This hole-in-the-wall cafe is rarely busy, probably mostly because of its unfortunate location at the north end of the U. District Ave - within two blocks of a Starbucks *and* a Tully's, and there are about 5 other coffe shops south of the Ave, closer to the main University campus, that probably take most of the business. However, it is without a doubt better than either.
Up until recently, I would have given the Perkengruven a 5-star; however, the baristas have changed recently, and although the coffee is still good and artistically presented, they no longer do coffee art with the foam (something I really liked - seems to be a sign of someone who loves coffee & knows how to work with foam). However, they have local artists' work for sale on the walls, and the regularly changing art adds a nice touch of atmosphere. Still my favorite coffee shop on the Ave., but not by as much of a margin as it was 6 months ago.
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