Our Story
The Daily Grind began as a simple dream: to create a community gathering place centered around exceptional coffee. In 2010, Eleanor Ainsworth, a lifelong Seattle resident and passionate coffee lover, envisioned a cafe where people could not only enjoy a meticulously crafted cup of coffee but also connect with their neighbors, share ideas, and foster a sense of belonging. Eleanor, inspired by her travels to coffee plantations in South America and her deep appreciation for the art of coffee making, decided to turn her dream into reality.
She secured a small, unassuming space on Bell Street, in the heart of Belltown, and poured her heart and soul into transforming it into the warm and inviting space that The Daily Grind is today. From the beginning, Eleanor was committed to sourcing only the highest quality, ethically traded coffee beans. She established relationships with local roasters who shared her values, ensuring that every cup of coffee served at The Daily Grind was not only delicious but also made a positive impact on the communities where the beans were grown.
The Daily Grind quickly became a beloved neighborhood spot. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, drawing in locals and tourists alike. The baristas, carefully selected for their passion for coffee and their friendly personalities, became known for their expertise and their genuine care for their customers. Over the years, The Daily Grind has evolved and grown, but Eleanor's original vision remains at the heart of everything we do. We continue to be committed to serving exceptional coffee, fostering a welcoming community, and giving back to the city that we call home. We are proud to be a part of the Seattle coffee scene and look forward to serving you for many years to come.
Eleanor's dedication didn't stop at just the coffee. She wanted to create an environment that encouraged creativity and conversation. Local artists were invited to display their work on the walls, and live music performances were held on weekend evenings. This commitment to community and the arts helped The Daily Grind become more than just a place to grab a coffee; it became a cultural hub in Belltown. Today, The Daily Grind continues to thrive, carrying forward Eleanor’s legacy of exceptional coffee, genuine hospitality, and a strong connection to the Seattle community.
Our Mission
At The Daily Grind, our mission is to provide the Seattle community with exceptional coffee, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. We strive to create a space where people can connect, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, one cup of coffee at a time. We are dedicated to:
- Sourcing only the highest quality, ethically traded coffee beans from sustainable farms around the world.
- Roasting our beans in-house to ensure freshness and optimal flavor.
- Crafting each cup of coffee with precision and care, using traditional brewing methods and innovative techniques.
- Providing our customers with a friendly and knowledgeable service, making them feel welcome and valued.
- Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages connection and community.
- Minimizing our environmental impact through sustainable practices, such as composting, recycling, and using eco-friendly packaging.
- Supporting local artists and organizations that contribute to the vibrancy of the Seattle community.
We believe that coffee has the power to bring people together. We are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their background or beliefs. We are passionate about coffee and community, and we strive to make a positive impact on the world, one cup at a time.
Our Team
The Daily Grind is powered by a team of passionate and dedicated individuals who share a love for coffee and a commitment to providing exceptional service. Here are some of the key members of our team:
Eleanor Ainsworth
Founder & CEO
Eleanor is the driving force behind The Daily Grind. Her passion for coffee and her commitment to community have shaped the cafe into what it is today. She oversees all aspects of the business, from sourcing beans to training baristas.
Ben Carter
Head Barista
Ben is a master of coffee artistry. He is responsible for training our baristas and ensuring that every cup of coffee is brewed to perfection. He has competed in numerous barista competitions and is known for his innovative latte art.
Maya Rodriguez
Pastry Chef
Maya is the creative genius behind our delicious pastries. She uses only the finest ingredients and her recipes are inspired by her travels around the world. Her croissants are legendary!
Samuel Lee
General Manager
Samuel keeps the day-to-day operations running smoothly. He is responsible for ensuring that our customers have a positive experience and that our team members are supported and empowered.
Awards and Recognition
The Daily Grind has been recognized for its commitment to quality, community, and sustainability. We are proud to have received the following awards and recognition:
Best Coffee in Seattle - Seattle Magazine, 2024
We were honored to be named the Best Coffee in Seattle by Seattle Magazine. This award is a testament to our commitment to sourcing the highest quality beans and crafting each cup with care.
Sustainable Business Award - Seattle Business Journal, 2023
We are proud to have received the Sustainable Business Award from the Seattle Business Journal. This award recognizes our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact and supporting sustainable practices.
Community Impact Award - Belltown Business Association, 2022
We were thrilled to receive the Community Impact Award from the Belltown Business Association. This award recognizes our efforts to support local artists and organizations and to create a welcoming space for everyone in the community.