IF YOU'RE A FAN OF SUPPORTING MOM &PAP ESTABLISHMENTS .... Visiting Portland for a friends wedding when i came across John's Cafe in the AM. Decided to try their Breakfast special, which was DELICIOUS !! Besides the amazing breakfast to start my day off, got to chat with John, his wife and a fellow patron about the city and sights. I can see how they've managed to stay in this beautiful city after giving me a glimpse into Portland's great history. When I'm back in Portland, I'll be sure to stop by again !! read more

It's always wondeful receiving an invite to speak at any meeting we have in Portland... even better when it's sunny likes it's been the past couple days! So this trip found us staying at the nostalgic Embassy suites Hotel in downtown Portland again. The craziest part about it is if I search current location, 1 million awesome choices pop up throwing my head into a severe spin trying to decide where I'm going to get my next layer of fat from. We were getting a late start today--considering we got in after midnight, so although it was 11 AM, we were looking for breakfast. Being in a state of hangry, it was one of those where is good that we know of and let's just go there moments. And having gone to John's a couple of days ago the choice was clear. So what's pulling me back to this spot? Is it the nostalgic and charming corner diner feel? Or the simple non-frilly neighborhood eatery vibe? Maybe. But to be honest, it is their pancakes. All I can remember was that it was the perfect combination of fluffy lightly crispy on the edges and chewy mixed with inexpensive butter and for all I know hi fructose corn filled maple syrup. But it was the perfect flavor and dish for my 6:30 AM hunger the other day. I wasn't even offended by the fact that when I asked for honey, I was gently shamed for asking such a stupid question. Nonetheless, I'll be back for more! read more

See all

Outstanding breakfast. Nice brisk walk from the convention center. Food was delicious, had the tomato omelet, friend had chicken fried steak, other friend had eggs and bacon. Atmosphere was like sitting down in Grandma and Grandpas kitchen. Such a sweet couple doing the cooking and serving. Thanks for having us, we loved it! read more

Glad to see them open again with new paint, floor, tables etc and still great breakfasts& early lunch. Strongly recommend the Salisbury steak and eggs. Lots of room to social distance your table. Fast service and great prices. read more

John's Cafe - Nice remodel! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Food was just okay. Prices are good and that's really the most positive thing I can say about this place. The female server didn't seem care whether you were there or not. The biggest turnoff was the fact that we watched the server eat several finger fulls of hash browns off of every single plate that she served. Fingers to mouth several times from each plate and we did not observe her sanitize or wash her hands once. Not sure if she just likes to test the food before it goes out, but this is just not sanitary or okay on any level. read more

The husband and wife who own John's are just the best people. True salt of the earth. Great food and along with Fullers Cafe are a true old school place to eat breakfast and lunch. read more

UPDATE: We haven't gone in YEARS after an incident that revealed the owner/server lady is a huge racist. Some co-workers and I were there for lunch and the lady was berating an African-American guy, who collected his things and scooted out of there while she continued to holler at him. Then she muttered some lovely thing, I'm sure, in Greek as she came to our table to take our order. I asked what all that hubbub was and she said he ate but couldn't pay. I chuckled and said, "Well, you could have him work his meal off washing dishes in the back." She laughed heartily and said, "Yeah, like a black man would work for what he gets. What can I get you?" We were all so shocked, it didn't even sink in for a minute. After she went to put our order in, we all were, like, "waitaminutedidshejustsay...?" We've never gone back. I regret that I didn't call her out on it when she came back to the table. read more

John's is exactly what it needs to be - a classic downtown diner, tasty food, great prices, friendly staff. And not too busy (I've never waited in a line). read more

It's a real honor to eat in a place like this. Mom and Pop owned with her serving and him cooking. It's definitely a step back in time in a good way. Simple, hearty breakfast with the owner encouraging me to finish my food makes for a great start to the day. It is cash only, but if like me you don't know that the locals that eat there will guide you to the nearest ATM. So kind, and I went there a few times while working in town and was always greeted with warm words and a smile. French toast delicious and eggs cooked just how I like them. Please support this local business. read more

John's has reopened! No frills classic American diner breakfast. Server has an "old school" sense of humor & means well, but is often misunderstood. Good, kind-hearted people work here and I will continue to support this business. read more

