South Portland, Maine is a great place to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. The city has many cozy cafes and coffee shops where you can relax and savor your favorite brew. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a spot to hang out with friends, South Portland has options for every coffee lover.
You’ll find a mix of local favorites and well-known chains in South Portland’s coffee scene. Some shops serve locally roasted, fair trade, and organic coffee. Others offer tasty baked goods to go with your drink.
From trendy spots with fancy lattes to simple diners with classic drip coffee, there’s something for everyone in this coastal Maine city.
1. Smalls
Smalls is a cozy spot in Portland that’s perfect for coffee lovers. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and great drinks here. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy your favorite brew.
The shop offers more than just coffee. You can grab a snack or even some oysters to go with your drink. It’s a versatile spot that caters to different tastes and moods.
Smalls also has a market where you can buy wine and other goodies. This makes it a great place to pick up items for a night in or a small gathering with friends.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, Smalls hosts private events. You can book the space for a special occasion or join one of their wellness events for a different kind of outing.
Rating: 4.7 (177 reviews)
Location: 28 Brackett St, Portland, ME 04102
Website: Visit Website
2. Cia Cafe
Cia Cafe is a cozy spot in South Portland that’s perfect for your morning coffee fix. You’ll love the warm atmosphere and friendly staff that greet you as you walk in.
The cafe offers a great selection of coffee drinks to suit your taste. From classic espressos to fun seasonal lattes, there’s something for everyone. You can also enjoy fresh pastries and light bites to go with your coffee.
Cia Cafe takes pride in sourcing high-quality beans and carefully crafting each drink. You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in every sip. The baristas are skilled and happy to make recommendations if you’re not sure what to order.
Locals love this cafe for its community feel and consistent quality. It’s a great place to meet friends, catch up on work, or simply relax with a good book and your favorite brew.
Rating: 4.5 (307 reviews)
Location: 72 Ocean St STE 103, South Portland, ME 04106
Contact: (207) 747-4414
Website: Visit Website
3. Tandem Coffee and Bakery
You’ll love the cozy atmosphere at Tandem Coffee and Bakery. This charming spot on Congress Street serves up some of the best coffee in Portland.
Try their signature Nariño, Colombia La Bohemia blend. It comes from a farm nearly 2000 meters above sea level, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Tandem isn’t just about coffee. They also offer delicious baked goods to pair with your drink. You can even pick up some cool merch like hoodies and hats.
Don’t forget to join their rewards program. You’ll earn “Venkmans” with each purchase, which you can use for discounts on coffee and vinyl records.
Rating: 4.7 (1400 reviews)
Location: 742 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
Contact: (207) 760-4440
Website: Visit Website
4. Moonday Coffee
You’ll find a cozy little coffee spot tucked away on Washington Avenue in Portland. Moonday Coffee serves up tasty espresso drinks and traditional chai in a welcoming space.
Open from Thursday to Sunday, this charming cafe offers a break from the usual hustle and bustle. You can stop by in the morning or afternoon to get your caffeine fix.
Moonday takes pride in their carefully crafted beverages. Along with coffee and chai, you can also enjoy a selection of fine teas. It’s a great place to relax with a hot drink on a chilly Maine day.
The cafe has teamed up with MARI for a special collaboration. You can order these exclusive items online to try something new and exciting.
Rating: 5.0 (104 reviews)
Location: 93 Washington Ave Unit 1, Portland, ME 04101
Website: Visit Website
5. Burundi Star Coffee
Burundi Star Coffee is a hidden gem in Portland. You’ll find this cozy spot on St John Street, where the aroma of freshly roasted beans greets you as you enter.
The cafe takes pride in sourcing its coffee directly from Burundi. This means you get to enjoy unique flavors that you won’t find anywhere else in town.
The friendly staff are always happy to chat about their coffee. They can tell you all about the farmers and the special roasting process that makes their coffee so good.
