This place is popular for a reason, and you find a hint of what that reason is as soon as you step…read morein the door and get a whiff of the most delicious aromas coming from the kitchen. When you see the line out the door, don't despair, as the line moves relatively quickly and people are generally mindful to not dawdle, so seating opens up quickly as well. I tried the jalapeno cheddar biscuit, the rhubarb scone, and had a bite of the rhubarb hibiscus pie. Everything was amazing, the platonic ideal of a biscuit and a scone. And I am weak for anything rhubarb, so the generous amount of rhubarb in the scone really did the trick. The rhubarb hibiscus pie has quite a bit of that botanical hibiscus flavor but I liked it! It might not be for everyone, though. Their coffee is also really good, and a perfect accompaniment to their excellent pastries. I also have to give props to their staff and how friendly and welcoming everyone was despite being totally slammed at all times. I know if I was working at a place as busy as Tandem I'd be way more frazzled than they came off. Anyone who knows me knows that I hate waiting in line for things, but this place is efficient enough and the food/coffee was so excellent that I actually didn't resent the line. I'd even wait again! It's that good.

Definitely a standout breakfast sandwich! Tried out Tandem while visiting Portland at the…read morerecommendation of a friend. We tried out the egg and cheese biscuit, the savory loaded biscuit, and two flavored lattes (one brown sugar cinnamon and the other maple). Loved both of the biscuits but had a slight preference for the egg and cheese one. Both biscuits were soft and buttery yet crisp with the best salt on top. We got there right at opening on a weekday and there was already a long line to enter, but the staff moves everyone through quickly. It is worth noting that indoor seating is very limited and there is more outdoor seating. We decided to purchase some of their coffee beans as a gift. Tandem is very popular for good reason and well worth visiting, whether as a tourist or as a local.

First and foremost, for the holidays I love that right at the entrance they have an open shelf with…read morecanned goods and dry food for the community to contribute to or take from. That alone tells you so much about the heart of this place. A daily necessity. The only time I'm ever disappointed is when they sell out of their Banana Bread Latte. I still haven't been able to try it, but I already know it's going to be delicious. My go to order is a regular latte with oat milk and their house made Maine Maple syrup. Their hot drinks are always made at the perfect temperature so you can sip immediately without burning your tongue. And when I want something on the cooler side, I love that they have a nitro cold brew for that extra smooth finish. Despite how busy they always are, their service never wavers. The staff is consistently friendly and efficient. There's plenty of seating-- booths and high tops. Even with the plethora of people working on their laptop, I can almost always find a seat.

Some travel for the food, but we're in it for the coffee. The Bard did not disappoint with its…read moresmooth roast and house syrups. Lattes were the perfect blend of sweet without being overpowering. We ranked Bard as our favorite coffee in Portland and our 2nd favorite among coffee houses we tried in 3 different states on our tour of the upper northeast--not only for the quality of coffee but also for ambiance and service with a smile!

Excellent, strong, silky cold brew. Had almost a chocolate-tone to it. Aesthetically this place is…read morevery nice with black and white tiles and red accents. There's a long counter to sip your coffee or chat. The barista welcomed each person as they walked through the door. Great experience all around.

Stopped here for coffee the other day and had a caramel latte. It was really great and the price…read morewas good. The service was super friendly, lots of places to sit as well. The only downside it's really hard to find parking. But if you are walking around Congress St, it's a nice spot to stop in a get a coffee.

Had the best cortado of my life at this little coffee shop with a funny name, around the corner…read morefrom the Portland Museum of Art. Nice, friendly service. Not a big place but a half dozen or so tables and some bench seating. They were almost out of pastries that Saturday near noon, so plan accordingly. Highly recommend getting your drink for "here" so you can admire the coffee colors like I did. I'm not in Portland that often, but I'll definitely return to this spot. They have a couple of other locations also.

Came in because I love the speckled axe brand sm! i was visiting for the weekend from away and had…read moreto have a latte while visiting the maine coast, however, the espresso was a little bitter which was disappointing, and as soon as it hit 3 PM the workers announced that they were closed and promptly ushered us out ?? it was very awkward and unpleasant. i have worked in restaurants and cafes before and never have i been allowed to tell anyone to leave. i wish i had something better to say.

I walked in and was greeted kindly by a ma sitting by the door. But when I rounded the corner the…read morepeople behind the bar didn't greet. There was a big glass between us though. It felt like it created a separation. There was a large glass with lots of pastries. I got a raspberry cheese croissant which was okay. I also ordered a cappuccino. The menu said it would be 8 oz. But it seemed small. And there wasn't a lot of foam. So it was just okay. There was plenty of seating which was nice. WiFi. No bathroom. Parking was right in front. Not sure I'll go back. But it was cute for a neighborhood coffee shop.

Not sure how this place has a 4.2 rating. Super deceiving…read more I'm giving this business a low rating because of poor customer service, quality of items, and an out of service restroom (that I'm convinced actually works, they just put a sign up to deny customers). Walked in and the man behind the counter looked annoyed to be disturbed. I checked my watch, we were still 2 hours away from closing. I asked which chai they used and he said he didn't know just that it was not made in house. I took a chance and yuck. Pure sugar. No chai flavor or spice. I ended up throwing the whole thing out. For two beverages, including a simple hot green tea, I spent $13. I found that to be pricey for the quality of the beverages.

