Ok, listen. I know there are dozens of blog posts out there probably listing the same coffee shops I’m about to mention, telling you why they’re the best. My hope though is that my personal perspective actually inspires you to go to these coffee shops, support them and in the process discover your very own favorite place to work out of on a random Wednesday afternoon. Perhaps with a piping hot beverage (the only way to drink a beverage in a coffee shop in my opinion), a fresh notebook, your laptop and some good ol’ fashion headphones whispering your favorite beats in your ears. Let’s get into it.

Sabine Cafe

Neighborhood: Ballard

When I say that my heart is partial to this place, that’s because it’s true. This place is a gem. It’s on Ballard Ave., which is a Seattle treasure of a street and it truly takes all my willpower to not spend my monthly mortgage on shopping in every store, but that’s neither here nor there.

I am a neighborhood local and you can often find me here, sipping their perfect chai tea latte (extra hot, obviously) while scheduling out emails and enjoying the vibes. Sabine is the perfect blend between artisan luxury and feeling right at home on the couch. When I walk inside I never once feel overwhelmed, annoyed that the staff isn’t paying attention to their customers or even an ounce of pretension. Sabine gives, mi casa es su casa, ya know?

The lighting is just right, the music is never too loud (because that is SO annoying) and I never feel like someone is rushing me out the door so they can turn the table over. I often love to start my time there with again, a hot beverage and then transition a couple hours later to a delicious snack and maybe a glass of wine (luxury). By the time I leave I feel like I’ve not only gotten a lot done, but my heart and belly are full and happy. What. A. Vibe.

interior shots of the sabine cafe in seattle washington — Images from sabineseattle.com

Miro Tea

Neighborhood: Ballard

Moving right along on Ballard Ave. is Miro Tea. The reason I love this place so much isn’t their incredible chai tea latte (can you tell I love chai tea?) or the exquisite selection of baked goods (because let’s face it, we all need nourishment while we work), it’s the amount of available seating AND outlets! What a gift. I mean, dear Seattle, please take this memo to heart. For the love of God, please have ample seating and outlets for us entrepreneurs who get their caffeine intake and sugary treats from your shops. We will stay longer and spend more money. Just saying.

Anyway, I digress. I love walking into Miro knowing that 9/10 I’m going to find a comfy seat to camp out for a couple hours without fear that I’ll have to leave early because my laptop is now out of juice and now everything is hopeless. The staff is friendly, it’s always cozy and warm (which in Seattle is essential) and I love people watching as I peek out the windows. Heaven.

photo of the exterior miro tea shop in seattle washington — Image from Wheree.com

Sundays coffee

neighborhood: fremont

Ohhhh kkkkkk where do I begin? Plants. Coziness. Bohemian dreams. VIBES. When I sit down to edit photos, call me crazy, but I want to feel like I’m surrounded by a beautiful environment. I mean, my bedroom is cute and all, but if I’m going to leave the comfort of my own home, I want to at least sit somewhere that is aesthetically pleasing and inspiring. That’s what Sundays is for me. Inspiring.

The owners are usually there making your favorite cup, happy to be there and encourage people to stay and work (free wifi, yes). I love the aspect of community they foster through their coffee shop and that is why spending the afternoon there while checking things off my list feels not only productive, but genuinely a feel good time. A special place, Sundays Coffee.

Mr. West

Neighborhood: U District

Last, but certainly not least, Mr. West. Honestly, I’m here for the food and the proximity to my favorite store, Aritzia (I’m just looking…not shopping…just looking…ok maybe just one shirt…ugh it’s a problem). Ok, back to the food. Why is it so good though? I absolutely love ordering my favorite sandwhich on the menu, a large af coffee and hunkering down all day. There’s something about Mr. West that feels…fancy? I almost feel like I’m in a community workspace (like a WeWork) and that to me is pure joy.

It’s beautiful in there, it smells good, the food is great (I’ve said that 3 times now) and my personal favorite, there isn’t that silent energy that is screaming at you to leave because you’ve been there too long. If I’ve got errands to run in the morning I often like to swing by afterwards and get some work done before heading home. I always feel so accomplished after leaving Mr. West and that in itself is something special!

photo of the exterior of mr. west in u-district in seattle washington — Image from mrwestcafebar.com

I’m working on a part two to this series so stay tuned for that! In the meantime I hope you enjoyed this list and that you feel inspired to work remotely out of one of these gems soon. If you do, please let me know! I would love your take on things.

xx - Liz