Happy Monday, Seattle! Should you happen to be in the Greenwood area today and in need of a pick-me-up, you might try stopping by the Monkey Grind Espresso Bar, corner of 85th and Evanston, to peruse a copy of “Green Eggs and Ham” while you wait for your coffee.Monkey Grind opened in 2003 and has been through several ownerships since, but keeps right on serving coffee to the neighborhood. Its casual “neighborhood-hangout” vibe stems from the bright decor, a small selection of children’s books for customer reading, owners who seem to know most everyone by name, and -of course- an admirable array of stuffed monkeys scattered around the store. Current co-owner Karena served me an americano accompanied by the perfect balance of witty banter and peace-and-quiet.Their website hasn’t been updated in quite some time, so don’t rely on it for information. They no longer serve Tony’s coffee, for one thing, having switched over to Lighthouse Roasters earlier this year. As we’re all aware by now, Lighthouse is not my personal favorite. But I will say that the drink I received was well prepared, and served with a smile: two elements which go a long way toward reconciling me to drinking a coffee roast I don’t like. Plus, if you’re one who enjoys flavored beverages, Monkey Grind features several fun and unique house concoctions. Among them, one to tuck away in your memory for the next cool day, The Greenwood: a latte made with cinnamon, apple, and caramel syrups. Surprisingly not too sweet, and very similar to having apple crisp with some ice cream and a cup of coffee… only… all at once.