Portland, Maine, boasts a coffee culture that is both rich and welcoming. The best coffee shops in Portland, Maine, reflect the city’s history and strong community spirit, offering unique and inviting atmospheres. From cozy corners to lively cafes, each of the best coffee shops in Portland, Maine, has its own charm and specialties, appealing to both locals and visitors.
Local coffee shops play a crucial role in fostering community in Portland. These spots not only offer high-quality coffee but also serve as social hubs where friendships form and ideas flow. Supporting the best coffee shops in Portland, Maine, helps sustain small businesses, promote local culture, and strengthen community ties.
This guide highlights the 10 best coffee shops in Portland, Maine, showcasing their unique offerings and distinctive experiences. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a cozy place to unwind, this list will help you find the best coffee shops in Portland, Maine, to enjoy a great cup of coffee.
The 10 Best Coffee Shops in Portland, Maine
1. Coffee By Design
Address:
1 Diamond St, Portland, ME 04101
67 India St, Portland, ME 04101
Coffee By Design was founded in 1994 by Mary Allen Lindemann and Alan Spear. The duo aimed to create a coffee company that not only served excellent coffee but also contributed positively to the local community. Over the years, Coffee By Design has grown from a small shop to a well-respected name in Portland’s coffee scene, with multiple locations across the city.
Coffee By Design is known for its high-quality, ethically sourced coffee. They offer a wide range of coffee blends and single-origin beans, catering to various taste preferences. Some of their standout offerings include the Black and Tan blend, known for its rich and smooth flavor, and their single-origin Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, which boasts bright citrus notes and a floral aroma. They also provide a selection of seasonal and limited-edition coffees, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
The ambiance at Coffee By Design is a blend of modern and cozy, with each location featuring its own unique decor and vibe. The original location on India Street has a warm, inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and local artwork adorning the walls. Their Diamond Street location includes a spacious roastery where visitors can see the coffee roasting process firsthand. This transparency and dedication to quality have earned Coffee By Design a loyal customer base and a reputation as one of Portland’s premier coffee destinations.
2. Bard Coffee
Address: 185 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101
Bard Coffee was established in 2009 by Bob Garver, a seasoned coffee professional with a passion for exceptional coffee and a vision to create a space where quality and community intersect. Situated in the heart of downtown Portland, Bard Coffee quickly gained a reputation for its meticulous approach to sourcing, roasting, and brewing coffee, setting high standards for excellence and sustainability.
Bard Coffee offers a diverse menu that caters to both traditional coffee lovers and those seeking innovative flavors. Their espresso is known for its balanced flavor and smooth finish, making it a favorite among purists. The pour-over method highlights the unique characteristics of single-origin beans, offering a clean and nuanced cup. Bard’s cold brew, perfect for warm days, is rich, smooth, and refreshing. Creative concoctions like the Maple Latte and Lavender Latte are beloved for their unique and delightful flavors. In addition to coffee, Bard also offers a selection of teas, pastries, and light bites, making it an ideal spot for a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Customers at Bard Coffee consistently praise the café for its exceptional coffee and inviting atmosphere. The baristas are known for their expertise and friendliness, often taking the time to chat with customers and offer recommendations. The downtown location provides a vibrant yet relaxed setting, perfect for meeting friends, working remotely, or simply enjoying a great cup of coffee. Reviews highlight the quality of the coffee and the welcoming environment, with many patrons becoming regulars. The attention to detail in both the product and customer service sets Bard Coffee apart as a must-visit destination in Portland.
3. Tandem Coffee and Bakery
Address:
742 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
122 Anderson St, Portland, ME 04101
Tandem Coffee and Bakery, founded by Will and Kathleen Pratt, offers an excellent combination of coffee and freshly baked goods in a charming setting. Tandem roasts their own beans, ensuring each cup meets their high standards. The bakery, led by a skilled team, provides an array of pastries, cakes, and bread made with high-quality ingredients.
Their coffee menu includes a variety of brewing methods such as pour-over, espresso, and cold brew, known for clarity and balance. Popular choices include their single-origin Ethiopian and seasonal blends. The bakery features standout items like buttery croissants, savory scones, and the much-loved Morning Bun. Seasonal treats and rotating specials keep the menu exciting and fresh.
