When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Cheese & Crack Snack Shop
Why Cheese & Crack Snack Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cheese & Crack Snack Shop in Portland, Oregon, is a beloved neighborhood gem that evolved from a humble cheese cart into a vibrant brick-and-mortar eatery. Founded by William Steuernagel in 2012 and later joined by co-owner Nathan Hall, the shop has crafted a unique atmosphere blending casual charm with culinary creativity. The menu highlights include carefully curated cheese boards featuring house-made crackers, charcuterie, olives, pickles, and a variety of delectable spreads, elevating a simple snack into a gourmet experience. Beyond cheese plates, Cheese & Crack is renowned for its inventive soft serve ice cream and sundaes, with delights like espresso or matcha dusting, offering a playful twist on classic treats. Coupled with a curated selection of craft beers and wines, this spot caters to diverse tastes, making it ideal for casual meetups or relaxed bites. Located in Southeast Portland's Kerns neighborhood, Cheese & Crack offers a cozy yet lively environment appealing to locals and visitors alike, bringing together good food and a friendly vibe for memorable gatherings.
Here's what people think of Cheese & Crack Snack Shop
As of recent, Cheese & Crack Snack Shop holds a 4.7-star rating based on 787 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Cheese & Crack Snack Shop for its warm ambiance, high-quality food, and inventive menu. Visitors highlight the exceptional cheese plates and the creative soft serve ice creams as standout features that keep them coming back. The craft beer and wine selection also receives positive mentions for complementing the food offerings perfectly. Customers appreciate the intimate setting and the friendly, knowledgeable staff led by owners William Steuernagel and Nathan Hall. Positive reviews often emphasize the shop's transformation from a neighborhood cheese cart into a bustling favorite for both snacks and sweets, noting the playful atmosphere and attention to detail. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally cite limited seating and occasional wait times during peak hours as minor shortcomings, along with a few comments about the price point being on the higher side. Despite these, the majority of feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers considering Cheese & Crack a top destination for unique snack experiences in Portland. Overall, the reviews portray Cheese & Crack Snack Shop as a well-loved community spot known for quality, creativity, and excellent customer service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Angelyka Cava
I've heard great things about this place from people I work with, and was finally able to give it a try with my partner last week. The menu is quite limited, but not simple or boring. A lot of delicious dairy-filled options to have as snacks, both savory and sweet, and the prices aren't too bad either, especially for the soft serve ice cream, which holds up pretty well and tastes high-quality, well-complemented with the customer's choice of sprinkle topping and a chocolate cowboy hat, if desired. I definitely want to come back and essentially want to try the entire menu. Good area, though parking can be difficult if you're using a car.
Rose Leoni
A sweet treat under $5?! In this economy?! Sign me up. My partner and I both got cones (mine with matcha dust and my partners espresso) and they were the perfect hot day treat. The line was long but worth the wait, I promise. The addition of dust to the ice cream with chocolate ganache at the bottom of the cones, it’s a perfectly elevated twist on a classic summertime treat. And add on the cowboy chocolate hat for a moment of whimsy and fun
Lisa
Cute as can be snack shop. The cheese plate was delicious and good to split between a few people. The ice cream was the main reason I went and I wasn’t disappointed. Strawberry and beetroot were the flavors we got and they were delicious. The chocolate cowboy hat on top cannot be understated: it enhanced my experience to the next level. Fantastic execution. I love random things with hats and this really hit the nail on the head. I will be bringing my loved ones just so I can admire its perfection once more. I think all foods should come with a hat.
Christine Torres Hicks
Been wanting to come here forever! Stopped in for the Crack and Cheese sundae. Love the toasted marshmallow, which gives it that extra special deliciousness. Generous portion. I couldn't finish it! I'll definitely be back to try more. Love the plants and quaint ambiance. Great outside seating.
Jeremy Stoker
Celeb sighting spot! Ok I love this place and I love crack. So it’s like my ideal lifestyle. I love cream plus ice. Sign me up. Get the banana sundae with chocolate sauce and cinnamon crumble! Off menu bliss
How to reach Cheese & Crack Snack Shop
None
Website: None
Why Cheese & Crack Snack Shop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop with your friends? This cozy, highly rated snack shop in Portland is a unique destination that perfectly combines a love for cheese, casual snacking, and a welcoming vibe that invites groups to connect and enjoy themselves. With a 4.7-star rating from nearly 800 reviews, it's clear that patrons appreciate the quality and atmosphere here. Though it’s not designed for very large parties, groups of two to four can comfortably gather to savor artisanal cheese boxes, delightful soft serve, sundaes, and refreshing drinks in a casual indoor setting with bar and counter seating. The shop’s casual yet curated experience makes it ideal for those looking to enjoy relaxed conversations over carefully selected snack offerings. It’s a place where the joy of sharing food and the simple pleasure of discovery—whether it’s a new cheese flavor or a toppled sundae—bring friends closer together. The inviting environment encourages lingering moments, perfect for catching up or celebrating little joys with family or close friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop? The main attraction here is indulging in beautifully crafted cheese snack boxes composed of a variety of cheeses, crackers, and complementary extras like apple butter or pickles, offering a perfect tasting experience. Alongside these savory delights, the shop impresses with its dessert selection: soft serve ice cream topped with unique flavors such as beet dust, and inventive sundaes like the popular dirt cup, which customers rave about for its deliciousness. These sweet treats offer a playful contrast to the savory snack boxes, expanding the variety for groups who might have different preferences. Because seating is mostly at the bar or counter, guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere and even interact with friendly staff or fellow cheese lovers nearby. The compact size encourages an intimate gathering where you can share bites and compare favorites, turning every visit into a mini adventure in flavor exploration. Moreover, the shop's drink menu complements the food perfectly, allowing friends to pair their cheese and snacks with refreshing beverages or slushies, rounding out a fulfilling group outing.
