Speckled Ax
567 Congress St, Portland, ME, 04101
Speckled Ax Menu
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Address :
567 Congress St
Portland, ME, 04101 - Phone (207) 660-3333
- Website https://www.mattscoffee.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :6:30 am - 7:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Good for Working : Yes
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Lee L.
I travel around a bit, and stop at coffee shops pretty much all over the US. Speckled Axe has some of the best espresso blend I've ever tried. Their bird dog espresso blend is amazing. The barista's know their coffee extremely well, understand how to make a proper cup and an excellent shot. A friend recently brought me some Hula daddy coffee from the big Island at $45 a pound and I would take Speckled Axe blends any day of the week over that.
(5)Jessika G.
I hate when this happens. When you read all of the Yelp reviews, you get hyped about a place, and then BOOM - it looks like all of your Yelp reviews are forged and the place disappoints. My husband and I were walking around downtown Portland for the day and I was craving coffee. Instead of stopping in the first place we saw, I decided to get on mobile Yelp and feel it out. "THIS IS IT" I told my husband, and even though the place was FOREVER away, we decided to make the trek for the sake of a good cup of coffee, awesome atmosphere, and great customer service. UGH. I can't lie, the atmosphere was cool - I snapped a couple of pictures. The service was terrible. I mean, I felt like I was an inconvenience more than anything. The woman and the man behind the counter looked like they didn't even want to be there. If it was just one person I would maybe chock it up as them having a bad day, but I don't think so. We ordered mocha's. They were bland. I have nothing else to say about that.
(2)Eva R.
This place is getting it right. The slightly aloof atmosphere I've come to expect at serious third wave coffee purveyors/hipster hangouts, a very cool ambiance, and most of all delicious coffee. Ordered an espresso with 6 oz. steamed milk (this portion of the menu is listed as espresso shot + varying amounts of steam milk). The beverage I got was delightful - a truly success without bitterness or a burnt taste, and beautiful art as well. Highly recommended for locals or the coffee connoisseur passing through town.
(5)Patrick H.
Great place with friendly staff. Try the hot chocolate if you're not in a coffee mind set.
(4)Katie R.
The coffee was good, I'll give it that. The reason for my mediocre review was the seriously snotty attitude of the guy behind the counter. Fine, maybe he had a bad night, I'll let that go. Then he swipes my card and turns the touch screen display around for me to sign, and it displays "Tip- 15%, 20% or Custom Tip". To skip tipping, I had to go into 'Custom Tip" and pick "0%. I'm all about tipping for a job well done, but please don't try to force me into it. Obnoxious, I won't go back.
(2)Kabloom K.
Really good coffee and expresso. Not too expensive either! My husband and I drove through Portland on our way up to Bar Harbor and stumbled upon this cute coffee shop with a last minute recommendation from a friend of a friend. My husband loved the coffee here so much he bought three bags and now regretting he didn't get more.
(5)Tonya S.
For a quick caffeine fix, this is a nice quiet cafe in the area. I picked out the aeropressed Ethiopian coffee blend over ice which was delicious with a hint of nutmeg. A small ice coffee for $3.50 was a little steep, as I've had comparable coffee at better prices.
(3)Yelena S.
I felt like such a fish out of water when I visited the Speckled Axe for the first time. As someone else mentioned in one of their reviews, it does in fact feel and look like an episode out of Portlandia. The brewing tools and machines look like something you'd see in a chemistry class. Or a meth lab. The bow-ties and crop tops made me feel old. I'm only 26. The menu was short and confusing. I thought I knew coffee terminology thanks to my many years of Starbucks brews, but boy was I wrong. I looked over at my squeeze and he had a bewildered look on his face, clearly overwhelmed by the non-conventional coffee shop set-up and options. We had no idea what to order. I now keep seeing on Yelp about some delicious caramel latte, but the menu didn't obviously convey how to order that. We approached the girls at the register with a deer-in-the-headlights look and told them we'd never been here before. They were very nice, but didn't really offer up the kind of guidance I was hoping for. I managed to navigate the menu and we ended up leaving with two, on the small side, lattes. They were very good, but for the cost/size ration I'll stick to my usual coffee spots. I feel like three stars is more accurate, but the two star description of "Meh. I've experience better" is way more fitting.
(2)Kelly O.
- I look at the minimalist menu, don't see a latte on offer despite the rave reviews on here about their caramel latte, make decision to switch up intended order accordingly - Me: "Hi, can I have a cold brew iced coffee with caramel sauce?" - the 2 hipste
(3)Anna E.
wicked damn fine cold brew + REG (cows) milk, almond milk, soy milk, fruity pebbles cereal milk (a la momofuku)! + surliest of surly hipster staff (would it kill ya to smile? just a little? it's Maine. people are supposed to be nice here) - small but cute and clean space + Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)Diane P.
