Sandy Blvd is a loooong road in Portland. We walked from the Grotto to downtown, exploring and getting some great coffee and food. Just getting from one of our favorites to the next, you may discover your own favorites. [ Click on the name to be taken to Google Maps’ address/description/reviews of the place. ]
J Vein Caffé.
We looooove smooth, strong coffee. There is a reason J Vein is a neighborhood legend – he does coffee right EVERY time. Bonus – he’s a thoughtful, intelligent guy that always has a friendly word for everyone, and a snack for the dogs that come by. Go find his silver stream in the back of the Rose City Food Park. Buck generally doesn’t go for take-out only coffee joints but even he made an exception here.
Lift Off Lounge.
Forgive our picture quality and just go to this lounge! The drinks are strong and presentation is giving thought as well – which just makes the whole experience more fun. Um, and make it a day when you’re channeling your young, high-metabolism self. That way, beyond the great decor/atmosphere and terrific drinks, you can try the homemade battered corndog with honey & mustard topping, or the massive cornflake-coated fried chicken sandwich, with a side of onion rings. We never made it to movie night – hopefully we can during our next Portland visit.
Case Study Coffee Roasters.
Occasionally, we missed J Vein’s open days/hours but we were jonsing for our caffeine fix. Generally we try to avoid chain coffee shops. However, Case Study is just up the road from J Vein, and Buck could get a delicious almond croissant – that they know how to heat it just right in a toaster oven (not a microwave – can’t STAND that).
A little further East:
Cameo Cafe East.
We stumbled upon this bustling Korean diner after taking a particularly long walk in the area, that included the nearby Grotto. Be patient if you have to wait a few minutes for a table. The flavors are worth it, and the portions will leave you rolling out of the place. We made it for breakfast once – and was delighted by their kimchi omelet, sitting in the house annex. We made it back for lunch, sat in the house, and thoroughly enjoyed the large and flavorful portions. And especially for Portland, the prices are surprisingly reasonable.
A little further West:
Petite Provence Boulangerie & Patisserie (at 3420 NE Sandy Blvd).
We were wandering toward a Fred Meyers and the food gods showed us this place. It was love at first LARGE, fresh croissant that came while we perused the menu. Buck chose something more traditional, while I thoroughly enjoyed the mushroom/quinoa cakes. Service also made this extra special with staff remembering to come back and refill coffee.
Besides this sampling of Portland Oregon’s food/drink options on Sandy Boulevard, check out our suggestions for NE Fremont and Alberta Street.