Controversial Coffee

Controversial Coffee is far more than your usual coffee stop; it’s a vibrant community hub nestled at 111 Broadway St #7 in Seaside, OR, where artistry, activism, and artisanal beverages blend seamlessly under one roof. This eclectic space doubles as a coffee shop, bistro, tea house, live music venue, photography studio, gift and thrift store, and community center—making it a truly singular destination for locals and travelers alike.

Stepping inside Controversial Coffee feels like entering a warm, inviting creative sanctuary where every detail tells a story. The atmosphere buzzes with a sense of rebellious charm and heartfelt inclusivity, perfectly reflected in their vibrant, ever-evolving menu. Whether you crave a comforting classic or something with an unexpected twist, their beverage lineup does not disappoint. Award-winning highlights include the indulgently smooth White Chocolate Mocha and the refreshingly crisp Iced Coffee, alongside intriguing concoctions like Flick's BugOut and the frozen Real Lavender Lemonade—a fragrant treat that awakens the senses. For the adventurous palate, the Hot Turmeric Mocha infused with bold ginger espresso, proudly known as The King Of Beasts, offers a warm, spicy, and invigorating experience unlike any other. Fans of fruity and decadent flavors will find bliss in the Raspberry Cheesecake Latte topped with a blood drizzle, and the Cinnamon Peach Parfait Smoothie crowned with whipped cream, heart sprinkles, and a cherry adds a playful, visual delight to the indulgence.

Customers often rave about the quality and creativity of Controversial Coffee’s offerings, and the genuine warmth of its staff. Eliana U’s visit perfectly captures the spirit here: “The staff was super friendly, and they had a ton of alternative milk options! The space was awesome with a free-to-take area, books, merch and more. It was super cool to find a community space like that, I highly recommend!” This sentiment is echoed in multiple reviews that speak to the café’s ethos of kindness and inclusivity, such as Grace’s appreciation for the “pay it forward” program that adds a thoughtful, human touch to every cup.

Beyond just beverages, Controversial Coffee boldly fosters community connection and social engagement. Mike Thompson celebrates the space’s unapologetic stance on activism, describing it as a place that “rallies the community around a cause in an in-your-face kind of way!” This spirited approach seeps into its decor and programming, where local artisans’ work is showcased and events encourage meaningful dialogue.

Jaclyn LaMar beautifully sums up the heartfelt generosity uniquely embedded into the business model: “They have a pay it forward program and a free clothing closet to make sure everyone in the community can access basic necessities. They have community events.” This authentic care is palpable, making visitors feel not just welcomed but part of something greater than a coffee shop.

Whether you’re craving a meticulously crafted, exotic latte or seeking a relaxed nook to explore curated books, enjoy live music, or discover quirky thrift finds, Controversial Coffee is a refreshing oasis of creativity and soul in Seaside. It invites you to savor impeccable drinks while engaging with art, activism, and a thriving community spirit—an experience that lingers long after the last sip.