Browsing Tag

coffee

Tacoma is on the rise as a top destination in the Northwest. Over 3.2 million people visited the “City of Destiny” last year. That number is projected to grow. If you plan on visiting Tacoma sometime soon, you’ll want the best experience possible.

As you pack your trip full of destinations like the local museums, nature reserves and live music venues, make sure to start your day off right with the most important meal of the day. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to grab breakfast in Tacoma!

Viva Tacoma

Whether you’re a vegan or just trying out a plant-based diet, you know how difficult it is to find a good breakfast place. Most breakfasts consist of bacon, eggs, and sausage after all.

But not at Viva.

Viva shakes up the breakfast game by offering plant-based breakfasts without sacrificing any of the flavors. Try out the biscuits and gravy, made with walnut breakfast sausage. Or for something sweet, chow down on the French Toast Brulee.

For all things healthy and delicious, head to Viva at 2602 N Proctor St D.

Shakabrah Java

Tacoma’s got so much to see. If you’re in a hurry, you can’t see it all. But you can still have a fantastic and filling breakfast. How? Stop into Shakabrah!

In addition to a full-service restaurant, they’ve also got a cafe for when you’re on the go. Thanks to the handy menu board flowchart out front, it’s easy to determine the kind of service that will be the best fit for you.

And you’ve got options. From homestyle cuisine like biscuits and gravy to brunch favorites like huevos rancheros, there’s one thing for certain. You won’t make it out of Shakabrah hungry.

If you’ve got a full day touring Tacoma, start it off right by stopping into Shakabrah Java at 2618 6th Ave.

Dirty Oscar’s Annex

Tacoma is known as “The City of Destiny.” When in Tacoma, you’re destined for a fantastic breakfast if you visit Dirty Oscar’s Annex.

Enjoy tasty treats like Cinnamon Toast Crunch french toast, or pancakes stuffed with cheese and potatoes. But if you’re in the mood for something a bit more crafty, then you’re in luck.

Dirty Oscar’s boasts craft cocktails like moonshine mimosas, spicy bloody mary’s, and spiked coffees. You can even create your own sampler of moonshine!

Located at 2309 6th Ave.

Lobster Shop

There’s no way you should visit Tacoma and skip out on all of the delicious seafood the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Enjoy a posh breakfast on the waterfront at the Lobster Shop. 4015 Ruston Way.

They’ve got everything you need to satisfy your seafood cravings. From poached salmon to oyster shooters, to chilled prawns. You can have it all! Come for the buffet-style brunch, and enjoy the waterfront views.

Southern Kitchen

The Pacific Northwest, in many ways, is in stark contrast to the Deep South. So if you’re from the South, and are visiting the Tacoma area, you might feel a little homesick. That’s where Southern Kitchen comes in.

Craving classics like corncakes and grits? Come on down to Southern Kitchen, located at 1716 6th Ave. Along with rib-sticking breakfasts, you’ll have a side of good ol’ southern charm and hospitality.

Pao’s Donuts & Coffee Shop

What do Homer Simpson, most children and pretty much any person with functioning tastebuds have in common? They all love donuts!

Pao’s Donuts & Coffee Shop located at 6919 6th Ave, is a family owned local favorite. You may recognize the aesthetic from your childhood. It is a former

In addition to some of the freshest and fluffiest donuts in Tacoma, Pao’s offers tasty treats like scones and muffins. Be sure to bring your appetite! And also bring your spare change, because Pao’s is cash only.

Biscuit House

Craving something heartier than donuts? Go for biscuits instead! And when you’re in the Tacoma area, the best place to go for biscuits is Biscuit House located at 9702 South Tacoma Way #102.

You can rely on the fact their biscuits and gravy are amazing. But if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the Sunshine Pizza. It’s made with Biscuit House’s flaky and famous biscuit crust and is topped with sausage gravy, ham, cheese, and eggs.

Don’t settle for leftover pizza for breakfast. Head to Biscuit House for their rendition on breakfast pizza instead!

Marcia’s Silver Spoon Cafe

Don’t blink, or you’ll miss out on this hidden gem. Marcia’s Silver Spoon Cafe is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Sixth Ave, but it’s a breakfast spot you won’t want to skip out on. Here’s why.

