Moving to Portland introduces newcomers to the best coffee shops in Portland, showcasing the city’s world-renowned coffee culture. Known for its artisanal approach to food and drink, Portland boasts a rich café scene that is as diverse as it is delicious. For newcomers, the city’s coffee shops are more than just places to grab a cup of joe—they are community hubs where locals gather, work, and connect.
Discover the 12 Best Coffee Shops in Portland
Whether you prefer a meticulously crafted pour-over, creamy lattes, or unique seasonal drinks, Portland’s coffee shops offer something for everyone. Exploring them is a fantastic way to connect with the city’s neighborhoods and its unique charm. Let’s dive into 12 of the best coffee shops in Portland that are sure to become your go-to favorites!
1. Coava Coffee Roasters
Coava Coffee Roasters is a hallmark of Portland’s coffee scene, setting the gold standard for craftsmanship and quality. Known for its direct relationships with farmers, Coava ensures that every bean is responsibly sourced and expertly roasted. Their sleek, minimalist café interiors are designed to let the coffee take center stage, making it an ideal destination for newcomers moving to Portland who are eager to dive into Portland’s sophisticated coffee culture.
The baristas at Coava are passionate about educating customers, so don’t hesitate to ask questions about their offerings. Whether you’re sampling a smooth espresso or a single-origin pour-over, every sip is an experience in itself. With several locations across the city, Coava is a must-visit for those exploring Portland’s neighborhoods.
Must-Try: A single-origin pour-over paired with one of their freshly baked pastries.
2. Stumptown Coffee Roasters
A true icon, Stumptown Coffee Roasters helped put Portland on the global coffee map. Known for pioneering the third-wave coffee movement, Stumptown emphasizes transparency, quality, and sustainability in every step of its process. For newcomers, visiting a Stumptown café is an essential part of understanding Portland’s coffee legacy.
Their flagship café on Belmont Street is a perfect starting point. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an excellent place to relax or work while savoring a perfectly brewed cup. Don’t miss their cold brew on nitro—it’s a local favorite that’s as smooth and creamy as it is refreshing.
Must-Try: The nitro cold brew or a classic cappuccino.
3. Heart Coffee Roasters
Heart Coffee Roasters is a favorite among Portlanders for its clean, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic and bold, flavorful roasts. Their dedication to sourcing the best beans worldwide ensures that every cup has a distinct and memorable flavor profile. For newcomers relocating to Portland, Heart Coffee offers an introduction to Portland’s love of simplicity and precision in coffee-making.
Heart’s café spaces are modern yet welcoming, making them perfect for enjoying a peaceful moment or catching up with friends. Their baristas are highly skilled and can guide you through their rotating menu of single-origin coffees.
Must-Try: A pour-over featuring a single-origin Ethiopian coffee, known for its fruity and floral notes.
4. Proud Mary Coffee
An Australian import, Proud Mary Coffee has quickly become one of the best coffee shops in Portland. Located in the Alberta Arts District, this café offers an impressive menu that combines exceptional coffee with delicious food. Newcomers moving to Portland will appreciate the warm hospitality and the opportunity to try some unique offerings that set Proud Mary apart.
One highlight is their extensive menu of coffee flights, which allows you to sample different brewing methods and flavor profiles. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Proud Mary provides an unforgettable experience.
Must-Try: A coffee flight paired with their avocado toast or ricotta hotcakes.
5. Barista
Barista is a name synonymous with excellence in Portland’s coffee scene. With multiple locations across the city, this café consistently delivers high-quality drinks in stylish settings. Each Barista location has a unique vibe, making it a fun way for newcomers to explore Portland’s neighborhoods while enjoying top-notch coffee.
Their baristas are true professionals, known for their attention to detail and ability to craft a perfect drink every time. Barista’s rotating selection of beans ensures that there’s always something new to try, whether you’re in the mood for a creamy latte or a bright, complex pour-over.
Must-Try: A macchiato paired with a locally sourced pastry.
6. Water Avenue Coffee
Located in Portland’s Central Eastside, Water Avenue Coffee is a local favorite with a welcoming, industrial-chic vibe. This café and roastery is known for its dedication to quality and community, making it an ideal spot for newcomers relocating to Portland and looking to immerse themselves in Portland’s coffee culture.
