Coffee gets personal in Kirkland. Not long ago, I settled into a creaky chair at a Lake Washington café, rain tapping against the glass. The aroma was unmistakable—bold, slightly toasty, with a whisper of something sweet. I watched regulars order without glancing at the menu and baristas pulling espresso shots with the studied ease of practiced musicians. Every sip felt like a handshake: warm, welcoming, and uniquely local.
If you’re searching for the spots where Kirkland’s coffee scene truly shines, you’ve got options—from hidden nooks for quiet moments, to lively cafes buzzing with friends and laptops. Each coffee shop in this list offers something distinct, whether it’s innovative drinks, decadent pastries, or simply that perfect cup to start your day. Whatever draws you to coffee, you’ll find a new favorite in this guide. Let’s dive in.
1. Kitanda Co
(425) 820-4381Call
Kitanda Co puts a Brazilian twist on Kirkland’s coffee scene. The space feels bright and casual, filled with the scent of strong brews and freshly baked pão de queijo. On my last visit, the barista greeted everyone like old friends. It’s a cafe where you can linger, and no one minds.
Kitanda’s signature—a velvety espresso paired with their famous cheese bread—offers a taste of Brazil by Lake Washington. Order the açaí bowl if the weather’s warm; it’s thick, fruity, and satisfying, without feeling heavy. The iced mochas here are smooth, rich, and not cloyingly sweet.
This spot excels when you’re after something a little different from the usual. If you crave coffee that’s bold but never bitter, Kitanda Co delivers.
2. Alanya Cafe
(425) 739-4747Call
Alanya Cafe sits right by the water, making it a favorite stop for a quiet morning escape. With large windows overlooking Lake Washington, there’s no better place in Kirkland for daydreaming over a cup. The vibe is unfussy but always inviting.
Last time I dropped by, I watched a family split pastries and linger far longer than planned. The staff has a knack for conversation without intrusion, which keeps regulars coming back. Their Turkish coffee delivers a deep, aromatic punch, hitting the spot when you want something strong and traditional.
Pair it with their house-made baklava or a flaky savory pastry. Alanya Cafe stands out for serving a little bit of tradition, carefully brewed, in every cup.
3. Starbucks Coffee
Starbucks Coffee on NE 85th Street is where familiarity meets efficiency. Sometimes, you just want a spot where you know exactly what to expect. This location carries the signature Starbucks blend—friendly service, reliable brews, and plenty of seating for solo sippers or small groups.
I’ve stopped here on rainy Kirkland afternoons, laptop in tow, and always found a quiet corner to regroup. The atmosphere strikes a balance between bustling and cozy, making it easy to settle in for a quick pick-me-up or a longer stay.
Order the Pike Place Roast for a truly classic flavor, or opt for their seasonal cold brew if you’re feeling adventurous. Pair your drink with one of their buttery, never-overly-sweet baked goods for the full Starbucks experience.
4. Cafe Juanita
Cafe Juanita surprises those who expect only fine dining; their daytime coffee service is just as thoughtful. The light is soft, the seating plush, and there’s a tranquil hush that makes you want to linger over your cup. On my last visit, each detail—from the smooth espresso to the carefully selected pastries—felt curated with purpose.
Order a simple macchiato if you enjoy rich coffee with a creamy edge. Their selection of house-baked biscotti is tailored for dipping, not just decoration. Paired together, they elevate a coffee break into something memorable.
Cafe Juanita stands out for its attention to craft. It’s a spot where coffee is never an afterthought, and every cup has a story.
5. Caffe Ladro
Caffe Ladro on Central Way offers a slice of Seattle’s coffee history without any of the pretense. The space buzzes in the morning, a favorite among locals needing both a caffeine boost and a good pastry. The staff here have a knack for remembering names and making everyone feel like a regular.
My last visit was marked by a perfectly pulled Ladro Espresso—a house favorite that hits all the right notes, smooth and bold without a hint of bitterness. If you want something sweet, their olive oil cake stands out: moist, subtly flavored, and the ideal match for a robust drip blend.
Caffe Ladro stands apart with its balanced coffee, genuinely welcoming team, and inventive baked goods. It’s the kind of place that makes every coffee stop feel like a small event.
6. Lady Yum – Totem Lake
Step into Lady Yum – Totem Lake and you’re greeted by color, whimsy, and the unmistakable scent of fresh-baked treats. The counters display macarons in every imaginable hue, turning an ordinary coffee run into an experience. This isn’t your average pastry case—it’s a showcase of craftsmanship and playful flavors.