This joint gets my nomination for one of the best cafes in Portland. Still run by the same husband and wife couple who opened it in 1973, straight off the boat from Greece, it serves honest American standards at fair prices. And most of the place is original. A time capsule! Check out the 1973 cash register and the RC Cola dispenser. Spotlessly clean. I had the NY strip steak and two eggs with hash browns and wheat toast. Fabulous for under $10. Can't wait to go back for lunch. CASH ONLY! read more

This is one of the best old-school diners in all of Portland: - Cheap prices, especially considering they're in the heart of downtown. - Prices are fair in part because it's CASH ONLY - NO credit cards, checks, bitcoin, etc. Luckily they are happy to point out the ATM just across the street. - Standard breakfast menu done well (hash browns, eggs, steak/sausage/bacon, toast, pancakes, omelets, etc.) - Open 6am to 2pm on weekdays (it's kind of hard to find breakfast places in town open before 7am) - Friendly staff that are happy to chat if you're so inclined. read more

The sweetest little diner in Portland! The owners speak very little English, but it's worth every moment to be in this quaint place! CASH only...but make sure to leave a great tip as the prices are lower than everywhere else in the area and the portion sizes are huge! They have been here 47 years, survived the pandemic, and the regulars will rave about it and have great conversation while you eat! read more

See all

I live by here and have always wanted to go in to get some breakfast. Today I finally went in--after the ***rudest*** service ever from the woman behind the counter and then the man in the kitchen mumbling something about lunch (no lunch? only serving lunch?). I walked out before even getting to sip my coffee and will absolutely NEVER go back. First off, they were playing a conservative talk show on the radio. 1. That doesn't go over well in Portland 2. Any political talk show is inappropriate for a business to play. 3. The guy on the radio was diatribing about how foreigners should leave which was hilarious as the two people working had accents so thick they were nearly unintelligible--this was the first of many interesting issues with my experience here, as I was about to find out. Their demeanors were so harsh and unpleasant that they both seemed genuinely angry. The woman serving didn't respond to requests until I had to repeat myself because I thought she hadn't heard me and then she brusquely retorted that she had. Like, um, maybe acknowledge that you heard the customer ask you (politely!) for something instead of snapping at them when they have to ask a second time because you're bad at communicating. Rude Lady also ignored the woman next to me who had clearly tolerated an entire breakfast service from Rude Lady and now just wanted to pay up and leave for the airport. She got tired of being ignored and just left a $20 on the counter and said "keep the change, I guess?" before leaving in exasperation. On top of all this, I encountered so much hostility and bad behavior from Rude Lady in such a short amount of time that I nearly forgot to mention--mere seconds after I sat down at the end of the counter to give the person next to me space, Rude Lady told me to move to a different seat! And it took about 10 minutes to get a cup of coffee and several more minutes to get more cream (she was being really stingy with it and only gave me two at a time). It is baffling that anyone would come here and stay long enough to eat--or worse still, having suffered through it once that they would ever go back. No idea how this place stays open. I would like to reiterate that that was the absolute rudest service I have ever encountered in my entire life without question. read more

Medicore food, smallish portions, and the rudest service I have ever experienced. The first and last time I'll go there.

Old skool greasy spoon diner with cheap breakfast specials. The radio croaks out right wing talk radio instead of music, the walls are covered in 70's paneling and the formica countertops are probably from the same era. Still, the place is clean, and the food is fine for what it is. John's Cafe, like Fuller's and the Hotcake House, is the among the last of a dying breed of blue collar eateries in Portland. Enjoy it while you can. read more

John's Cafe - The 8 track/AM radio blasts right wing talk radio. Surely, there's music as an option! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

There's just something about a small, corner diner, run by a cute older couple. This is a straight forward as you get. The breakfast menu consists of eggs, pancakes, bacon and hash browns. Things along those lines. Everything is under $10. SUPER cheap. I got two eggs, hash browns, toast, and a coffee and my bill was $6.50. It's greasy, diner style comfort food. Aka I would definitely come here if I had a hangover. read more

