February 3rd, 2012 
I walked into the University District’s Forza Coffee Company mid-day on a Monday and enjoyed my short visit. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the drink I tried was fantastic.
Josiah, the barista I interviewed, seems just like the type of person I want to make my coffee. He was very energized about the coffee, made it well, and was very happy to serve it without being overly chatty. Even before I pulled out my pen and paper to take notes, I felt like a VIP customer. He is a charismatic barista (who also makes a mean latte) and has worked with Forza since October 2010.
Photo Credit: Emma Mincks
From my experiences at this café with other baristas, it seems that great service is just what Forza Coffee Company fosters in its employees. This was my third visit, and I have been welcomed with friendly and upbeat service each time.
I usually order regular coffee or an Americano, (which are also delicious at Forza), but this time I ordered the Venetian Latte, which has brown sugar in it. According to Josiah, that is a rare latte ingredient.
What I’m wondering is- why don’t more people add brown sugar to their lattes?
It tasted amazing. No wonder it’s their signature drink.
Forza supports local business and local artisans. When I arrived, Andrew Noel’s artwork was hanging. Apparently they hang a new art show each month, and each artist is able to have a miniature gallery opening for their show. They also try to have live music as often as possible.
Photo Credit: Emma Mincks
The café, according to Josiah, is unique because they serve not only coffee, but they have beer and wine, and offer a comfortable setting to watch sporting events. Not only do UW fans frequent the café during games, but it is also very popular with English Premier League soccer fans. They are open fairly late- until 10pm, and have free Wifi (I’ve tried it, and it works really well!). Occasionally they also hand out free popcorn to munch on during the game, which in my opinion is totally awesome.
WHERE:
5101 25th Ave NE Suite 4
Seattle, WA 98105
Ph. 206-420-8541
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday – Sunday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
