East Side. West Side. North Portland. South Waterfront. It does not matter where you live – finding coffee in Portland is the ultimate, rewarding quest. Your neighborhood likely has a favorite coffee shop, a place to start your day or to unwind at the end of a long work day. Whether you are buzzing with caffeine or seeking a relaxing herbal tea, Portland’s coffee culture runs deep. Here are some of our favorite spot to sit and enjoy coffee in Portland.
Southeast Portland
Upper Left Roasters, 1204 SE Clay Street, 97214, Neighborhood: Ladd’s Addition
Modern. Sleek. Bright and spacious. Individual and communal tables and lots of counter space make this a great spot for business meetings, neighbor gatherings, and alone time alike. In addition to their single-origin espresso creations, they offer a great tea selection, killer pastries, amazing toast and open face sandwich options.
Water Avenue Coffee, 1028 SE Water Ave, 97214, Neighborhood: Central Eastside Industrial Area
This was one of the first businesses to move into the ever evolving industrial area. It has a dark and rich interior, and is best for parties of two or solo. Their baristas take great pains to pour you the perfect espresso concoction. It’s a great starting spot to your morning before heading out for an easy walking adventure along the waterfront esplanade or even crossing into downtown.
Coava Coffee on Hawthorne, 2631 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 97214, Neighborhood: Buckman
Their location on Hawthorne Blvd is a complimentary mix of modern industrial and relax-by-the-fireplace comfy. Their coffee is some of the best in town, and their origin story – which involves a garage and motorcycle repair to pay the bills – adds to their charm. I have ducked in here on a rainy day after reorganizing my buyer tours specifically so that we can take a mid-day break to recharge with a brilliant cup of coffee. They self-describe as, “northwest coffee roaster notoriously fueled by good folks and Led Zeppelin.”
Common Grounds Coffee House, 4321 SE Hawthorne Blvd, 97215, Neighborhood: Sunnyside
This coffee house holds a special place in my heart. I have studied here, written offers here, and met clients here. To say it is eclectic is an understatement. The art on the walls is an ever-changing gallery of local talent. The music is anybody’s guess what the baristas are in the mood to listen to on any given day. The tables are small and mushed together, encouraging camaraderie among patrons. They have a wall of complimentary magazines, along with the New York Times and other newspapers available daily. There are some comfy sofas and chairs as well along the perimeter. If Portland were a TV show, this would be Central Perk.
Crema, 2728 SE Ankeny, 97214, Neighborhood: Kerns
Crema’s desserts and pastries are voluminous and legendary. They offer Stumptown Coffee in their vibrant cafe setting. This spot is especially terrific in the warmer weather when they roll up the glass garage doors that double as walls in the colder months. This is a favorite meeting spot in Portland’s Kerns neighborhood.
Northeast Portland
Barista,1725 NE Alberta, Neighborhood: Alberta
This was one of the first coffee shops I ever ventured across town to visit. It did not occur to me to go outside the neighborhood in search of coffee previously, and frankly in Portland there are so many great coffee shops all over town that while it isn’t strictly necessary to travel for coffee, you will find yourself pleasantly surprised if you decide to do it. Barista is absolutely worth the trip. Dark woods combine with a wall of windows to watch the world walk by on Alberta.
Proud Mary, 2012 NE Alberta, 97211, Neighborhood: Alberta
Confession: I never heard of a “flat white” before coming here. Second confession: I don’t want to drink anything but a “flat white” since coming here. This cafe is the first U.S. outpost of a Melbourne, Australia-based coffee roaster. It is ultra hip. It’s got great food, a bustling environment, and lots to love. A great spot to grab a pick-you-up while you’re hitting the shops along NE Alberta Street.
Northwest Portland
Floyd’s Coffee, 18 NW Couch St, 97209, Neighborhood: Old Town/Chinatown
Not sure what to love more – the working phone booth in the front room, the exposed brick walls, or the proximity to the entertainment district just outside the door. Whatever brings you to Floyd’s, there is plenty of room, delicious coffee, and a happening vibe. There is also a great outdoor patio for those summer months. Fun fact: I made the life-changing decision to become a Realtor while sitting at one of Floyd’s booths one rainy afternoon all those years ago.
Sisters Coffee, 1235 NW Marshall St, Neighborhood: The Pearl
Great booths (if you can snag one). This Pearl cafe is a favorite among the laptop brigade. And I can see why. Great pastries, expertly pulled espresso, and a beautiful Pearl aesthetic all make this a great spot in The Pearl. The serve – what else? – Sisters Coffee. Wonderful local flavor on every level here.
North Portland
Cathedral Coffee, 7530 N Willamette Blvd, Neighborhood: St. Johns/University Park
Large tables. Plenty of seating indoors and outdoors. Absolutely delicious chai tea. Lots of baked goods. Art on the walls. Friendly baristas. What is not to love about this spot?
Posie’s Bakery & Cafe, 8208 N Denver, Neighborhood: Kenton
Great cookies. Terrific location along the vibrant N Denver Avenue. Listen to a street musician while enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up and a delicious cookie.
Clearly this is but a fraction of the many wonderful neighborhood coffee shops to be enjoyed in Portland, Oregon. Wish I could visit them all! You cannot go wrong seeking coffee in Portland in any of the great neighborhoods. Finding your spot, your home away from home, is part of the enchantment and magic of living in Portland.
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Danni Duggan, Dana Smith, and Charles (Bud) Garrison, OR Brokers, Premiere Property Group, LLC
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Dana: 503-805-0569 | dana@dannipdx.com
Charles (Bud): 503-679-1893 | bud@dannipdx.com
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