Don’t miss their signature drinks. The Burundi pour-over is a must-try, showcasing the rich flavors of their single-origin beans. If you’re in the mood for something different, try their cold brew or espresso-based drinks.
Rating: 4.9 (262 reviews)
Location: 261 St John St, Portland, ME 04102
Contact: (207) 835-0121
Website: Visit Website
6. The Proper Cup
The Proper Cup is a cozy coffee shop in Portland, Maine. You’ll find it on Forest Avenue, ready to welcome you with the smell of freshly brewed coffee.
This spot opens early, perfect for your morning caffeine fix. You can grab a cup Monday through Saturday starting at 7 am. On Sundays, they open at 8 am, giving you a chance to sleep in a bit.
The Proper Cup closes at 1 pm every day. This makes it a great place for breakfast or an early lunch. You might want to plan your visit accordingly to catch them before they close.
Rating: 4.8 (247 reviews)
Location: 500 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Contact: (207) 405-4089
Website: Visit Website
7. Coveside Coffee
Coveside Coffee is a charming spot in Portland that you’ll love. It’s a cozy place to grab your morning cup or meet friends for a chat.
The coffee here is top-notch. You’ll find a variety of drinks to suit your taste, from classic brews to fancy lattes. The baristas are skilled and friendly, making sure you get just what you want.
You’ll enjoy the calm vibe at Coveside. It’s a great place to relax or get some work done. The shop has a warm feel that makes you want to stay a while.
Don’t forget to try their pastries if you’re hungry. They offer tasty treats that go perfectly with your coffee. You might find a new favorite snack here.
Rating: 4.8 (84 reviews)
Location: 28 Vannah Ave, Portland, ME 04103
Contact: (207) 536-0151
Website: Visit Website
8. Coffee ME Up
Coffee ME Up is a charming coffeehouse in Portland, Maine that you’ll want to visit. This family-owned spot offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with bright decor and plenty of natural light.
You’ll find a variety of delicious options here. The menu features sweet and savory baked goods, from European specialties to American favorites. Try their homemade baklava or one of their tasty breakfast sandwiches.
The coffee at Coffee ME Up is top-notch. You can enjoy a perfectly extracted espresso, a smooth nitro cold brew, or a delicious latte. They also serve Coffee by Design and Turkish coffee if you’re looking for something different.
The owners are passionate about creating a positive community space. You’ll often find them chatting with customers and making everyone feel at home. Their commitment to quality and friendly service makes this spot stand out among Portland’s coffee shops.
Rating: 4.8 (680 reviews)
Location: 221 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Contact: (207) 536-1279
Website: Visit Website)
9. Buzz Coffee
You’ll find Buzz Coffee nestled in the heart of Portland’s Exchange Street. This cozy spot is perfect for your morning pick-me-up or afternoon break.
The shop prides itself on serving top-notch coffee.
You can choose from a variety of brews, from classic drip to fancy lattes. Their baristas are skilled and friendly, always ready to whip up your favorite drink.
Buzz Coffee also offers a selection of pastries and light snacks. You can grab a quick bite with your coffee if you’re in a hurry.
The shop has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to stay and chat.
Don’t forget to try their seasonal specials. You might discover a new favorite drink that captures the flavors of the time of year.
Rating: 4.5 (121 reviews)
Location: 19 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101
Contact: (207) 405-4822
10. Bard Coffee
You’ll find a cozy spot to sip excellent coffee at Bard Coffee in Portland. This local favorite offers a warm welcome and top-notch brews.
Bard takes pride in their carefully selected beans. You can try their popular Rogue Wave blend or explore seasonal offerings like Mountain Bourbon Elite.
For those who prefer decaf, Bard has you covered with their Porcupine Decaf option. They also offer specialty drinks and pastries to complement your coffee.
The baristas at Bard are skilled and friendly. You can watch them craft your drink with care and precision.
The shop’s atmosphere is perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
Rating: 4.6 (1100 reviews)
Location: 185 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101
Website: Visit Website
Coffee Culture in South Portland
South Portland’s coffee scene is vibrant and diverse. Local roasters craft unique blends, while community events bring coffee lovers together.