The atmosphere at Tandem Coffee and Bakery is warm and welcoming, with rustic yet modern decor. Seating options range from cozy indoor spaces to a charming outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a sunny day. The combination of delicious coffee, tasty baked goods, and a relaxed ambiance makes Tandem a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
4. Coffee ME Up
Address: 221 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Coffee ME Up was founded by Al and Maria, a passionate couple inspired by their travels and love for coffee. They aimed to create a space that feels like a second home, offering high-quality coffee and a welcoming environment. Their commitment to sourcing beans from ethical and sustainable farms ensures that each cup not only tastes great but also supports responsible farming practices.
The coffee menu at Coffee ME Up features a range of blends catering to different tastes. Their house blend is a smooth, balanced mix, perfect for any time of day. They also offer a robust dark roast and a bright, fruity light roast. Throughout the year, Coffee ME Up introduces seasonal specials that highlight unique flavors and ingredients, such as a spiced pumpkin latte in the fall and a refreshing iced lavender latte in the summer.
Deeply rooted in the local community, Coffee ME Up frequently hosts events and engages with customers. They organize regular coffee tasting sessions, workshops on brewing techniques, and community gatherings. These events foster a sense of community and provide an opportunity for customers to learn more about the art and science of coffee. The owners’ dedication to creating a friendly and inclusive environment has made Coffee ME Up a beloved spot in Portland.
5. Speckled Ax
Address:
567 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101
18 Thames St, Portland, ME 04101
135 Walton St, Portland, ME 04103
Speckled Ax was established by Matt Bolinder, who brought his passion for coffee roasting to Portland. Speckled Ax has built a reputation for its dedication to quality and innovation, setting itself apart with unique brewing techniques and a commitment to sustainability.
One of the unique features of Speckled Ax is their use of wood-roasted coffee, which imparts a distinct and rich flavor to their beans. They offer a diverse range of coffee varieties, from single-origin selections to carefully crafted blends. Their menu includes a variety of brewing methods, such as pour-over, siphon, and espresso, each designed to highlight the intricate flavors of their coffee.
Customer favorites at Speckled Ax include their wood-roasted espresso, known for its smooth and robust profile, and their pour-over coffee, which showcases the nuanced flavors of their single-origin beans. Must-try items also include seasonal specialties and limited-edition brews that reflect their ongoing experimentation and dedication to excellence.
6. The Proper Cup
Address: 500 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04101
The Proper Cup was founded by a group of friends who shared a love for coffee and a vision of creating a cozy, welcoming space for the community. Since its establishment, The Proper Cup has become known for its warm atmosphere and commitment to high-quality coffee.
Their menu features a wide array of coffee drinks, including classic brews and innovative creations. Some highlights include their signature Proper Latte, crafted with a unique blend of spices, and their special cold brew, which is smooth and refreshing. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, and light snacks to complement their coffee offerings.
The Proper Cup prides itself on its cozy environment and excellent customer service. The interior is designed to feel like a home away from home, with comfortable seating and a relaxed ambiance. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to recommend a drink or chat about the latest coffee trends. This combination of quality coffee, inviting atmosphere, and top-notch service makes The Proper Cup a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
7. Higher Grounds of Maine
Address: 45 Wharf St, Portland, ME 04101
Higher Grounds of Maine was inspired by the founders’ love for coffee and the uplifting experience it brings. The name reflects their commitment to offering not just great coffee but also a positive, elevated experience for every customer.
Their coffee selection is diverse, featuring a range of single-origin beans and carefully curated blends. Popular choices include their rich and bold dark roast, the smooth and balanced medium roast, and the bright and fruity light roast. They also offer a variety of espresso-based drinks, cold brews, and seasonal specialties that highlight unique flavors.
The ambiance at Higher Grounds is warm and inviting, designed to make customers feel at home. The café often hosts community events such as live music, open mic nights, and coffee tasting sessions, fostering a strong sense of community. Their involvement in local events and collaborations with other small businesses further solidifies their role as a community hub.
