The Original Starbucks Store: Birthplace of the Global Brand

You’ve probably sipped Starbucks coffee without ever wondering where it all started. But if you’ve ever wanted to trace the roots of the global coffee giant — the very first place that sold what would become billions of cups — there’s one spot you need to know: the original Starbucks store in Seattle.

In 1971, Starbucks opened its doors at 2000 Western Avenue in Seattle. It didn’t sell espresso drinks or Frappuccinos — just coffee beans. It wasn’t until 1987, under Howard Schultz’s ownership, that the company shifted to selling brewed coffee and began its rapid global expansion.

The First Starbucks: Not What You’d Expect

Today, the original Starbucks — now known as the “Starbucks First Store” — operates at 1912 Pike Place, a short walk from its original 1971 location. The tiny, brown-toned shop looks more like a historic curiosity than a corporate flagship. Its L-shaped counter, vintage signage, and retro coffee posters are preserved just as they were decades ago.

Visitors flock here not for a latte, but to photograph the iconic wooden sign and the original logo: a bare-breasted, twin-tailed siren — the same figure that still defines Starbucks globally. Despite its humble appearance, this is the physical origin point of one of the world’s most recognised retail brands.

What the First Store Sold (And Didn’t)

When Starbucks launched in 1971, it sold only whole bean coffee. There were no espresso machines, no milk foam, no seasonal drinks. The focus was on high-quality arabica beans sourced from Africa and Latin America, roasted in small batches. The founders — Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker — were inspired by the coffee culture of Italy and aimed to bring that expertise to the U.S. market.

The shop also featured brewing equipment and accessories, catering to home brewers. But no ready-to-drink coffee. That transformation only happened after Howard Schultz joined the company in the 1980s and envisioned Starbucks as a “third place” between home and work — a vision that led to the introduction of espresso-based drinks.

From Coffee Beans to Coffee Empire

In 1987, Howard Schultz purchased Starbucks from its original owners and immediately shifted its model. Under his leadership, the company moved away from just selling beans toward becoming a café chain focused on brewed and espresso beverages. By expanding the menu, redesigning stores, and branding the siren logo more prominently, Schultz turned Starbucks into a household name.

Since then, the company has grown to include nearly 12,000 stores worldwide, spreading across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific region. Yet it all started with a single store in Seattle that sold nothing but beans.

Visiting the Original Starbucks Today

The current “Starbucks First Store” at Pike Place Market is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. It retains the 1970s aesthetic, complete with vintage furnishings, old coffee maps, and historical photos. You won’t find any digital ordering kiosks or smartphone apps here — just a straightforward tribute to the brand’s roots.

Don’t expect baristas to whip up a caramel macchiato, though. This location focuses on beans, packaged goods, and the experience of seeing where it all began. The atmosphere is rich with the smell of coffee, and the iconic bronze siren logo watches over every cup sold nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the original Starbucks store located?

The original Starbucks store, now called the “Starbucks First Store,” is located at 1912 Pike Place in Seattle, Washington. It moved to this address in the 1980s but originally opened in 1971 at 2000 Western Avenue.

When did Starbucks first open?

Starbucks first opened on March 30, 1971, at 2000 Western Avenue in Seattle. It initially sold only coffee beans and related equipment.

Did the original Starbucks sell coffee drinks?

No. The original Starbucks store only sold whole bean coffee. It did not serve espresso or brewed drinks until years later, after Howard Schultz acquired the company in 1987.

What year did Starbucks start selling espresso drinks?

Starbucks began focusing on espresso-based drinks after 1987, when Howard Schultz took over and transformed the company from a coffee bean retailer into a café chain.

Who founded Starbucks?

Starbucks was founded in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. Howard Schultz joined later and became the driving force behind its global expansion.

How many Starbucks stores are there worldwide?

As of the article's information, Starbucks has nearly 12,000 stores across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific region.

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