Marcia’s Silver Spoon Cafe has that classic diner feel that everyone knows and loves. It’s cozy, familiar, and there’s no way you’ll leave on an empty stomach.

So if Tacoma is a city that’s new to you, you can still find the small-town comforts of a diner at Marcia’s Silver Spoon Cafe at 2601 S Tacoma Way.

Anthem Coffee and Tea

One of the most famous things out of the Pacific Northwest is coffee. If you’re visiting Tacoma, you might think you’re missing out on all of the Pike Place fanfare for coffee. But in reality, you couldn’t be more wrong. That’s because Tacoma’s got a number of amazing coffee shops and roasters.

Anthem Coffee and Tea is a small chain from the South Sound that not only handcrafts coffee beverages, but serves loose leaf tea, beer and wine. Try out favorites like the Grown-Ups Chocolate Milk (Marbled Cold Brew), or the Cuban Espresso.

We love their amazing cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting along with their savory scones. Try any number of their breakfast sandwiches. Most of their baked good are prepared by hand at their Point Ruston location.

With a hip, cozy ambiance to match their delectable coffee drinks, Anthem cements itself as “the place to be.”

Hob-Nob Restaurant & Lounge

Looking for a no-frills breakfast spot? Check out The Hob-Nob, located next to beautiful Wright Park.

Hob-Nob’s got everything you want in a diner: friendly staff, delicious food, and ginormous portions. What more could you want? A top of the line Bloody Mary?

Turns out, they have that too! Stuffed with all the goodies including olives, asparagus, and celery, Hob-Nob’s Bloody Mary is almost a meal in itself!

So when you visit Hob-Nob, save room for drinks with your breakfast!

Ready To Grab Breakfast in Tacoma?

From down-home diners to seafood buffets, there’s no shortage of places you can go for breakfast in Tacoma. So don’t come to Tacoma for the amazing scenery. Come for the best breakfast spots!

If this list left you hungry for more, great! Check out these restaurants for the best lunches and dinners.

The list of all coffee lists: The Best Coffee in Portland

There are plenty of things to do in Portland, but first, you’ve got to find the best coffee in Portland.

Coffee is a commodity in the Northwest. It beckons us in our waking hours, morning excursions and afternoon breaks. For some, the aroma and the warmth maintain it’s lure into the evening, especially when the weather may turn stormy or cold.

Knowing a good spot to get the best coffee in Portland, when away from the home, is an important thing in the Pacific Northwest! We’ve curated this list of a best coffee shops and the best coffee around Portland, that we believe you’ll appreciate. And now, for the best coffee in Portland!

Coffee Time

Nestled just below the West Hills off 21st street this local haunt is a favorite for writers, artists, and night owls alike. Coffee Time is the shop that Portland never talks about. For over 20 years this spot is something of a best kept secret. I’ve known many people who have lived in the city for many years and have yet to have heard of it. I was lucky enough to have some friends talk me into going one night just months after having moved to Bridgetown back in 2005.

This shop beckons you in with sidewalk seats, french doors that open up the front, and seating stretching back toward the rear of the establishment. Elaborate murals in the rear cove depict a story set likely during prohibition where people dressed in their best are fraternizing with each other at a bar.

There’s usually no problem finding a seat, unless of course it’s mid-terms or finals week. This place is open until midnight so students are able to take advantage of the free WiFi and a quiet space.

Coffee Time’s Coffee

The coffee is good. I cannot recall a single bad cup of coffee. They have a good balance between sweet and savory making them an attractive destination if you’re looking for something unique. Deserts here are delicious. The long bar boast of delicious pastries and food. It shows off the fact that this isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a signature. The baristas are knowledgable and helpful knowing how to ask the right questions.

The main draw for me has been that it’s a good place to be with friends and have conversation while having a good cup of coffee. The atmosphere is prefect. It also perfect when you are alone but your want to at least be around people late a night.

