Politicians and engineering directors weren't the only notables at today's ceremonial opening of Google's fancy new Kirkland campus.

There was also Violet Kiss, Google's only barista.

Espresso machines are a standard perk at the company's various offices all over the place, but Googlers generally have to pull their own.

Except in Kirkland, where Violet is busy making lattes from 8 to 11 a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m.

She (and another cafeteria worker who shares the job) staff an espresso stand in the main building's "Northwest lodge" style lobby. It also has a fireplace, comfy seats, wood floors and chandeliers made of antlers.

The stand has two commercial espresso machines -- one for the barista and another facing outward, so people can make their own if she's busy or gone. There are also espresso machines upstairs in the office-area kitchenettes.

Violet, who was born in Hungary, said she previously made coffee at Expedia's offices in Bellevue.

What do Googlers drink?

"They like just the plain, non-fat latte and the soy latte,'' she said.

They should try Violet's specialty, the "black and white zebra mocha" made with white and dark chocolate, plus a touch of cinnamon.