Motif Seattle is a proud participant of Hyatt Loves Local, a new initiative that enables Hyatt hotels around the world to support local small businesses who have been deeply impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. From chefs and wellness experts to farmers and artists, Seattle's small businesses help define the culture of our community.
As a Hyatt Loves Local participant, Motif has teamed up with the world's first espresso cart, Monorail Espresso, to offer guests an exclusive retail outlet in the lobby featuring local coffee, art, and a pulse of history.
We look forward to welcoming you soon to experience this curated pop-up!
Founded by Chuck and Susie Beek, the original Monorail coffee cart had its inception in 1980. Forged from a Boeing surplus shuttle cart built by Kent Bakke and John Blackwell of La Marzocco, Monorail introduced the cultural Italian staple of espresso to the wet city streets. The first of its kind, the innovative company kicked off the coffee cart craze in Seattle. Monorail has since expanded to three brick-and-mortar storefronts; the flagship walkup window at 510 Pike has been up and running for 28 years, just a block from Motif Seattle.
Chuck owned Monorail Espresso for 32 years, selling it to barista and manager Aimee Peck in 2012. Aimee has gone on to grow Monorail with the same streetwise and rebellious nature with which it was founded. Now the woman-owned and operated enterprise proudly employs a mostly female staff, upholding the values of social justice and equality upon which the company was founded.
Downtown Seattle businesses have been heavily impacted by COVID-19. With the majority of people working from home, Monorail has seen a loss of 50% in sales at both Pike and Westlake locations. Their third storefront has been closed temporarily with no re-open date in sight.
We invite all Motif Seattle guests to this exclusive pop-up shop experience located in the hotel lobby. Monorail coffee beans sourced from Whidbey Island, cold brew, and merch will be available for purchase, just charge to your guest room for a contactless experience. All proceeds will go to Monorail Espresso. Thank you for helping Motif Seattle & Hyatt hotels in our campaign to support local!