I like most Portlandiers have emerged from winter's hibernation early this year, as sunny warm days now seem the norm and not the rarity. The sun brings with it new writing challenges. Where should I write today. Portland is a Coffee Shop Mecca, besides the 1000s or so coffee shops, there're a number of other places to sit and write in Portland, Oregon--from libraries to bars and just about every place in between.
One of my favorite activities to do while trying to write is people watch, which means I try to find places with good street views and plug-ins--a necessity for any laptop wielding writer. Most people after knowing me for less than a minute realize my passion, obsession, really addiction to all things coffee, so my favorite writing locations are either near great coffee or serve great coffee.
My top five places to write in Downtown Portland.
Floyd's Coffee 118 NW Couch: Yes, that is Old Town. But it has a lot of positives. First on the weekends, the Saturday Market traffic provides plenty of people to watch, and turn into your next character. Second, they have both indoor and out door seating. Both area's have plug-ins. If you know where to look. Third, is the free WiFi. Beyond that the Baristas don't mind you sitting for hours writing. There is art work on the walls if people stop streaming in. Best of all, you get free refills on drip coffee when you order an 8oz cup of coffee for here. They use Stumptown coffee, which makes great cup of joe, or an espresso; either way you can't go wrong
Glyph Café 804 NW Couch, Yes, that is still Old Town. Though this place is in the heart of downtown you wouldn't know it looking out the windows. Or sitting at one of the side walk tables as it is right on the Park Blocks. This is a good blend of wanting to write in the park; but, still have a table for your laptop and that all important plug-in and free WiFi. They serve small reserve coffees, and a broad selection of tea (which I have not touched). They use large ice cubs, so your iced espresso based drinks don't get all watery, and melt slower in the fabulous cold brew coffee.
Coffee Time 712 NW 21st. Up to Nob Hill. I love this section of Portland for its little shops and multitude of restaurants. The neighborhood has a nice mix of Keep Portland Weird Locals, Tourists, and Hipsters to keep the people watching interesting Additionally, this is the place to go if you need an 11:00pm coffee fix and want to write in downtown. The coffee is good, but not the best in town. But who can pass up watching old men, and homeless kids arguing about playing chess. If you want a fail safe on a good cup, just order a bottle of Stumptown's cold brew which they sell.
Southeast Grind 1223 SE Powell: Okay this one is just outside of Downtown, But it's the ONLY 24 hour coffee shop even close to downtown. Also they serve a drink called the Graveyard, it is heaven, in a late night writers, cup: coffee, espresso, white chocolate, steamed milk and whip cream. How could you ask for more. Well go in at 2:00 am on a Thursday night and your people watching radar will go off the chart. They also server yummy stuff to nosh on while writing. The have free WiFi, plug-ins and a number of seating options including couches and tables,
Multnomah County Main Library 801 SW 10th. Okay. It's not a coffee shop, but it is surrounded by some of the best in town. (aka courier coffee). You started of at Floyd's, Moved on to Coffee Time, and were cutoff at Southeast Grind, its now 10:00 am. You're over caffeinated and still want to write. So head to the Library, first there are plenty of tables, the librarians are helpful. If you give them enough time, and can they find you just about anything you could desire research wise. Again there is free WiFi and people watching galore as Students, Soccer Mom's with toddlers and the Homeless all meander about.
So those are my favorite caffeine induced writing spots in and around Downtown. Do you think I forgot any? What are your favorite places to write in Portland.
For an update on my year of writing madly: After little to know writing in January and February, I came out of the March gates with a roar. I've written about 15,000 words, so far this month, Most of then for a Short Story that I'm currently working on, and if all goes as planned will be published sometime this summer.
Until next time, read, write and be happy.
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