The place is pretty inside, there was the expected morning crowd, the staff was amazingly helpful, but the coffee was not amazing. It was good, don't think I am bashing the place, but not the best I have ever had. I like a dark roast but dont like bitterness, it was ok but not something I would go back for. If I'm in the area and can find a parking spot (Good Luck!), I might try it again.
(2)Carrianne C.
I've tried a few different coffee places in Portland and this is my favorite one. I like the minimalist decor and the simple set up. It made for a good place to meet up with a friend or get some work done in peace. I just got an espresso with steamed milk and it was really well made - nothing bitter or sour, just a great little cup of espresso. They serve Holy Donuts too, which is kind of fun!
(5)Tarra H.
You always know your coffee will be perfectly made here. The baristas are friendly and knowledgeable about whatever is being poured that day (expect 3-4 options for pour over on top of their exquisite espresso drinks). Milk and sugar would only take away from the intelligently (light) roasted coffees. Hands down, my favorite coffee shop in Portland.
(5)Tony W.
If there is a coffee version of an existential crisis, then I think I experienced it yesterday during my first visit to Speckled Ax. I love coffee. If I'm not having at least two cups of coffee a day then it's probably because I've fallen down a well or I've been handcuffed to a radiator just out of reach of my French press. Coffee is so great I've probably written it in for president a couple times. Everything I've read about Speckled Ax has been glowing: They roast beans using locally sourced wood and sap. They use weird laboratory tools and Science to assist with coffee brewing. Jesus himself comes down once a week to smite any beans that may end up being 'overly acidic'. I was pretty excited to check it out, and I finally had a reason to be over in the Arts District area of Congress Street to do just that. The inside is gorgeous. Everything is perfectly painted and designed. Everything. It's like an interactive art installation in the Arts District. The white tin(?) ceiling, the small wooden tables, the counter, the floor - it all feels like it just opened yesterday. The owners really put a lot of time and effort into the design and execution of this place, and it's quite an accomplishment. While I was chilling out on my laptop for 45 minutes, 4 dogs came in with owners. I feel like there MUST be some ordinance in Portland requiring at least two dog to be present in every commercial property at any given time. People dressed like Paul Bunyan were having quiet conversations with people dressed like David Bowie...but hey, that's the Arts District for you. The tall, thin gentleman running the counter when I was there might be the most laid back combination of friendly, indifferent and aloof I've ever met. If you could get a master's degree in Barista Studies, then this guy would be a professor. He was helpful in pointing out the nuances of each roast listed on the board and pulled a small card with the wifi password out of thin air to hand it to me when I was walking up to him, before I could even inquire. So cool. The coffee I had was $3.25. This wasn't so cool, and is about $1 more than I'd pay anywhere else. The coffee was brought to my table about 5 minutes later in a cute cup and a small carafe, so the adorability of what I got helped defray the feeling over overpaying. The coffee itself was a very bitter. Surprising, as I was expecting something more balanced, given the reputation. This is where the coffee-stential crisis came in. Speckled Ax treats coffee so seriously that I thought for a second that perhaps this bitter coffee was 'good' coffee, and perhaps every experience I had had with coffee up until this point had been incorrect. After another sip: nope, I'd been right the whole time. This was not a good cup of coffee. The other problem is that - for as nice a place as it is - I felt a bit out of place. Usually a place this fancy/artsy doesn't allow folks like me in. I typically like simple coffee shops with good coffee, fair, pricing, plentiful seating, decent baked goods, friendly courteous staff, and free wireless. No artsiness or pretentiousness. That's it. It's definitely a good coffee shop for some people, but not the people like me who spend two or three days a week working remotely out of one. I will give the coffee another shot next time I'm in the neighborhood. Maybe I can get the rating up to a 4?
(3)Ellen K.
Awesome customer service and enjoyed some beautiful latte art - the way lattes should be served.
(5)Tess G.
I'll start by saying that we LOVE the Speckled Ax- we love purchasing their ground coffee for home, and I've never had a better caramel latte (made with Scratch's housemade caramel sauce....amazing.) Unfortunately, we're putting the brakes on our visits. There's one particularly grumpy barista who just totally ruined our experience. When my husband asked which of the donuts (from Holy Donuts) he'd recommend with his coffee, the barista gave him a sour look and said, quite seriously, "I don't get paid to talk about donuts." Seriously?! We deserve better service than this. Have a talk with your staff, and we'll consider coming back- we'd hate to give this place up for good.
(2)Leah W.