Vivaće

We now arrive at 23rd Street which is a favorite for tourists visiting Portland. Off Pettygrove in the Knob Hill district stands another iconic Portland coffee shop dubbed Vivace’. Inside a Victorian style house built in 1893 Vivace’ is a fitting name which means “lively and brisk”! Founded in 2000 by the original owner, crepes and coffee are the cash crop of what makes up this coffee shop. Beautiful mustard painted walls with white trim and deep red curtains, a chandelier hangs from the ceiling lighting the room. There are a multitude of windows letting a significant amount of light in the main area. There’s a separate room off to the side usually more conducive to a quieter ambience from the bustle of the kitchen and overhead music.

Tables and chairs are plenty a caveat which makes for tight seating. This place is bustling during the weekend for all the “Brunchies”.

Vivace’s Coffee

Nutella, syrup, honey, and oil crowd the shelves behind the bar in the kitchen. The counter is set inside a makeshift tile boarder. The chalkboard menu offers a plethora of espresso, pastries, sandwiches, and a surprising amount of crepe options both sweet and savory.

The food and coffee here is well crafted, delicious, and punctual. The ambience makes for a great place to catch up with friends or simply to find a comfortable place to sip coffee and read a book. It’s no wonder this place comes in high on places we recommend. Anyone who’s been here undoubtedly has great things to say about Vivace’, We certainly do!

Ava Roasteria

There is something very special about Ava Roasteria. With strong influences from Italian design Ava stands out in Oregon’s Coffee City of cities.

(FYI-pronouced with a soft “a” – Ah-vuh. Similar to the “ah” sound in a-capella, not a hard “a” like Eh-vuh)

Most locations are large enough to accommodate a signifiant amount of traffic. Ava’s selection of menu items is broad. Pastries, desserts, soups, salads and sandwiches are all delicately prepared, making it more than a mere coffee shop and more like a cafe.

Ava Roasteria’s Location Details

Their locations are clean and bright while its interior design makes Ava a welcome alternative against a backdrop of danker and more questionable all-night coffee shops. While their locations look nearly the same on the inside their demographic is not. A broad span of racial and multigenerational diversity is a common thread seen in every location. Not only that but they have made an emphasis on rebuilding community within the suburbs of Portland. According to owner, Amy Saberiyan during a subcommittee meeting, their first coffee shop used to be a vacant and dilapidated fueling station, “an eye sore in the heart of Beaverton”. She follows up by saying, “Ava Roasteria is more than just an upscale coffee shop and bakery; it has become a community gathering place.”

This is quite true. On any given day Ava is see as a hub for students, families, bookworms, gamers, and coffee aficionados alike. There is little to no singular demographic dominating the scene. This is where I believe its diversity is a small, none the less, vital attribution of a larger balanced business model. Ava is strong and growing and in turn making their brand more accessible not limited to urban areas but in the neighborhood. With over ten years under their belt and even growth during a recession, their five locations leave little room for doomsday skeptics. A humble power (coffee) house.

Ava Roasteria’s Coffee

The coffee here is Fair Trade, and according one of Ava’s managers, is roasted in both the Beaverton and Orenco Station sites. It’s well roasted making both its use for espresso and house coffee delicious and is some of the best coffee in Portland.

Locations are open 24 hours and free 5G WiFi is provided.

Locations include: Beaverton off Hall Blvd, Tigard in Progress Ridge, Orenco Station in Hillsboro, Lake Oswego off Kruse Way, and their latest location is just off HWY 26 on Barnes Road.

Symposium

There’s good reason why most of Portland (and surrounding suburbs) use late 19th to early 20th century houses for businesses. Symposium in Sherwood is no exception. In a city full of cookie-cutter and one-decor-fits-all coffee shops this Craftsman style Bungalow house is a welcome retreat giving visitors a certain home like vibe.

The spacious front porch as well as portions of the front yard provides seating during the warmer months. The inside layout remains much the same as your typical home. Hardwood floors, muted interior colors, and large windows. It just so happens to double as a coffee shop. Seating is plentiful both on the main floor and upstairs. Cleverly, they’ve even chosen old church pews for seating. Pastries and sandwiches are on hand if you’re hungry.

