Monorail Espresso is expanding with a fifth location that is set to open in the Pike/Pine area at 1004 Pike Street, according to the owner, Aimee Peck.
“We are excited for this expansion and are hoping to open by the end of summer, permits permitting,” Peck told What Now Seattle.
Monorail Espresso’s menu consists of espresso-based coffee options alongside homemade cookies. Patrons can also enjoy gift subscription options, different types of take-home espresso blends, merchandise, and more online or in-store.
Monorail began back in 1980 when Chuck and Susie Beek founded the company. Chuck, a former flight attendant, became fascinated with the coffee business and purchased an espresso cart from Cappuccino Craig. The cart, built by Kent Bakke and John Blackwell of La Marzocco, was made from a Boeing surplus shuttle cart and became the world’s first espresso cart.
When the theater closed, Monorail moved to its current location on the Pike Street side of the historic building. Aimee Peck, a former barista and manager, took over the business from Chuck in 2012. The company proudly employs a mostly female staff, upholding the values of social justice and equality with which the company was started. Chuck remains a mentor to the company and bakes Monorail’s famous Chubbie chocolate chip cookies, according to the company website.
