When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Insomnia Cookies
Why Insomnia Cookies is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Insomnia Cookies, founded in 2003 by two University of Pennsylvania students, has grown from a college side hustle into a beloved bakery chain specializing in delivering warm cookies and sweet treats late into the night. With over 265 stores across the United States, Canada, and the UK, many locations are strategically placed near university campuses, making it an ideal spot for students and friends to gather or enjoy a late-night snack. The menu features a variety of classic and deluxe cookies, including vegan options, alongside cookie cakes, brownies, milk, ice cream, and ice cream sandwiches. What truly makes Insomnia Cookies a great place to meet up is its unique focus on delivering freshly baked, warm cookies right to your door or pick-up location, catering especially to those seeking comforting, delicious desserts during late hours. The brand’s late-night availability often until 3 a.m. combined with the wide range of delectable treats provides a cozy, fun, and accessible experience for friends to share a sweet moment together, whether they are relaxing on campus or hanging out at home. This blend of convenient service, warm comfort food, and a youthful, energetic vibe makes Insomnia Cookies a standout destination for social gatherings centered around sweet indulgences.
Here's what people think of Insomnia Cookies
As of recent, Insomnia Cookies holds a 3.3-star rating based on 48 reviews.
User reviews of Insomnia Cookies present a mixed picture, resulting in an overall rating of approximately 3.3 out of 5 from around 48 reviews. Many positive reviews highlight the enjoyment of the warm, freshly baked cookies and the variety of flavors available, with frequent praise for the vegan choices and the fun novelty of late-night delivery. Customers appreciate the accessibility and convenience, especially students who often rely on the service for overnight cravings. Reviews often describe the cookies as delicious and satisfying, with a good balance of flavors and textures, making it a popular go-to for social occasions or solitary treats. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in cookie quality and texture, describing some cookies as more crumbly than soft, which can disappoint those expecting a chewier bite. There have also been complaints about customer service, delivery delays, and issues raised in the media regarding employee working conditions, which have tempered some customers' enthusiasm. Despite these criticisms, many patrons conclude that the overall experience—especially the concept of warm cookie delivery late at night—remains appealing. In conclusion, while certain service and quality issues exist, Insomnia Cookies maintains a strong niche appeal through its unique product offering and availability, continuing to attract a loyal customer base seeking sweet, warm comfort food anytime.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
shruti kotha
Fun fact : The cafe is called insomnia as its open till 3AM. Great cookie and ice cream. I tried the double chocolate cookie with cookie dough icecream and vanilla ice cream. I personally felt the cookie was too sweet, but the ice cream was perfect.
Dayna Upshaw
Just divine when being delivered, but! Omg even better going into the shoppe, and getting one handed to you!! The warm s’mores cookie is 🎶 TO DIE FOOOR!!🎵
Taylor Frederick
cookies & ice cream are delicious! i was expecting softer cookies, but these are more the crunchy kind - still great! this particular store didn't have my first couple of choices when i went (perhaps unfortunate timing) and its a little expensive, but otherwise i had a great first time and want to come again! edit: went again and they still only had like 5 cookies available! got a peanut butter cookie and it was good, but still not my first choice. i would recommend ordering a batch ahead of time or something
Jessica “Wilder Rose” Guzman
Insomnia Cookies – Brookie Bliss in PDX Tried the Brookie with a scoop of coffee ice cream in downtown Portland—total game changer. The brownie-cookie combo was rich, warm, and just the right kind of chewy. Paired with the smooth, bold coffee ice cream? Unreal. It’s a bit of a sugar bomb, but when you’re up late and craving comfort, this hits the spot. Rating: 5/5 Brookie + cold brew flavor = late-night perfection.
Kathryn Massoudi
I've ordered from here twice now. Once on Doordash and most recently from the website itself. Both times I've had items in my order missing. When I'm paying $6+ for a cookie or to add ice cream I expect to get said item. That being said the cookies are very good and better than their competition. I just wish I actually received what I paid for.
How to reach Insomnia Cookies
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Website: None
Why Insomnia Cookies may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Insomnia Cookies with your friends?
Insomnia Cookies is an ideal spot for friends and family to gather because it offers a combination of warm, freshly baked cookies and a welcoming, fun atmosphere that naturally encourages socializing. Whether your group consists of college students, casual cookie lovers, or families looking for a sweet treat, Insomnia Cookies specializes in delivering happiness through its menu of freshly baked goodies that are available late into the night. This ensures that your meetup can happen anytime, whether after dinner, during a study session, or as a late-night snack adventure. The smell of warm cookies wafting from the ovens creates an inviting environment that instantly lifts moods and makes any occasion feel special. Additionally, Insomnia Cookies’ unique business model emphasizes delivering warm treats right to your door or hosting in-store gatherings, making it highly convenient for groups who want to share delicious experiences without hassle. The intimate, cozy setting encourages conversation, laughter, and creating lasting memories with your friends, making it more than just a dessert stop but a memorable social destination.
