By Jessie Swider, Reservations
Mornings in Leavenworth are a truly special time. Whether you’re downtown strolling the empty, quiet streets as the village slowly comes to life, or stepping out onto the sunny deck of a secluded forest cabin, it feels like you’ve entered a world of tranquility. A Leavenworth morning feels full of possibility and if you’re like most of us at Love Leavenworth, those mornings also begin with a treat at one of Leavenworth’s coffee shops.
For a small town, Leavenworth has no shortage of delicious and unique coffee shops: think of it as Vienna with a Pacific Northwest twist. Leavenworth coffee shops are sure to get your day off to the right start.
J5 Coffee
215 9th St. & 707 US Hwy 2 Unit E
These walk up locations (no seating) offer fast, convenient service as well as your next favorite drink. Using their own signature blends, coffee enthusiasts can opt for a traditional espresso or branch out to one of J5’s specialty beverages. Their Bourbon Maple or Coffee Blossom (sweetened with honey) are two standout permanent menu options, but watch out for rotating seasonal specials as well. It’s hard to have a “regular” order here with so many options to choose from.
Iconoclast Cafe
The lobby of LOGE Downtown 321 9th St.
This spot may double as the check-in counter for LOGE guests and perhaps because of that, it’s open earlier than some other Leavenworth coffee shops. Where J5 is for people on the go, Iconoclast invites you to stay awhile. Here you’ll usually find a mix of guests and locals who are here for coffee and to work. So if you need to sneak in some time to check your inbox before heading out on the day’s adventure this is your spot. Start your day here with their house creation the Bavarian Latte – flavored with clove syrup – and one of their very reasonably priced breakfast sandwiches.
Icicle Coffee & Chocolates
900 Front. St. Suite E
For me this is a bit of a hidden gem, but a gem nonetheless. Literally hidden away in the Mottler Building (the big yellow one on the corner) this is a destination for lovers of all things sweet. The coffee is made from my personal favorite local roaster, 97 Rock House. With that blend as the base for their drinks you can’t go wrong with whatever you order. Prepare to be tempted by their case of alluring chocolates, truffles and fudge. Resist if you can!
Quick Side Note: Although not technically in Leavenworth, 97 Rock House is a must stop if your homeward trip takes you over Blewett Pass on Highway 97. Their Nitro Cold Brew and weekend only breakfast burritos are amazing. Thank me later.
Argonaut Coffee and Biscuits
220 US Hwy 2, Leavenworth, WA 98826
The line out the patio of this Leavenworth coffee spot says it all. This is a definitely a favorite among the local, outdoorsy crowd. Their current location off Highway 2 offers lovely patio seating and limited free parking. This year they will also be expanding to the former O’Grady’s Pantry location at Sleeping Lady Resort which promises to be a destination even for folks not staying in the Icicle Road area. Sample some of their special flavors like Medici Mocha (dark chocolate and orange peel) or For the Bees (lavender and honey) to see why they call themself “a small but mighty coffee.”
An Honorable Mention – Coffee in Plain
While all these spots are wonderful options for Leavenworth coffee, I don’t want to ignore the folks who are relaxing and recreating in our neighboring areas of Plain and Lake Wenatchee. You may think you have to come all the way into town to enjoy a coffee in the morning, but you’d be wrong.
In the mini ‘downtown’ of Plain you’ll find Plain Hardware. Don’t be confused by the name and the impressive selection of plumbing, electrical, and carpentry supplies. The front portion is a very charming gift shop and coffee counter complete with parties and other small food options! You have to stop in at least once if you’re in that neck of the woods.
Coffee in Leavenworth Compliments Any Trip
Whether you’re strolling through the Bavarian-themed streets or gearing up for a mountain adventure, Leavenworth’s coffee scene offers the perfect cup to complement your journey. The team at Love Leavenworth loves recommending their favorite spots, so if you can’t decide between these fabulous options, just ask one of our reservations agents when you’re booking your professionally managed home. Who knows, maybe we’ll see you there!