When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Ovation Coffee & Tea
Why Ovation Coffee & Tea is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ovation Coffee & Tea is a standout coffee shop in Portland, Oregon, known for its unique Moroccan twist and exceptional hospitality. Established in 2013 by the Elhabbassi family, the shop offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting friends and enjoying quality time together. With a menu featuring innovative beverages such as the Moroccan Latte — a creamy latte with organic honey and Moroccan spices topped with honey sprinkles — alongside handcrafted teas infused with fresh ingredients, Ovation provides an authentic taste experience that few other coffee shops in Portland offer. The shop also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a versatile spot throughout the day. Nestled in the Pearl District, Ovation Coffee & Tea combines the rich cultural heritage of Morocco with Portland’s vibrant coffee scene, making it a unique and memorable destination. The space is wheelchair accessible and offers seating and takeout options, catering to a variety of customer preferences. Ovation has quickly become a community favorite, earning praise for both its beverage quality and its welcoming, family-driven vibe.
Here's what people think of Ovation Coffee & Tea
As of recent, Ovation Coffee & Tea holds a 4.5-star rating based on 183 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Ovation Coffee & Tea's outstanding service and the distinctive quality of its drinks. Many reviewers praise the Moroccan Latte as a must-try, mentioning its rich, aromatic flavor and the skillful craftsmanship behind every cup. The friendly and attentive staff are often noted for creating a warm, hospitable experience that complements the unique menu offerings. Positive reviews emphasize the cozy ambiance and the shop’s commitment to quality, which together make it an ideal spot for both casual meetups and longer visits. On the other hand, less favorable reviews occasionally mention limited seating during peak hours and slight wait times, which are common in popular coffee spots. A few customers note that the menu prices hover in the moderate to higher range, but many feel the premium is justified by the product quality and atmosphere. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong community appreciation for Ovation’s innovative approach to coffee and tea, balanced by constructive critiques about capacity and pricing. This blend of feedback underscores Ovation Coffee & Tea's status as a beloved local gem that continually strives to provide a unique and welcoming experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
KRISTIN BLASS
I’m so happy and blessed to live in South Waterfront to experience Ovation. I love the customer service as soon as I walk in the door everyone says hello to me. Then it’s smiles for miles as I place my order. I sit down in some of the most comfortable chairs on the waterfront and suddenly she’s bringing me the most beautiful red cup of my cinnamon latte and soft and squishy veggie biscuit. The biscuit is full of well cooked, mouthwatering, pure flavor. I know they’re cooking with the finest ingredients because this is the best egg I’ve ever tasted. My latte is strong, so I ordered the half caff, and it tastes like a Paris, France experience. Ovation is such a dream. Go there! 🤩💕☕️🍳🇫🇷
John Schneider
My favorite coffee shop in Portland. I was a first customer many years ago and love everything about the place. Now I have one complaint. It’s not as clean as I would like especially the floors and ceiling. Please take care I want to continue b
Devon Royston
Based on first impression, this place is pretty mid. I would have expected better service and quality with the reviews being so highly rated, but we just didn't get that experience. Maybe its what we ordered and the possibility of there being a shift change that made it that way, but within the 10 minutes that we ordered two drinks and a biscuit they had forgotten part of our order and it wasn't until we said something that they finished the order. The drinks weren't anything to be impressed by neither; they lacked flavor and so did the biscuit. They did however give a coupon for a complimentary drink for the next time you go in, but the whole process of finishing the order literally took less than a minute, so it was confusing why we waited so long in the first place. I'm all for supporting local businesses, but you'd get better service and more flavorful items from the nearest Starbucks for the same prices.
Nean Péng
We all know there are no less than 475,000 places in Portland to get coffee, this is one of my new favs. I love that they don't play music so it doesn't feel as noisy and if you are with friends you don't have to talk over the music. Very dog friendly, and the dogs are friendly 😄. Great selection of coffee, I recommend trying the Moroccan Pistachio Latte. Nice food options, I had the veggie bisque and it was good. If you try it I felt like spinach and mushrooms made it a bit soggy so next time I'd get one of the other. I am definitely adding this place to my normal coffee rotation spots 👍🏾
Rain
Excellent coffee. had a pistachio latte with all the Moroccan spices and a sandwich, but I don't remember which one (sorry!). Great drinks, great atmosphere. will be back!
How to reach Ovation Coffee & Tea
None
Website: None
Why Ovation Coffee & Tea may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ovation Coffee & Tea with your friends?
