We had been meaning to check out Mosaic, the coffeehouse in Wallingford, for a couple of months, but Gub and I just got up there for the first time a couple of days ago. I had honestly been a little skeptical since it is a ministry of the Seattle First Church of the Nazarene, but I heard it had a great kids' area, so off we went.

The location, in a church basement behind Dick's on 45th, is somewhat unusual. I was happy to see that all reminders of ladies luncheons had been banished, and the room was warm feeling in spite of its spaciousness. The concept is kind of neat, but also intimidating: you are supposed to pay what you wish or feel it is worth. A little donation box is afixed to the counter, which otherwise looks like an average coffeeshop. That said, they do have a credit card machine and can make change, so you don't have to come equiped with small bills. I chose to pay more or less what I would at my neighborhood cafe.

The kids' area, called "Demitasse," is in a separate room with closed French doors, making Mosaic a pleasant place for those without children as well. The play area is nicely outfitted with foam floors, a playhouse, tons of books and toys, and a minature couch and coffee table for the little ones. On the other side of the room there are a few regular tables, a highchair, a couch and soft chair, which was appreciated by the nursing mamas.

At 11 a.m., the place was hopping. Lots of toddlers were happily going crazy with all of the toys and one another. Parents were short on seats, which no one seemed to mind too much since the floor was a comfortable place to lounge with the youngsters. All in all, the place seems to be accomplishing its goal of providing a community gathering place for families, and I didn't pick up any proselytizing from the friendly employees.

I cannot attest to the quality of the coffee, since I ordered tea that morning, but I get the sense that the emphasis here is on the house part of coffeehouse.

We'll certainly be back at some point, though I might try another time of day for less chaos. I'd be curious to hear your impressions of Mosaic or any other favorite coffeehouses.

When she isn't writing about kids and families, Lilium Pierson can be found adventuring in Seattle with her young daughter, "Gub." Their favorite activities include library visits, Sundays at the West Seattle farmers market and exploring their neighborhood. Pierson's work has appeared in Seattle Business Monthly.

Copyright © 2009 The Seattle Times Company