Coffee Café Operator Opportunity

Overview

This is a high-impact opportunity to bring a coffee-forward concept to one of Seattle’s most dynamic public spaces.

The previous operator in this location generated over $1.5 million in annual net sales, reflecting both consistent daily use and peak volumes tied to campus programming and major events.

Seattle Center is seeking an operator who can deliver a high-quality, welcoming, and efficient café experience that reflects Seattle’s strong coffee culture while serving a broad and diverse audience.

Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall

Interior Coffee Café Space

The Space

The available café space is located near the Armory’s main South Entrance along Thomas Street and includes:

• Highly visible location within the Armory Food & Event Hall
• Exterior patio seating and signage opportunity
• Front service counter with a small back-of-house area
• Approximately 770 square feet
• Existing plumbing, electrical service, and counter infrastructure
• Limited storage available within the building

 The space does not include a commercial hood and is best suited for:

• Coffee and espresso service
• Pastries and baked goods
• Grab-and-go and light food offerings

 The space is largely move-in ready, with minimal tenant improvements anticipated. The selected operator will provide any specialty equipment required for their concept.

Photo: Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall, South Entrance, Thomas Street; Credit: Google Earth

Who Should Apply

Seattle Center encourages interest from:

• Local Seattle coffee companies
• Small and independent businesses
• BIPOC-owned businesses
• Experienced café or high-volume food service operators

 Operators may also partner with an established coffee program or roasting partner.

 We are looking for operators who can:

• Deliver consistent, high-quality products
• Operate efficiently during peak periods and major events
• Contribute to the overall experience of the Armory and campus

 Lease & Operating Terms

• Four-year lease with the City of Seattle, with a potential one-year extension
• Base rent and percentage rent are negotiable based on concept and investment
• Flexible lease structures may be considered to support local and emerging operators

 Operators will be required to:

• Maintain operating hours aligned with Armory operations
• Participate in campus pest control and waste management programs

Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall

Exterior Café Space with Outdoor Seating Area, South Entrance, Thomas St.

Proposal Requirements

Interested operators should submit a concise proposal that includes:

Company Information

• Business name and ownership structure
• Description of current operations
• Relevant café or food service experience

Concept Overview

• Description of the proposed café concept
• Sample or representative menu
• Coffee program and roasting partner (if applicable)

Operations Plan

• Staffing approach
• Plan for managing peak periods and major events

Financial Overview

• Estimated start-up investment
• General revenue expectations
• Proposed rent structure (base + percentage of sales)

Branding & Design

• Concept for the space
• Any proposed improvements
• Branding, signage, and visual identity approach

Timeline

Seattle Center intends to move quickly to select an operator and reopen the café:

Seattle Center reserves the right to modify the process, request additional information, and select the operator that best aligns with operational needs and visitor experience goals.

Contact & Submission

For questions or to RSVP for the site tour:

Ellen Norton - Seattle Center

ellen.norton@seattle.gov

Proposals should be submitted electronically to the contact above.

Seattle Center is looking for a partner who can deliver a vibrant, welcoming, and distinctly Seattle coffee experience—at the heart of one of the city’s most active and beloved public spaces.