I. love. this. place. I wish that I lived closer so that I could go here every day for work. It would totally be worth waking up early so I could have this deliciousness every day. The Speckled Ax knows their coffee. As a former barista, I can tell you, its hard to get the flavor just right but the people here always hit their target. I have never had an overly bitter or burnt coffee. They are super friendly and even though the offerings are definitely a little more "artisanal" than most cafes, the staff will happily explain it to you. Look, their menu is straightforward and simple. You come in for coffee, you might sit in the cozy booth and enjoy or you might take it to go. You move on with your day, but the coffee that you get here will give you an extra spring in your step.
(5)Guy G.
Maybe the coffee is good but the service was poor- the staff seemed irritated to help us, and it wasn't busy
(3)Stephanie M.
I need to give them a second try. We went in, because duh: lumberjack coffee shop. But I was confused by what was going on. Our coffee was good, but then against most coffee tastes good to me. Dan didn't like it, but it's not really his thing, so I can't fault the coffee. I just didn't get enough of a unique or extraordinary vibe off it. Maybe if I read reviews beforehand and new what to do/get. I will try it again though.
(3)Karen H.
Great coffee! What a terrific combination of a beautiful Saturday morning in Portland, combined with the fresh roasted coffee aroma, the patient barista (while trying to narrow down my selection) and the selections of both coffee options and accompanying pastries! Super fresh, flavorful and delicious!
(5)Liz G.
I'm admittedly not the best person to write this review. I do love coffee, but I'm completely unpretentious about it and not like, super impressed by all of the fancy types and ways to make it. The guy doing the pour over looked appropriately nonplussed, which I've come to expect with pour-over coffee. The less emotionally involved my barista is, the better the coffee (it seems). My brother tried to get me to get the crazy gravity bong-looking method of preparation but it was like $6. So no. If you're like, really interested in coffee, and know a lot about it, and want the absolute best, then you should come here. Or if you're really close by and want a cup. Otherwise there are a million other coffee shops in Portland.
(3)Ilya F.
Great atmosphere and great coffee. I don't get how such a small town supports so many cafes, but it somehow does. The barista was very friendly and capable. My shot was perfectly pulled. Not sour, like the disappointing espresso I usually get.
(5)Tammy G.
Love this spot. Takes some time, so don't go if you are in a rush. Go if you want serious coffee. And get a donut while you wait for perfection in a cup.
(5)Maura Q.
Great service and great coffee makes for one great morning. The woman behind the counter slinging coffee was very friendly and didn't laugh when I asked what flavors they could add to the iced coffee. I got a cold brew with caramel. The caramel was rich and delicious! The cold brew was perfect and I think the caramel was homemade. I wish it was in an easier location for a commuter with a car, but finding parking is worth it! I didn't have time to stay but it seems like a great spot to hang out with a cup of coffee, with a friend, or both depending on what you value more.
(4)Megan C.
I have to say that I was really jazzed about having Speckled Ax walking distance from my hotel (Westin Harborview) when I was in Portland. It's always a nice change in pace to have the opportunity to sample some local color and flavor in a non-SB/DD coffee establishment. Some coffee shops that cater to the types of coffee connoisseurs that frequent Speckled Ax can be really intimidating and overwhelming (nay snooty), but this store is none of those things. While they do offer a full complement of coffee preparation methods from simple to complex, and of course a huge selection of different types of coffee beans, cold brew, roasting methods, and espresso options, it's the employees that make all the difference here and are passionate and patient. I knew that I needed coffee, stat. The line was short that morning, but there were enough patrons and just the right vibe, that I knew Speckled Ax was going to be good. Uh-oh: I was confronted with more than just the standard drip coffee or French Press; I saw Chemex, pour over, Kenyan, Ethiopian, Colombian, etc. Luckily for me, the barista/employee taking care of me took the time (sans attitude) to explain with method was her favorite with which bean, which led me to elect a pour over Kenyan as my choice for caffeinating. You can elect to watch your barista lovingly prepare your beverage, or you can amble over to the water cooler and enjoy some complimentary soda water. Prices are very fair, and I would say less expensive that the local 'Bucks, and of course you're getting much more for your $ at Speckled Ax. They offer, as you might expect, the total cadre of milk/milk alternatives, sugars, local honey, etc. The shop is on the small side, but it's tidy and well laid-out, plus there's some outdoor seating and some front-of-shop seating that's in the sun, so that's nice. I didn't drink my coffee in-house, so I didn't have a chance to check for ample power outlets.
(4)Steff D.