What activities can you enjoy at Insomnia Cookies for a group meetup?
Insomnia Cookies offers more than just cookies—there are a variety of activities and experiences tailored for groups to enjoy together. First and foremost, the core activity is sharing a broad selection of freshly baked cookies and other sweet treats, including ice cream sandwiches and deluxe cookie flavors that cater to varied tastes within your group. You can customize your order to include favorites like Chocolate Chunk, Mint Chocolate, or M&M cookies, ensuring everyone gets something they love. The bakery also fosters an interactive, hands-on experience where groups can watch the cookies being baked fresh onsite in many locations, adding an element of entertainment and engagement to your meetup. For those who want to enhance their experience, many outlets offer "cookie decorating" events or seasonal specials where groups can personalize their treats, making the gathering even more memorable. Moreover, the relaxed environment is perfect for informal activities such as casual conversations, games, or even impromptu celebrations, making it a versatile venue for friends or family to gather comfortably.
Why is Insomnia Cookies perfect for a group meetup?
Insomnia Cookies is perfectly suited for group meetups because of its unique late-night service, group-friendly menu, and cozy ambiance. Many locations stay open until late into the night, which means groups of friends or family can come together outside of typical dining hours, perfect for those who have busy schedules or prefer to socialize after other commitments. The menu is designed with sharing in mind: multiple cookie boxes, assorted flavors, and complementary ice cream options encourage communal tasting and fun debates about favorites. This shared experience naturally promotes interaction and bonding. The atmosphere is casual, warm, and approachable, which makes it easy for groups to feel at home and engage in conversation without the pressure of a formal dining environment. Additionally, Insomnia Cookies’ dedication to freshness and quality ensures that every bite delights, giving groups a delicious reason to return again and again. This combination of accessibility, variety, and ambiance makes Insomnia Cookies a natural choice for gatherings centered on connection and enjoyment.
What makes the menu at Insomnia Cookies ideal for socializing?
The menu at Insomnia Cookies is built for sharing and socializing, which makes it perfect for group meetups. It features a wide variety of classic and deluxe cookie flavors that can satisfy diverse preferences, ranging from traditional Chocolate Chunk to inventive Mint Chocolate and M&M options. This variety means that everyone in your group can find something they love or try new flavors together, sparking conversation and shared enjoyment. The inclusion of ice cream sandwiches combines two beloved sweets, making it a fun option for groups looking to indulge in something playful and delicious. Because cookies are easily shareable and pairs well with ice cream, groups can create their own tasting platters or compete for favorite cookies in a friendly manner. The conveniently packaged cookie boxes encourage communal sharing and minimize mess, allowing for stress-free snacking. Moreover, the option for warm, freshly baked cookies enhances the sensory experience, strengthening the communal vibe as friends enjoy treats hot from the oven.
How does the atmosphere at Insomnia Cookies encourage connection?
Insomnia Cookies cultivates an inviting and warm atmosphere that naturally encourages connection, making it ideal for group meetups. The scent of warm, freshly baked cookies instantly creates a comforting environment that draws people in and promotes a relaxed mood. Most locations have a casual and cozy vibe, with seating arrangements conducive to conversation and sharing. The bakery’s late-night hours also mean groups can gather when other venues may be closed, tapping into a communal spirit often found in night owl crowds that enjoy unwinding together after a long day. The friendly and enthusiastic staff often add to the positive atmosphere by engaging with customers warmly, reinforcing the feeling of a personalized and welcoming experience. Unlike more formal dining settings, Insomnia Cookies offers a laid-back space where groups can linger, chat, and bond over their shared love of sweets, making the experience feel both special and comfortable.
What makes Insomnia Cookies convenient and accessible for groups?
Insomnia Cookies stands out in convenience and accessibility, key factors for groups looking to meet up with ease. With over 265 stores nationwide, primarily near college campuses and urban areas, it is typically easy for friends or families to find a nearby location. The brand is renowned for its delivery service that brings warm cookies straight to your doorstep late into the night, which is perfect for groups looking to enjoy treats together without leaving home or their meetup location. This feature is particularly popular among students and busy professionals who want dessert for study groups, casual gatherings, or celebrations without logistical stress. Additionally, many locations offer comfortable seating areas, making it easy for groups to come together in person. The online ordering system is straightforward and supports group orders with customizable options, making it simple to plan and execute group meetups. This blend of physical locations and robust delivery options gives Insomnia Cookies unmatched flexibility for social gatherings.