Water Avenue’s expertly roasted beans are featured in many of Portland’s top restaurants, but there’s nothing like experiencing their coffee fresh from the source. Their spacious café is perfect for meeting friends, working remotely, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.
Must-Try: The espresso flight, which offers a tasting of their signature blends.
7. Never Coffee
Never Coffee lives up to its reputation as one of the most creative coffee shops in Portland. Their vibrant interiors and bold flavor combinations make every visit an adventure. For newcomers, Never Coffee offers a fresh perspective on what coffee can be, with unique drinks that incorporate unexpected ingredients like saffron, cardamom, and rose water.
The artistic presentation of their drinks is matched by the quality of their coffee, making Never Coffee a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. This is a must-visit for those who appreciate innovation and creativity.
Must-Try: The “Oregon,” a signature drink featuring house-made syrups with hazelnut and forest honey.
8. Good Coffee
True to its name, Good Coffee delivers exactly what it promises: consistently excellent coffee served in beautifully designed spaces. With several locations throughout Portland, this café is a favorite for locals and newcomers alike. Each location is thoughtfully designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying some quiet time.
Good Coffee focuses on sustainability and quality, sourcing their beans responsibly and roasting them to bring out their natural flavors. Their seasonal menu features inventive drinks that highlight local ingredients.
Must-Try: A honey latte or a seasonal specialty drink.
9. Upper Left Roasters
Located in the Ladd’s Addition neighborhood, Upper Left Roasters is a bright and airy café that specializes in small-batch roasting. Their emphasis on quality and sustainability makes them a standout in Portland’s coffee scene. Newcomers moving to Portland will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the café’s proximity to one of Portland’s most charming neighborhoods.
Upper Left Roasters also offers a selection of delicious, locally sourced food, making it an excellent spot for breakfast or lunch. The combination of great coffee and fresh ingredients creates a truly memorable experience.
Must-Try: An Americano paired with their avocado toast or smoked salmon bagel.
10. Case Study Coffee Roasters
Case Study Coffee Roasters is a quintessential Portland café, combining excellent coffee with a cozy, laid-back vibe. With multiple locations across the city, this shop is a reliable choice for newcomers exploring Portland’s coffee scene.
Their in-house roasts are carefully crafted to bring out the unique characteristics of each bean, and their menu includes both classic and inventive drinks. The friendly baristas and welcoming atmosphere make Case Study a great place to settle in with a good book or meet new friends.
Must-Try: A cardamom latte or their house-made chai.
11. Spella Caffè
For newcomers craving an authentic Italian espresso experience, Spella Caffè is the place to go. This tiny downtown café focuses on traditional methods, serving up rich, velvety espresso drinks that transport you straight to Italy.
Despite its small size, Spella Caffè makes a big impression with its warm service and exceptional coffee. Their gelato is also a must-try, offering a sweet complement to their expertly crafted drinks.
Must-Try: A classic cappuccino or affogato.
12. Deadstock Coffee
Located in the heart of Old Town Chinatown, Deadstock Coffee is a unique and vibrant café that blends sneaker culture with excellent coffee. This laid-back spot is perfect for newcomers relocating to Portland and looking for a more casual and creative coffee experience.
Deadstock’s drinks often come with playful twists, reflecting the café’s motto: “Coffee should be dope.” From their signature drinks to their community-focused events, this café is a standout in Portland’s diverse coffee scene.
Must-Try: The “LeBronald Palmer,” a refreshing blend of coffee and lemonade.
Why Newcomers Will Love Portland’s Coffee Scene
Relocating to Portland means immersing yourself in a city that values creativity, quality, and community. The best coffee shops in Portland are more than just places to grab a drink—they’re integral to the city’s culture and charm. From minimalist roasteries to vibrant, creative cafés, there’s something for everyone in Portland’s thriving coffee scene.
As you explore these 12 coffee shops, you’ll not only discover incredible coffee but also connect with the spirit of Portland’s neighborhoods and people. Moving to Portland means embracing a lifestyle that’s as rich and flavorful as its coffee.
Get your free Portland Relocation Guide here
