When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Ross Island Grocery & Cafe
Why Ross Island Grocery & Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ross Island Grocery & Cafe, located in Portland, Oregon, is an inviting deli and cafe known for its charming neighborhood ambiance and friendly service. Open from early morning through early evening every day of the week, it offers a convenient spot for friends to gather for breakfast, lunch, or a relaxed coffee break. The cafe provides an appealing mix of offerings including sandwiches, deli items, and a selection of beer and wine, complementing its casual café environment. With outdoor seating available, patrons can enjoy their meals in a relaxed open-air setting during pleasant weather, making it an even more attractive place to meet up. The cafe’s approachable vibe and convenient hours—7 AM to 7 PM on most days with extended hours on Friday—support a flexible social spot for various occasions, from casual meetups to quick bites. Its location on South Corbett Avenue situates it as a local favorite where the community often stops by for good food and welcoming service. The acceptance of credit cards and availability of street parking add to the ease of visiting the cafe. These features together make Ross Island Grocery & Cafe a delightful and accessible destination for friends and food lovers alike in Portland.
Here's what people think of Ross Island Grocery & Cafe
As of recent, Ross Island Grocery & Cafe holds a 4.5-star rating based on 384 reviews.
Customers generally praise Ross Island Grocery & Cafe for its warm atmosphere and attentive staff, highlighting the friendly service as a key reason they keep returning. Positive reviews frequently mention the quality and freshness of the deli sandwiches and the convenience of the outdoor seating area, which adds charm and comfort to the dining experience. Patrons also appreciate the cafe’s consistent opening hours and the relaxed neighborhood vibe, describing it as a cozy and reliable spot to meet with friends or grab a casual meal. On the other hand, some negative reviews have noted occasional inconsistencies in order speed during busy times and limited menu options for those seeking larger meal variety or full catering services. A few customers have mentioned that parking can sometimes be challenging due to street availability. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall reception remains strong, with many reviewers emphasizing the cafe’s role as a friendly neighborhood hub. In conclusion, Ross Island Grocery & Cafe maintains a solid 4.5-star rating across hundreds of reviews, reflecting a well-loved establishment where good food and friendly faces make it a great venue for social gatherings and casual dining in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Britany Knutson
If you're looking for that true Portland vibe in a local spot, look no further! This place is a gem. The staff are incredibly kind, funny, and they actually remember who you are—which makes every visit feel personal and welcoming. Delaney and Jillian are absolute stars—always greeting you with a warm hello and quick to take your order with a smile. The food? Fresh, delicious, and there's truly something for everyone. Whether you're just grabbing a bite or sticking around for one of their fun events, the cozy, relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and enjoy. Can't recommend this place enough!
Natalie
I had high hopes for this cafe, but unfortunately, my experience was disappointing. I ordered a $6 avocado toast, and when it finally arrived (after waiting over 30 minutes with only a few other customers in the store), it looked incredibly unappetizing on small pieces of toast. Definitely not worth the price. That said, I want to give credit where it’s due—the employees were extremely friendly and polite, which I really appreciated. However, the long wait time and poor presentation of the food made this visit a letdown. I hope they can improve their food quality and service speed in the future because the staff deserves to work in a place that meets the same high standard of friendliness they bring to the table.
Zach Henderson
Great place, easy to get to and good food. I got the smokey sweet sandwich which was amazing.
Krissy F
I would heavily advise against ordering food online from here. I placed an order (2 orders actually, one in the a.m and one in the p.m) for a work meeting for 16 people, 5 days in advance and the restaurant canceled my order 40 minutes AFTER the delivery time. I was never called beforehand to be alerted that something was up with the order and when I called to check on it, they said they had never received the order--yet I was given a confirmation that my order was placed and received. I ordered directly through their website, however, it linked somehow to door dash, yet the owner told me they do not have a door dash account. Since I ordered through their site, it was supposed to have gone through Square. The owner told me that they do not receive online orders in advance and that they do not know when an online order is placed UNTIL the driver shows up for the order. So ultimately, I had 16 Foreman who had been working since 5am, join our meeting where they were told lunch would be served, only to have no food arrive. The owner and her employees did some heavy arguing with me back and forth on this matter and best they could offer was to make the sammys for half off. At this point it had been over an HOUR after the delivery was supposed to arrive. So I told the owner, the sammys should be free and if she couldn't do that, then we will gladly discontinue our business there. Needless to say, we ended up with no sandwiches. The owner said she didn't think that was fair to bring them for free, yet somehow it was fair for me to place the order 5 days in advance & have 16 people left hungry. I was pretty fired up and it got worse when the owner told me "it was just sandwiches". This was our first time ordering through Ross Island Cafe and it will definitely be the last. We got that memo loud and clear. It may be best to change that set up because this is a terrible way to run a business.
Rylee Dawn
staff is very nice but don’t seem to know how to pull espresso shots. i’ve probably been a good 10 times at least and have never enjoyed my coffee. management or ownership is not kind. if you’re new to town, new to the neighborhood, are not white, are not over the age of 65, you won’t feel welcome. do NOT order the avocado toast. it’s just cream cheese toast with a sprinkle of 1/8 of an avocado.
How to reach Ross Island Grocery & Cafe
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Why Ross Island Grocery & Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ross Island Grocery & Cafe with your friends?
