Tempest in a Top Pot

Top Pot, Top Pot, wherefore art thou, Top Pot? No, really--people want to know. Granted we're mincing our Shakespeare, but who can think straight at a time like this? When the consumption of yummy, fresh doughnuts and Ovaltine lattes is at stake, there's no metaphor too drawn out or anachronism too butchered for Seattlest's tastes.

Believe us, we were thrilled last year when he heard the venerable pastry makers were set to open a third spiffy new location in Wedgwood in "early 2005." We were even more thrilled when we found out that company cofounder Michael Klebeck lives in the area--partly because it means that Seattlest is his neighbor, but also because if Seattlest had a burgeoning chain of coffeehouses, it would selfishly make the one nearest our backyard the best. (And we think Klebeck & Co. would too.) But alas. "Early 2005" has come and gone. And Top Pot? Nary a word. Or a wafting, sugary odor.

A little birdie recently told us that the new location will set up shop at the vintage former gas station (and old Rosanna's haunt) at 6855 35th Ave. N.E., just north of the relatively newly-opened North Seattle branch library. (Though this was the same birdie who told us the digs were to have opened already, so we're taking this info with a grain of salt). But Seattlest has driven by this location recently and while the exterior is looking close enough to retro-chic, the interior leaves much to be desired. Like furniture. And ovens. And any semblance of a floorboard.

So Top Pot, what's up? We only bug you cause we love you. We just wanna love you a little closer to home.