Yü Wu
Google
The first time I went to Pilgrim, a coffee shop in a strip mall called Oak Tree Village, I was ready to dismiss it as a slightly better alternative to Starbucks. I couldn't be more wrong. The moment I stepped into the store, I noticed the genuinely convivial energy, starting with the friendly and attentive staff taking good care of everyone. The space takes in a ton of natural light, the beige color high bar and wood tables paired with steel chairs look orderly and unassuming. The split-flap board above the counter cheerfully shuffles between menu highlights, weather, and words of wisdom.
The joyful vibe set me up in a good mood and I went for a full breakfast. Coffee was on point, croissant was excellent (that's how I discovered Rila Bakery in Lynnwood), made-in-house breakfast sandwich was tasty and creative. I took my time to enjoy the breakfast but mostly to savor the relaxing atmosphere.
Every time I return to Pilgrim, my first impression is only reinforced. When it's packed, it feels bustling but not chaotic; on a slow day, it feels mellow but not cold. I tried some other pastries and food items. I usually don't like sweet stuff, but their apple cheddar flatbread turns out such a satisfying bite, even as breakfast!
I enjoyed some nice chats with Josh, an upbeat, friendly barista. He has been with Pilgrim since when it was just a coffee truck, parked regularly in the same plaza where they opened this brick and mortar store earlier this year. I can only imagine how excited they were to have the opportunity to serve the same community that they started this journey with.
At its heart, Pilgrim is a neighborhood coffee shop, few would come from Capitol Hill to get coffee here (that is, except me, haha). It even feels like a roadside coffee stop, since it's next to the Highway 99 that connects Seattle and Everett. But no matter how you define it, it's a great coffee shop.