My wife and I are attempting to check out any and all coffee places we can and Smalls was our stop…read moretoday on an early Spring Sunday morning. They advertise themselves as all day cafe/bar and market. The vibes were perfect with an overall cozy and welcoming feel. It seemed like a spot many regulars come to often as the workers appeared to know many people who came through! They have a bar with roughly 8 seats, along with some tables. With the back of the store having goodies to buy including candles, self-care items, wines, drinks, and more. Worth browsing before or after your drinks and food. We snagged two bar stools and were immediately greeted and served water along with a menu. All three staff members were friendly and made us feel welcome. Drink wise my wife got an iced mocha while I saw their drink special of the month on social media and had to try it. Named The Blue Rose with Butterfly pea flower, cardamom rose, whole milk, pebble ice and espresso on top. A photo-worthy beverage with a delicious flavor. I would keep coming back for this drink for sure if it were a permanent menu item! Food wise my wife and I both got a breakfast sandwich, only difference she got bacon while I got the impossible sausage. Well made and delicious sandwiches that would make us return as well. I do wish they would have been a little bigger though. If our visit today was any indication of the typical my wife and I would gladly return! Friendly service in a great setting with well made food and drinks. Need to return to give their cocktails a try! A standout space in Portland.

100% recommend! I was in town and wanted some breakfast and this place did not disappoint. It was…read morecreative, colorful, the people working were happy to be there. It made me want to work there. I sat at the bar. It's a narrow building, seating is friendly. I had a cortado and a toast with beans and eggs, it was divine. I want to 100 go back to try all the other menu items. The parking was bleak, but I found some down the street. I can't wait to be back.

I discovered Uncharted back in December 2025 while on dinner break for a show at Merrill…read moreAuditorium. From the moment I walked in, I fell in love with the atmosphere. It's definitely my kind of vibe. The staff were attentive and not put out when I first came in and were incredibly helpful with giving me suggestions (because everything sounded so good). I ended up leaving my first visit with The Abyss bubble tea and meandered my way back to Merrill. Today, I decided to treat my son to an evening out in Portland, and we swung into Uncharted for a quick tea. He got a small regular brown sugar milk tea and I got a large Kraken. I'm just as smitten with the vibe and the space now as I was back in December, & know that whenever I'm in town I'll be coming in to get a tasty drink to walk around town with.

Was walking by and stumbled upon Uncharted Tea, and honestly had no idea what I was walking up the…read moresteps to but I'm so glad I checked it out. There were so many interesting drinks to choose from, but luckily the workers were friendly and super helpful in guiding me. The commitment to the nautical theme is adorable, and all the clever drink names made the menu fun to read. I also love how many books and games they have available, it feels like a cozy little hangout spot you could easily lose track of time in. I got the Leviathan, which is nitro coffee, taro, oat milk, simple syrup, and boba. I'm picky with boba, and let me just say... I was actually impressed. The texture and flavor were on point. There were so many other drinks I wanted to try, so I'll definitely be back.

Wonderful rye muffins and Spanish Mimosas! Service was fabulous- friendly and warm. Great vibe,…read moreencourage you to try it. You won't be disappointed!

The Ugly Duckling's homemade English Muffins sounded like the perfect light lunch we were seeking…read moreafter checking in to our nearby hotel. I was really intrigued by the rye and caraway muffin, and I love a good pastrami. Unfortunately, the thin pastrami was a bit chewy. If there is a meat spectrum that ranges from jerky to moist and tender (such as Sam LaGrassa's), it was too close to jerky. With plenty of butter and melted cheese, it was pretty greasy, though the flavor was enjoyable. I was happy to try it, and my wife really enjoyed the complex Como Se Dice Buon Giorno, with prosciutto, hash brown, banana peppers, etc. Next time, I'd probably grab a package of their English Muffins to bring home and create my own egg sandwich, but it's a quaint neighborhood spot worth checking out if you're in the area.

This spot was right behind our hotel. Super convenient. Even…read morethough we went early there was already a line but it was worth the wait. You self serve your own coffee and tea. We passed on both and got a few pastries which were delicious. No where to sit inside but little tables outside that fill quick. Would definitely pop in for some baked goods.

How does one spend over $100 at a bakery - come to Standard and you'll find out! And it was…read moreabsolutely worth the wait in the rain on a Sunday morning. After having some of the bread prior to our meals at a few restaurants, we found out the bread is locally sourced at a sister business right around the corner from where ate the night before. There is parking avail for customers in the lot for 30 mins, we prob waited about 20 mins and crossed the threshold into baked goods heaven. There was so much to select from - we got pastries, cookies, pizza and bread - and we pretty much liked everything. Our least favorite was the morning bun with walnuts - we didn't have it right away so that might've been part of the issue. Just note that the bread served at the restaurants aren't available until 2pm - we were leaving that morning so we weren't going wait for it. We opted for other loaves instead and they didn't disappoint. If you want something yummy and fresh - make sure to stop by here before heading out of Portland. I do wish the setup was a bit more conducive to the big crowds as there isn't much space from the front door to the counter but still a fantastic find!

Lovely place. Parking out front. Large counter with window for pastries. Service was kind and…read morequick. The coffee was delightful and roasted in house. The salted peanut butter pop tart I had was amazing as well. It came from a local pastry maker. It was all really good. I will definitely be back.

Checked this place out due to the positive reviews, but was disappointed. Expensive coffee and bad…read morecustomer service. Will not be going back.