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Cafe Koinonia
Categories: Restaurants Sandwiches Food Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Food Coffee & Tea Sandwiches, Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt, Coffee & Tea [Edit]
4100 Roosevelt Way NE(between 41st St & 42nd St)
Seattle, WA 98105
Neighbourhood: University District
(206) 632-2003
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Bryan J. said: "I love the cupcakes! I just tried the Banana daquiri and Irish car bomb cuptails and they are 100x better than cupcake royal and trophy! They tasted just like the drinks unfortunately I did not get a buzz but thats minor! They were…" read more »
44 reviews for Cafe Koinonia
Review Highlights
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"The Bulgogi sub, sometimes I dream about this sandwich." In 5 reviews -
"Café Koinonia has coffee, free wi-fi, and fro-yo." In 6 reviews -
"It was creamier and softer than what red mango had to offer." In 6 reviews
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44 reviews in English
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Review from Dawei L.
Fremont, CA
The Bulgogi Sandwich was the best of its kind. I lived in the U-District for a summer when I was interning in Seattle and I visited here a few times towards the end of my stay. I only wish I had started visiting earlier.
Pros: The cafe is run by a mom and pop korean duo. They are very nice and unassuming. The selection of food is okay, but what's really great about this place was the froyo. As an avid froyo eater, I found Cafe Koinonia's froyo the freshest and most delicious froyo I have ever had. I'm usually quite picky, but Koinonia's blueberry froyo really might be the best froyo of all time. Also, as another reviewer said, the bulgogi sandwich is something special. It's probably the best sandwich they offer.
Cons: The other sandwiches are not amazing. Do not expect amazing flavors from their other foods. It's delicious and a great spot to study or hang out, but the food isn't the best. As for the froyo, there are only two flavors, tart and blueberry and it is not self serve, so selection wise the store is limited.
However, if you ever want to taste the best in class for froyo, or just snack on a good sandwich, visit Cafe Koinonia next time you're in the U-District -
Review from Linda L.
Seattle, WA
I have lived a block away from this place for a year, so of course I had to try it immediately after seeing the good reviews on here. It's a very very tiny and unassuming little shop from the outside. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the food. I ordered a husky frozen yogurt and a bulgogi sandwich. The frozen yogurt was very cute and tasty (blueberry flavored) although the owner actually forgot to give me the yogurt after taking my order.
I was expecting great things from the sandwich because it definitely sounded like a brilliant combination to me. I was only slightly disappointed. The flavor of the meat was actually quite good, and the price was very reasonable. However, the bread wasn't great and the flavor of the meat was a bit too sweet for my taste. Also, the meat didn't have that nice char that comes from cooking on a hot plate normally, so that was a bit disappointing as well. My fiance ordered a cold sandwich, and it was very disappointing in terms of quality and flavor. -
Review from Seth A.
Seattle, WA
Been there many times to get coffee but today was the first time for food and now I feel stupid for waiting.I had the bull gogi sandwich which I will go back for in the future because it was quite tasty.It took a little time for my sandwich to be made so the owner gave me a free froyo which 1.you rarely seem to to get that kind of service from anyone these days and it makes you feel appreciated and 2.possibly the best frozen anything I've ever had.Creamy,tart and lovely.They have a modest deli menu that looks good.Worth a trip.
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Review from Matt N.
Amazing froyo. I was comparing to red mango and after having a great experience at red mango, I thought that it would be difficult to beat the quality here.
I must say I was blown away by the creaminess of the frozen yogurt. It was creamier and softer than what red mango had to offer. I found out that their husky flavor is made with fresh blueberries. Comparing frozen yogurt with power flavoring to real fruit has no comparison. I will be sure to come back here when I can! -
Review from Lolia S.
San Francisco, CA
Fro-yo girl here. Café Koinonia is a Korean owned sandwich shop/convenience store that has one fro-yo machine. I get the feeling that the fro-yo flavors don't change. You can get fro-yo in a cup or with a freshly made waffle.