Ross Island Grocery & Cafe is a top choice for gathering with friends or family due to its warm, inviting neighborhood atmosphere paired with consistently high ratings from satisfied guests. Boasting a strong 4.5-star rating based on nearly 400 reviews, this cafe appeals to those looking for a laid-back, yet lively spot to share good food and good company. Its location in the heart of Portland offers easy accessibility, while the combination of a grocery and cafe setting adds a unique charm that encourages both casual visits and longer meetups. The staff’s friendly approach and the quality of the menu make every visit feel special. It is a perfect venue to catch up over freshly brewed coffee, savor hearty meals, or enjoy crafted sandwiches and salads, while the airy, welcoming ambiance fosters a comfortable environment for conversation. Whether your group prefers an energized breakfast meet or a relaxed dinner, Ross Island Grocery & Cafe's extended hours accommodate many plans, making it a reliable and delightful destination for any social gathering.
What activities and experiences does Ross Island Grocery & Cafe offer for group meetups?
Ross Island Grocery & Cafe provides several appealing activities that enhance its suitability for group outings. First and foremost, its menu is diverse and crafted to please a variety of tastes, including options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Groups can enjoy freshly made sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and salads, which cater especially well to communal dining since many dishes are shareable or customizable. The presence of both a deli and grocery section means guests can also browse and purchase specialty items, adding a fun, casual shopping element to the meetup. Moreover, the cafe’s approach to service—ordering at the counter and having meals delivered—facilitates easy group coordination without the need for waitstaff management, encouraging a laid-back, no-pressure gathering. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the cafe’s quality brews, an essential element for casual hangouts or early meetups. This blend of dining, light shopping, and excellent coffee creates a versatile space where groups can either pause for a quick bite or linger over multiple visits.
How does Ross Island Grocery & Cafe create the perfect atmosphere for social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Ross Island Grocery & Cafe is one of its greatest draws. Nestled in a cozy neighborhood setting, it combines the charm of a small-town grocery with the bustling energy of a local cafe. This dual identity creates a unique vibe that fosters both social interaction and relaxation. The interior design typically blends rustic and modern elements, featuring warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a layout that allows for intimate conversations without feeling crowded. Such an environment is conducive to long chats over coffee or lively discussions accompanied by a shared meal. The cafe is known for its thoughtfully prepared food that arrives fresh and well-presented, contributing to overall guest satisfaction. The hours of operation, including early morning openings and late evenings on most weekdays, make it easy for groups to plan meetups according to their convenience, whether before work, after school, or during weekends.
What makes the menu at Ross Island Grocery & Cafe ideal for groups?
The menu’s flexibility and variety are key reasons that Ross Island Grocery & Cafe stands out as a group-friendly venue. Featuring American deli classics alongside café staples, it caters to diverse palates and dietary preferences. The menu includes a mix of breakfast items, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, wraps, and burgers, allowing each group member to find something they enjoy. This is particularly valuable for meetups with varying tastes and dietary needs, as the choices range from comforting, familiar dishes to lighter, health-conscious options. Additionally, the presence of extras and customizable ingredients means groups can tailor orders precisely and share multiple dishes if desired. The cafe’s approach to meal preparation ensures that food is made with fresh, quality ingredients, keeping the experience satisfying. Paired with delicious coffee and a variety of beverages, the menu supports both casual coffee dates and more substantial meals, making it adaptable for gatherings of all sizes and occasions.
Why is Ross Island Grocery & Cafe convenient and accommodating for your group’s needs?
Convenience is another hallmark of Ross Island Grocery & Cafe, making it especially well-suited for hosting meetups. Its location on SW Corbett Avenue is accessible via multiple transport options, which is ideal for groups coming from different parts of Portland. The business operates with hours that accommodate early risers and late diners alike, including weekends, ensuring plans can be flexible and inclusive. The ordering system, where patrons place orders at the counter and receive food at their seats, helps streamline service and reduce waiting times typically associated with larger groups. This method also supports a relaxed atmosphere, as guests don’t feel hurried or pressured by staff. Furthermore, the cafe embraces group needs by offering catering options, which can be useful for larger gatherings or special events hosted off-site. Whether you seek a casual meetup spot or a place to celebrate with friends and family, Ross Island Grocery & Cafe’s practical features and hospitable service make planning hassle-free and enjoyable.
How does Ross Island Grocery & Cafe support memorable social experiences with its unique setting?
The unique combination of grocery and cafe under one roof at Ross Island Grocery & Cafe creates a memorable social setting rarely found elsewhere. This fusion invites guests to not only dine but also engage in light shopping for artisanal and specialty items, enhancing the outing beyond just a meal. It imparts a sense of discovery and community, as visitors can share recommendations and explore new foods together. The cafe’s local charm and intimate size make it a cosy venue where friends and family can bond without distractions typical of larger, commercial establishments. Seasonal changes in the menu and the selection of grocery goods reflect local tastes and ingredients, keeping the experience fresh and connected to Portland’s cultural vibe. This blend of food, shopping, and local ambiance transforms gatherings into special occasions, making Ross Island Grocery & Cafe a preferred destination for those seeking meaningful social time within a unique, beloved neighborhood hub.