Symposium’s Coffee

Symposium serves Stumptown Coffee, we think is a perfect choice. Due to it’s quality, popularity and that it’s local to Portland, it makes for one of the best coffees in Portland. The baristas are well informed displaying a craft for well made coffee without pretense. Although the menu is minimalistic showing only fundamental drink options (ie. “Latte, Mocha, Americano, etc) their offerings, however, extend to more lavish options. The baristas have some great ideas for drinks. I personally recommend the lavender latte. Believe me when I say it’s one of their most popular choices.

Although not open very late it’s worth mentioning that the upstairs tends to be much quieter which accommodates those who are studying.

Sherwood, Oregon is a relatively isolated little town about 30 mins outside Portland. Although close to highway 99W there’s no quick way to reach Sherwood. The highways are simply four lane roads (two lanes each way). Additionally there are a plethora of stoplights. Factoring in Portland’s relatively recently traffic increase rush hour now affects these districts as well. Despite the gridlock, there is a coffee shop in Sherwood we think is worth the drive. Set in an old two story house in the heart of Sherwood I hope to instill the desire within you to find yourself at Symposium Coffee.

*note there is another symposium coffee in downtown Tigard.

Other coffee shops with the best coffee in Portland

Sisters Coffee: Sisters Coffee in the Pearl is an homage to it’s flagship store in Sisters Oregon. With roots and a roastery in the Sisters Country of Central Oregon, Sisters coffee brings their down home flavor to the Pearl District. Much of the design is an homage to its flagship story in Sisters, OR. There are some cozy spots in the loft for reading or conversations, and large stone fireplace just steps from the bar. Check out their Roasters Blog

Insomnia Coffee Co.: Insomnia Coffee Co. brings quality coffee culture to the suburbs, featuring a comfortable vibe, live music and friendly staff. They have two Hillsboro locations at 3rd and Main and Baseline, along with a Tanasbourne in Beaverton. While at the coast you can enjoy their offerings at their Cannon Beach location. Insomnia features Dapper & Wise Roasters.

Southeast Grind: I’ve only been here twice but I was left with the impression that aside from being slightly overcrowded, the good coffee, wifi, and punch cards make Southeast Grind desirable destination in Southeast Portland. The barista’s are jovial and cheery. There’s a surprising amount of seating here and the environment was very quiet and peaceful.

McMenemins: Their house drip coffee holds it’s own. Simple.

Barista: Can be crowded but the baristas at Barista are well trained and helpful. There’ s a full service bar environment and lots of long wooden tables with bench seating.

Well And Good: A small location of 72nd Ave in Tigard. Well and Good is a great place for small chats and in and out stops.

St. Honore Boulangerie: Locations include Lake Oswego, SE Division, and NW Thurman. Get delicious pastries to pair with your coffee in this immersive patisserie experience.

Stumptown Coffee Roasters: Multiple Locations throughout Portland. The one I recommend is on the corner of Division and Southeast 45th. A full service bar for simple yet delectable coffees.

Please comment below about your favorite coffee shop and what you consider the best coffee in Portland!

Manifesto Coffee Single Origin Whole Bean House Blends

Manifesto Coffee Satisfies Your Daily Caffeine Dose

Manifesto Coffee hit the ground running when their dynamic team opened doors in October 2016, emphasizing what’s important to many when it comes to coffee. This shop focuses on superbly roasted beans, and offers Fair-Trade, Organic, Single-Origin Coffee. The coffee has a rich full-bodied flavor that might have you going back for a second Americano. Before you get trapped by winter storms, stop by and pick up one of their original house blends. Hours of operations are 6 AM to 5 PM pm on weekdays and 8 AM to 5 PM on weekends. Manifesto Coffee is located on South 11th Street in Tacoma’s Hilltop Neighborhood

Meet the Masterminds

Manifesto Coffee is a casual coffee shop, co-owned by Israel Hickey and Jack Saffle. This pair has taken their combined coffee expertise and collaborated with a couple close counterparts to create their version of the corner coffee shop. Israel the Head Roaster, lets the beans speak for themselves. His skillful roasting brings out a rich aroma and full bodied flavor profile. I had a moment to discuss the details with Jack. He shared with me in all honesty how for him this local coffee joint embodies all things Tacoma. This is a place for Skaters, Dungeon and Dragons folk and the alternative locals. Not only is this a space to drink amazing coffee, but its a place to collaborate and share their love of Tacoma. With coffee at their core, it’s not hard to see why Manifesto Coffee is the next up-and-coming neighborhood attraction.