Local Roasters and Their Impact
South Portland boasts several local coffee roasters who take pride in their craft. These small businesses source high-quality beans and create custom blends. You’ll find their products in many cafes around town.
Some popular local roasters include:
- Rwanda Bean Company
- Tandem Coffee Roasters
- Bard Coffee
These roasters often partner with local farmers and use sustainable practices. By buying their coffee, you support both the local economy and ethical sourcing.
Many roasters offer tours and tastings. You can learn about the roasting process and sample different blends.
It’s a fun way to deepen your coffee knowledge and meet other enthusiasts.
Community Events and Coffee Gatherings
Coffee brings people together in South Portland. Local cafes host regular events that celebrate coffee culture.
Popular events include:
- Latte art competitions
- Coffee cupping sessions
- Meet-the-roaster nights
These gatherings are great for meeting new people and trying new coffees. You might even pick up some brewing tips from the pros.
Some cafes also offer coffee classes.
You can learn about brewing methods, bean selection, and flavor profiles.
It’s a fun way to upgrade your home coffee game.
Community spaces like Electric Bike Cafe combine coffee with other interests. You can enjoy a cup while browsing bikes or attending a workshop.
Unique Coffee Experiences
South Portland offers coffee lovers some truly special experiences. You’ll find artisanal brews, creative drinks, and shops focused on sustainability.
Artisanal Brews and Specialty Drinks
You can taste unique coffee creations at several shops in South Portland. Speckled Ax uses a wood-roasting method for their beans, giving the coffee a distinct flavor.
They offer pour-overs and cold brews that highlight the roasting technique.
At Bard Coffee, you’ll find seasonal drinks that change throughout the year. Try their maple latte in fall or lavender mocha in spring. They also do fun latte art if you want an Instagram-worthy cup.
Tandem Coffee + Bakery pairs their drinks with house-made pastries. Their malted iced coffee is a local favorite.
You can also try coffee flights to sample different roasts side-by-side.
Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing
Many South Portland coffee shops prioritize sustainability and ethics. At Coffee By Design, you’ll find beans sourced directly from small farms.
They build long-term relationships with growers to ensure fair wages.
44 North Coffee focuses on organic and shade-grown beans. This helps protect bird habitats in coffee-growing regions. They roast in small batches to reduce energy use.
Higher Grounds uses compostable cups and lids. You’ll get a discount if you bring your own mug.
They also donate a portion of profits to local environmental causes.
Look for shops displaying Fair Trade labels. This means farmers got fair prices for their beans. Some places like Little Woodfords even list the exact farms they source from.
Frequently Asked Questions
South Portland has many great coffee shops to choose from. Here are answers to some common questions about the local coffee scene.
Where can I find the highest-rated coffee shops in South Portland, ME?
Smalls and Cia Cafe consistently get top ratings from locals and visitors. Both offer high-quality coffee and tasty food options in welcoming spaces.
What are some local favorite coffee spots in South Portland?
Tandem Coffee and Bakery is a popular local hangout. Moonday Coffee also has a loyal following for its cozy vibe and specialty drinks.
Can you recommend coffee shops with the best ambiance in South Portland, ME?
Burundi Star Coffee has a warm, inviting atmosphere with comfy seating. Cia Cafe’s bright, airy space is also great for relaxing with a cup of joe.
Which South Portland coffee shops serve the best home-roasted coffee?
Smalls roasts their own beans in small batches for maximum freshness. Tandem Coffee and Bakery is also known for their carefully crafted house roasts.
Are there any award-winning coffee houses in South Portland, ME?
Tandem Coffee has won several local and regional awards for their coffee. Cia Cafe has also been recognized for their quality drinks and service.
Where in South Portland can I find a coffee shop suitable for doing work or reading?
Moonday Coffee offers free WiFi and plenty of table space, making it ideal for working.
Cia Cafe also has a quiet area perfect for reading or studying.