Coffee, coffee, coffee...we might flee to the island to get some peace and quiet, but this is one thing we definitely don't want to escape from! Fortunately, San Juan Island is home to a few nice little places to get some good coffee and find some good company, and you'll notice we have a very enjoyable absense of any chain out here. No golden arches, no green Starbucks logos, no Safeways or Fred Meyers. You need to look local to find your caffeine fix, but don't worry, I've got you covered right here with a few of our favorites!
First off, the brand new Riptide Cafe in Friday Harbor is the perfect place to sip artfully prepared, handcrafted drinks made with Stumptown coffee beans. Stumptown is a coffee roaster based in Portland, OR, but Riptide recieves it's shipments fresh from their roaster in Seattle. You can taste the love and warmth in each drink! Try unique offerings like the Coconut Caramel Chai (add a couple of espresso shots if you're feeling wild!) or a Salted Caramel Mocha topped with homemade whipped cream. It's like heaven in a cup. They've also got a plethora of in-house baked cookies, cinnamon rolls, and locally prepared scones and quiches, and some seating that is right on the waterfront. Soak in the views!
If you find yourself strolling the quaint streets of the harbor on a Saturday, why not swing by the local San Juan Island Farmer's Market? You'll find High Country Coffee, a direct-from-the-source supplier of green coffee beans but also your market's go-to spot for a freshly roasted and brewed cup of coffee. They focus on their relationships with the growers, processors, and shippers, so you can feel good about every sip you take. Check them out, and grab a pastry from the neighboring vendors while you're at it!
But, what if you find yourself in Snug Harbor on the Northwest side of the island? Mitchell Bay Coffee is a cute, homey little wooden establishment that was built when the resort was recently refurbished. With seating for 10 and free wifi, it's a great place to sip on foamy lattes and cappucinos and soak up the views of boats moving in and out of the little harbor. They even have a fresh waffle bar! Check them out next time your adventures bring you to this area of the island.
Hopefully this list will get you rolling as far as unique, delicious places to get your coffee on! Swing by the island and let your anxieties float away, but remember to stop and smell the java.