how could you be a tourist in seattle without going to the place that started the coffee chain revolution?? I am not even a starbucks fan (I think their coffee tastes perpetually burnt), but there's just something kinda cool about going to the first. yes. I did buy an overpriced coffee mug, but to be fair, it said pike place on it so it's teeechnically a souvenir for pike place market (which I LOVE). the lines are NOT that bad. if you happen to pass by and the line is going out the door, keep walking. come back in 30 minutes and I can almost guarantee that the line will die down. I have waited longer for coffee for starbucks at home. if you're just looking for a standard cup of joe, then it's not really worth the bother; caffeine boosts are available on every single block of this beautiful town. don't go if you're anticipating your best cup of starbucks because their special brew is not any more special than the one down the street. do go if you are a shameless tourist and feel like you want to experience a special part of coffee and pop culture history.. like me! :) read more

We had to stop at the first Starbucks - the line looks daunting, but it moves quickly and the service is prompt. Tour groups push in and out of the space, which is annoying as the space is very cramped, but the staff handle it well. I appreciate that they honor coupons and I was able to get a free frap. The menu on the board is abbreviated, but they can make almost any regular drink, just ask. They also have mugs behind the counter, so you don't have to brave the crowd of guests waiting in the second line for their beverages. They do close early, as does everything in the Market Place. read more

My first capucino was a bust. The do over was a hit. Must have been the pressure from all the tourists. Pleasant staff. read more

Starbucks - Ha ha! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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It's one of the MUST-SEE and -TRY places when visiting Seattle for the first time. I am not a huge SB fan but I do enjoy coffee. I bought a bunch of exclusive mugs and the exclusive Pike Reserve Coffee Beans for gifts. The wait wasn't too bad for us--15-20 mins of waiting in line and receiving our drinks. This location is small so there is no seating. read more

When in Seattle, especially in the Pike Place Market, why not visit the very first Starbucks?! The line is ridiculously long just for the same kind of drink that you can definitely get a block away, but it's all for the experience! It was a good 20-30 minute wait. You meet some interesting characters in line and there's some music performers in front of the shop. which is actually kind of annoying just because it'd be nice to get a picture of the window but they're in the way. And I don't know if the boxes of product are always there in the window, but it was a bit unappealing to see when you do see the window. It's definitely small. Don't expect to spend more than 10 minutes inside to chill and relax and converse more with your friends, this isn't your "normal" Starbucks. And def make sure you have you order 100% complete, if you forgot to buy something, like the souvenir cup, prepare yourself to wait.. Again. At least I can say I was there, I stepped foot inside the first ever Starbucks! read more

Whether you're a Starbucks goer or not, every coffee lover has this Starbucks on their bucket list. You cannot pass by the original Starbucks and not go in for coffee! This is a huge tourist attraction, so it's not the "sit and enjoy a book and free wifi" kind of Starbucks. It's very small and of course it's ALWAYS busy. But if you have some patience and no fear of crowded spaces, this is a MUST! read more

The original Starbucks... or if you want to be technical this is apparently the relocated store of the original Starbucks. That's why it's all fancy and nice here. It would've been nice if it had a classy old school look from when it first opened. PRO TIP: Most of the people standing inside aren't even in line or waiting for a drink. Don't be a sucker like me - I was standing by the front door behind a crowd of tourists, and apparently I was first in line. If you seriously want a drink here (and keep in mind this is just your typical Starbucks drink), you have to push your way through hundreds of tourists to get it. The majority of people inside are just tourists looking to get pictures or buy souvenirs like mugs. Same goes for the people outside. Unlike a typical Starbucks, this place doesn't even have tables for you to just sit and enjoy coffee or relax with a group. And clearly it is too busy to get any kind of work done. There are other coffee shops (and another Starbucks not too far away...) where you can do all of that elsewhere. Just move on after you take care of your obligatory tourist stuff. read more

Don't usually like to review chain shops etc, but this is the ORIGINAL Starbucks opposite the famous Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle. Sadly there's nothing particularly remarkable about it - inside it's just a standard Starbucks franchise, with a few old-fashioned coffee sacks dotted round the room to reflect its original purpose as a coffee bean dealer (as opposed to the coffee shop it has been since the 1980s) It is the only Starbucks to have the original twin-tailed siren logo on its windows and also has a map showing where the chain has spread its seed throughout the world. Other than that there's not really a lot to say about it. If you're visiting the market, it's maybe worth popping over the road to have a look, but it's not worth making a special visit to. read more

