers created a disrespectful and uncomfortable environment. The frequent employee turnover is also a concern, making it difficult to feel motivated to support this business.
- food6
- atmosphere6
- owner berates staff2
- employees change3
What Cafe Arta offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Happy hour drinks
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Is parking available when you visit Cafe Arta & Pub?
Yes, you’ll find convenient parking options at Cafe Arta & Pub. There’s usually plenty of free street parking available, along with a free parking lot for your convenience.
What kind of dining experience and amenities can you expect at Cafe Arta & Pub?
Cafe Arta & Pub offers a cozy and casual atmosphere with a bar onsite and free Wi-Fi. You can enjoy a great beer selection, healthy and vegetarian options, happy hour food and drinks, and even a kids’ menu.
How does Cafe Arta generally perform?
Cafe Arta holds a 7.6 overall score, with Food leading at (8.1), followed by Ambience (7.7) and Service (6.9). Value (5.1) is an area for improvement.
What makes Cafe Arta's atmosphere unique?
Customers appreciate its cozy, serene atmosphere, often described as a bookstore setting, creating an intimate and welcoming vibe.
Are there any common complaints about Cafe Arta?
Some patrons have noted issues with inconsistent staff service, perceived high pricing, and slow internet connectivity, alongside some hygiene concerns.