Located in the semi-inner SE industrial area at Stark/8th, Push x Pull has been open less than year, and is situated in a transitional zone where there is a mixture of light industry, commerce, and residences on the periphery.  On the morning we two were there business was quiet, though the Yelp reviews are glowing and suggest it’s a happening spot.  In these transitional zones that may depend on the day and time.

The shop has lots of strengths with great windows and natural light, roasting in public, mature plants, a variety of seating options to suit various customers’ needs.  However, because it’s a new build-out without the homeyness of some older shops , it does feel a bit lifeless when there aren’t many, customers. 

Discussion-wise, DS talked positively about how Cully non-profits were about to apply to Prosper Portland for the creation of an urban renewal area that would be community led, as well as R’s and his travel plans with their RV.  For 5 weeks starting in late Jan. they’ll be in and around Arizona; in the spring they’ll visit the Sequoia parks and CA coastal towns with their family;  and then in June it’s off to British Columbia and Alaska.  H’s immediate plans are to stay local, in Jan. immersing himself in Fertile Ground’s premiers of new works, and in Feb. to volunteer at the PDX Jazz Festival.  

821 SE Stark                                              pushxpullcoffee.com