Yes, I know the coffee here is roasted using locally-sourced tree sap and wood. This seems to produce a much heartier, bolder, richer cup of coffee. Even as a fan of something so robust, I found my cup of coffee extremely bitter. So much so, I didn't finish it. I'm not sure why it was so caustic... my counterpart and I were among the first customers of the day, so it's not like it could have been siting there for very long. Maybe I'm more of a girlchild than I realized when it comes to my java. I liked the atmosphere of Speckled Ax; the appropriate hues of brown were warm and inviting. It didn't take long for the place to get very, very busy either (which they always seem to be) - good on them! I would have stayed longer and tried a different beverage if my laptop had been charged. Unfortunately, the seats by the windows (which I imagine offer breathtaking views when it's snowing! I wonder if "Coffee Shop" by Landon Pigg plays in the background during those moments?) didn't have an outlet, so I departed without getting the chance to redeem the experience I had with my unfortunately unpleasant initial cup of coffee here. Also, the Speckled Ax is not in the most convenient location if you don't live or work in the immediate area. I can't see folks from the extreme ends of the peninsula, or even just slightly off, going out of their way to come here given the infamously difficult parking situation. I will absolutely return to the Speckled Ax, but it will be extremely early in the AM before a meeting or a road trip; or, most likely, when I'm walking around the area on First Friday or for the Farmers' Market. As a mid-day caffeine fix, though? Just thinking about the parking is making me frustrated! Please don't misconstrue my three-stars as something negative, because it's definitely not! There are just so many "unique" coffee shops in town now, and their all trying to separate themselves from their competition somehow. And in reality, they can't all be perfect, can they? So, based on my personal tastes, while I liked Speckled Ax, currently it would not be the first place I would recommend to an outsider.
(3)Sarah M.
The service was less than friendly. My husband asked for a recommendation on the barista's favorite beans. The barista told him to read the descriptions and pick one that sounds good. Neither barista was interested in engaging in any sort of conversation. The coffee was okay--nothing to rave about.
(2)Clint B.
This is an amazing coffee shop. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. It is great for getting work done but still comfortable enough for having a nice conversation at the same time. The coffee selection is superb and the prices are very good for a coffee shop of this quality. I got a Kenyan pour over and it was as good as it gets. $3.25 after tax for a large. After being to many coffee shops in my life, these people definitely do everything correctly. Moreover, the staff here was friendly. There is free wi-fi here; just as the baristia for the password. I came on a Sunday, so street parking was free. I had to park a couple blocks away, but the walk down Congress St. was very enjoyable. If I had to pick one negative aspect about this place, it would be the parking, but it's by no means Speckled Ax's fault. I would definitely come back here in the future.
(5)Mike S.
I have two places I got for coffee -- here and Tandem. Which do I pick? Depends on what I want. Speckled ax is my go to for dark roast (well, the Matt's coffee that is) -- and there's always fresher roasted stuff here. Tandem is my light and medium roast selection. Speckled as has great services, many different types of brewing choices and staff thats willing to talk coffee. They make a cup of coffee not to be missed in this town! I've explored Seattle quite a bit for coffee and this place would be in the upper ranks there. The downside is that there's limited seating, hard to find plugs for studying with a laptop, and parking is hard since its downtown. Fire roasted huh? I don't quite get it... I think that consistent, accurate heat is a bit more important than the source of the heat --- its not like food that has a flavor change with the different wood or coal vs heat fired.
(4)Rachel D.
Speckled Ax is one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland. I'm not usually over on this part of Congress St. but have been known to go out of my way to grab a coffee or specialty drink at Speckled Ax. Recently, they partnered with Allagash White to bring an Allagash white infused coffee to the people of Portland. I mistakenly didn't make it over there soon enough to grab a cup of this but next time they have it in house someone needs to notify me (I'll buy you a cup too ;) ). With great atmosphere and an ancient Japanese method of coffee brewing, Speckled Ax is definitely a to do on coffee lovers list's, when visiting Portland. I did wish they had more seats as it's almost always full whenever I stop by. It's a small space so I'm not sure how they would manage that (maybe bar seating on the left wall?) but I thought I'd mention it. Once you go Speckled Ax you'll never go back.
(4)Dave P.
Plenty of time to start this review as I ordered my coffee 8 minutes ago. I get it, flannel, mustaches, hipsters, individual brew coffee, all of that is cool. But please at least have a sign letting busy people know this coffee takes forever to brew. By the time I got it my attitude was so soiled I really didn't enjoy how good the coffee probably was. The atmosphere was cool here. Hipster chic, plenty of flannel, and I'm sure live poetry readings. Probably won't stop back but if you have the time the coffee was decent.
(2)Bruce D.
