First Avenue Coffee, Spokane, WA

At First Avenue (aptly named for its location), their tag line is damn good coffee. I have to admit that I agree.

I went here first thing on a Monday morning in hopes of starting my week off right. After missing the turn like five times (love one way streets), I eventually got parked. I walk in the two doors and look up. A wood and white shop was before me with hip and eccentric accents. With decor like a coffee flavor wheel, it is clear the people who made this shop loved coffee.

I step up and order a latte with almond milk (currently off dairy) and muse at the art on the walls while it is being foamed by the nice barista. I also peruse the space, thinking where will I sit? They are many options in this large place, but I land on a comfy chair that is the same color as my latte.

Then it’s time to get things done, but first I take a sip. The coffee is better than I expected, sweet and smooth so I lean in for another gulp. I nurse it as I work on documents for my law internship.

The breakdown:

• Food: 6 (the coffee, donuts & waffles look good but not a lot of complex options)
• Coffee: 7
• Ambiance: 7