This morning my wife and I were looking for a new to us coffee spot and due to being so close this was the spot we ended up picking. Seeing their seasonal (Valentines) specials on social media really sold us on coming in. It was not that busy when we came in and took no time at all to order and receive our drinks. The baristas were friendly and the spot is definitely a welcoming to everyone space. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It seemed like a good spot for those interested to spend time on the computer doing some work or those wanting to watch the world walk by out the windows.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The overall vibes were nice enough and I don't have anything overly negative about it but enjoy some other local spots more.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It is a thin long space which maybe contributed to that feeling.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Also secondly I think it leans a little more towards generic coffee shop.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Drink wise my wife and I typically are iced coffee drinkers no matter the weather but with the walking around in the cold made us want that hot coffee to warm us up. I went with their Salted Banana Foster while my wife got the Cherry Cobbler Au Lait. Both were solid drinks to give us that warming feeling inside and delivered good flavor without being too overpowering. Arabica will be a coffee shop I will consider revisiting in Portland it just may not be my first choice. read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]This was a cute little coffee shop that I was able to do my work in.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I like the ambiance very much--nobody rushed me and there were several of us on computers.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I ordered a black coffee and it was not fantastic but I think that was the type of single origin blend I ordered so I'll go back and try again. And even though I'm not a latte woman, I might have to get that maple oat one-- read more

Popped in to have a strawberry hibiscus milk tea and it was not as flavorful as other milk teas I've tried. :( however, [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibes of the decor and environment were spot-on.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Great staff interactions! I will come back and try other items on their menu! read more

Arabica Coffee - Milk tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Whenever I have walked past Arabica I knew I had to try it out, if not just for that amazing curved bar seating in the huge window.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] When I finally checked it out, I was super impressed with their chai. It tasted homemade and was a great size for the price, [[HIGHLIGHT]]plus sitting with a hot drink at that cool curved bar is so fun.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I can totally see myself sitting in here with a book or doing some people watching. The staff were friendly, and my chai came out fast and hot. Will definitely be back! read more

Arabica Coffee - Chai latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

Portland's hidden gem! I love Arabica's Milky Way latte, but really anything from there is delicious. Barista's are always friendly and it's a very relaxing coffee shop vibe inside. read more

Stopped in for ice coffee, ice chai and a piece of toast - coffee and chai were fantastic; we also had sourdough toast that was thick and lightly toasted - best part? Two butters for each piece of toast! [[HIGHLIGHT]]We took it to go; but could easily eat in.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Arabica Coffee - Ice coffee - just right - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

Updating my updated review now that I've been more recently. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space: picture kind of a long, wide hallway with high ceilings and exposed brick with a funky layout that they make work (there are stools at the window in the front which are great for people watching, there's also couches in the middle-ish area, and a raised platform with limited [like two or three?] tables in the back if you want a little bit more privacy). Lots of seating options, is the point![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]But heads-up: the acoustics here are horrible. You can hear everything everyone is talking about, so if you get overwhelmed by excessive noise you'll definitely want to bring headphones.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff: not the friendliest or engaging. Several times in the past year they've not even said a word to me when I was standing at the counter. It's very awkward and off putting when, as the customer, you have to ask the employee (who is staring you down) if you're allowed to order. The coffee: the best drink here is the iced maple oat milk latte. Add an additional shot of espresso to cut down on the sweetness (or a little blueberry syrup if you want an entirely breakfast tasting coffee drink). They're not the only place in the city doing this exact flavor profile, though, so as someone who doesn't live in downtown Portland/doesn't want to deal with the parking issues in this area/likes quieter places to WFM or meet with friends, I wouldn't come out of my way here for anything. read more

We've had breakfast at a different coffee shop every day we've been in town and today was no different! We had seen Arabica when we were roaming around one day. Since today is our last day in Portland, today was the day. It's cold and grey and rainy. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Walking into the coffee shop was nice and warm and welcoming.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We were greeted enthusiastically by the person taking our order. We each ordered a latte (the lavender honey was yum), my husband got a slice of quiche and I got a delicious blueberry lemon scone. I usually eat some protein for breakfast, but this was calling my name! If we're ever back in town, we know where to go! read more

