The NE site is a model of how to inexpensively transform a mostly cinder block building into an inviting refuge from the 4 lanes of MLK traffic outside. With a mish-mash of 60-ish furniture and colors, a set-back counter, and open kitchen, Tiny’s has created a relaxed, laid back feel. 2131 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. http://www.tinyscoffee.com/
Adjacent to the Hollywood Theater on NE Sandy, Aliviar – to soothe in Spanish – strives to touch all the bases in its cozy, angular space. Two examples: despite limited space, one nook is given over to a couch, table and books to invite reading; and though closing most nights at 7, there’s beer and wine for 4-6 happy hours. 4128 NE Sandy Blvd. http://www.aliviarcoffee.com
On the 22nd we discovered a full scale – from coffee and home baked pastries, to hard liquor – restaurant in a well lit/windowed setting. Design lines are very clean. While hanging out early on a Sunday morning is easy, assume it’s more of a challenge when restaurant is busy. 3003 SE Division http://caffepallino.com/
With lots of windows and good lighting, this European inspired shop – one TV showed the Tour de France, the other English soccer – offers the Lloyd Ctr. area a different vibe. Interior seating is limited, but outdoor patio area, above the sidewalk, is neat. Given that today’s discussion focused primarily on one member’s recent adventures in Greece and Turkey, the shop’s decor was just right. 1615 NE 15th.
Multiple kudos for this non-profits’ mission to serve as a community resource with workshops (new fathers, eg.), multi-cultural song circles, book club, meeting space, and more. Surprisingly, though, as a place to hang-out, the shop could benefit with a few more quality homey touches. 5633 SE Division http://cafeauplay.org/activities/
Despite both being sixty+, and having visited more than 70 shops so far, today’s two riders still experience youthful thrills when they come across hidden gems in underserved neighborhoods. In a challenging residential neighborhood of modest homes just east of MLK, sits a smallish, unassuming bakery and adjacent cafe. With welcoming smiles, and tasty art on the walls as well as tasty treats & drinks, Cafe Eleven, is just aching to serve as a neighborhood hub. Even without bike parking and lots of seating options – two of our usual ingredients for hanging-out nirvanas – we admired what the owners have achieved so far. 435 NE Rosa Parks Blvd.
Appreciate EcoGrll’s recommending the Cafe’s breakfast paninis and Sammies, and explaining the relationship between the Cafe and the adjacent Florio Bakery.
Cozy shop on the west-side esplanade overlooking the marina. We visited during the dragon boat races so the shop was busy. With limited seating inside, it’s difficult for long hangouts; but when the weather is dry, the outside picnic tables offer great views for river and people watching. Address is 0315 SW Montgomery, but beware that numbering on the esplanade is confusing.
Quite a stimulating ride yesterday via the Esplanade+Springwater Corr, getting off at Oaks Bottom to access Milwaukie, and heading south to MM’s. Mocha Momma’s has a nondescript outside, but inside it’s cozy and full of 1940-ish memorabilia. Problem for the 6 of us was its limited inside seating, which in turn limits extended chats. Nevertheless, by sponsoring open mics and providing board games, MM’s wants people to hang out. http://www.mochamommasgoodcoffee.com/ 6116 SE Milwaukie.
Discovering a spacious, stimulating shop at the end of our cross-city/stimulating ride, was sublime, in spite of one of us misplacing his bike-lock key, twice. It’s clear that Papaccinos goal is to serve as Woodstock’s meeting hub: with an area for kids, an array of living room furniture, a quiet nook for reading, a cereal bar, and wall art in addition to large murals inside and out, we felt encouraged to spend a long lazy time there. http://www.papaccinos.com/ 4411 SE Woodstock Blvd.
Is situated in an older commercial building that complements the neighborhood. Found its south facing windows, period architecture, high ceilings and live edge wood tables as assets that make the shop interesting+comfortable. A steady flow of traffic – including many who walked there – added to the positive vibe. http://www.thearborlodge.com 1507 N. Rosa Parks Blvd.
Portland Coffee Hangouts 