I have been to all kinds of coffee shops, especially here in the Pacific Northwest, but by far, my favorite has been this one, Beyond the Bridge Cafe. It is a cute little shop located by the Old Cannery Furniture Shop in Sumner. Like all coffee shops and/or coffee shacks, its fighting to make a name for itself in a place where some of the world's most famous coffee chains have been established. But, it is definately not your cookie cutter coffee shop. The atmosphere here is friendly yet funky, and you can count on great coffee and good food. The owners Ben and Trish, took over the coffee shop a few years ago and turned their baby into a great place to gather with friends and appreciate coffee, fine conversation and good music. They have a open mic once a week on fridays, and on the last friday of the month they have live bands. I have been a few times to this venue called "Live at the BBC" and I found it amazingly refreshing. The stage was open for budding new artist to display their talents and the audience can sip coffee, and look at art that is displayed from a feature artist every few weeks. The staff is friendly and knew my name after only once being there. They build great rapport with their customers and are always helpful, and willing to make suggestions. The food menu is simple with a handful of bagel sandwiches, which are all delicious. The coffee is the definate highlight of the menu. The BBC serves Caffe D'arte coffee, and it is the best coffee I have had in the area. I have been spoiled by this coffee so much that starbucks is a definate last resort. My favorite "drink" on the menu is really more a desert called Espresso Con Panna. Which is basically whipped cream topped with an espresso shot. Extremely simple and absolutely delish! I could put down 3 of those before my time at the shop is over.
Another plus, especially for those college students out there, is the free wi-fi access. I have spent many a days there this last quarter doing homework, its nice to get out of the apartment and library every once in a while. I have been thinking about blogging about this place for a longtime. They are definately a small business that you want to see succeed. This young couple with three kids (with one on the way) took on their dream and realized it with hard work and creativity. If you are ever in the Tacoma area, and want to go off the beaten path, check this place out in Sumner. It is close to downtown Sumner which has great little shops and restraunts and is within walking distance of a Sounder commuter train station.
I accidently took a drink of it before I took the picture, but every latte has its art here at Beyond the Bridge Cafe.Beyond the Bridge Cafe
13624 Valley Ave E
Sumner, WA 98390
(253) 863-0556