See all

(updating my review after going here quite a bit recently) [[HIGHLIGHT]]the only thing that really stands out about arabica is the location and atmosphere. the natural light, plants, and plenty of seating options are great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]however, as others have mentioned, the acoustics are strange and whatever you say echos across the room.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] the coffee itself is okay--never wows me nor disappoints. their matcha is bland. pastries are hit-or-miss, there's usually few left by mid-day anyway. the staff is super weird, often literally won't acknowledge you or say a single word to you while you're ordering. which is fine, but it's always just uncomfortable and cold. [[HIGHLIGHT]]overall it's kinda sad to see arabica never improve despite how beautiful their space is![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]It pains me to write this, because I used to love Arabica with my whole heart, but I feel like the only good thing is the fact that they're a great place for WFH-ers because of their spacious interior, plentiful seating, wifi, and single-stall bathroom.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] However, their drinks don't match up quality wise to some of the other coffee shops in the nearby area. As other reviewers have said, there are times that certain staff members can be rude, fake, or unfriendly. This is especially disappointing because I was a routine regular who always tipped 20%, yet often received no warmth from baristas. As someone who works in customer service, I think a positive disposition and attitude is a must (unless dealing with someone unreasonable). [[HIGHLIGHT]]To top it off, the space is usually unbearably hot in the spring/summer months.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Loved the warm welcoming environment.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]This seems like the perfect spot for a fall/winter hangout.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Blueberry pancake latte was pretty good! read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Cute coffee shop in downtown Old Port.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Hard to find parking unless you work/live in the city. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very cute inside but typically always busy and loud.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The drinks are typically very great! The service the last time I was there was not very friendly. Overall lots of coffee places to try in Portland and this isn't my favorite. read more

Arabica Coffee - Inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Sweet place to hangout and get work done.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The maple oat latte is delicious but just a hair too sweet for me. I usually get an iced Milky Way which is basically chocolate milk w coffee. read more

Arabica Coffee - Hot maple oat latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

This probably deserves slightly higher than 3 stars but there is so much coffee competition here in Portland, this simply wasn't a favorite. My coffee was a little watery. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is pretty and made even more so with fresh flowers.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is seating but not a lot, enough to accommodate but if more people had come in while we were there it would've tough.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Additionally some of the seating, a few steps up, and downstairs bathrooms make it inconvenient for physically challenged folks.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Arabica Coffee - Space infused with flowers - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

When I heard #arabicacoffeeme made blueberry maple lattes, this was a immediate need where it needed to be quench and it was. On the outside this latte look liked any typical latte with a blue straw but once sipped it was delicious and satisfying with the blueberry syrup and swirled with maple syrup. It was so good that the finished this drink way too quickly. Inside of this coffee shop is welcoming with its like bright and airy windows and there are nooks inside for catching up with friends or remote/work . read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]My go to coffee shop for a sit down cafe experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I love their lattes and chai. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great atmosphere for coffee with friends or a deep study session![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Warm interiors are inviting and comforting in this cold morning, and so are the smiles from the hostesses.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I can sip coffee here and watch the world go on in their own matrix. Cappuccino was decent, but has potential to wow the enthusiasts. The first few sips had citrus notes that were followed by chocolatey coffee. Sadly mine had a blob of milk foam on top that I had to scoop out to get real taste. So, no crema for me this time. Beans 5/5 Barista skill W/ cappuccino 3/5 [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambience 5/5[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

After spending two months in Portland for the summer and trying 10 different coffee spots for both their pastries and coffees, I have to say Arabica is top two in the list. For starters they have a great coffee selection sourced from coffee growers all over the world. The coffee is delicious by itself, but they have a variety of homemade syrups. I'm obsessed with their quiche and order it every time I stop by for coffee. The staff is very sweet and they have a nice space to sit and enjoy your food. read more

See all

You think the perfect coffee shop doesn't exist? Walk into Arabica. You'll be met by a massive coffee tree (a real one!), plenty of seating and space to read a book or do some work, local magazines and newspapers (free!), and just the best vibes all around. I've been here dozens of times and they never disappoint. The coffee's great, the baristas are awesome, and their love for our Portland community is felt as soon as you walk in. Some of my favorite things about Arabica: - They have a huge amount of space inside, which is quite impressive as it looks somewhat small from the outside. - They close at 4:30pm, even in the coldest months of the year. I so appreciate that. - They have a rewards program. 1 free coffee for every 12 purchases. - Plenty of tables with outlets nearby, as well as couches and stools. Thank you for being such a gem in our community, Arabica. Love ya! read more