Fro-yo flavors:
* Original tart: creamy, smooth, not that tart, good flavor, refreshing and clean
* Blueberry tart (Husky): had tiny bits of blueberry skin (which I rarely see), tarter than original, clean finish, nice creamy smooth texture, very nice
Fro-yo prices: S ($2.50)/ M ($3.50)/ L ($5.50) add + $1 for blueberry tart, 95 cents for the 1st topping
The toppings selection was limited but had the basics (cookies, nuts, mochi, cereal, coconut). The fruit toppings looked fresh. I didn't see anything unusual.
Café Koinonia has coffee, free wi-fi, and fro-yo...plus the café is walking distance from the University of Washington. I really wanted to try their bulgogi sandwich (sounds so good) and bring my laptop.
You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl. -
Review from Samantha G.
Seattle, WA
I love Cafe Koinonia. I used to treat my younger sister here for lunch when she was still attending UW. I love getting froyo here since I find their froyos very comparable to Pink Berry. They had green tea froyo awhile back (which I dearly miss) and at one point he was experimenting with coffee flavored froyo but that didn't last long. I tend to stick with the tart froyo here.
They have a small but good selection of toppings which include nuts, fruit, mochi and cereal.
If you're not in the mood for froyo, check out their sandwiches! My favorite sandwich here is their bulgoki sandwich, which is very flavorful and juicy. Proceed eating this delicious with plenty of napkins and a fork. -
Review from Frank S.
Seattle, WA
Yes! Thank you Yelp. I would have never found this place or would have never set foot inside the building wouldn't it have been for the awesome Yelp reviews. And, they are all true. I am a fan.
While I just had coffee because I was in a rush, it was really good and the service was awesome. I will come back to try all the other stuff people are raving about. -
Review from Samantha E.
Centennial, CO
Cute little place with super-friendly owners. I've stopped by on various occasions for coffee, breakfast, lunch, and frozen yogurt. Their coffee is actually quite good, and they make it really fast! The frozen yogurt is some of the best I've had-- the blueberry flavor (the husky) is delicious, and you can get it swirled with vanilla as well. They have a good variety of fruit toppings and are very reasonably priced.
Solid, off the beaten path choice for U-District. -
Review from Jeanny M.
It's a very cute cafe next to the dry cleaners by Roosevelt. I watched it go up and was amused at its location. Years later, I go there twice in rapid succession. Pew pew!
The first time is for coffee but I decide to get their swirl froyo instead. I'm told it will be a few minutes because they need to start their machine up? I'm only guessing. But it was nice that the froyo was slightly delayed rather than say they wouldn't sell it until a certain time.
The froyo was delightful! Cool, creamy, a little tart. I enjoyed it for $5!
The next time I went there was for their bulgogi sandwich. It was packaged very carefully in a box with utensils and a pickle spear. The sandwich settled a bit as I walked 10mins back to work, obviously. It's probably much better to eat immediately. But I was sated and the flavors were very interesting. I was skeptical of the bulgogi + cheese factor, but it was alright. Kind like an Asian Philly cheesesteak. The tofu sandwich seems more up my alley though.
I haven't gone there recently since the weather has cooled and I'm lazy when it's cold. But when it's warm again, I'll get that froyo and tofu sandwich. :) -
Review from Kat P.
Seattle, WA
This is my go to place if I am craving frozen yogurt. The one served here is the perfect balance of sweet, creamy and tart. They also have a blueberry flavor called Husky. So cute!
If I am feeling super indulgent I get a small (8oz) with strawberries, mochi and oreos. Other days I am fine sticking with strawberries and mango.
Try their Bulgolgi sandwich when you get the chance. It's cooked on the spot and so tasty. Be warned though, it can get messy. I took it to go and they gave me a fork with it for obvious reasons :]
The couple that run this place are super sweet and friendly. When I take my yogurt to go, they actually give me a dome lid and make the extra effort to tape it to the cup so it doesn't pop off and have everything spill over.
One star off though for the radio station they play here. It would be a nice place to study but the Christian Radio station playing the entire time can get a bit distracting. -
Review from Faith Y.
To lavish them with praise is an understatement. They were on the cutting edge early last year by being one of the first fro-yo places near the U-District. That's right. BEFORE Citra, U-Teriyaki, Yunnie and WOW all jumped on the frozen yogurt bandwagon.