If you're looking for the pinnacle of precision coffee making, you've found it. There is a level above the careful preparation and attention to detail found in the global empire of the dominant green machine Seattle based chain. This is the next frontier. The attention to detail, in both knowledge and preparation borders on the insane, in a good way. A very good way. The choices are limited and very specific. Think the coffee versions of rare single malt scotches or fine wines displayed in glass cases at the liquor store. That is what this experience is to coffee. Each cup is individually ground, brewed and during our visit sampled before serving. Staff are cheerful, friendly and helpful in an introverted and endearing 'Portlandia' sort of way. For example, at one point a coffee flavor was described as being 'Stephen Tyler' in flavor. Cute. Cryptic but cute. As noted by other Yelp reviewers, the coffee is strong and potent. After a cup of one of these excellent brews, you will be well equipped to lift heavy things or preside over a fast paced auction. In addition to cupped coffee bags of coffee beans are also offered for sale. I took some home and our dinner guests raved about it. The atmosphere, despite the scientific looking brewing apparatus on display and in use behind the counter, is warm and inviting. I have a friend who used to come here and linger with a book most mornings. There are tables and chairs to make that easier. It isn't difficult to figure out why The Speckled Ax has achieved a somewhat cult following in the local coffee drinking world. They have, for now, perfected the art of the roast, brew and grind, claiming the crown. This is a great place to either begin or end a downtown culinary adventure. Skip the 'restaurant coffee' at the end of your meal and end your evening with a truly special cup.
(5)Olivia R.
I had a latte and a scone, both of which were very good. They don't always have food apparently, but when I was there they had scones and a few flavors of donuts. The main attraction here is the siphon coffee, which comes with a bunch of extra in a carafe. I am not a huge fan of black coffee so I didn't get it, but just looking at the instruments they use was pretty cool. There is free wifi so it's a nice place to come and get work done.
(4)Katie T.
I love places like this that have a good dirty chia and a place to read in peace. The music list that they played was super chill. The serves was fast and I received beautiful latte art!
(5)Mariah L.
If you haven't been made a fool of yet today, come in here and ask for a large Americano. Not only will everyone treat you with disgust you will have to verify it with everyone on staff and deal with over and over. I'm sure these guys have a dunk tank. Just hasn't been approved by the city yet.
(1)Anna E.
wicked damn fine cold brew + REG (cows) milk, almond milk, soy milk, fruity pebbles cereal milk (a la momofuku)! + surliest of surly hipster staff (would it kill ya to smile? just a little? it's Maine. people are supposed to be nice here) - small but cute and clean space + Overall, I'm a fan.
(4)Diane P.
The place is pretty inside, there was the expected morning crowd, the staff was amazingly helpful, but the coffee was not amazing. It was good, don't think I am bashing the place, but not the best I have ever had. I like a dark roast but dont like bitterness, it was ok but not something I would go back for. If I'm in the area and can find a parking spot (Good Luck!), I might try it again.
(2)Carrianne C.
I've tried a few different coffee places in Portland and this is my favorite one. I like the minimalist decor and the simple set up. It made for a good place to meet up with a friend or get some work done in peace. I just got an espresso with steamed milk and it was really well made - nothing bitter or sour, just a great little cup of espresso. They serve Holy Donuts too, which is kind of fun!
(5)Sarah W.
Full disclosure: my brother is one of the roasters/baristas here. I love hanging out to do some work or socialize at the Ax. Low key music of various genres, multiple types of seating (tables, benches, bar), friendly and knowledgeable staff, healthy(ish) snacks. Every customer is treated like a regular. They're very good at helping you figure out what you want by taste if you're intimidated by the sparely detailed menu or a relative coffee cretin (as I was). My personal favorite is the cold brew. It takes so much ground coffee to make at home that it feels like a steal at $3/16 oz. Last but definitely not least I love the attention to detail in bean selection, flavor, and roast using Maine materials (sap & wood). The unpretentious commitment to excellence is a big draw. Also, Fruity Pebbles milk.
(5)Skip S.
A great addition to the neighborhood. Stopped in and had an espresso with steamed milk...incredibly delicious 11/10. One star detracted for a really sub-par dirty chai latte. Very bitter and thin, made only marginally better by sweetening.
(4)Tiffany F.
Some of the best cold brew I've had in New England! I found out from this place from a friend who lives in San Francisco and claimed that it was one of the best coffee shops he's been to on the eastern seaboard. SF has a tough coffee crowd so a compliment from him means a lot. And he was absolutely right! I found the staff to be a little cold, especially for Portland. But the coffee quality was good enough where it didn't really matter. This place knows cold brew.
(5)Tyler L.