Arabica Coffee - a hand holding a coffee cup - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

Cute coffee shop on a fun street in Portland. Coffee was decent. Service was good. Nice environment to enjoy coffee and a book! read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]I really want to give Arabica 5 stars because it is a really nice spot.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] However, out of all the times I've been there (and it's a quite a few) I think I've had one nice interaction with the baristas. I don't know if they just don't like their jobs, or maybe they have an unbearable manager and crummy pay, but they never seem happy or friendly. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a shame because the coffee is good and the vibes are lovely, but the service is a deterrent.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Arabica is close to where I live but sometimes I'll make the trek up Congress St. to Double Great coffee just so I can be treated a little better. read more

Always want to like this place. And frankly I don't come in that often but when I'm in town, I stop in. I find the staff stuffy, the prices high, and the offerings anemic. And with all that said, you are served with a bit of attitude. I think I'm done. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are so many warmer and friendlier coffee shops in town.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Atmosphere would be much brighter if the staff weren't so rude.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Came in the other day and asked where the bathroom was (it was our first time coming in) and the barista with brown curly hair rolled her eyes and said it was in the back. She then turned away and ignored me for a few minutes while I stood there waiting to order a drink. Completely turned off by this experience. Will not be returning. I have never hit "no tip" so quickly in my life, and I'm usually a 20% or more. read more

My friend and I stopped by for drinks on a Sunday afternoon. I ordered the hibiscus iced tea with lemon. It was super refreshing and tart. My friend ordered a lavender lemonade, and said it was some of the best lavender syrup they had tried! The barista was super nice and made my friends drink to taste, since lavender is such a strong flavor. Overall, good drinks and great staff! read more

Happened to be walking past Arabica and decided to stop in for an iced chai. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is very nice and the staff was too.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Unfortunately, the iced chai literally had no chai in it. Was milk + water + ice. A bit surprising. read more

Such an awesome place. Cozy vibe plenty of places to sit, the staff is extremely nice and very willing to make your drink dreams come true. Drinks are great and they have a wide selection of bagels available. read more

Good Lord, this atmosphere is perfect for me. It's a beautiful old building and the inside retains all that character. Love the decor, and high ceilings, yet it also feels cozy. Big windows with lots of light! Got a fancy coffee drink, and it was delicious. Despite being busy and the high ceilings, it didn't seem particularly noisy. A good mix of seating for groups and solos. Reminds me of a place I used to go to all the time in Milwaukee that I miss very much that was on the lakefront. Will definitely be back. Probably a lot. read more

I stayed at an Airbnb near by this place and tried a couple different drinks. One was a cherry mocha which was very good, there wasn't a super distinct cherry flavor but still very good. The other was a vanilla blueberry late which I got with extra flavor so that the fruit flavor would be strong. Again very good! Also the morning bun was so so yummy! I would definitely recommend this place. read more

I got the maple oat milk latte and it was amazing. the maple was real maple from vermont and i could tell. it really blended well with the latte and gave it the fresh taste. they were very friendly when we walked in and helped us pick a great drink. also a great place to study or do work or have a catch up with friends! would come back! read more

Before my 2-hr drive to Portland, I had only had tea, the reason why I rather not get into right now. Anyways, I parked and started walking. Saw this place, whipped out the Yelp, saw the good reviews, and hopped in. Though I usually wait till the end, I want to say now that the service was wicked friendly! Ordered myself a small maple latte, where lots of things just went right. The coffee was strong, too many lattes dilute the coffee until it becomes a milkshake that only dreams of bearing the name "coffee". Sweetness and maple flavor were on point! Not so loaded with sugar that the maple became unrecognizable. Alright, this is all great, why then did I only give 4 stars? Well, it comes down to the prices. If you read my reviews you know I am a stickler for value, and I feel that when I got vs the price didn't go hand in hand. My coffee was small as far as smalls go (8oz), and was a little pricey on top of that. Still, when I return to Portland I shall return here. read more

See all

Great beans and a skilled bartista made for a strong and tasty cortado. It's a clean place with friendly staff. I would come back! read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Nice place but $6.00 coffee cakes and $5.00 cookies[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. No thanks. I know costs are up especially in Portland but this is ridiculous. read more