Why is Insomnia Cookies a good choice for celebrations and special occasions?
Insomnia Cookies is a fantastic choice for celebrations and special occasions because it adds a unique, sweet twist to any event with its fresh, warm cookies and playful menu options. Whether it's a birthday, a casual get-together, or an impromptu celebration, the brand’s specialty cookies provide a festive element that guests appreciate. Groups can order assorted cookie boxes featuring multiple flavors, making it easy to cater to varied tastes and dietary preferences. Some locations even offer cookie decorating, seasonal limited flavors, and themed packaging that can enhance the celebratory mood. The ability to order large quantities of cookies for delivery or pickup simplifies party planning and lets hosts focus on other aspects of their event. The warmth and indulgence of freshly baked cookies create a joyful and memorable centerpiece for celebrations, transforming ordinary moments into something special with every bite.
How does Insomnia Cookies support friendly, informal gatherings?
Insomnia Cookies supports friendly and informal gatherings by offering a venue and menu that emphasize comfort, enjoyment, and low pressure. Unlike formal restaurants or cafes, the setting at Insomnia Cookies encourages casual hangouts where friends and family can unwind comfortably over sweet treats. The ready-to-share cookie boxes and ice cream options invite communal eating that naturally sparks interaction and laughter, whether your group is catching up after a long week, studying together, or celebrating a small victory. The late-night hours allow meetups to happen when other spots may not be open, catering to night owls or those with unconventional schedules. The approachable vibe and affordable pricing reduce barriers to entry, making it simple and inviting for any group size. This emphasis on comfort and shared enjoyment cultivates an atmosphere where connection happens naturally, without pressure or formality.
What is the story behind Insomnia Cookies and how does that resonate with groups?
The story behind Insomnia Cookies adds a meaningful layer to the group experience by emphasizing its roots as a college student’s solution to late-night cravings. Founded in 2003 by Seth Berkowitz in his dorm room at the University of Pennsylvania, the business grew from a heartfelt desire to deliver warm cookies to students studying or socializing late into the night. This origin story resonates with groups, especially college students and young professionals, because it reflects shared experiences of late-night gatherings, studying together, and bonding over snacks. The brand’s continuing focus on delivering warm happiness and its dedication to community through cookies creates a sense of connection beyond just food. Knowing they are supporting a company built with the goal of bringing people together during those special, late-night moments makes meetups at Insomnia Cookies feel more intentional and wholesome, turning casual outings into shared traditions.
What makes Insomnia Cookies stand out in the dessert and bakery market?
Insomnia Cookies stands out in the dessert and bakery market due to its focus on late-night delivery of warm, fresh cookies combined with its strategic presence near college campuses and urban centers. Unlike traditional bakeries or cookie businesses, Insomnia Cookies carved a niche by addressing the specific craving for sweets after hours, when most other food delivery options tend to be limited to savory or fast food. This unique value proposition has allowed the brand to build a loyal customer base that returns frequently, especially among students and night owls. The brand’s innovation extends to diversifying its menu with deluxe cookie varieties, ice cream sandwiches, and seasonal items, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. Additionally, the company’s investment in high-quality, in-house control of operations translates into consistently fresh products and an engaging customer experience. This combination of accessibility, innovation, and focus on customer delight makes Insomnia Cookies a distinguished choice in a crowded market.
How does Insomnia Cookies foster a friendly and innovative company culture that benefits customers?
Insomnia Cookies fosters a company culture centered on teamwork, innovation, and customer engagement, which directly benefits customers and the group experience. The founder, Seth Berkowitz, emphasized building strong teams and empowering managers to work collaboratively across locations to maintain high standards and drive innovation. This approach ensures that employees are motivated, friendly, and attentive, which enhances the welcoming atmosphere customers enjoy. Management’s willingness to innovate—such as testing food trucks, expanding deluxe menu options, and exploring new markets—helps the company stay fresh and responsive to customer desires. This culture of persistent improvement rooted in a belief in delivering happiness through cookies ensures that every customer interaction is positive and memorable. For groups, this means consistently excellent service, a pleasant environment, and delicious products that strengthen social gatherings.
These multiple facets—convenience, innovative menus, warm atmosphere, and strong company culture—combine to make Insomnia Cookies a perfect place for friends and family to rally for any occasion. The brand’s dedication to delivering joy bite by bite is evident in its growing popularity as a meetup destination that offers not just cookies, but memorable moments.