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Seattle, Washington / Food and drink

Espresso Vivace

A pioneer of American coffee culture, Espresso Vivace is a Seattle roaster celebrated for its precision roasting and for popularizing latte art in the United States.

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Espresso Vivace
www.espressovivace.com, og_image_www.espressovivace.com

What is Espresso Vivace known for?

Espresso Vivace is a Seattle-based coffee shop and roaster recognized for its coffee and roasting practices. Its owner, David Schomer, is credited with developing and popularizing latte art in the United States.

Where are the Espresso Vivace locations?

Espresso Vivace has two cafes located in Capitol Hill and South Lake Union, as well as one cart in Capitol Hill.

What does the name "Espresso Vivace" mean?

The name translates loosely to "great enthusiasm and excitement" for espresso.

Does Espresso Vivace ship coffee?

Yes, they ship coffee on the same day it is roasted, and the roasting date is clearly stamped on the bag.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Espresso Vivace is a Seattle-based coffee shop and roaster that approaches espresso as a culinary art. The name translates loosely as great enthusiasm and excitement for espresso, reflecting a charter to research and develop the craft of the new world coffee. Founded by David Schomer, the establishment is historically significant for its impact on the industry. Schomer is credited with developing and popularizing latte art in the United States, transforming the visual presentation of coffee into an artistic expression. Their commitment to technical precision is evident in their exacting standards. The shop recommends brewing water at 203 degrees Fahrenheit measured on the coffee bed and packing coffee with 30 to 40 pounds of pressure to ensure the perfect shot. While they maintain a focused presence in the city, the company operates only two cafes in Capitol Hill and South Lake Union, along with a single coffee cart in Capitol Hill. This limited footprint emphasizes their dedication to quality over mass expansion.

Visitor tips

  • Check the roasting date stamped on the bag if you purchase whole beans to ensure maximum freshness.
  • If visiting the Capitol Hill area, be aware that the Broadway bar permanently closed in May 2023.
  • Allow extra time to appreciate the latte art if you are ordering a milk-based drink.

Nearby context

Located within the heart of Seattle's coffee culture, Espresso Vivace serves as a technical counterpoint to the city's more commercialized chains, anchoring the specialty coffee experience in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and South Lake Union.

Sources

Evidence and links