They have the basic flavor and one "fun" one & true to the Husky spirit, they had a blackberry one for awhile that was a hit for it's pale purple hue. Sandwiches are reasonably priced around $5-6 and they always wrap a little pickle with it, even if it's a bagel. Try the bul-go-gi sandwich, it's the traditional marinated Korean beef with onions - kind of like a Philly Cheese Steak - w/ an Asian twist!
Their pastries are from H-Mart and their chairs have little coffee cups on them - now that's adorable folks. A true hubby/wife power team! -
Review from cathy g.
Seattle, WA
Should I just cut and paste anothers review?
Excellent frozen yogurt. Good simple sandwiches with bread choices. Very friendly staff. Cute location. Never too crowded for me. I am a UW survivoe tho and woudl not go anywhere at lunch and be too picky re time and space as this is so popular, It may take a few minutes. -
Review from Nhu-An N.
We all know how hard it is for small businesses to stay alive in this economy. The turn-over rates are especially high for places like these.
But I have my fingers crossed for Koinonia
Its a mom & pop shop and they offer free Wi-fi and competitive prices. Frozen yogurt for a mere $2.50 for a small (8 oz) with no topping, 0.95/ per topping or $3.95 for 3 toppings. Pineapple, raspberry, mango, watermelon, cantaloupe --everything looks fresh.
They also offer various salads (avg price is $5), full/half sandwiches, and a full coffee menu.
I was studying there the other day and a man from the Watertown hotel (down the street) came in with a proposition. Pay $10,000 and they will advertise the business name in their brochure.
Umm. How about not.
We yelpers will yelp for free =) -
Review from Nath, A.
Good sandwiches, slightly off the beaten path. In addition to the usual turkey/ham/tuna-type stuff, there are a few unusual sandwich options, all served with a dill pickle. On my first visit, I picked up a Reuben; pretty good, but not too heavy on the meat. My second order was the bulgogi sub; Faith Y.'s description of this sandwich was dead on ("Philly cheesesteak with an Asian twist"). It came with some grilled peppers and onions, and cheese. I was initially a bit dubious about the cheese, but I have to admit it worked. I also liked the bread, even though it had gotten a little soggy by the time I got around to eating the sandwich. I suppose that's the price one pays for getting a delicious, moist bulgogi sub to go. (Well, that and about six bucks.)
In addition to sandwiches, Koinonia has a pretty standard espresso menu (Cafe D'Arte), frozen yogurt, some breakfast food (waffles and such), and various snack items. A worthy detour.
UPDATE: I've gotten around to trying the coffee. Standard stuff: no complaints, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it unless I was picking up a sandwich anyway.Listed in: A round of Geralds, Caffeine.
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Review from Silvia H.
My favorites:
The husky or plain with mango and raspberries frozen yogurt
Ham and swiss sandwich
Cafe D'Arte coffee drinks
Good Earth Teas (original sweet & spicy)
I never liked frozen yogurt before I tried it here and now I make sure to stop by once a week. It really is as good as everyone here claims. -
Review from Leslie H.
Mountlake Terrace, WA
This little cafe is just a couple of blocks from my office. Going here made for a very nice stroll on a warm afternoon work-day. They offer yogurt and sandwiches and other odds and ends that I haven't tried yet. The sandwiches seemed to have good prices, and I intend to come back to try one. Now, truly, I would not have looked at this place and thought "best frozen yogurt ever" but there you go. I highly recommend the swirl. It's regular and blueberry (which they call "Husky") flavored yogurt. The combination is yummy yummy. Red Mango yogurt will do in a pinch, but if you can get to this place... Do so.
If you're using a debit card, they will charge a .50 cent fee if you debit less than $5.00, but I find that a small bag of chips along with my three-topping small swirl bumps me over that minimum. -
Review from Sarah L.
Seattle, WA
I loveee Cafe Koinonia! Their fro-yo is definitely the best around Seattle, hands down. Though I haven't tried any of their sandwiches, I can't imagine it being anything but tasty judging from their fro-yo. Their toppings are always soo ripe and good and the owners always make sure to give you plenty of it. I'm always pleasantly surprised to see a ton of toppings still left when I am almost done with my fro-yo. :)
The only down side is that it's hard to try to explain the location to people. -
Review from Angela N.