Ovation Coffee & Tea stands out as an exceptional gathering spot for friends seeking quality time together over outstanding beverages and flavorful foods. With a stellar 4.5 rating from over 180 reviews, this Portland coffee shop combines a cozy atmosphere with unique offerings that make it an inviting destination. The blend of Moroccan-inspired drinks and classic coffee shop favorites creates an exciting menu that sparks conversation and discovery. Whether you are meeting for a morning catch-up or an afternoon break, Ovation’s spacious and comfortable interior offers just the right ambiance for groups to relax without feeling crowded. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the experience by making everyone feel welcome and valued, fostering a sense of community that’s ideal for social meetups. With ample seating both indoors and outdoors, plus free Wi-Fi and pet-friendly policies, Ovation Coffee & Tea anticipates the needs of diverse friend groups and families. The combination of excellent quality, unique flavors, and a welcoming vibe ensures your gathering will be memorable and enjoyable.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Ovation Coffee & Tea with your group?
Ovation Coffee & Tea offers more than just great drinks—it provides a social experience that caters to group interaction and relaxation. You can start your meetup by indulging in their signature Moroccan lattes, infused with organic honey and exotic spices, a perfect conversation starter. For those preferring something lighter, there are tea options like green tea infused with fresh spearmint and orange blossom, which add refreshing variety. The shop’s food menu compliments these drinks with delicious pastries, breakfast biscuit sandwiches, and paninis, allowing groups to share and sample multiple choices comfortably. Beyond eating and drinking, the spacious seating arrangements provide a perfect setting for board games, brainstorming sessions, or casual conversations. Their free Wi-Fi makes it easy to work collaboratively or stream entertainment if your meetup calls for it. Additionally, Ovation’s pet-friendly policy invites friends who love to bring along their furry companions, increasing the gathering’s inclusiveness and warmth.
Why is Ovation Coffee & Tea the perfect place for a group meetup?
Group meetups thrive on atmosphere, convenience, and quality—areas where Ovation Coffee & Tea excels. The coffee shop’s industrial yet inviting design accommodates small and larger groups comfortably, with enough space for everyone without the noise or bustle typical of crowded cafes. Its location in Portland, a city known for its vibrant coffee culture, adds to the appeal by situating your gathering in a recognized coffee hub. Accessibility factors such as street parking and proximity to public transport ease coordination for friends coming from different areas. Furthermore, Ovation commits to exceptional hospitality inspired by Moroccan traditions, which translates into attentive, heartfelt service that makes everyone feel special. Their acceptance of multiple contactless payment options simplifies settling bills when dining with friends. Whether it’s a casual meetup, a celebratory occasion, or a working session, the balance of quality service, innovative offerings, and comfortable environment culminates in a place that caters perfectly to groups looking to connect and enjoy their time.
What unique food and drink offerings set Ovation Coffee & Tea apart?
Ovation Coffee & Tea distinguishes itself by infusing Moroccan culinary influence into the coffee shop experience—something rarely found in the Portland coffee scene. Their Moroccan latte, enhanced with organic honey and exotic spices and topped with honey sprinkles to brûlée the foam, is a must-try and has become quite popular among patrons. This signature drink combines the richness of a traditional latte with the aromatic complexity of Moroccan spices, offering a unique flavor profile that sparks intrigue and delight. On the food front, they provide a variety of freshly baked pastries, breakfast biscuit sandwiches, and paninis that pair beautifully with both coffee and tea selections, ensuring there’s something for every palate. The inclusion of affogatos and soft serve shakes as part of their menu adds a playful twist to traditional coffee offerings, making Ovation a fun destination for all ages. Their use of fresh ingredients and attention to quality ensures that every bite and sip contribute to a satisfying experience, making group sharing an adventure of tastes.
How does Ovation Coffee & Tea create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all?
Creating a warm and inclusive environment is clearly a priority at Ovation Coffee & Tea, and this is embodied in every aspect of their service and setup. The staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, readily answering questions and guiding visitors through the menu to find the perfect drink or snack for their preferences. The shop’s layout offers various seating options, including intimate spots for smaller groups and larger tables for bigger parties, ensuring comfort and privacy as needed. Their pet-friendly policy also opens the door to guests who wish to include their animal companions, which adds a homey, relaxed feel that many group gatherings appreciate. Additionally, Ovation’s provision of free Wi-Fi means visitors can stay connected digitally, working or sharing moments online while enjoying their coffee. They also accept modern contactless payment methods and provide street parking, reducing logistical hassles. All these elements combine to make Ovation not just a coffee stop but a community space where everyone can feel included and comfortable.
What makes Ovation Coffee & Tea notable in Portland’s coffee culture?
Voted the #1 coffee shop in Portland in 2022 and ranked #3 on Yelp’s Top 100 Coffee Shops in the US and Canada, Ovation Coffee & Tea has cemented its place in a highly competitive market. Portland is famous for its abundance of exceptional coffee-quality establishments, so standing out here means delivering more than just a good brew. Ovation’s incorporation of Moroccan hospitality and culinary influence creates a distinct identity that resonates with coffee lovers looking for something unique and authentic. This innovative approach, combined with consistent quality and community engagement, has helped Ovation build a loyal following. Their dedication to blending cultural richness with Portland’s progressive coffee scene not only elevates the experience but invites curiosity and repeated visits. This reputation assures groups that visiting Ovation means experiencing one of the city’s best coffee spots, ideal for reliable quality and an inspiring atmosphere.
