Though I don’t consider myself a diehard coffee drinker – I prefer the “foo-foo” coffee drinks like mochas, lattes and frappucinos – I’ve always loved Starbucks. I was in the Covington Starbucks on Tuesday to meet a client, and I discovered I had left my wallet at home. I brought my laptop, but no cash. Unable to order, I sat down to wait for my client. I didn’t want to tell her what I’d done, so we just started our meeting.

When the barista brought over my client’s drink, she also brought me a full-sized strawberry Vivano “as a sample” on the house. It was such a nice surprise and I really appreciated it, especially on such a hot summer day. Afterward, I went over to thank the baristas behind the counter, and they just smiled and said they were happy to do it. It is hard to find service like that these days, so thank you, Covington Starbucks. I hope to pay it forward soon!

At this year’s annual KDP dinner and silent auction, Kona Kai Coffee Co. was named Best Restaurant in Kent! In addition, the fairly-new-but-well-loved coffee shop was nominated as Best Coffee Shop in Kent by readers of the Kent Reporter this spring.

Hats off to Mychal and Maryum who work so hard to make Kona Kai a family-friendly hangout, coffee house, wine bar and more! We love you guys!

CONGRATS!

Kona Kai Coffee Co. – 124 Fourth Ave. South, Kent, WA  98032
konakaicoffee AT yahoo DOT com

Hours:

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday:  6 am to 5:30 pm
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday:  6 am to 10 pm (or when hosting special events during the week)
Closed on Sundays

Blog:  www.konakaicoffee.net

Despite the fact that I think the business name is incorrectly punctuated, I love Kelly Latte’s on 132nd in Kent. It has a wide range of hot and cold beverages featuring everything from tea and hot chocolate to mochas and smoothies. It even has a special line of kids’ drinks like ladybug soda. I love their peach smoothie, and the fresh-baked mini donuts are yummy. I like the cinnamon sugar ones – delicious! They have as good a variety of drinks as Starbucks, if not better, and the baristas are helpful and friendly. Prices are reasonable too!

I also love their clever signs. Every day they offer a new drink or a 25 cent discount of some kind. This month’s theme includes Halloween discounts: 25 cents off if you have candy corn, a pumpkin or a black cat. Each day is different, so it is always fun to see what their latest promotion is.

If you haven’t already tried Kelly Latte’s, swing by sometime soon. You’ll enjoy it!

If you don’t know to look for it inside Titusville Station (corner of Gowe and First Avenue), you might miss The Perk-Up Place, but it is worth seeking it out. For breakfast, the deli has some great coffees and teas, and I love their whole wheat honey bagel. Perk-Up Place also offers lunch and catering. I’ve been to several events featuring owner Shelly’s wraps and sandwiches. She has a great selection of fresh items and she always serves it with a smile. As an added bonus, the food is affordable! You can easily have lunch for $8 or less.