When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Cafe Olli
Why Cafe Olli is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cafe Olli in Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant all-day Italian cafe that offers a perfect setting to meet up with friends any time of day. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and focus on simple yet exceptional food made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, the cafe provides a unique dining experience. Whether you want to enjoy wood-fired pizzas for dinner, fresh pastries like chocolate chunk cookies, or handcrafted desserts such as their acclaimed chocolate cake, Cafe Olli has something for every palate. Beyond just its menu, the cafe offers catering services and a private event space, making it ideal for intimate get-togethers or larger celebrations. Established in December 2021, Cafe Olli has quickly become a beloved spot in the community, recognized nationally for its quality and ambiance. The combination of excellent food, friendly staff, and a genuine commitment to sustainability and local partnerships makes it a standout destination to relax, share great meals, and connect with friends.
Here's what people think of Cafe Olli
As of recent, Cafe Olli holds a 4.5-star rating based on 420 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Cafe Olli for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, often highlighting how the cafe lives up to its hype with delicious food and a relaxed environment. Positive reviews frequently mention the quality of the wood-fired pizzas and freshly baked pastries, especially the standout chocolate cake recognized as one of Portland’s best dishes. The attentive and friendly staff enhance the experience, with some visitors noting personalized touches and excellent service that make solo visits or group outings enjoyable. On the other hand, some negative reviews have pointed out occasional wait times and the limited hours of operation, as the cafe is open Thursday through Sunday. A few patrons have also noted that while the food is excellent, some menu items can be on the pricier side. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong customer satisfaction with an emphasis on quality, local ingredients, and a welcoming vibe. Cafe Olli’s reputation for combining great Italian cuisine with sustainable practices and community spirit makes it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kim Lê-Simpson
Absolutely blown away by the flavors here! Who knew a simple mixed green salad could pack so much flavor? It was the best dish on the menu! Hints of lemon in the salad dressing were so refreshing. Highly recommend the mushroom ricotta pizza, it’s delicious and the perfect size to share between two people. I wish the hot honey was jarred and sold on shelves, it’s too good!
Suzie DC
I recently had brunch here, and it was a mixed experience. Salmon Toast: The bread was nice and crispy, and the dill added a fresh touch. The flavors were mild, and while it was pleasant, I kept wishing for a little more punch — capers would’ve been a perfect addition to round it out. Salad with Egg: This was underwhelming. The salad itself was fresh but lacked bold flavors, and the egg on top didn’t add much — it felt like an afterthought. I had a tough time tasting the bacon. Steak, Eggs, & Polenta: The steak tasted like a braised chuck cut — tender and flavorful, but not the crispy, seared steak I was hoping for. The eggs were fine but could have used more seasoning. The polenta was decent — creamy and comforting. Bonus: They gave me a free cookie, which was a nice touch. Overall: The service was good and the space was inviting, but the food was not very flavorful. A little more seasoning could really elevate the dishes.
Josh Lyman
Visited Cafe Olli with some friends last week for a special birthday dinner after having long wanted to give this place a try. I’ll start by saying the space is quite lovely. There’s an open kitchen, soft lighting, and it’s a quaint setting with some table seating inside and additional outdoor space. It feels warm, elegant and homey. Service overall was pretty good. I believe there was some training going on. But they were attentive and helpful in navigating the menu. Now to the food/drink. Started the meal with some passion fruit margaritas which were decent but completely lacking in the passion department. From what I could tell there wasn’t much if any hint of passion fruit coming through. It looked like a general margarita and tasted like it, which was a bit of a let down given how it was advertised. They also weren’t filled to the level I would have expected which was odd for a $15 drink. We wound up trying all 4 pizzas on the menu which is not huge so keep that in mind. The crust was tasty and pizzas were well cooked. Some of the flavors just weren’t all there for me. The sausage was the favorite of the night. I wanted to love the Brussel and potato but the overwhelming amount of mustard seed unfortunately was tough to compete with and overpowered the pie. The other two pizzas were both solid but didn’t blow me away. Overall it was a nice evening but given the smaller menu I probably wouldn’t rush back for a round two unless in the area.
Faye Comer
Busy Sunday morning. We waited about 15 minutes, not bad! Once seated they were very attentive, answered food allergy questions, and made suggestions. We ended up ordering the breakfast sandwich, brunch greens, and the 'every day toast' (You must. Pile on the butter, then the compote, and dig in. The bread is quite good). Food was delivered quite quickly, and it was delicous. Eggs are prepared in the wood fired oven (no scrambled eggs here) and they were perfect. We'll be back to try the rest of the menu.
