5 Best Cafes in Portland, OR for Productive Workdays
Portland, Oregon, is not just a haven for coffee enthusiasts but also a city that embraces the culture of remote work. If you’re in search of the perfect caffeine-fueled workspace, I’ve curated a list of five cafes scattered across Portland, each offering a unique ambiance and delicious brews.
While Portland itself has many options, my list includes some hidden gem options and places located all around the metro area for those who may not live in the city center.
What I Look for in a Cafe to Work In:
To be a coffeeshop workspace favorite, there are specific criteria I look for. The space, atmosphere, and wifi are all big markers for me. The coffee itself is important as well, but being in Portland, most coffee shops have decent coffee, but if not, it isn’t my top priority if all of the other factors are met.
Space – While there are so many great cafes with wifi, some are small with only a couple tables and I just don’t feel comfortable sitting there for a few hours. I don’t want to take 1 of only a few tables to work at and take the space from patrons who just want to chat for a bit.
Atmosphere – I don’t want the cafe to be silent. Especially if you have to take a call, you don’t want to feel like you are distracting. I like a little chatter or music playing. I enjoy the hustle and bustle of a community place, not only for the noise, but it feels comfortable to be there, I don’t want a Starbucks with no heart.
Wifi – Obviously to work remotely or on personal projects, wifi is a must.
From Beaverton, Sellwood, to NW Portland, these coffee shops are not only great for sipping your favorite beverages but hit all of my criteria for a great place to work from.
Slow Pour Coffee + Bar (Living Room Coffeehouse) – Sellwood:
8524 SE 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
Huge Space with a Laid Back Environment
- Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Sellwood, Slow Pour Coffee, formerly known as Living Room Coffeehouse, is a cozy spot that lives up to its (old) name. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, this cafe provides ample seating, free Wi-Fi, and a diverse menu of handcrafted coffees. It probably is the largest cafe on this list, which is perfect for those how want to work. Whether you prefer a quiet corner or a communal table, Slow Pour Coffee is perfect for a focused work session while enjoying a cup of their expertly brewed coffee.
- Very limited parking lot, but you can usually find street parking nearby.
Ki Coffee – Beaverton:
4655 SW Griffith Dr #160, Beaverton, OR 97005
Great Speciality Beverages and Food Items
- For those working on the west side of Portland, Ki Coffee in Beaverton is a hidden gem. This cafe not only boasts a serene environment but also offers an array of specialty drinks to keep you fueled throughout the day. With a commitment to quality and a dedication to creating a comfortable space for patrons, Ki Coffee in Beaverton is an excellent choice for a productive workday. They have a main area in the front with some local gifts, and then another section in the back with more tables.
I also mention Ki Coffee on my list of great cafes all located just outside of Portland!
Aurora Coffeehouse – NW Portland (North Beaverton):
11200 NW Thompson Rd Suite #1, Portland, OR 97229
Great Creative Space with a Great Atmosphere
- Nestled in the heart of NW Portland, Aurora Coffeehouse in North Beaverton is a local favorite for remote workers. I’ve lived in the area for almost a year, and just found this cafe and absolutely love it. The cafe features a laid-back, artsy atmosphere, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a selection of delicious pastries to accompany your coffee. The friendly staff and ample natural light make Aurora Coffeehouse an ideal spot for creative thinking and focused work. They have 2 larger communal tables if you have some remote worker friends to all work together!
- Note- On busy days it can get crowded. On sunny days, they have a great little patio out back with a few picnic tables.
Insomnia Coffee Company – Beaverton (Cedar Mills Location):
14723 SW Teal Blvd, Beaverton, OR 97007
Unpretentious Cafe with Plenty of Seating
- Located in the Cedar Mills area of Beaverton, Insomnia Coffee combines the best of both worlds – great coffee and a conducive work environment. With spacious seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and a menu featuring an array of coffee options, Insomnia Coffee is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable space to work and recharge. They have a great upstairs area that I love to get a few hours of work done.
- Note- On busy days it can get crowded, but usually people have gotten up within a few minutes to snag a spot. There are also multiple Insomnia locations, but this one is my favorite to work at!
Portal Tea (Tea Chai Te) – NW 23rd Ave. Portland:
734 NW 23rd Ave B, Portland, OR 97210
Plenty of Nooks and Crannies for a Cozy Work Day
- If you’re looking for a caffeine alternative, Portal Tea, also known as Tea Chai Te, on NW 23rd Ave. is the place to be. With an extensive tea menu and a tranquil ambiance, this cafe provides a unique setting for work. The cozy interior and diverse tea offerings make Portal Tea an excellent choice for those seeking a change of pace while staying productive. Located in an old residential building, there are many different rooms and with plenty of seating options.
- I love getting a pot of tea to sip on while working on this blog!
In Portland, where the coffee culture is as rich as the city itself, finding the ideal cafe for work can be a journey, with a lot of delicious coffee along the way. Slow Pour Coffee, Ki Coffee, Aurora Coffeehouse, Portal Tea, and Insomnia Coffee each offer a unique experience, ensuring that your workday is not only productive but also filled with the flavors of Portland’s vibrant coffee scene. Whether you prefer the artistic vibes of NW Portland or the cozy corners of Beaverton, these cafes are sure to become your go-to spots for a perfect workday.
Check out my other posts about other great local Portland spots!
Have somewhere you think I should check out next? Leave a comment and let me know what cafe or coffee shop is your favorite to work at!
