My Favorite Coffee Shops in Portland, Maine
The cultivation and trade of coffee beans can be traced back to the 15th century. With it’s origins in the mountainous regions of Yemen, coffee was a drink enjoyed not only at home but socially, in public coffee houses.
It is no wonder that society has hung on to the glorious tradition of meeting up with friends and family to enjoy the brewed wonder drink. It’s a damn good idea. Coffee is the second-most sought after commodity worldwide and accounts for global industry worth $100 billion annually. It accounts for about 1.6% if the US GDP each year. And it’s estimated that 500 billion cups of coffee are consumed each year and rising!
That’s a lot of beans folks.
I’m a big fan of making coffee at home - because I can make it to my exact specifications and it’s a lot cheaper. I’m obsessed with my Ninja Coffee Station*. It’s the actual bomb dot com.
But, sometimes this introvert has to get out of the house for her own good. While I visit coffee shops less frequently than I did in my college days, I still love to settle into a warm nook and enjoy an expertly crafted cup of joe at some of Portland’s best coffee shops.
Tandem Coffee Roasters
742 Congress Street
Tandem is probably the most popular coffee shop in Portland so be prepared to wait in line. The coffee is great but I frequent Tandem for the baked goods. Their selection of cookies, scones, pies, and breads are out of this world.
My favorite is the Spicy Ginger-Molasses with White Chocolate cookie. The name is long but the cookie is an absolute delight. Pair with a hot latte or their famous Malted Ice Coffee.
Visit during the warmer months and hang out at the picnic tables outside.
Little Woodfords
643 Forest Ave
The most Instagrammable shop in Portland is Little Woodfords. The bright coffee shop is aesthetic AF. It’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for book club or a collaborative project. Snag yourself some avocado toast and a classic espresso drink. Or try the ever rotating selection of locally made baked goods.
Need more convincing? Food and Wine magazine named Little Woodfords on of the Best Coffee Shops in America in 2019. This is my go-to for a post-spin pick me up!
The Proper Cup
500 Forest Ave
If you are looking for treat, you have got to check out The Proper Cup. Their Maple Smoked Sea Salt latte is an actual taste of Heaven on Earth. This cozy, comfy shop is a perfect place for a first date or solo study session. Their selection of baked goods is great. They’re well known for their homemade Pop Tarts but these vegan sugar cookies are amazing, too!
Oh, and their latte art…on point!
Tell me how you like your coffee in the comments below!
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