For my inagural blog, I am reposting a review from my band's MySpace Blog
I've been meaning for weeks to visit West Seattle Blog's favorite coffee house, which is the Java Bean "Shack", just off the Avalon to the West Seattle bridge. This one is actually about a 5 - 10 minute walk from my house, but I had yet to visit.
I'm a sucker for historical sites, and Java Bean and nearby Luna Park cafe (my pick for best burger in West Seattle) sit on what's left of the Luna Park Amusement Park site, which operated from 1907-1913. For me, just being in a building that I know is 100 years old seems to transport me to that time, and so I'm happy that at least the spirit of that park (and one building) live on into this century.
At 6 AM on a thursday morning, the entrance to the West Seattle bridge is not yet crowded with commuters queued up, waiting to start their day, but The Shack had a steady line of customers stopping by for their morning Java. The interior is decorated with antiques, and the large case next to the coffee counter displays a wonderful selection of scones, muffins, and bagels. There are a half dozen cozy tables for meeting friends, a comfy couch in front, and of course a fireplace! Classic Seattle coffee house ambience. No room for live music, but a place like this doesn't need it.
After taking in the antique decor for several minutes, we ordered our breakfast. I was pleased to find that my latte had a design in the milk - this extra touch is always a sign that the barista takes their coffee seriously, and the drink did not disappoint. The espresso was dark, rich, and hot, and the steamed milk was just thick enough to keep the foamy art in place even after I had fully enjoyed 1/2 of my drink.
My coreviewer had nothing but good things to say about the blueberry muffin, and I chose the "eggel" sandwich - a bagel with egg and your choice of ham, bacon or spinach - custom made when you order. Yum!
Rating. I have to agree with the West Seattle blog - this is a great little coffee shop. Be aware that if you go on a weekend, parking may be a problem. They share a teeny parking lot with Luna Park cafe, and there is parking along Avalon St, but it is usually full, so unless you are one of those rare people with good parking Karma, you may be walking a bit to get there. But it is well worth it. I am please to give "The Shack" a rating of 4.5 out of 5 coffee beans. 
.
Be sure to visit the Java Bean website. You'll find information about their two shops, coffee roasting, how to choose a Barista, and of course Seattle area information.
I'll have to visit the Ballard shop and compare. Look for a review here in the near future!
No comments:
Post a Comment