Brewing Community: The Rise of Craft Coffee in Spokane
Spokane, WA has always had a quiet heartbeat of creativity—art walks, riverfront gatherings, and music that fills the parks in summer. But over the past decade, another movement has been percolating through the city: craft coffee.
What is Craft Coffee?
Craft coffee is more than just a cup of caffeine—it’s a celebration of quality, intentionality, and connection. From the way beans are sourced—often directly from farmers—to the small-batch roasting that highlights their unique flavors, craft coffee is all about elevating the everyday ritual into something meaningful. It’s a movement that values transparency, artistry, and care at every step: from farm to roaster to barista to cup.
How Spokane’s Scene Has Grown
When I first entered the coffee world here in 2009, Spokane was still finding its footing in the specialty coffee movement. A handful of passionate shop owners and roasters were experimenting with new methods and educating their guests about where their coffee came from. Fast forward to today, and our city boasts a thriving network of roasteries, cafes, and mobile carts that rival some of the best coffee cities in the nation.
We’ve seen shops grow from humble carts to full brick-and-mortar spaces, small-batch roasters gain regional recognition, and an increasing focus on ethically sourced beans. Customers are now asking about origin, processing, and brew methods—conversations that used to only happen in larger metropolitan areas. Spokane has truly come into its own as a craft coffee destination.
Local Culture in Every Cup
What makes Spokane’s coffee culture unique is its sense of community. Cafes here aren’t just places to grab a drink—they’re gathering spaces. They host art shows, support local nonprofits, create spaces for conversation, and serve as daily anchors for so many neighborhoods.
As someone who’s been a part of this movement, I’ve seen the impact firsthand. A well-crafted latte or a freshly brewed pour-over can open doors to deeper conversations, new friendships, and even second chances for those who need them. Craft coffee here isn’t just about the product—it’s about people.
Where We’re Headed & How You Can Be Part of It
Looking ahead, Spokane’s craft coffee scene is only getting stronger. We’re seeing more coffee education opportunities for both baristas and home brewers, a growing emphasis on sustainability and direct trade partnerships, and even creative collaborations—coffee meets cocktail, coffee meets craft soda, coffee meets culinary arts.
The future of coffee in Spokane is bright, and it’s being brewed with heart.
Next time you visit your favorite local shop, ask your barista about the coffee’s story. Try a new brewing method, or join a tasting event. Most of all, keep showing up—because your daily cup does more than wake you up. It fuels a movement of connection, craftsmanship, and care that makes Spokane an even better place to call home.
Bobby's Favorite Spokane Craft Coffee Stops
4 Seasons Coffee Roasters
Family-owned since 1976, roasting single-origin and organic coffee long before it was a trend. Spokane’s first local coffee roaster!
About the Author
Bobby Enslow
Founder, Indaba Coffee
Bobby Enslow is the founder of Indaba Coffee, a mission-driven coffee roastery and café rooted in Spokane, Washington. Since opening the first shop in 2009, Bobby and his wife, Sheena, have worked side by side to build a company known for cultivating connection and championing radical hospitality. Together, they have grown Indaba into a cornerstone of Spokane’s craft coffee culture while staying true to its mantra: Love People, Love Coffee.