John's Cafe - 2 eggs, hash brown, toast, coffee. All for $6.50 - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I had this little corner cafe bookmarked for a while. I had driven past it many times, but hadn't actually gone in until I moved close by. It's run by a Greek family. A married couple and their grown son. I feel as if I'm being welcomed into their home. They remember your name, what you do, and order. They like to chit chat with their regulars, which is nice. I feel like I'm having lunch at my aunties. I like simple diner food, especially at their prices. It's cash only, but full meals can be had for under $5. As others have mentioned it's not fancy, but it's straight forward fare. The restaurant is tiny but clean. My favorite things so far are the soups . I've had four, which might be the only ones they offer. The ones that I have tried have been orzo (rice shaped pasta in a tomato vegetable broth), lentil, Navy bean, and a chicken & rice (with lemon which is very Greek). They make them in-house. They're warm, delicious and perfect with a grilled cheese. They charge $1.25 for a cup, or $2 for a bowl. The grilled cheese is $2.25. It's tough to beat for lunch. Pure comfort food. I tried the fish & chips dinner last time. It comes with soup or salad along with bread and butter. I knew it was frozen cod, but it was still much better than some that I've had for double the price (ahem, Low Brow). My tab was $5.25. I posted a picture of their breakfast specials. Breakfast is only available until 11 AM, and they're closed Sunday. Monday through Friday their hours are 6 AM-2 PM, and Saturday 6 AM to noon I believe. I still need to try their pancakes. They look pretty tasty! I highly recommend trying them if you re looking for an old school dining experience. read more

John's Cafe - Specials posted in the window. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

See all

I saw some reviews for John's Cafe and zeroed in on the word Greek. That could mean Greek food, or just a diner operated by Greeks or Greek-Americans. It is the latter. It is interesting that this cafe, which would be perfectly at home on Main Street USA in any small American town, sits halfway between Burnside and Union Station along Broadway. From one of the small tables by the window, you can see the US Bank Tower, the city's tallest, yet the folks inside, and seen outside from the windows, are quite diverse, so I don't think most suited up people from the US Bank Tower would be coming this way for some grub. John's Cafe is a breakfast and lunch place, with a counter that rounds a corner as well as table seating. They have breakfast and lunch specials. I have eaten here twice. On both occasions, I opted for breakfast food ... once an omelette with potatoes and toast and, another time, the pork steak with potatoes and toast. I added a cup of coffee to that, which they kept refilled. Note that John's Cafe is not like those Greek diners found from the (eastern) Midwest to the East Coast where they serve breakfast, American food, Greek food, Italian food, and have mouth watering desserts rotating in a glass case. Instead, it only has a few Greek items on the menu, since they focus on hearty, traditional American breakfast and lunch items. The experience is definitely unique, the service is relaxed and amicable, the food and the quantities are satisfying, and the prices are reasonable. That sounds like four very positive attributes, hence four stars. There are definitely some regulars here, so that's a good indicator and makes it even more interesting. Also, to keep things simple, they only accept cash and they are closed on Sunday. Then, while you can order breakfast during lunch, they stop serving pancakes at the end of the breakfast time frame. On a weekday on which parking might be free downtown because it's a holiday, John's Cafe is a cool little place to eat. That explains why I've only been here twice, but I'd certainly recommend it if you want down-home cooking, find yourself in this area, and are not a food snob. read more

See all

Bring cash. I learned the hard way that they don't accept debit/credit cards. They were really nice about my not having cash on me and they kindly directed me to the nearest ATM a mere block away. This place is a super cute, old-school diner complete with retro vinyl stools for counter seating. There are about 3 little two-top booths with an excellent view of the street; super for people watching. If you're a larger crowd, there's a space in the back that can accommodate y'all. They serve up quite a variety of traditional breakfast and lunch fare. They also serve a soup of the day that changes daily. I tried the homemade lentil and it was superb. I'm really looking forward to trying the orzo. The owners, a married couple are so sweet and friendly. They make you feel right at home. And you can tell they have a lot of regulars. This little cafe is kind of easy to miss and you definitely don't want to miss this sweet spot. 2015 - Review # 84 read more

Great throwback to the 70's. Cash only cafe that plays music via a real 8 track radio that doesn't look like it's been moved since the place opened in 1972. The wood paneling on the walls hasn't changed either. Nothing complex on the menu and nothing over 7 bucks! The hash potatoes are great; fresh cut in little cubes and fried until golden brown in real butter. Same with the meats; cooked until golden brown in real butter. No free wifi as the DeLorean that that you drove here took everyone back 40 years before it was even a concept. I you like the old school experience, this is the place. If you prefer vegan, gluten free organic, you might want to continue your search.. read more

