Not only does Seattle have some of the best roasters, cafes and baristas in the world, we also some of the best equipment. Seattle is the home to three unique coffee brewing systems that most of the country does not have. If you live in Seattle or came here on a coffee vacation, here are 3 coffee brewers you need to try.
The Clover
Before Starbucks acquired the Clover, there were several independents that carried this $11,000 single cup coffee brewer. After Starbucks took over, many of these coffee shops got rid of their Clovers. Starbucks now has the technology to make an excellent cup of coffee, but they don’t because their roast profile is too fast. The Clover still needs great coffee to excel. Fortunately, Seattle still has three remaining Clover machines in the hands of independent coffee shops.
If want an excellent cup of Clover Coffee, avoid Starbucks. Visit Aster or Trabant.
- Aster Coffee Lounge (BALLARD) 5615 24th Ave NW –> NOVA and Stumptown Coffee.
- Trabant Coffee (UNIVERSITY) 1309 NE 45th Street –> 49th Parallel Coffee.
- Trabant Coffee (PIONEER SQUARE) 602 2nd Ave –> 49th Parallel Coffee.
The Slayer Espresso Machine
Seattle is home to a next generation espresso machine called the Slayer. I’ve had it a few times and although not every shot has been perfect, the flavors it pulls out of espresso have been amazing. Gizmodo describes what makes the Slayer special:
…it allows a barista to easily play with pressure to do some interesting thingslike start with a low pressure extraction, ramp up to full pressure, then back it down to get different textures or flavors…
Photo Slayer by Lay-Luh
You can try a Slayer Espresso at two places.
- Equal Exchange Espresso (BALLARD) – 1400 NW 56th St – Ballard Market
- Vovito Caffe & Gelato (BELLEVUE) – 700 11th Ave NE – The Bravern
Zoka Coffee had one in Kirkland that was removed. It may or may not surface at one of their Seattle locations.
The Trifecta
The Trifecta is the next generation of the single cup brewer. It is like a Clover with more controls. Some coffees do OK in the Trifecta and some really shine. Seattle Coffee Works is home to the only Trifecta in Seattle. If you order one, I encourage you to ask for their recommendation on which coffee to use. They are always tinkering with this machine and will certainly have a solid recommendation.
- Seattle Coffee Works (DOWNTOWN) – 107 Pike St
Sources:
A Little $18,000 Espresso Machine Called Slayer – Gizmodo article
Zoka Kirkland – PopBites post on the Slayer status with Zoka.