An Island without Starbucks - 5 Cool Coffee Shops in Friday Harbor
Part of the quaint charm of beautiful Friday Harbor is its utter lack of corporate food chains. No McDonalds, no Arby’s, no billboards, no traffic lights. You may say: “That’s fascinating, but not before I had my coffee.” We understand. So where do you go for a good cup of Joe here on the isle? Fear not. Here are 5 Earthbox staff and guest approved choices on how to stay properly caffeinated while in paradise:
1) Café Zia at the Earthbox Inn & Spa
Earthbox’s seasonal coffee shop by the pool is open July to September, 7:30am to 11:00am, if staffing allows (we are still struggling with staffing this season, but always have fresh coffee available in our lobby). Enjoy excellent Caffe Vita coffee drinks, smoothies, Açai berry bowls and more on our beautiful, sunny pool patio, before you start your adventures.
2) Riptide Cafe
Directly on the water, underneath Downriggers Restaurant you'll find the beautiful Riptide Cafe, crafting Stumptown Coffee drinks and serving local, freshly baked scones, muffins and sweets, emphasizing natural and organic ingredients, as well as savory pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Get a cup and a sandwich to-go before boarding your whale watch boat just steps away.
3) Roy’s Drive Thru
The perfect choice on your way to hiking or kayaking, Roy’s makes outstanding coffee, milk shakes, hot dogs, sandwiches and more. 25 Nichols Street, open 7:00am to 3:30pm daily.
4) Crow’s Nest
This authentic, artisan coffee shop serves rare Vivace bean coffee, brewed to perfection, has an excellent Chai selection, homemade sandwiches, burgers, and pastries. The shop has a great island vibe. And if you have to wait a minute, it’s well worth it. 127 Spring Street, the narrowest coffee shop in Washington State!
5) San Juan Coffee Roasting Co
When you park in the ferry lanes for your trip home, you have to walk down the few steps to Cannery Landing for a pound of island roasted coffee to take home, an iced Mocca, handmade truffles and a scoop of ice cream. 18 Cannery Lane Landing.
For more excellent coffee choices, please check out our Breakfast blog