Speckled Ax would do great in Brooklyn as well. The staff is great at making a tasty cup, but will make you feel like a tiny human being doing so. The interior is tiny yet it somehow felt like it took hours to walk down to the register because of the stares. The cold brew was sublime, especially with fruity pebble milk, the key to my heart. Yes, they make a special milk by dissolving fruity pebbles and it is as delicious as it sounds. Because of the size of the place, it's not a place you really sit to enjoy the coffee, so it's best to take on the road.
(3)Col S.
This place is cute and quaint, and a great place to check out for espresso, at least once. The service was friendly and the place was clean. I was very disappointed with their beverage menu as well as that there is only on size for espresso drinks, I believe an 8oz cup. As always, I ordered an Americano. It came in the Super small cup which was left half full for milk... By the time I was half way down for the store, my drink was cold :/
(3)ZP W.
i was in town for a wedding and came here to enjoy some coffee with a friend. just what the hell was that double bourbon roast? it is four months later and i'm still thinking about it. it was one of the best and most interesting cups i have ever had. staff is quiet and professional. the layout feels cozy and enjoyable. i would frequent this establishment if i were local.
(4)Jeremy P.
I don't know how to describe how much I love coming here. I have been doing so since the opening and it feels like a second home to me. I am a barista myself and find the methods and quality and variety of drinks here to be second to none. (at least in Portland. to add to this - I love everyone who here! there is a really wonderful mixture of personalities, and that is important. Often you will encounter a lively conversation about philosophy! Or you may simply be welcomed by a handsome and calm gentlemen with long hair who's aura is enough to make you feel comfortable and warm. I could go on forever. I love Speckled Ax and all of the people that make it what it is!
(5)jena b.
The caramel lattes are fantastic. The caramel is real caramel made by a local bakery, not syrup out of a bottle. They also have a great selection of teas, the bancha being one of my favorites to order iced. The atmosphere is inviting and the shop is located in an interesting stretch of Congress St. Highly recommend!
(5)Amy D.
Speckled Ax is probably one of my favorite coffee places ever. Their fancy coffee brewing equipment almost give you the feel that you are back in your high school chemistry lab, but with far more hipsters. I love grabbing a bag of either the Speckled Ax or Matt's Coffee whole beans to brew up at home. I really love their tower shot (concentrated iced coffee that almost has the taste of liquor it is so strong), their delicious espresso w/ steamed milk. And I especially love the refreshing glass of bubbly water that is complimentary with espresso drinks. Cold coffee, hot coffee, it's all delicious. This isn't a place where you are going to get a snickerdoodle latte or some other syrupy-saturated beverage. This is a place where you go to get coffee. Period. And let me tell you, it is tasty.
(5)Amanda U.
Want to order coffee from the most unfriendly, least enthusiastic, unhelpful baristas? Come here, you're in for a special treat. The coffee is good but would taste so much better if the experience of being here included joyful and happy to help baristas. Can't get behind a place that emphasizes product only - and not customer service.
(1)Sam F.
Stopped in for Monday am coffee- folks were very kind to this out of towner. Make sure to check out the crazy Japanese (?) style induction brewing set up and forewarned- this coffee is serious stuff.
(5)Emily L.
I happened on this little nook of a place while driving somewhat haphazardly along Portland's main drags, looking for an inviting spot to grab a hot drink and something sweet for the road. The Speckled Axe was just the place. The place was fairly empty at the end of a Saturday night, but the woodsy modern atmosphere drew us in. The Tall Man got a coffee, which he rated highly (a big compliment from one who drinks himself through many a brew) while I got a soy hot chocolate (lovely, warm, and not too sweet). We also got a sticky sweet donut as a late night treat and grabbed a bag of beans to grind and brew at home, savoring the calm before a long drive. Being cafe and coffee "addicts," the Tall Man and I make it a goal to find a nice coffee place in cities we visit (big plus for having multiple brewing gadgets), and SA was a satisfying find for the night. If I were a Portland local, I'd make this part of my daily routine somehow.
(4)Brave G.