Seattle, WA
Bumping them up to five stars, now that I've tried their other food. I can't rave about this place enough--
So I'm just gonna keep babbling about why I love them, okay? Okay.
I had their swirled Husky + original yogurt the other day; I'm officially putting this place down as THE BEST frozen yogurt I've had thus far (you must try it. MUST.)
We also tried their NY Style bagel with smoked salmon (yummy!) and their bulgogi sub. The sub was a leap of faith because I like bulgogi, but I've never had it in a sub before. Long story short, it's a fantastic evolution of traditional bulgogi that you won't regret trying.
They have homemade biscotti and chocolate chip cookies! And the nice Korean couple who work there are always so friendly and inviting! Must stop ending my sentences with exclamation marks! But they're so great they deserve every single one of them!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/2/2009
Confession: I hate the "authentic" tart taste of most frozen yogurt, which means Citra and Red Mango… Read more »
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7/2/2009
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Review from Lucy L.
Seattle, WA
I really can't say enough good things about this place. It has everything that I could ask for in a cafe:
1. Location: Yeah, it's a little out of the way for some people, but as a 3-year resident of the dorms in South Campus, this place is probably the closest place for food. It was so close that this past spring quarter, I went there almost every friday afternoon on the way back from class to celebrate the end of the week.
2. Frozen Yogurt: undoubtedly the best frozen yogurt around the U-district, and probably beyond those borders. It is just the right consistency and doesn't melt too quickly. I remember the day I discovered mochi, the Husky swirl (blueberry and vanilla together), and then the Husky swirl with mochi. My world was blown.
3. Sandwiches: After hearing rave reviews from my friends, I gave the sandwiches a try. So far I've had the Chicken Brisket, which is served nice and hot; the Rueben, which I highly recommend for a meat-and-salt fix; and the roast beef; which had just the right amount of condiments.
4. The owners: as many reviewers have mentioned, this place is run by a nice Korean couple. But "nice" doesn't really do them justice. There has been more than one occasion where my party has unknowingly stayed half an hour past the closing time. If you come with a big party, they actually give a mini serving of froyo to the last person that orders (as a courtesy for having to wait the longest). The last time I was there with people, I was the one that got it. But then at the end of our meal the husband presented all of our party (including me) with another mini serving, for "coming to my shop on such a hot day and ordering sandwiches."
I've heard rumors that the couple are selling the place, and if they are true, then this place will be sorely missed. In the meantime, though, I will continue to get the most out of their delicious food, reasonable prices, and warm atmosphere. -
Review from Sarah C.
Seattle, WA
Best frozen yogurt in Seattle! The yogurt here easily is better than any of those self serve places popping up all over the place. The taste and quality is really top notch. The service here is also great. Highly recommend stopping by this gem!
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Review from Mailani w.
Seattle, WA
Their froyo is way better than Red Mango, they even have mochi, (score)!! I recommend the twist: blueberry and original. The nice man behind the counter will strategically pack the froyo+toppings and you can take it to-go, for real, dome lid with spoon included. He weighs it, so there's no need to worry about being cheated like those other rascal frozen yogurt shops do (we all have experienced the "hole").
And yes, the Korean family that keeps the shop running are super sweet and know most of their customers by name. There is something genuine and endearing about mom n pops places that makes me want to spend my money there, and leave a nice tip.
If they would only turn down the God awful, Christian contemporary radio station they bump... Who says, Jesus is down with shitty Christian rock?? -
Review from Denise L.
Seattle, WA
This place is so cute.
Cute? A place can be cute? Yes, a place can be cute. There are windows so the sun is always shining in. The decor of the cafe is simple yet elegant.
The owners are very kind. My roommates and I had "Froyo Fridays" where we would go there every Friday for a couple months. The male owner remembers who we are and treat us very well. He always has a smile on his face which brightens the room.
The frozen yogurt is to die for. It is fresh and not grainy. I always get green tea, while my roommates get original. Both are above satisfactory. They give you a lot of toppings as well.
