There’s something to be said about a city where the only bad cup of coffee can be found at Starbucks. Even here in Portland, there are plenty of Starbucks, but unlike in other cities, Starbucks could never dominate the local coffee scene. Not only are there so many other alternatives, but they are all better by far!
Perhaps, unlike Seattle and Starbucks, Portland’s coffee gems will always remain closely guarded secrets, never to be discovered by the rest of the country. This city is all about the small, personal, handcrafted experience, and I have a hard time seeing even the biggest chain of Portland coffee shops making the switch to production on a national scale.
The best among the best coffee to be found here comes from Stumptown Coffee. The people at Stumptown know their stuff, and then some. In the past year, I’ve seen the Stumptown name pop up a number of times in the national media, and their product shows why! It’s the smoothest cup imaginable. It’s the first I could appreciate without a hint of sugar to cover up any lingering bitterness, best served as nothing but pure coffee and cream.
There are plenty of other amazing choices as well. Urban Grind is my second favorite. Their shop in the Pearl District serves up the coziest atmosphere, and their staff members are some of the most personable and friendly around. I’m no longer big on mochas, having seen the potential of undoctored coffee, but I’ll make a few exceptions, and Urban Grind’s mocha arancia is the perfect sweetness, flavored with a hint of orange essence- in short the perfect mocha. Better yet, their espresso is a surprisingly good match to Stumptown’s.
World Cup Coffee & Tea is another solid choice, with their focus on sustainability and multiple locations around the city. They also serve another fine mocha, sharper in taste than others around town. If you’re looking for a place to hang out, Vivace on NW 23rd serves up Stumptown roasted coffee and tasty crepes in a warm and cozy atmosphere. Coffee Time, on NW 21st, is a little rougher around the edges, but its open late and has its own particular charm.
Here in Portland, no matter where you turn, you’re bound to find a good cup of coffee. Perhaps, San Francisco will have its share of quality coffee shops too, but just in case, I plan on hoarding away a stash to take there myself.