John's Cafe - Six bucks.. Pork steak old school cafe food - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

First things first. How is this place called John's Coffee Shop on Yelp when it is clearly called John's Cafe? Inquiring minds want to know. Moving on. John's Cafe definitely epitomizes "Old School Portland" in every way possible. From the look of the place to the food that they serve (and the prices they serve it at) to the owners. This is what I imagine eating was like when my parents were kids. These are all very very good things. Where else in Portland can you get a hamburger and fries for $3.50? Where? I don't even think you could go to McDonald's and get the same. I of course had to get the Double Hamburger, but I'll tell you about that in a minute. I am so happy this place still exists and not too far from the Pearl either which is completely strange. Upon walking in for an early lunch on a Friday morning (guess I could have had a late breakfast) I was immediately greeted by the woman behind the counter. I originally was going to take a seat at the counter, but decided to grab a booth at the front of the restaurant (this place is tiny) as I thought there might be some good people watching. The place was sadly empty when I walked in, but that changed within 20 minutes of my arrival. I was asked if I wanted coffee which I did not. A menu was given to me and I looked at the choices. Burgers and sandwiches make up most of the menu along with breakfast eggy things for those that hate lunch. i could not believe the prices here. $1.25 for a cup of soup. The aforementioned $3.50 for a burger and fries. That is just crazy. Being that it was a cold day I started out with a cup of their soup of the day which on this day was navy bean. I don't know if they make the soup here, but for $1.25 I really don't care. It was hot and tasty and that is all I really cared about. For my main I had the double hamburger and fries ($4.50). Yes only $1 more will get you an extra patty. Don't get me wrong. These are your standard fast food type flat patties. Nothing spectacular about this burger at all. The fries are crinkle cut which also seems pretty old school. This is diner food. Comfort food. Nothing is organic or sustainable. This is how our parents and grandparents ate when they were young. There is something to be said about that. In total my bill came to $5.75. It is amazing to me that I can eat for well under $10 and be quite satisfied. One thing that I was disappointed with is that they don't do milkshakes or malts here. This seems like a place that would do such a thing, but no such luck. If they had that, I'd probably move in. read more

See all

Cash only. An actual mom and pop diner that is ran by an old married couple. It's a classic American diner and the decor is dope. If you're looking under a 10 dollar meal, this is one of the few places in Portland you'll be able to find that. If you're looking for food, customer service without the yuppy, over gentrified and trendy experience that PDX is known for, come here. read more

Excellent, no-frills breakfast. Served the same way for over 40 years. Run by a cool husband and wife duo. Super affordable. CASH ONLY! read more

Love these guys. Cheap and great the way a downtown diner should be. Owned by a lovely Greek couple who've been here in this spot for 44 years!! Reminds me of the classic NYC diners also largely owned by Greeks. Everyone should try this place when you want to save a buck, have an original diner experience and see some of the local downtown color. It'll get you out of your bubble. read more

John's Cafe - Cheap breakfast! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Stepping through the door at John's is like stepping back in time in the best way possible. It's a classic American cafe that hearkens back to a simpler time. The good is fresh, good, plentiful, and priced reasonably. Leave your troubles at the door and enjoy a relaxing, satisfying meal in a genuine American non-corporate cafe. read more

WOW!!! Went in here yesterday for the first time in a while since COVID and what a transformation!!! The owner/owners have done some serious updating and it looks AMAZING! The food is still well priced and same menu-which is good. Good home cooked food at a reasonable price. Glad I went in and will most certainly be returning. A+ to the remodel! read more

Love this place. The owner and his wife are so sweet. Exactly what you'd want from a diner: simple, delicious menu, fast service, good coffee. A+ read more

Great old-school unpretentious diner. I needed a break from all the foodie stuff I've been doing while visiting PDX. Fantastic pancakes, with of course fake butter and syrup (perfect!). $5.50 for a breakfast special, cash only. However, I had to down my food and leave quickly because of the gross, sexist talk radio they had on. Please just find a music station or something! read more

