Hostel Cafe

I love this gem of a place, one of my favorite coffee spots in Portland! For the “rude” or “mean” cashier comments floating around, I would just like to offer a gentle reminder that some people simply aren’t as out there or extroverted. In America we have gotten a bit too used to people performing cheerfulness for tips. Personally, I appreciate a straightforward, no-frills kind of person (very European in the best way) and they’re still kind, attentive, and even remembered my order after only a couple of visits! The drinks are genuinely special; the black licorice latte (house-made syrup!) is my go-to, with the juniper sage as a close second. Everything I’ve tried has been thoughtful and delicious. For the people calling it “messy” or “rundown,” I’d say it’s just eclectic cozy. As another person had mentioned, it’s not one of those Pearl District cafés that look like a dermatologist’s waiting room (clinically white, soulless, and weirdly proud of it). Flying Cat actually feels like something; a little worn, a little mismatched, but alive. Far more sincere than any “minimalist aesthetic” could ever hope to, in my opinion. It feels like an old home with personality; the kind of place you can actually exhale, read, and exist without pretense. If you like your coffee (and your coffee shops) with character, Flying Cat’s the spot.

I love this coffee shop, they make the best matcha in this neighborhood. It’s CONSISTENTLY good because the same person makes it every time, unlike most of the other coffee shops in the neighborhood where I have to remember which barista at each location does a decent job. There are great in-house vegan options and they serve Catscratch pastries (the best!!!!). The vibe is warm, inviting and cozy rather than sterile and cold like a lot of places these days.

I really enjoyed the atmosphere lol. Went here while camping and needed a place to charge my batteries and get some coffee and it was really really nice. I love the decor inside, there’s some really fun pictures framed. I definitely recommend going here.. it’s one of my favourite coffee shops I’ve ever gone to ^_^