Starbucks - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

It was very cold in Seattle, so a buddy and I were looking for the original Starbucks as a tourist destination as well as to get a hot beverage to warm up. We were surprised that the original Starbucks was so closed to Pike's. The line was pretty long when we entered, but we waited until it died down a bit. Going in we were surprised that there were not tables or seats, but this was strictly just a coffee house. It was interesting to see the cashier throw the cup to the barista as soon as we ordered our drinks. I bought a little souvenir mug commemorating the fact that we were at the first Starbucks. The place was rather dull and boring, but hey it is the first Starbucks! read more

Slightly smaller and older than your typical Starbucks store. The service is very good, but there's a decent chance you will be competing with tour bus folks who have no intention of actually ordering a drink. read more

Of course, when you come to Seattle and head over to Pike's Place, this place is a must if you're a Starbucks fan. You can locate the original by looking at the logo and following the lines. It still has its original logo in brown of a naked mermaid hanging outside the store and some glass decals. This place is packed to the max, with tourists everywhere and lines for coffee and souvenir shopping. But they do have some cool cups that you can get here that you can't get elsewhere. There's also entertainment of some sort or other in front of the store by local artists. In regards to the coffee, it should come as no surprise but it's the same taste as every other heavily franchised Starbucks store. So if you're just there for the coffee and don't care for any of the touristy stuff, you might want to think about heading to the other Starbucks a block away for quicker service and shorter lines. read more

It's nice to visit the original (but now I'm hearing its the 3rd?) Starbucks store. I've done plenty of coffee drinking and studying at starbucks so when I had the chance to visit Seattle it was definitely a stop I had to take and an easy one since it was right smack dab in the pike's place area. The coffee tasted about the same as any starbucks store but what made it better was the fact that it's from the original. The only downside is that the lines can be very long though. read more

Starbucks - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

We had to visit the original Starbucks. My son had to make his journey to the Mecca of Coffee. We had the reserve, speciality coffee for this store only. Good. Busy and crowded. read more

The original Starbutts. I mean Starbucks. It's crowded, parking sucks, people are trying to drive down Pike Place while pedestrians block their way. It's a giant crazy mess just coffee. But from what I understand, it's the only location that sells the Naked Mermaid Starbucks logo read more

Starbucks - Yes. It's always this busy. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

On a sunny Saturday afternoon this Starbucks was packed to the gills with tons of people. I didn't even consider going inside. It was nice enough just to walk by so I can say I saw the first-ever Starbucks. Been there, done that. Now I'm off to Quincy Mass to visit the first-ever Dunkin' Donuts. I hope it's less crowded. read more

The First Starbucks! This city has a Starbuck every other block and the city trash can are filled with Starbuck cups. I'm not surprise if the sewage systems are filled with Starbucks cups! How's that for Seattle? Starbuck, you hate to love them. read more

It's pretty cool to get to see the original starbucks - the one that started it all. but it is not cool that the line goes through the store and out the door and across the sidewalk for a couple of storefronts. on top of that, there are people walking the sidewalks trying to get by and people playing instruments and trying to pan handle right in front of the starbucks. that is not fun. like I said in my other post, I looked at the facade, took a picture of the logo, then walked to the starbucks on pike st and 5th to fulfill my caffeine craving. read more

Long wait, but it's the 1st Starbucks! What do you expect? I got my usual iced coffee with an add shot, and it tasted exactly as it usually does. The hostess was very friendly while we waited in line. I don't care what people say, I'm a fan! read more

A certain ode to their roots. Seems like every other Starbucks was modeled after this one. Made sure to order the Pikes Place roast. They made sure you knew it was the first one, but why wouldn't they hammer that home. Girlfriend got the Caramel Machiatta and as soon as we feared her order lost the friendly, and fun barista made sure it was next to be made. The barista caught some cups coming from the cashier that could have made SportsCenters Top 10 plays. Impressed by her skill and attitude as she had probably been preparing coffee long before I opened my eyes. read more

OK, so April 1st, 1971 is the day it started. Starbucks is 'everywhere' now... even in small towns in Japan. Don't know if it's good or bad, but It does give me special feelings to be here. Yes, touristy and coffee is the same, but, still a 'not-to-be-missed' in touring Seattle. This was my second time being here. I suspect I'll be back. read more

