Caffe Ladro -- Espresso Bar & Bakery

The Basics:

206-282-5313
Caffe Ladro

Where is it?
2205 Queen Anne Ave. N.
Seattle, WA

When are they open?
Everyday: 5:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Is there parking?
Yes, there is street parking in the front along Queen Anne Avenue and a few parking spots in the back behind the shop.


Is there wi-fi?
Yes, and it's free!

What's the price range?
At $1.75, tall americano is one of the cheapest options besides a cup of brewed coffee. A 12 oz. latte is $2.25, plus tax.

The Experience:
I ordered a hazelnut latte, hoping it would not be too sweet as a hazelnut latte often is. It was not too sweet, in fact, I could barely taste the hazelnut. The coffee's complex taste was certainly prevalent, but the espresso was quite bitter--too bitter for my liking. Also, a slight hint of burned espresso surprised me. The friendly barista seemed to take pride in her foam art display, and the presentation was wonderful as always.

In 2007, Caffe Ladro was voted Best Coffeehouse in Seattle's Weekly Reader's Poll and has been serving only Fair Trade, Organic & Shade Grown Coffee since 2002. Caffe Ladro's unique, artsy atmosphere gives it a character that not many coffeeshops possess. I visited the upper Queen Anne location, and discovered that it was the original Caffe Ladro location. It boasts a variety of unique art pieces that are available for purchase through an art service, and art may also be displayed or purchased at all other locations.

There were about a half-dozen people seated in the warmly decorated coffeeshop at the unique tables of a conglomerate mix of colorful stones. This particular location is fairly small, providing seating for a maximum of about 20 inside. There are comfortable chairs along the outside front wall that are made of 100% recycled milk cartons, and a small covered deck in the back features two large granite tables with nicely-crafted wood picnic benches for seating right by the backdoor parking.

I visited the coffeeshop early on a Sunday afternoon, and it was not too busy by any means. When I arrived only one person was in front of me. It A few students sat studying with laptops open, and two businessmen enjoyed conversation over a cup of coffee. The music was slightly louder than I would expect from a coffeeshop, perhaps making it difficult for those who have come to work or study, but it could still be considered "background" music as conversation is easily heard over it. The music was also very appropriate for the environment, even perhaps adding to the genuine coffeeshop feel.

Overall, I was I admit unimpressed with the very bitter taste of Caffe Ladro's espresso, but the environment was very warm and welcoming. I enjoyed the music selection, but the ambient noise level was slightly too loud for those who have come for an environment in which they may concentrate on work. However, I definitely recommend this location as an escape from a bustly Seattle day or as a place to meet a friend for conversation.

{Review by Maisie}