Antonio Martinez
Cafe Olli is a delightful oasis that seamlessly combines a cozy atmosphere with an exceptional dining experience, making it a must-visit for coffee lovers and foodies alike! As you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm ambiance adorned with beautiful decor and comfy seating that invites you to relax and stay awhile. The menu at Cafe Olli is a culinary journey, featuring a diverse selection of artisanal coffees, house-made pastries, and delectable brunch items. Their coffee is expertly brewed, with a range of options that cater to all preferences, from rich espressos to creamy lattes topped with artistic foam designs. Pair your drink with one of their freshly baked croissants or signature pastries for a perfect treat! What sets Cafe Olli apart is its commitment to quality and creativity. Seasonal specials highlight local ingredients, allowing you to experience new flavors with every visit. Their brunch menu, featuring items like gourmet avocado toast and fluffy pancakes, is a crowd favorite that keeps patrons returning for more. The cafe also boasts a vibrant community spirit. Regular events, such as open mic nights and art showcases, create a lively atmosphere where local talent shines. The friendly staff is always ready to recommend your next favorite dish or drink, making every visit feel personal and welcoming. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to work, a place to catch up with friends, or simply a delicious meal, Cafe Olli has something for everyone. With its inviting vibe and mouthwatering offerings, it’s no wonder this cafe has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike!
How to reach Cafe Olli
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Why Cafe Olli may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cafe Olli with your friends? A gathering at Cafe Olli offers much more than just a meal; it's an experience that harmonizes outstanding food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a touch of Portland’s communal spirit. With its strong 4.5-star rating based on over 420 reviews, Cafe Olli is acclaimed for fresh, handmade dishes that bring people together. The warmth of its wood-fired ovens, the freshness of its ingredients, and the palpable passion in every bite make it a natural choice for group meetups. Whether you’re catching up over artisan pizzas bubbling with flavor or sharing a cast-iron skillet Dutch baby pancake, Cafe Olli creates an inviting setting where conversations flow as smoothly as the food is savored. Its vibe leans relaxed and unpretentious, making it suitable from casual friend gatherings to memorable family outings. Here, the focus on seasonal, handmade fare isn’t just about taste but about fostering a community—a place where friends and family feel at home while enjoying dishes crafted with heart and creativity.
What activities can you enjoy at Cafe Olli for a group meetup? Cafe Olli delivers a blend of culinary and social experiences tailor-made for groups. Firstly, the standout is its wood-fired pizza, served fresh and cooked to perfection in a glowing brick oven. This creates a natural focal point for sharing—pizzas come in various inventive seasonal toppings, ensuring there’s something delightful for everyone’s palate. Beyond pizza, the menu features other handmade specialties like fresh salads bursting with local fruits, pastries, and even forthcoming pasta dishes, giving groups a variety of dishes to sample and discuss. The outdoor seating area is perfect for those who want a chill environment with fresh air, dogs nearby, and easygoing vibes. This seating arrangement is conducive to lively conversations and relaxed socializing. Extended hours, from morning through evening, allow for flexible meetups—from brunch get-togethers to evening dinners and drinks. Plus, the daily changing menu encourages repeat visits, so groups can explore new flavors together over multiple occasions.
Why is Cafe Olli perfect for group meetups? Several aspects make Cafe Olli ideal for hosting groups. The spacious yet cozy interior and the inviting outdoor patio accommodate different group sizes comfortably without feeling cramped. The staff's warm, attentive service enhances the experience, often treating returning guests like old friends, which adds a personal touch to group gatherings. The high-quality, handcrafted food encourages sharing and trying multiple dishes, a natural icebreaker for groups looking to bond over food. Moreover, Cafe Olli’s commitment to seasonality and local produce ensures a fresh and vibrant dining experience that resonates with diverse tastes and dietary preferences. The ambiance balances a laid-back charm with a lively pulse, matching well with both lively friend reunions and more intimate family events. Finally, its location on NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard places it within reach for residents and visitors alike, adding convenience to its many offerings.
