Motore

If you're seeking a design buzz along with your caffeine fix, this minimalist vision of concrete, stainless steel, and buttery wood is just the place to refuel. Even the four iMacs lining the window could be ripped from the pages of a pricey shelter magazine. And as a nod to the cafe's high-octane moniker, a Stella scooter is parked by the long banquette in back for would-be easy riders. But the cool looks of this new Wi-Fi coffeehouse on the east end of downtown take a backseat, so to speak, to its expertly pulled shots, courtesy of Caffé Vita. The crema on my double americano was the shade of a new copper penny; beneath it was some of the smoothest espresso I've ever tasted—creamy and not even slightly bitter. On my first visit, Motore's menu included a limited array of panini sandwiches. The tzatziki chicken ($6.95) arrived dressed with the tangy yogurt sauce and a few stray red onions. Despite a sizeable, tender chicken breast, the sandwich was less a treat than my Ghirardelli hot chocolate frosted with a chapeau of whipped cream. Motore has since expanded its lunch menu; it now offers a garlic hummus wrap and a chicken tapenade sandwich with artichoke and fresh mozzarella on focaccia, among other items (most sandwiches are $6.50). There's also enticing morning nosh apart from the usual scone and danish. A toasted croissant with fried egg, Canadian bacon, and cheddar ($4.50), especially paired with an artful latte, is a good excuse for being late to work. 1904 Ninth Ave., 206-388-2803, www.motorecoffee.com. DOWNTOWN