Seattles First Vietnamese Coffee Shop Comes to Downtown Bellevue

Coffeeholic House, Seattle's first Vietnamese coffee shop, is enhancing Downtown Bellevue's coffee scene with its grand opening on May 20, 2023, following a soft launch from April 28 to May 5. Founded by Chen Dien and his wife Trang Cao, both immigrants from Vietnam, the couple sought to fill a gap for authentic Vietnamese coffee experiences. They faced numerous challenges during the pandemic, including staffing issues and combating anti-Asian racism, which initially affected their business. Despite these obstacles, they successfully created a unique coffee culture that combines traditional flavors with modern innovations, using organic robusta beans and the classic phin-dripped brewing method. Popular offerings such as Coffeeholic Dream and Coconut coffee reflect their commitment to sharing their heritage.

The couple emphasizes the importance of cultural representation, stating that their drinks are inspired by Dien's childhood in Vietnam. Coffeeholic House’s expansion marks a significant moment for the Bellevue community, introducing them to a rich coffee tradition. The shop encourages locals to explore their menu online before visiting, promising a delightful experience for coffee enthusiasts.