What makes the cuisine at Cafe Olli a unique experience for groups? Cafe Olli’s cuisine philosophy revolves around handmade, seasonal, and locally sourced items, providing a farm-to-table experience that shines on every plate. By making their own breads, pastries, and even tomato paste, the kitchen ensures authenticity and freshness that guests can taste. The wood-burning oven is the heart of the kitchen, offering pizzas with crusts that strike the ideal crisp-chewy balance and toppings that reflect Oregon’s seasonal bounty—from blistered sweet corn and pickled red onions to ripe Baird Family Orchard peaches and nectarines. These inventive flavor combinations invite groups to share, compare, and savor a spectrum of tastes in one sitting. In addition to pizzas, options like a fruit-crowned Dutch baby pancake served in a cast iron skillet or fresh, vibrant salads expand the menu beyond the ordinary, introducing diners to bold flavors and creative presentations. The promise of soon returning pasta nights also means groups will have even more choices to enjoy in the future, making Cafe Olli a place to revisit with anticipation.
How does the atmosphere at Cafe Olli enhance the group experience? The atmosphere at Cafe Olli is both quaint and lively, striking a balance that suits diverse group dynamics. Located in what feels like a converted farmhouse, the design creates a warm, intimate setting yet a spacious feeling thanks to high ceilings and thoughtful layout. The space attracts a community of committed eaters and their dogs, adding a friendly neighborhood vibe that puts groups at ease. Whether sitting indoors near the bustling wood-fired oven or outside among leafy surroundings, guests enjoy a chill and unpretentious environment. The staff’s attentive and personable service further fosters a sense of belonging—guests describe interactions as warm and accommodating without ever feeling intrusive. This combination of welcoming decor, ambient energy, and dedicated service makes it easy for friends and family to relax and enjoy each other’s company without stress or distraction.
Why choose Cafe Olli for your next family or friends meetup over other restaurants? Compared to other dining spots, Cafe Olli stands out by offering a holistic and memorable experience punctuated by its handmade menu, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to community. Its robust 4.5-star rating from a large number of reviewers attests to consistent quality and satisfaction. While many restaurants can serve good food, Cafe Olli's dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared in-house elevates the meal into something special. For groups, the varied menu encourages sharing and discovery, which is a key ingredient to enjoyable gatherings. The venue’s flexibility with day and evening hours allows for meetups that fit different schedules, from brunch to late dinner. Also, the socially engaging ambiance, combined with friendly staff, ensures that group members of all ages and preferences feel comfortable and catered to. This mix of factors makes Cafe Olli not just a place to eat but a destination to connect, celebrate, and create lasting memories with friends or family.
How accessible and accommodating is Cafe Olli for groups? Cafe Olli makes itself accessible and accommodating through several thoughtful features. Its location on NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard is easy to find and offers ample parking options nearby, which is convenient for groups traveling together. The seating arrangement is designed to accommodate various party sizes, and outdoor seating adds extra flexibility, especially in pleasant weather. Staff at Cafe Olli are praised for attentive and friendly service, often remembered by name, which enhances comfort and ease for large groups needing personalized attention. Dietary preferences and restrictions are well taken care of due to the flexible, seasonal menu that can offer vegetarian-friendly and fresh fruit options. Lastly, its extended hours from morning to night allow groups to plan their gatherings at times that suit everyone’s schedules, promoting inclusive and stress-free meetups.
What types of group occasions are best suited for Cafe Olli? Cafe Olli is exceptionally well-suited for a range of group occasions, reflecting its versatile vibe and menu. Casual brunch or lunch meetups work wonderfully here, as the menu’s fresh pastries and light salads balance nicely with the buzz of daytime community life. Evening gatherings like dinner parties with friends, family celebrations, or small milestone festivities benefit from the warm ambiance, wood-fired pizzas, and friendly staff who help make the experience special. The outdoor seating is also ideal for groups looking for a relaxed, open-air environment in good weather, which can suit social or semi-formal occasions. Because the menu changes seasonally and is handcrafted daily, groups who are repeat visitors can treat every meetup as a new culinary adventure. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a date night with pals, or a casual family reunion, Cafe Olli’s combination of food, ambiance, and service creates a dependable setting for memorable group outings.
In summary, Cafe Olli is much more than just a restaurant—it's a gathering spot that infuses meetings with excellent food, an inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service. Its commitment to handmade, seasonal dishes combined with a laid-back yet lively environment makes it a perfect locale for friends and family to connect over meals that excite the palate and foster conversation. Whether you’re rallying for a casual catch-up lunch or a celebratory dinner, Cafe Olli’s blend of community spirit and culinary craft turns every group meetup into a cherished occasion.