Places like the Coava Coffee Brew Bar are why Portland is known for coffee shops. Everything you ever imagined about a coffee shop in Portland comes true at Coava Coffee. Yes, it’s in a warehouse, there’s an abundance of tattoos and beards, and people hang out for hours on a Tuesday morning, like you figure only people in Portland do, and also yes, the coffee is superb.

At Coava Coffee they pay attention to detail, and you know you’re in for a good cup from the moment you step inside. Coffee-wise, they source their beans from only the most sustainable farms; they’ve developed a production system that creates minimal waste; and their baristas are the best out there. Design-wise, the Brew Bar is vast and open yet cozy and inviting; and it’s the sort of place where you can find a corner and get to work on your laptop or you can strike up conversation with someone at a communal table. Last but not least, the pastries are damn good. They’re far better than they need to be and are clearly not an afterthought. In short, you too may find yourself hanging out for hours on a Tuesday whether you planned to or not.

Fortunately or unfortunately, I thought a bit differently about coffee after leaving this place. While it was undoubtedly one of the most flavorful cups I’ve ever had, I’m worried my home-brewed morning cup will no longer do the trick.

http://coavacoffee.com/

Coava Portland
1300 SE Grand Ave, Portland, OR 97214
(503) 894-8134

Dana is originally from Washington, DC, is now based in NYC, but is most excited when she’s traveling. She’s a street-food obsessed food and travel writer who spends her free time watching Anthony Bourdain reruns and exploring the nooks and crannies of her NYC neighborhood, Chinatown. Her heart is torn between Paris, the Greek Islands, Japan, and Penang, so her dream last supper would look something like a four course meal of sashimi, laksa, fresh grilled octopus, and a heaping plate of gooey French cheese.

(All photos courtesy of Coava Portland)

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