8. Hilltop Coffee Shop
Address: 100 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101
Hilltop Coffee Shop was established with the mission of creating a welcoming space for all. The founders wanted to provide not only excellent coffee but also a place where people could gather and connect. Since its opening, Hilltop has been a beloved spot in the neighborhood.
Their menu features a variety of signature drinks and snacks. Standout items include their handcrafted lattes, such as the vanilla bean latte and the mocha latte, which are made with house-made syrups. They also offer a selection of freshly baked goods, from muffins and scones to cookies and savory pastries.
The atmosphere at Hilltop Coffee Shop is cozy and inviting, with a décor that features local artwork, adding a personal touch to the space. The café regularly showcases works by local artists, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment. This combination of excellent coffee, delicious snacks, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Hilltop Coffee Shop a cherished spot for both locals and visitors.
9. Burundi Star Coffee
Address: 261 St John St, Portland, ME 04102
Burundi Star Coffee was founded by individuals passionate about sharing the rich coffee heritage of Burundi with the local community. Inspired by the unique flavors and traditions of Burundian coffee, the founders sought to create a space where these exceptional beans could be celebrated and enjoyed.
Their specialty coffee offerings include a variety of unique blends and single-origin beans from Burundi. Known for their bright acidity and complex flavor profiles, these coffees are a true delight for connoisseurs. Popular choices include the Burundi single-origin pour-over, which highlights the bean’s floral and citrus notes, and their espresso blends, which offer a balanced and rich experience.
Customer experience at Burundi Star Coffee is characterized by warmth and hospitality. The café’s design is inviting, with comfortable seating and a vibrant atmosphere. Community focus is evident through their regular events such as coffee tastings, cultural evenings, and educational workshops about coffee brewing and sourcing. This dedication to both quality coffee and community engagement makes Burundi Star Coffee a beloved spot in Portland.
10. Moonday Coffee
Address: 93 Washington Ave Unit 1, Portland, ME 04101
Moonday Coffee was established by a group of friends who envisioned creating a coffee shop that offers not only great coffee but also a place for people to unwind and connect. Since its opening, Moonday Coffee has become a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
Their menu features a range of highlights and standout drinks. The Moonday Latte, made with a secret blend of spices, is a customer favorite. Other popular items include their rich and creamy cappuccinos, refreshing cold brews, and an assortment of herbal and black teas. Their pastries, sourced from local bakeries, complement their beverage offerings perfectly.
The ambiance at Moonday Coffee is inviting and cozy, with an emphasis on comfort and relaxation. The café often hosts special events such as live music nights, poetry readings, and art exhibitions, fostering a sense of community and creativity. This combination of excellent coffee, a welcoming atmosphere, and engaging events makes Moonday Coffee a standout destination in Portland.
Conclusion
Portland, Maine boasts a vibrant and diverse coffee scene, with each of the Best Coffee Shops in Portland Maine offering something unique. Coffee By Design stands out with its community-focused ambiance and expertly brewed drinks. Bard Coffee impresses with its meticulous approach to sourcing and roasting, creating exceptional coffee experiences. Tandem Coffee and Bakery delights customers with its combination of high-quality coffee and freshly baked goods. Coffee ME Up provides a welcoming environment and seasonal specialties that draw in locals. Speckled Ax is known for its wood-roasted beans and innovative brewing techniques. The Proper Cup offers a cozy retreat with excellent service. Higher Grounds of Maine fosters community connections through events and local art. Hilltop Coffee Shop offers a cozy environment adorned with local artwork, and Burundi Star Coffee brings the unique flavors of Burundi to Portland. Moonday Coffee provides a relaxed and creative space with engaging events.
Supporting the Best Coffee Shops in Portland Maine is essential as it sustains small businesses and promotes local culture. These establishments are integral parts of the community, providing spaces for social interaction, creativity, and relaxation.
Exploring the Best Coffee Shops in Portland Maine is a delightful journey that promises rich flavors, warm atmospheres, and a deeper connection to the local community. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, make sure to visit these exceptional coffee shops and experience the best of what Portland has to offer.
