Here in the northwest,
coffee shops are some of the best places to hang out, giving way to a vibrant café scene in Bellevue. As an added bonus, some cafés offer something a little stronger than caffeine -- for any occasion that warrants a locally crafted brew, a glass of imported wine, or a quick cocktail.
In this guide, we'll cover the versatile cafés and espresso bars around town that are also part wine/cocktail bar. There are boozy coffees to taste, small bites to share, delightful boozy beverages to sip, and cozy vibes to savor.
Dote Coffee Bar
Located in the Bellevue Collection's Lincoln Square South, Dote Coffee Bar is everything you would expect from a northwest coffee spot – serious coffee – with some extra surprises. There's a variety of handcrafted luxury chocolates and chocolate creations to accompany a boozy coffee menu featuring whiskey, rum or tequila.
The Whiskey Double Dark is a crowd favorite, made with honey dark chocolate and espresso, spiked with whiskey. There's also a Spiked Mexican Chocolate and Rum White Coconut. If you add a shot of chocolate ganache to your Espresso Martini, you'll be sipping happiness at Dote while people watching in the bustling shopping center.
Want to take your cocktail game up a level? Head up to Ascend from here, grab a happy hour menu and soak in one of the best views in the city.
Photo Credit: Nelson Yong
Third Culture Coffee
Right off of the Main Street, Radhikka Kapur and Sandeep Kini's Third Culture Coffee has large windows, celebrates culture with international flair, and serves coffee, tea and wine sourced from around the world. Inside, there's a traditional Kerala wooden copper swing, comfy leather armchairs, and a play area with toys and books for small children.
Having lived in Kashmir, the owners create authentic renditions of classic beverages such as Kehwa, which is brewed with nuts and spices. Crowd favorites also include the haldi doodh, or tumeric milk, and Indian filter coffee, which pair perfectly with items like the pistachio rose cake on the food and pastry menu.
There's a wide selection of port and sherry wines, with the option to choose from a variety of wine flights. Occasionally, there are evening events such as live music, wine tastings, and wine and chocolate pairings. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll at Bellevue Downtown Park located just outside.
Photo Credit: Third Culture Coffee
Farine Bakery & Café
Farine is known for their amazing breads and pastries, made fresh daily, served in their beautifully designed space in downtown Bellevue. The pastry counter is filled with delicious desserts and breakfast items, including hazelnut tarts, crème brulee cruffins, and apricot scones. Looking for something savory? Choose from sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and tartines served with their specialty breads.
Enjoy a baguette over specialty coffees like the cardamom orange mocha and café bonbon or opt for a seasonal mimosa and choose from a curated selection of Belgian beers and amazing French wine.
Photo Credit: Farine Bakery & Cafe
L'Experience Paris Bellevue
L'Experience Paris is an elevated French experience that offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with aromas of fresh baked pastries and desserts. Yes, it is a breakfast/brunch and dinner restaurant, in addition to its ambiance as a café and bistro, which also has a very French wine bar appeal. Choose from flavorful quiches, flaky croissants, and beautiful desserts such as the Pain au Chocolat and Grand Yuzu. Enjoy with a glass of the L'Experience Mimosa, which is made with sparkling wine, orange juice, raspberry, and rose. For something a little more sophisticated, the wine menu is filled with impressive selections from France.
Photo Credit: L'Experience Paris Bellevue
FogRose Atelier at Rouge Cocktail Lounge
FogRose Atelier is a woman-owned business offering afternoon tea on Bellevue's Main Street, inside Rouge Cocktail Lounge, also a woman-owned business. Enjoy beautifully crafted savory nibbles, such as a potted eggs benedict and a smoked salmon sandwich, alongside sweet delights like the lychee rose macaron. Enjoy unlimited pours of tea during your visit or switch it up and try one of Rouge's many delightful craft cocktails. There is a lovely Espresso Martini on the menu for that extra buzz, and unique drinks such as a Hot Banana Bread cocktail or the Cherry Jubilee.
Photo credit: @fogrose_atelier
