A new Thai-inspired coffee shop is expected to perk up North Seattle this fall.
Nudibranch Coffee, founded by Emily Sirisup, plans to open in October, though an exact location has not been announced.
Sirisup, a first-generation Thai American and longtime figure in Seattle’s boutique coffee scene, said the idea came from her desire to connect people through coffee and culture.
“I want to make sure that we’re supporting the Asian American community here in Seattle,” Sirisup told What Now Seattle.
The shop has launched a Kickstarter campaign, running through June 26, to help fund the opening. Backer rewards include branded merchandise, coffee deliveries, event access and a spot on the café’s founder’s wall.
Sirisup’s team includes Alexander Lewis, who will lead logistics and partner relations, and Cole Arnesen, who will oversee sales and marketing. Sirisup and Arnesen recently returned from a trip to Thailand and has already sourced the first shipment of green Thai coffee beans developed through local partners.
“We wanted to make sure what we sourced really felt authentically Thai because the inspiration of the store are these Thai coffee shops that exist over there but we don’t really experience in America,” Arnesen told What Now Seattle.
The café sourced ethically grown beans directly from farmers in Chiang Rai, making it the only U.S. shop to feature them.
“It was challenging,” Arnesen said. “We had to figure out how to clear customers on our own, how to ship on our own. Our coffee landed in Seattle a little bit over a week ago and we officially did our first roast.”
The menu will feature items native to Thailand, including fruit-infused coffees, distinctive chocolates, vanillas, and teas. Specialty drinks like the Butterfly Pea Tea Matcha and Milo Mocha will be paired with local pastries, offering a unique experience.
The name Nudibranch is inspired by tiny, colorful sea slugs known for their bold appearance and shape-shifting abilities. The shop aims to embody those same traits, blending vibrant design and adventurous spirit. Nudibranch imagery will be featured throughout the café, reflecting its theme of discovery and creativity.
“Beach combing and everything ocean-inspired is very popular here in Seattle,” Sirisup said. “Growing up, I really liked tide pooling. One of my favorite creatures is the sea slug, their name is Nudibranch, so we thought it would tie into the Pacific Northwest.”
The café also plans to serve as a community space, hosting events like latte art classes, live music, candle making, pottery workshops and guest chef or baker nights.
“Once we get into our brick-and-mortar, we really want to emphasize using that space to support other aspiring business owners or people who want to start something new,” Arnesen said. “We’re going to have chef and baker nights where maybe they just got out of culinary school, and this is their very first opportunity to publicly showcase their artistry.”
They said they want the shop to serve as a community hub — a welcoming “third place” outside of work and home where people can gather, meet and connect. They noted this kind of space feels especially important in the post-pandemic world.
For coffee lovers outside the Seattle area, Nudibranch Coffee has partnered with Kuma Coffee to roast and distribute its coffee nationwide.
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[Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to include an official interview with Emily Sirisup and Cole Arnesen.]
