Storyville Coffee Pike Place — Restaurant in Seattle

This is gunna come off bad, but I hope it's seen as constructive as an honest review. So. Buckle up and dial in the coping skills.

Sigh. This was underwhelming coffee for the price. All I could taste was milk and the 1 espresso shot that I think they put in there was mid. The staff was very nice, front line workers always get praise from me and paying what appears to be minimum wage to your baristas (as reported online) where you charge $7.75 for a vanilla latte is...yikes. Congrats! Your workers qualify for low income housing!

That said, the drink was barely hot enough and I wonder if that is just what the temp is that they're asked to do. Maybe it's just me, but I like a latte to be hot as I'm walking in 40 degree weather. 12 oz cools very quickly.

It was very off-putting that there's one price option for the latte and it doesn't clearly mark that it's a 12oz.

The offer of a free mug for scanning their barcode (marketing ploy, and as I just learned maybe also a way to lock you into Mars Hill Church indoctrination if they haven't yet smartly severed all connection to them) was meant to appear as nice gesture, but I think most people are starting to wake up to this as our Gmail filters shuffle marketing to a little visited folder. So. No thanks.

Let's be honest...this is where the cost is going for our coffee. I was in manufacturing and knowing the price for these mugs, it's cost waste. Most of us have too many mugs and this would be relegated to the back of the cabinet or at Goodwill in a couple months. That sounds harsh, the logo is likely meaningful to the owner, but it's realistic and should be a wake up call. Customers don't need these kinds of happy meal toys at a coffee shop like this.

I'm a little exhausted with businesses not providing substance for the prices they're asking. Seattle wants to keep and bring business back downtown, but highly gentrified, sterile, homogenous and overpriced is not the answer. Accessible for all is the answer. Unique experiences are the answer. I feel pushed out of this city as it is with the way things are being priced. I don't think Seattle business owners or even this Mayor who has promised to revitalize downtown businesses really understands how unsustainable this model is.

Yeah, a lot unpacked in just a simple review, but changing perspective might be the key to successful revitalization of downtown.

Now, suggestions. Lean into your astronaut logo. That was interesting to me. This is Storyville, right? I want to know more about this astronaut. I think there's a story there. Don't be afraid to go maximalist in your design and decor to tell that story. And 4 tiny juice boxes in your display case spaced apart 3 inches is liminal and makes me think we are being offered rations. Stop doing that. It's creepy. I know y'all got a case of product in the back. It doesn't read "last chance" it reads "this is too expensive, don't...

Proof people care more about feelings than facts... they care more about being in a trendy room than actual good coffee... I've had this same latte before, it's as generic as they come. Tastes like sweet milk. None of their flavors are in house. They don't ask what milk type etc. The offer a free cup to get those positive "Vibes" flowing in an effort for you to leave a great review.... and to weak and hyper emotional people, it works. Sad. The pricing is also much higher than any other coffee shop I've ever been to, by a long shot.

THE OWNERS ARE LAUGHING ALL THE WAY TO THE BANK.

Pay attention to the other reviewers choice of vocabulary. They talk about "hidden" (the feel cool), they say things like "cool" or even "beatiful". They don't talk about the coffee. I wish I had no4iced this pattern prior to coming. First and last visit. You end up paying for all the "free" cups they give it out in the prices of their drinks and goods etc. The Chai latte was $8 for 16oz. The worst part is it isn't even craft, it tastes like milk with some boxes Chai flavor. Go get a Chai from hundreds of other local coffee shops and taste craft, house made vs this generic, overpriced nonsense. Seriously, you're better of going to Starbucks for something quick than this. Unless it's not for coffee and it's only for instagram.

Food, generic, completely generic. Service, good. Not great, but good. The one girl spilled hot water all over and she was clearly upset and then got so put off that I asked for a fork that they didn't give me to eat the cinnamon roll. (Cinnimon roll is no ponger warm and fresh btw, it's just in a box and is WAY too sweet, but the same people I described above love that so it makes sense) Atmosphere. Generic trendy, throw some woods and a steam punk vibe and there you have it.

Lastly,I also read a review talking about having to clean up yourself. You absolutely are, the crew makes that clear. The owner replied to this particular review and said that there was miscommunication and that guests are not meant to clean up after themselves. This is a blatant lie as I over heard it multiple times to take your dishes to a specific area. Sorry but when you're actions don't match your words,... no credibility.

Pass on this place, you will be better off than if you came here and dropped all that money on very mid tier, mediocre...

Summary: Storyville Coffee near Pike Place Market is a must-visit for any coffee lover. As a coffee connoisseur, I was blown away by the richness and boldness of their coffee. The iced mocha I had was absolutely exceptional, with a smooth texture that melts into your palate. This place is now my go-to spot for coffee in Seattle, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit. Five stars all the way.

Ambience (5/5): The location near Pike Place Market adds to the charm of this coffee shop. It’s located on the third floor, so it feels a bit tucked away, which adds to the cozy and intimate vibe. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or staying for a while, the atmosphere is inviting and comfortable.

Authenticity (N/A): No specific rating for authenticity, but the coffee shop feels genuine in its dedication to quality. The attention to detail in their coffee making shows a commitment to delivering an exceptional experience.

Flavor (5/5): The flavor of the mocha was outstanding—rich, bold, and perfectly balanced. The iced mocha had a velvety texture that truly elevated the drinking experience, and the flavor lingered beautifully on the palate. It even had a refreshing effect, almost cleansing my taste buds in a way that surprised me. For anyone serious about their coffee, Storyville is a must-try.

Cost (4.5/5): It’s a little more expensive than your average coffee shop, but the quality of the coffee more than makes up for the price. The overall experience, from the flavor to the ambiance, makes it worth every penny.

Service (5/5): The service was excellent—friendly, knowledgeable staff who clearly care about delivering a great experience. Everything ran smoothly, and I felt welcomed from the moment I walked in.

Tips for Visiting:

Located on the third floor: Storyville Coffee is on the third floor of the building, so be prepared to either take the stairs or wait for the elevator, which can be slow and is sometimes out of order. Parking advice: Parking near Pike Place Market can be tricky, but I recommend using the Pike Market Garage. It’s a short walk from there to the coffee shop, making it a convenient option. Try the mocha: Whether iced or hot, the mocha is a standout—rich, bold, and flavorful. Definitely a must-try for...