this was another spot-on recommendation by vinland's david levy. the story started back in nyc at a new coffee spot in west chelsea on 9th avenue called pushcart. the wait at sullivan st was just too long and the line moving too slowiy (cursing, yet also noting the positive for the venue, even though it's taken sullivan st more than a year to rev up to that level of popularity), anyway, i bagged it in frustration and went in search of something faster and less frustrating. pushcart is on the corner and across 9th, with big windows for sidewalk-gazing. when i got inside, i remembered that i also needed some home beans and saw a very cool-looking label of a bicycle on the front of the coffees. closer inspection revealed it was made by tandem coffee roasters based in ... portland maine. only two days before we'd booked a trip up there -- before that, i'd barely known the town existed. portland maine suddenly everywhere... the pushcart manager loves the tandem people and suggested i pay them a visit. righteo! but when we got up there and saw on the local map that there were about a half dozen coffee roaster companies in town, it seemed to say a whole lot about what portland was about, which was later borne out. anyway, tandem was way on the other side of town so we never made it. but thanks to david, we went to speckled ax which was a few minutes away from us. it was great. i'd had a little of the tandem roast at home before we left so i had an idea of the intensity of the portland roast. speckled was all that and maybe more. they do the blue bottle type of elite coffee stuff, with cold brew, slow pour, chemistry set spontaneous combustion heating, summer solstice slow roasting for five years, etc, but in the end what is a regular brewed coffee with a little cream gonna taste like? i let it cool down a bit so the flavors wouldn't get swallowed up by the heat, and then let it swirl and float around my mouth to savor it, sipping it down. yes! it was fabulous, super strong, well defined, edgy, clean, giving way to all the richness and darkness and finally the caffeine sizzle. i remembered back ten years ago to what i thought was the pinnacle of coffee, in the french bistros and italian espresso bars that were cropping up around manhattan, and how this was light years beyond that. so i wondered, will there be ten years from now that much improvement again, or have we hit the ceiling and this is as good as it gets? if this is the end, it's a good end. and they are really nice (they are portland maine!) and the room is clean with lots of new wood and high ceilings, and you'll also find the random macbook people here and there. there are snacks, pastries, the usual coffee accompaniments, and indeed they looked fine but we didn't touch them. just that exquisite coffee, and then it was on to the next wonderful portland experience.
(5)Nora C.
I was so groggy walking in that I not only could barely walk straight, but I ordered a cafe late instead of the au lait that I wanted and I just didn't care because it is so delicious. Also, the coffee is as good or better than that awesome place in Nichols arcade in Ann Arbor, and that is high high praise. It's like the best of dark chocolate and coffee put together. And the people who work there seem to really know their stuff. I'm not normally a coffee person, so take this as you will, but I was impressed with the variety of apparatus they used to prepare different brews.
(5)Andrew R.
Very good coffee. Would do well in a bigger city. Kinda small seating area, but totally fine for Portland. Would happily go back.
(4)Nathan K.
First off, let me say that I want to give this place four or five stars. On paper, it should be getting them. Its simple, but sturdy decor is pretty much universally appealing while not being touristy. I love the Edison bulb lighting. Every item on the menu is executed near-flawlessly. Even the standard drip coffee is done well, but this place shines in its pour-overs. Also, if you've never had one before, you must try a tower shot. The staff is, on the whole, friendly and knowledgeable. The reason it's losing so many stars are as follows: There are a bunch of minor problems. Things that, even combined, would make me only knock off one star: the drinks are on the expensive side. You may or may not feel they are worth the price. You have to try them for yourself. While it's well decorated, it's a small and cramped space. It's not always my go-to coffee shop because I can't guarantee I'll get a seat. The elaborate coffee making systems are cool and do produce delicious coffee, but they definitely can slow things down. The biggest problem, though, is the shop's founder and owner, Matt. Speckled Ax was started by a man who is well-known in Maine for his coffee roasting business, which has been very popular, as we like our local businesses. I won't deny that Matt roasts good coffee. But if I had to use one word to describe him, it's a word I wouldn't use in front of my grandmother. Matt behaves as though someone forced him to open and work at this coffee shop. Like it is a huge inconvenience for him to be there, making you coffee that you pay him for; like you have no choice in coffee shops and so he has no obligation to be even passingly pleasant; like he'd rather be ANYWHERE but in this coffee shop, serving you your drink. Now, if it was just some employee, I'd still make note of this and maybe knock off a star. But I find this attitude from the owner of the shop totally unacceptable. There are so many owner-run coffee shops where those owners are pleasant, responsive and at least pretending to appreciate your custom. I visit coffee shops in Portland a few times a week. If the owner weren't such a jerk, I'd go to Matts for almost every one of these visits. As it is, I'll go a couple of times in the summer to treat myself to a tower shot and otherwise I'll patronize an establishment that actually appreciates its customers.
(2)Lili K.
Interesting coffes to choose from. They have tons of coffee devices to bring that flavor out! I don't drink real coffee but my boo's espresso was too dark, and the vibe here is pretty uptight. I wouldn't want to just hang out/do work here. There was a cute dog sleeping here, though! Free wifi too.
(3)Lynn S.
Worth it to let them walk you through their menu, good stuff
(4)Rob R.
