Fodor's Expert Review Stumptown Coffee Roasters

This hip Portland powerhouse is one of the West Coast's most well-known coffee-roasting operations and Seattle simply loves the stuff. There's good reason: the coffee is divine, and the vibe, while überhip, isn't too cool for school. Plus, the mini-empire is backed by some very sound practices, including "direct trade," which means they source directly from growers, usually paying well above fair trade prices. This, the original Seattle location, is a small, airy space with a lively bar area, plus simple open-booth seating, which is often filled with Seattle University hipsters and tattooed locals. For a thoughtful introduction to the brews, stop by for free "cupping" sessions daily at 2 pm. A second location–-just a few blocks away at 616 East Pine, is equally stylish and much roomier.