I've never tried a sandwich or entree there before, but I know one day I will. I always have my eye on the person sitting next to me munching on a sandwich! -
Review from Linda C.
Yay for their froyo!
While Red Mango seems to dominate this city in terms of sheer number of storefronts, if you're looking for more authentic froyo, this is the place to go.
After all, frozen yogurt shouldn't be reminiscent of McDonald's ice cream... -
Review from Alan F.
Mission District, CA
The New York Salmon bagel was alright, but my friend's tofu sandwich looked like the real winner.
Even the small size yogurt is pretty enormous, and judiciously sprinkled with fruit (blackberry and mango).
That, plus their frozen yogurt spelled a successful off-campus springtime UW lunch break. -
Review from Jim D.
Seattle, WA
Upon reading reviews here I checked it out with some friends. The Wife's tomato soup was good, I had the bul-go-gi sandwich. All the food was tasty, the guy serving us was friendly, and the frozen yogurt looked good but it was raining and we wanted warm food.
I'd go back, probably bump the rating up after trying the yogurt! -
Review from Hope R.
Seattle, WA
I am in love with this place and I'm only exaggerating a little bit.
It has everything you want in a restaurant: delicious, healthy food at reasonable prices, prompt and friendly service, and a warm atmosphere. I want to try everything on the menu, but I keep getting the Italian Club because it's just so good.
You probably know the deal by now: good sandwiches, best fro-yo, sweet Korean couple. It's all true. I recently introduced my boyfriend to this place and he goes more than I do (4 times in 3 days is his record). It'll happen to you and you'll love it.
The frozen yogurt is fantastic, it's creamy without tasting like ice cream, it has the perfect balance between sweet and tart, and the toppings are always fresh. Get the Original and Husky swirl, both are so delicious you'll want them at the same time.
I recently had their breakfast this week and it's great. I had a waffle with froyo and three toppings, it was delicious. It opens at 7:30 so it's a great place to get breakfast if you live on South Campus during the summer because 1101 is gross and closes at the ridiculous hour of 9 am on school days.
It's perfect, just go. -
Review from Gene C.
Seattle, WA
Good soups, good sandwiches, friendly place, amazing frozen yogurt.
This place has the best reuben sandwiches I've ever had. They're not traditional New York-style with a pound of corned beef and too much dressing. No, these are toasted on ciabatta with good kraut, good cheese, and the right amount of dressing. Not greasy at all.
The yogurt is also delicious. It tastes like yogurt, not like cheap soft-serve. It's a little pricey, but worth it. -
Review from Lorelei H.
Seattle, WA
I have only tried one thing here so far, but I love it: the reuben!! It's awesome!!
I make sure to stop & get it (and a lemon San Pellegrino) every single time I go to the drycleaner's next door.
Delicious and fast. Fulfils my reuben needs.
Edit!
So I went again recently to show support just in case the rumours of closing are true (sad times!! hopefully not true~)
Going by some Yelp reviews here, I got a medium (aka semi-huge) cup of the Husky swirl (blueberry & vanilla) with lil mochis. It was so good! So good that I couldn't stop eating it, and therefore had to force myself to put it in the freezer when I got home so that there would be some left for my manpanion when he arrived 10 minutes later.
The frozen yogurt at Koinonia is great and the toppings are actually appetising (unlike most frozen yogurt shops' offerings).
I live dangerously close to this frozen yogurt + mochimochis. If my roommates didn't give me the concern troll evil eye when I eat cold stuff (because...Chinese medicine), I would go here every week. OR MOAR. -
Review from Nurina J.
Seattle, WA
This place has THE best frozen yogurt in the U District (or maybe ever, but I'll have to get back to you on that). The older Korean couple that owns the place is super duper nice, and even remembers you after a while!
The most I've tried in the way of actual food are the bagels (lightly toasted, either with plain cream cheese or chive cream cheese and salmon, etc), and the bulgoghi sub. All of that was very, very tasty as well. -
Review from Mary W.