How do the services and amenities at Ovation Coffee & Tea enhance group gatherings?
Ovation Coffee & Tea understands what groups need: comfortable spaces, excellent service, and convenience. Its opening hours from early morning until early evening allow flexibility to plan meetups at various times of the day, accommodating early risers and afternoon socializers. The availability of free Wi-Fi supports work meetups or casual browsing while chatting, and the presence of street parking simplifies arriving with multiple vehicles. Accepting contactless payments speeds up transactions, reducing any wait time or awkward splitting of bills. The staff’s willingness to help and friendly demeanor elevate the overall mood, making group members feel appreciated and cared for. Additionally, outdoor seating options provide alternatives for those who prefer fresh air or bring pets. These thoughtful services and amenities reduce stress and increase enjoyment, letting groups focus on time together rather than logistics.
What are the best occasions to host your friends or family at Ovation Coffee & Tea?
Ovation Coffee & Tea’s versatile atmosphere and offerings make it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual daily meetups to special celebrations. Morning meet-and-greets before work or weekend breakfast gatherings work perfectly with their delicious breakfast items and early opening hours. Afternoon coffee breaks with friends can take advantage of the unique Moroccan-inspired lattes and refreshing teas to recharge and relax together. For families, the relaxed setting, kid-friendly pastry options, and pet policy provide an inclusive environment where all members feel welcome. Ovation is also an excellent choice for creative sessions or book clubs, thanks to the ample seating and free Wi-Fi. Even informal celebrations such as birthdays or small milestones can be delightful here, with the option to sample diverse treats or custom orders. This flexibility means Ovation adapts well to whatever mood or purpose your group brings, always delivering a quality meetup experience.
How does Ovation Coffee & Tea support local community and culture?
Ovation Coffee & Tea reflects Portland’s community values by embracing hospitality and cultural diversity in its concept and approach. Founded by the Elhabbassi family, who brought authentic Moroccan flavor and traditions from their heritage, the shop enriches the local coffee culture with genuine global influences. This connection to family and cultural storytelling fosters community bonds and educational experiences for visitors eager to learn and taste something new. The shop’s reputation for quality and friendliness means it often becomes a community hub where locals gather frequently, strengthening social ties. By focusing on excellent customer service and respect, Ovation upholds Portland’s welcoming spirit. Supporting local suppliers for its fresh pastries and using sustainable practices further signify their commitment to the city’s values. Thus, choosing Ovation for meetups means supporting a business that actively contributes to the cultural and social fabric of Portland.
Why is Ovation Coffee & Tea a reliable choice for consistent quality and innovative concepts?
At Ovation Coffee & Tea, quality and innovation are at the heart of every cup and dish served. Their team prides itself on maintaining high standards for coffee sourcing and preparation, ensuring each drink meets demanding taste and freshness criteria. The Moroccan twist on traditional beverages demonstrates thoughtful innovation that doesn’t compromise on authenticity or quality. Similarly, their food offerings are freshly made and regularly baked throughout the day to guarantee taste and texture. Their accolades, including being voted one of the top coffee shops nationally, underscore their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. For groups, this means a guaranteed pleasurable experience every time they visit, whether they are coffee aficionados or casual visitors. The balance of dependable quality with inspiring new flavors makes Ovation a standout choice that consistently delights and surprises patrons.
What can you expect from the customer service experience at Ovation Coffee & Tea?
Service at Ovation Coffee & Tea goes beyond the transactional; it embodies the Moroccan tradition of hospitality. The staff are known for their warm welcomes, knowledge, and attentiveness that create a personalized and pleasant experience. They help navigate the menu, recommend favorites, and accommodate special requests with a positive attitude. This friendly approach not only enhances the atmosphere but also makes guests feel valued and at ease. Groups especially benefit from the team’s efficiency and flexibility in handling larger orders and varied preferences. The overall service experience fosters a relaxing environment where guests can savor their time without distraction. This welcoming spirit aligns perfectly with Ovation’s goal of making every visit more than just about coffee—but about building community and connection.
Ovation Coffee & Tea offers a unique and vibrant spot perfect for social gatherings. With its distinctive Moroccan-inspired menu, welcoming vibe, spacious comfort, and attentive service, it creates an ideal environment for friends and family to come together and enjoy quality moments. Whether you plan a casual catch-up, celebrate milestones, or work collaboratively, Ovation’s blend of tradition and innovation guarantees an enriching and memorable meetup.