Why is Cheese & Crack Snack Shop perfect for group meetups? For groups of two to four, it provides a warm, inviting atmosphere that focuses on the communal joy of food sharing without the distractions of a large, noisy venue. The bar and counter seating create a cozy environment where conversation flows easily, and everyone can engage in the shared experience of tasting small bites. Unlike traditional dining spaces, Cheese & Crack’s focus on snack boxes and casual sundaes means meals are light and easygoing, ideal for a casual meetup rather than a heavy, formal dining experience. This fosters an approachable, laid-back vibe where friends or family can come to unwind and savor thoughtful food without feeling rushed. While the indoor space is limited, the shop offers a bit of outdoor seating good for fair-weather days, which expands the options for comfort while socializing. The location in Portland’s vibrant neighborhood enhances its appeal as a local gem where friends can gather to enjoy something special yet unpretentious, creating memorable moments effortlessly.
How accessible and convenient is Cheese & Crack Snack Shop? Located at 22 SE 28th Ave in Portland, the shop is easily reachable by local transportation or car, making it a convenient stop for Portland residents or visitors exploring the city. The operating hours are friendly to late afternoons and evenings, with openings from 3 PM to 10 PM on weekdays and from noon to 10 PM on weekends, accommodating various schedules whether you want an after-work snack or an early evening treat. While large parties over four are not recommended due to limited seating, the shop’s setup is optimized for smaller groups looking for a relaxed, intimate space. Seasonal closures and holiday hours are clearly communicated, ensuring guests can plan ahead. The limited indoor and outdoor seating is cozy but thoughtfully arranged to maximize comfort and interaction. This thoughtful approach to timing and seating supports spontaneous meetups as well as pre-planned gatherings, allowing groups to enjoy quality time without the hassle of large crowds or reservation complications.
What makes the food and drink offerings at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop stand out? The shop’s dedication to high-quality artisanal cheeses paired with carefully chosen crackers and spreads sets it apart from your usual snack stop. Patrons often mention the exceptional taste of items like Brie, apple butter reminiscent of homemade recipes, and other artisanal touches that make each bite feel special. This attention to detail elevates what might be a simple snack into a gourmet experience. On the sweet side, the soft serve ice cream isn’t just any vanilla; it’s enhanced with toppings like beet dust, which adds a surprising depth of flavor that guests love discovering. Classic favorites like dirt cup sundaes offer a nostalgic twist while maintaining a fresh, delicious character. The drink menu, including slushies and other options, complements the food perfectly, allowing every guest to tailor their experience whether craving something savory, sweet, or refreshing. This diverse yet curated selection makes it an excellent choice for groups with mixed tastes and preferences, ensuring everyone walks away satisfied and delighted.
How do patrons describe their experience at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop? Reviews consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere, the quality of the cheeses, and the intriguing flavor combinations found in both savory and sweet offerings. Many mention returning for the unique soft serve and the creative sundaes, as well as the memorable cheese snack boxes that often remind them of fond family food traditions. The approachable setting and friendly service contribute to a positive experience, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Some reviewers note that the small space and bar seating intimate groups, which actually enhances the social experience rather than detracts from it. The combination of excellent food and comfortable atmosphere has earned Cheese & Crack a spot among Portland’s best places to snack and socialize, particularly recommended for meetups with close friends or family who appreciate quality bites in a relaxed environment.
Could Cheese & Crack Snack Shop accommodate my group and what should I expect? Given the seating constraints, groups larger than four may find it difficult to stay together inside, but smaller groups will find it quite comfortable and inviting. The space focuses on fostering connection through shared tasting experiences rather than large party events. Expect a casual vibe, with an emphasis on fun, interactive snacking that encourages tasting and sharing rather than formal dining. The friendly staff and comfortable bar seating ensure that even smaller meetups feel special and well-catered for. The menu’s combination of cheese, crackers, sweets, and drinks means there is something to satisfy everyone in your group without overwhelming choices, making ordering easy and enjoyable. Planning your visit during less busy hours or on weekends when open from noon might allow for a bit more flexibility. This shop perfectly suits intimate gatherings where food and friendship take center stage.
In summary, Cheese & Crack Snack Shop offers a unique, highly rated experience perfect for casual group meetups centered around quality cheese, creative snacks, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. With its thoughtfully curated menu, comfortable seating for small groups, and convenient Portland location, it’s an ideal rally point to share great food and create lasting memories with friends or family.