Kirkland, WA
Simply amazing. The fro-yo is a heavenly treat after a long day at school. Very reasonably priced and they give you a surprisingly large amount. If you are free for lunch, try their bulgogi sub. Juicy, tender and delicious - I have dreams about this thing at night.
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Review from Judy L.
Seattle, WA
I love this place because they offer sandwiches, soup, breakfast items (bagels, bagel sandwiches, coffee, etc) AND frozen yogurt. I used to live right by here so it was convenient and I could eat breakfast on the way to my class which was located all the way on the other side of UW campus which takes me about 25 minutes. My favorite item is their grilled reuben sandwich. The place is a family owned restaurant and they're all super nice. I became a regular here and once I forgot my wallet and I was so embarrassed but the guy actually told me to just come back another day to pay! I was so surprised. I kept my word and came back the next day and left a fat tip in appreciation. I thought that was above and beyond for him to do that. Unfortunately I moved out of the area but try to stop by when I get a chance.
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Review from Kimberley D.
Seattle, WA
My tofu sandwich wasn't anything exciting, but it was reasonably priced. However, the frozen yogurt was quite delicious. It's yogurt-like frozen yogurt that's tart vs. the more common american "frozen yogurt" which is filled with sugar. I like the taste of a more tart yogurt combined with sweet toppings, and it's healthier too.
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Review from Lilly T.
Seattle, WA
All I have to say about this cafe is that they have the best frozen yogurt! They give you a generous amount of yogurt and fruit toppings. They also garnish with a cute blackberry at the top. Fairly inexpensive, about $3 for a small (which is not small at all!) and the owner is so sweet!
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Review from Lydia N.
What a cute cafe! I'd love to spend more time here... sitting. I just like the ambience ^^;; I came here for some fro-yo and had to try the "Husky" flavor (grape) + mochi! Delicious. I'd probably get the original fro-yo flavor next time but I enjoyed the place. Outdoor seating sounds nice but the location is next to some car place...
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Review from dean c.
Seattle, WA
Legit sandwiches and froyo.
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Review from Laura P.
Seattle, WA
The Bulgogi sub, sometimes I dream about this sandwich!! It is the best of the korean BBQ and philly cheesesteak world you could ever stuff into one bun. There is something very decadent about indulging in a meaty cheese hunk of goodness, you might want to hide in your car while you eat it, but make sure you grab lots of napkins!
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Review from Fiona D.
Mercer Island, WA
Frozen yogurt beats any other on the Ave and even on campus at the University of Washington. Cafe Koinonia serves big sized portions of their frozen yogurt as well as toppings, and I am very appreciative of that. The signature Paul's bagel sandwich is yummy and toasted and served right to you, whether you choose to sit inside or are patiently awaiting for your order. The people who work there are very nice! It is a bit far away from campus, which makes it a bit hard to go there everyday. Nonetheless, great food and great service!
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Review from Jill L.
Seattle, WA
I love this place. My work is near by so I'm becoming quite the regular. The yogurt is delicious, best in the U-District for sure. The service is great. I really recommend their reuben sandwich, it's so good!
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Review from b r.
Seattle, WA
went here for lunch on one of seattle's first sunny spring days. very enjoyable.
ordered the italian sandwich, generous portion sizes, pretty tasy.
not exactly the most accurate or authentic italian sandwich, but a good lunch spot. they also had a pretty big menu. very nice people. -
Review from Won S.
Kenmore, WA
BEST froyo in Seattle or maybe ever, the original and the huskie(blueberry) flavor both taste bomb. I love mangos and blueberries on an original. Great service and the sandwiches taste great! Personal favorites are the turkey and bulgogi sub :) oh so yummy with packed meat and veggies, but the different kinds of bread, espepcially the panini is just right soft and chewy.
I feel like they really care about their customers. I love the homemade biscotti and the korean bakery breads that they used to have. You could go on a cold or hot day since they have froyo and warm soup or tea/coffee and aLWAYS if you're hungryy. They have all sorts of beverages from odwallas to san pellegrinos(sparkling cider). And chips, chopped fruit, salads, gum, chocolate, etc.
The location is a little off the campus itself, but definately worth the walk, it's not too far across from the terry dorms.