The Main Event, Single Origin Espresso

Establishing themselves in the Fair Trade Organic scene, Manifesto Coffee is available at Harbor Greens, the Tacoma Boys 6th Ave, Puyallup and Lakewood locations, Stadium Thriftway, and Dave’s Meat and Produce. Whats more, their variety of blends have unique flavor profiles which are highlighted in the charismatic names.

Sumatra Takengon has a truly decadent taste. This Single Origin blend has a sweet flavor profile that highlights strawberry, cinnamon, and hibiscus. Consequently the name take-n-gone showcases its popularity as this house original has flown off the shelves. Alternatively, Ethiopia Yirgacheffe hits more floral notes, embodying elderflower, honey and melon for a smooth taste. Indeed spice is not forgotten with the Mexico Chiapas. This spicy bright coffee has notes of cedar and tobacco. No doubt this coffee will transport drinkers somewhere warmer. Finally Nicaragua San Juan De Rio Coco has rich apricot, hazelnut notes. This cup of Joe goes perfectly with your favorite chocolate pastry. If you aren’t sure what caffeine hits the spot just ask your barista for a recommendation.

2 Ways to Enjoy

For most of us, coffee helps us to speak to other humans in the morning. The first way to try this new local coffee shop is to of course stop by and get caffeinated. Not everyone takes their coffee black. For this reason, Manifesto Coffee and 1022 have you covered. The syrups on the espresso bar are made from scratch by the craft cocktail professionals at 1022 on South J Street. They are coupled with seasonal, organic flavors that in my opinion are some of the best blended syrups around. Moreover, the second way to enjoy is to grab a bag of beans from your local grocer and perk up with a french press.Considering that you’re already in the neighborhood, go grab some java from these local experts. Tell them Clever Neighbor sent you and you seek caffeine!

Manifesto Coffee
Address: 1003 S 11th St, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (360) 775-9834
Hours: 6AM–5PM

Donuts from a Drive Thru! I must have crashed and gone to heaven!

If you have a hankering for donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop in Tacoma’s West End (making the West Slope Historic). You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your car—they have a drive thru window! Bring cash though because credit cards are not welcome. However the inexpensive pricing will have you searching your seats for change (I speak from experience).

A fresh selection of Old Fashioned donuts in Tacoma at Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop

Pao’s Excels in its Simple Approach

I am impressed with the pricing, the simplicity and the excellence in their offerings. Eating at Pao’s has changed what I accept as a good donut. The owners have been there to serve me each time I go. They are quick let me know which donuts are fresh, and which are discounted day old donuts. I was hesitant in ordering an espresso from a donut shop, but I must say, my double tall latte was well made. Pao and his wife seem to take pride in their work, and the community has noticed . Pao’s was voted Best of the South Sound in 2016.

Pao’s was voted Best in the South Sound for 2016.

Family Business

The atmosphere may seem familiar to you. Pao’s is a former Dunkin Donuts. Pink donut boxes, stacked high behind the counter. Pictures of Pao’s children are on the walls, some with giant donuts. You get the feeling that Pao’s is not just a business—but a means to an end—a vision of what America can be and is.

Local To Tacoma

Pao’s is just off Highway 16 on 6^th avenue, on the way toward Titlow Beach, where grown men once wrestled octopi. Tacoma Community College is nearby as is the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. There are lots of things to do in Tacoma, but stopping here in a must!

Do you like musicals? Check out this 5 disk Boxset.

An assortment of syrups illuminated in Pao’s drive thru window, by the late day sun.

Don’t Forget The Cash!

Next time you’re cruising the streets, looking for some donuts in Tacoma, check out Pao’s Donuts and Coffee Shop. You won’t be disappointed–unless you forget your cash!