Really cool spot to relax and have a cup of Java! Had the BeeStingler Latte along with a fresh tasting berry muffin. The latte creation with a touch of honey is just right (not to sweet). read more

Arabica Coffee - Beestinger Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

This place is absolutely gorgeous, and they made me the most perfect latte. I loved the black and white tiled floor. The employees were all very friendly and helpful. It was a clean and quiet environment with tons of natural light. I'll definitely come by again next time I'm visiting Portland. read more

See all

Overpriced coffee and terrible tasting products. 3.50$ for an espresso is insane, especially when the rest of the drinks hover around that 3-4$ mark. The plain croissant is also overpriced but worst of all it's whole wheat! It tastes like sandpaper. Their "famous" Maple Oat Latte is also horrible and I just plain don't recommend it. Couldn't finish any of my overpriced items and left the place with a bad taste in my mouth. All in all the coffee here is absolutely a miss, but the place does have a very nice atmosphere inside (therefore avoids 1 star). Rethink the prices and I could reconsider! Also please let people know your pastries are made with whole wheat, that croissant alone can be the reason I wouldn't come back. read more

For all you vegans out there, they make the best chai oat milk latte in town! I was getting it practically everyday for a couple months! Not to mention their berry crisp and banana bread are also mouth watering! The staff are super friendly and down-to-earth. Great conversationalists and always make customers feel welcomed. Definitely my favorite coffee shop in Portland read more

One of my worst cases of being bent over. Went in here at 8:15 in the morning on a rainy winter day. No one else in the place. Only gluten free bagels left so we had to go with that and also ordered 2 microscopic teas. After some financial black magic the total came out to 17 dollars some how. Taking it on the chin I took the order to go and off I went in the car. Strangely found a plastic knife in the bag which alerted me that there may not be any butter on the bagel just yet, as I had ordered. After inspecting the bagel my fears were turned to reality. 17 dollars and you gotta put the butter on yourself. I'm not a Mainer so maybe this is a regional commonality I'm not familiar with, but either way I think it's insulting. Last kick in the nuts was finding a container of cream cheese in the bag instead of the butter I asked for. All that said the people working there were very nice, and the tea was fabulous. Many other places to get breakfast in Portland, I'd try any of them before this one. Heed my warning read more

UPDATE : Let me just say that I am beyond disappointed with Arabica and my most recent experience. In hopes of enjoying the beautiful weather, a couple of us decided to go on a walk in the Old Port on 1/20/18. Prior to starting our walk, we figured we would get a coffee to enjoy while we explored the Old Port. I had been hardcore craving a Maple Latte all day and was determined to get one. Being that I wasn't sure if Hot Suppa would get me one of theirs to go, I remembered that Arabica had a Maple Latte. So away we went. We got to Arabica at approximately 2:45 PM. There was a few people there but by no means was it busy. There were 2 workers, 1 taking orders and 1 making the orders. My friend and husband both ordered an Iced Maple Latte and I ordered the Grande Hot Maple Latte. Within minutes both my friend and my husband had their drinks.... I waited and waited, watching numerous customers that came in AFTER me get their orders prior to myself. Finally one of the staff members was like "did you get your drink?".... WHAT?!?!, I mean there's only 2 of you here, did you give me my drink?... ummm no! The staff member at the register told me that my order was in her system but that it did not print and goes, "you got a Tall Latte right?". Kindly I reminded her that I paid for a Grande MAPLE Latte. Within 2 minutes I had my drink in my hand and diva walked out the door given my extended wait and frustration with the staff. To my mistake I didn't try my maple latte until I was about a block down the street....... and I'm sure you can guess it...... it was NOT a maple latte. Needless to say I was furious! It sounds silly I'm sure, but when you have a craving for something and you THINK you are satisfying that craving, you get excited and when it's not what you wanted or thought, there is a HUGE let down. Not to mention there was also a price difference from the Maple latte (more expensive) and the regular latte... super frustrating and disappointing. I get accidents happen, but when I remind you several times of what my order was (the order I paid for) and you still get it wrong.... there is simply no excuses for that! END RANT. read more

Beautiful coffee shop with cozy vibes. The vanilla cappuccino had a deep rich taste. There is a beautiful coffee plant growing in the entrance way surrounded by floor length windows. read more

Arabica Coffee - Vanilla Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Maine

Love this place, fun decor and ambiance ... love the chai tea! Thanks so much. We've visited several times.