The fact that this business is still here gives me hope for the survival of Portland's unique soul. The owner/operators have preserved an otherwise long-lost diner experience. If you ever see a negative review of this business, just assume the author has completely missed the point and perhaps embodies a certain void of appreciation for authenticity. This is a unique and absolutely one-of-a-kind experience that will take you back to a simpler time. Breath, relax and just be. read more

Really great cafe. The coffee is delicious and food is well priced. The toast has amazing butter and tastes like a perfect slice of toast. Very old school, cash only so remember your cash. The woman in charge is also really great and makes sure nothing goes to waste. read more

This place is simple, affordable, and delicious. I love the menu, they've got your classic pancakes eggs chicken fried steak etc. the coffee tasted amazing and just what I needed. I'll be back for sure. read more

Great, basic diner. Had pancakes, hash browns and coffee. Food was excellent and service was great. Good pandemic measures, masks, spaced out seating. Important items CASH ONLY! No credit cards read more

The environment is awesome. Old school look, service, food quality and reasonable prices. I love that mediocrity isn't served here.

John's Cafe is run by a husband and wife duo who are immediately welcoming. It's a typical old-school style diner and I felt like I was stepping back in time or to a movie set in the 70s. It was fun peering around at all of the old regalia. Everything is spotless and clean. The meals are all simple (I'm not sure the menu has been updated this decade) but hearty with adequate size servings and coffee always being topped up. read more

After years of searching, I finally found what I thought Portland lacked: a good, cheap, greasy-spoon Greek diner. Much as I love the myriad of creative breakfast and brunch options in Portland, sometimes I just want bacon, eggs, and potatoes. While there are no shortages of places where one can have this great combination in Portland, usually they charge far more than I'd normally pay for such a dish at a proper diner (I'm looking at you, Hotcake House). John's Café makes this meal well, and provides it quickly and cheaply. John's is a tiny place, run by a Greek couple, who keep the grill running with cheerful gusto. It's got a friendly atmosphere and is great for people-watching, between its blue-collar vibe and its swanky surroundings in the Pearl. Remember, cash only, people. The eggs were fried just as I ordered them (over medium). Good, solid grub. Not quite as good as those at some of the fancier joints in Portland (or at some of the better diners I've been to East of the Mississippi), but still a good choice. I wasn't as impressed by the hash browns when I had them (they seemed to be the from-frozen shredded ones to me), though they were still serviceable, especially once I put a second dash of salt on them and ran them through the bit of yolk that had run over to that side of the plate. The bacon was top-notch. Chewy and smoky, yet crispy at the bite. Just like good butcher-bacon should be. The woman waiting the tables recommended it highly for good reason. Like all good diner toast, John's Café's was slathered in butter. Wish they had raspberry jam among the selections to go with it, but that's a quibble. Finally, the coffee was decent diner coffee, and was constantly being refilled. Is John's the best diner I've ever been to? No. But not only would I go back, but I would even make the trek from Southeast out to the Pearl to go there. That's how much I love a proper diner. I wish Portland had more places like John's. read more

John's Cafe - Bacon, eggs, hash browns, toast, and coffee. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Portland, Oregon

This is probably one of the worst experiences I've had by far: - cash only.. ? - owner son (lewd references/potty mouth) - enormous curly hair on steak (no apology) - should've went to Pine State like my wife told me. Smh. read more

$3.95 for cheeseburger and fries that are actually pretty good. Friendly service. They have regulars. People come in, hang their coat on the rack, and joke around like family. Something I don't see so much in Southern California so it's kinda nice. read more

Short story....Food was terrible. Soggy hash browns, tasteless pork chop,over cooked eggs. I don't usually write reviews but this place was so bad I had to. Sorry johns cafe read more

John's is my go to place for a greasy diner food fest after a night of drinking. The place looks like it's straight out of the 80s with RC Cola clocks and an old school cash register. Note: it is cash only. You can sit at the counter or at one of the tables. Regardless you'll be greeted by the no-nonsense lady who runs the place with some coffee and brusque conversation. The $5.50 breakfast plate with fried eggs, hash browns, bacon, and a stack of perfectly buttered toast is probably the best value meal I've had in Portland. Everything is fried perfectly and man that butter is melted just right, in a way it never is when I make my own. What more can I say besides I love this place? The predictability of the interactions and delicious diner food and old school vibes are something I look forward to every Saturday morning. read more