This is the very definition of an overcrowded tourist trap in an area that is, arguably, an overcrowded tourist trap. Regardless, I, as have so many other folks, had my picture taken in front of that bronze plaque...JUST SO I COULD PROVE THAT I WAS THERE! read more

It's the original Starbucks! We were walking through the market looking for a few things to grab for breakfast. At the end of our journey we decided to pick up some coffee here. The previous day the lines were crazy to go in and get some coffee, but at 8AM on a holiday, there wasn't any line at all. The staff here were all super friendly and got our coffee ready with a smile. If you're in the area it's worth stopping in just to say you were there. If you just need some coffee I'd visit one of the other many Starbucks within a couple blocks of here just to avoid the lines later in the day. read more

Yes, I am a dork and I sought out the First Starbucks while visiting Seattle. Do NOT come here for coffee. There are dozens of other locations throughout the city that will be far less crowded. Come here instead to buy memorabilia related to the First Starbucks - mugs, travel cups, shirts, etc. They have it all. I got a mug - only $9. Also, note the very interesting and unique "original logo" - you won't see that in every mall in America, that's for sure. Other than to pick up more souvenirs, I won't be back. read more

5 Stars for the fact it is the original Starbucks. It is somewhere you go only once just to see where it all started. Other than that avoid it. The line is ridiculously and the drinks taste the exact same at all of the other locations. read more

Starbucks - Touristy I know, but it's the original! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Despite the long wait, the staff were friendly, knowledgable, and patient. When asked if they ever grew tired of crowds or customers asking weird questions (as a couple before us had just done so), they replied "absolutely not!" Even though there is very little room inside the store, our baristas were willing to chat and discuss the different coffees they serve. They made some great recommendations, and my experience was enhanced so much more just by their patience and friendliness. I generally don't chat with my barista about the coffee types or what is most suitable for my taste. Usually, Starbucks is so busy regardless of what time or day it is, I just order and thank the barista when my order is correct! Nevertheless, I am a Starbucks addict and grateful to have experienced the original store and their staff. read more

The original Starbucks from 1971. Well actually I heard that the truly original was a block or two from this location but hey, this is Starbucks Mecca. Place had a long line and I needed to try out some local roast and buy some memorabilia. Leif assisted me with my order and was pretty cool in me taking his picture in his halloween costume. Got to see how my coffee was made the old fashion way. Staff is very attentive and helpful and extremely excited to work here. The local roast was a bit strong so make sure to add milk unless you love or enjoy coffee very strong. read more

(4/20/2015) I'm not generally a big fan of Starbucks, I usually try to hit up a local roaster when I get the chance, but hey, guess if you're in Seattle, the original Starbucks is actually local. They do a good job with the extraordinary lines, there's lots of help on the floor to aid the tourists with their souvenirs, and there's enough memorabilia around on the walls to stall you while you wait 20-deep for your latte. Since we were headed to Pike Place Market anyway, was worth it to stop in. read more

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Original Starbucks. You'll find your usual Starbucks finds less the food. Many choices on cool travel cups and such with the original Starbucks logo. The service was exceptionally friendly. read more

Starbucks - Original Starbucks logo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I will be honest... it's not any different from any Starbucks you go to in any part of the world. But man... the amount of people that were in that place was crazy! I enjoyed my visit here though. It's was my birthday yesterday & I wanted to use my birthday reward as a Starbucks member. As soon as I told them I wanted to claim it, every single worker in there greeted me a happy birthday! Up until the barista gave me my order. I had never felt so happy and impressed walking into a Starbucks like that. And that's exactly why I'm writing this review. Every Starbucks across the world needs to have the same service like they do. They're doing it right! read more

Starbucks - Along with all the coworkers greeting me, they wrote this on my sleeve! And gave me a venti instead of a grande! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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First time here and it was delightful. The long line scared me but it moved really fast. This Starbucks has a lot of the original logos/merchandise and they even sell autographed copies of "Onward," written by the company's founder/CEO. The staff was very friendly. I have heard rumors that this location made better drinks. I ordered a venti mocha and it tasted just as great as the mochas I've gotten at all the other Starbucks. read more

Starbucks - Yummy venti-sized mocha! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Sure, this is the first Starbucks store but don't expect a great experience. The staff is rude- from the greeter to our cashier. The barista was busting her butt but, unfortunately, she was sick. She was coughing into her hands that were making drinks and sniffling. Poor thing. Would obviously recommend for the experience but it's a once in a lifetime thing. read more