On my visit, the staff never rushed anyone, guiding guests through their macaron choices with genuine excitement. The salted caramel macaron with a smooth americano was a revelation—crisp, chewy, and perfectly balanced. Every order feels curated, not just handed over the counter.
Lady Yum stands out with creative flair and desserts that actually live up to appearances. Pair your coffee with any favorite macaron and your day just gets sweeter.
7. Lilac Cafe
Lilac Cafe brings a dash of European charm to Kirkland, thanks to Chef Linh’s creative touch and Chef Gionata Salemme’s Roman roots. Sunlight streams through the windows, highlighting a mix of buzzing tables and peaceful nooks. It’s the kind of spot where you can linger over conversation or get lost in a book alongside your coffee.
I dropped in on a busy Saturday—the air filled with the scent of fresh-baked croissants and strong espresso. The cappuccino here is silk-smooth, with a perfect foam cap that holds up until the very last sip. For something heartier, try their savory breakfast tart, which bundles seasonal vegetables into crisp, buttery pastry.
Lilac Cafe stands out for combining inviting ambiance with elevated, thoughtful dishes. Every coffee break here feels a little indulgent.
8. Thruline Coffee Co.
Thruline Coffee Co. is where craft and community meet in downtown Kirkland. The vibe is laid-back yet intentional, with sunlight filtering through, shelves of beans along the walls, and the sound of the espresso machine setting the rhythm. The baristas are never too busy to chat about the day’s featured roast or recommend a pour-over.
My go-to order here is their single-origin drip—clean, bright, and full of subtle notes that shift with each batch. If you want something richer, the cortado is balanced and silky, served with care every time.
Thruline stands out for roasting their own beans, giving every drink a just-roasted freshness and distinctive flavor. It’s a true neighborhood spot for coffee lovers who care about how their cup is made.
9. Seattle Coffee Gear
Seattle Coffee Gear flips the typical café experience and lets you geek out over equipment as much as coffee. This isn’t just a shop; it’s a playground for coffee lovers curious about brewing at home. The staff love to demo machines, explain techniques, and share their favorites in a way that feels more like a workshop than a sales pitch.
On my visit, someone dialed in a grinder right in front of me then brewed a bright, aromatic espresso—no rush, no hard sell, just genuine enthusiasm. Order a classic Americano or espresso and quiz the barista about the machine used; every cup has a story and a lesson here.
Seattle Coffee Gear makes learning part of the ritual. It stands out by fueling the inner coffee nerd in everyone, cup by cup.
10. Beach Cafe at the Point
(425) 889-0303Call
Beach Cafe at the Point brings together stunning lake views and a breezy, casual atmosphere just steps from the water. Mornings here start with the gentle sound of waves and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Find a spot on the patio if the weather cooperates—there’s no better way to enjoy a cup in Kirkland.
During my last visit, the staff moved at the easy pace of a lakeside morning, always ready with recommendations. The drip coffee is robust without being harsh, and their breakfast sandwiches arrive warm, filled with fresh Northwest ingredients.
Beach Cafe at the Point stands out for its location—a rare spot where your coffee comes with uninterrupted water views. It’s the place for slow starts and easygoing company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coffee shops in Kirkland for studying or remote work?
Caffe Ladro, Thruline Coffee Co., and Kitanda Co all have reliable Wi-Fi, plenty of seating, and a steady hum of activity that makes them ideal for getting work done or studying.
Are there coffee shops in Kirkland with vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes, several spots like Kitanda Co and Lilac Cafe offer vegan and gluten-free menu items. Most places carry dairy alternatives for coffee drinks, so just ask the barista.
Which Kirkland coffee shop has the best lake views?
Beach Cafe at the Point and Alanya Cafe both offer picturesque waterfront settings perfect for sipping with a view. Grab a patio seat if you can.
Can I find locally roasted coffee in Kirkland?
Absolutely. Thruline Coffee Co. roasts on-site, offering unique single-origin beans. Seattle Coffee Gear also showcases a rotation of local roasters.
Is there a place for unique treats or pastries with coffee?
For something outside the ordinary, Lady Yum – Totem Lake pairs expertly crafted macarons with coffee. Lilac Cafe and Caffe Ladro are also beloved for their fresh, inventive pastries.