Starbucks - Pike Place roast in Pike Place market! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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it's really just the novelty for why people come here. I will say that I like how they have kept the store preserved to the way it did when it was first built. a lot of cups that you can't get anywhere else and since they get so many customers a day they really know all the different kind of orders instead of having to explain what I want specifically. one thing I do not like about Starbucks that I do not know if other people have noticed is that if you bite their straws they taste very plastically. I'd say "good" plastic straws, no matter how much you bite them, the plastic taste does not wear off. read more

Came here while on my trip & figured I might as well go to the First Starbucks store there is. Line was looooong. I went on a Saturday afternoon & waited about an hour. Drink is the same as any Starbucks location. I particularly wanted some souvenirs so I got a Mug, Tumbler & a Travel Mug. One ice coffee & lemonade tea. It was safe to say that it was the most I spent at any given Starbucks ever. It's very busy but it was nice to stop by, see what the fuss is all about. Happy with my cups & drinks. read more

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Starbucks fan girl here, this is the original Starbucks. An absolute must lol! Just go to say you went grab a coffee and an original bux mug and be on your way read more

Starbucks - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Long story short, best customer service, friendly personal, they are replacing a ceramic tumbling travel mug and shipping it to me in California!!!! Thank you Starbucks!!! I can now have my keepsake mug for the holidays!!! read more

Starbucks - Getting my latte at the first Starbucks, Seattle WA - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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I guess I was lucky when I walked into this place. It wasn't as busy as most people make it out to be on here. I must say, my caramel macchiato tasted especially nice here. Funny how I don't see a lot of reviews on the quality of the product itself - the coffee at this particular spot. But then, maybe I was just having a good day. Extra points for historic significance. read more

OMFG. This place is a nightmare. But maybe I shouldn't start off being completely and unforgivingly negative. Anyway, I am a fan of Starbucks, but I've never had the desire to actually go IN the original. A picture sufficed just fine for me. Low and behold- my picture said it all. You could just see the chaos through the lens. I mean, why on earth would you put yourself in this situation? This is damn near the biggest tourist spot in Seattle being located within PPM and all. But trust me, it's not the biggest deal in the world. If you're hellbent on seeing a more old fashioned Starbucks than what you're used to, then by all means, go ahead. Other than that and the 'vintage' souvenirs (which i'm sure is pretty much the reason everyone crams in there- to buy the souvenirs and say they've been there) there's no reason to get trampled, stabbed, pushed, jabbed and kicked to see what you can see anywhere else. I'm just saying. read more

I Love Coffee!!! ~~~On my roadtrip from Los Angeles to Vancouver I had to stop at the famous Starbucks at Pike Place Market! (You can't miss it, there is a line out the door and the original Mermaid logo hanging above the door --- but don't be scared by the line, it actually moves pretty fast!) Now this Starbucks looks different from the other locations on the inside so it's nice to check it out if you are near by and also grab a souvenirs to go with the Original Logo. Over all I had a great time checking out this Starbucks - its a tourist attraction but hey its awesome if you don't live in the area and love coffee, plus there are a bunch of delicious food at Pikes Place to check out while you visit. read more

I m going to point out that I personally am not a coffee addict. To me AM/PM coffee is just as good as Starbucks. However when you are in Sea-town, this was a must stop. The ORIGINAL Starbucks itself at Pikes Market! First thought walking in was, "wow there is absolutely no place to sit!" Frequenting the Socal Starbucks, one of the major draws for people to go out to drink coffee is to provide them an environment to work and relax. However this is as old school as coffee joints get. You get in, grab your coffee and GTFO. I ordered a hot cappuccino and surprisingly with a full store it only took about 5 minutes to make. It didn't taste any different then ones I have had in Socal. However the Baristas there are super friendly. It almost seems like they have had some tour guide type of training with the amount of socializing they do with customers. This place is loaded with memorabilia and merchandise that you can purchase. To me a cell phone pic and a check in to Four Square was good enough. I have been to the original Starbucks, and now I can move on with my life with more exciting things. read more

So this is the first starbucks I was downtown Seattle for the first time and heard that this is a must see if your a starbucks lover. Walking down old Pike place was like walking back in time. Old brick/ cobble stone road was fun and exciting. The starbucks wasnt a bad one. The line moved fairly quickly and the staff were fair and attentive to everyones orders. I got myself a picture infront of the place, coffee, mug, & tshirt in 20 min. Not bad. read more