I have been getting my coffee at Speckled Ax for a couple of years now and even today, l am impressed. Speckled Ax is special because of the staff and their humble dedication to coffee. When food or drink is cared for in process from start to finish, there is an incomparable energy present in it. Matt's wood roasted coffee is handled and considered with appreciation in every phase before being served. It is a treat to have Matt's wood roasted coffee available to us here in Portland. I recommend to anyone who enjoys excellent coffee and takes the experience of drinking coffee as personally as I do to stop by Speckled Ax. Thanks guys!
(5)Jennie Y.
Can't gush strongly enough about Speckled Ax. The baristas are friendly (!), knowledgeable, and patient. Totally in love with their coffee to boot. My new go-to cafe when I'm in town!
(5)Bruce D.
I returned to the Ax a couple of days ago on my way to work and I've decided to update in regard to one of my biggest complaints: the price point. But, my most recent visit took those words right out of my mouth! It wasn't really unreasonable and is now definitely in the neighborhood of all other coffee shops around, only this coffee is unlike anything I've ever had - and this includes the freshest coffee I've had on my travels through Hawaii and the Caribbean. Earlier I commented on the tipping system that I really didn't appreciate (it more-or-less makes your feel obligated to tip 20%) but after paying with cash a few times and just leaving the change I realized that I was tipping way more than 20% so... foot, meet mouth. As such, I have decided to update my review to a full 5 stars. Since then, I've experienced even better service, the waitstaff is quickly remembering my order, and I just can't get over the atmosphere and coffee. It's just too close to perfect for me. Quiet and chill, lots of wood and glass, calm and comfortable lighting... I just want to go right now. This place will make you feel like you're living in an Edison bulb and it always smells amazing. Jeez - I haven't even been here in a few days. I guess I'll have to change that tomorrow morning!
(5)Christian S.
I loved this place. Enter into a long, minimalist room adorned with wood and cool lighting. The coffee bar sits at the back. Both the man and woman working are friendly and wait intently as we decide from the plethora of options. They didn't seem like they wanted to chat, but neither did I. I figured I needed to try espresso, so I ordered an Americano. It was perfectly executed, and the wood roasting certainly impacted the taste - positively. And it only cost $2.75. I'll definitely return the next time I'm in Portland.
(5)Whanza P.
Grab a book or laptop and enjoy ur coffee here. The atmosphere is very warm and cozy as well as the service.
(4)Aaron T.
Without a doubt the best coffee place in Portland. I was a regular there when I visited Portland. I would just grab my morning Latte, turn on the computer and sit down and relax. While waiting you are also given a complimentary soda water. The coffee itself tastes great, always at the right temperature. Go there!
(5)Jeremy S.
After a few days in the woods this place was an absolute godsend. The baristo recommended a great bean for my pour-over. The cup was expertly crafted and was just what the doctor ordered. If Portland and I cross paths again, I will come in for sure.
(5)Erna r.
Very serious about their coffee, and it may be the best in Portland. What i really LOVE about this coffee shop, in addition to the coffee, is that they play music but it is not intrusive - It's not too loud to hear yourself think, talk across a table, or just enjoy your coffee, as it is in most coffee shops. I stay far away from all but this one and CBD exactly because of the loud music issue. Speckled Ax feels like a coffee shop for adults. (And all ages do hang out here!)
(4)Ainsley W.
Speckled Ax is like Bard, before Bard got cool. Delicious and unique selections, designer pour-over coffees, free wi-fi, cozy space but not crowded (though they're probably sad about this), great windows and lighting, high-tech gadgets (including a cool iPad-ish payment interface), good Pandora stations pumping, wood floors, friendly dog in the window. Hipstamatic to the core. My first time in I tried the "cascara," a tea made of coffee berries which I'd never heard of despite frequenting Portland's plentiful coffee shops. I was impressed. It was sweet, flavorful, and DELICIOUS. The second time, I spent hours working on a writing assignment and never felt like I was taking up too much space (though I tried to be a good doobie and buy stuff every hour). The cookie and coffee beverages I had were delish. Best of all, late hours (for Portland!). Open 'til 9:30 every night! Get on the bandwagon before the Speckled Ax becomes the next Bard or Arabica.
(4)Anthony G.
Yes! This coffee is excellent. I had a macchiato that was perfect. My girlfriend's latte was great as well. I even bought some whole bean coffee to grind at home that was excellent. If you're in Portland, you need to try this place.
(5)Barry D.
I LOVE great coffee and when I am preparing to visit a new city, I will often Google: City Name+Synesso or City Name+Slayer, knowing that 95% of the shops that own a Synesso or Slayer machine will likely be able to deliver an excellent shot of espresso. The Speckled Ax takes it to another level with a beautiful Slayer unit for their main machine and a shiny Synesso in the back room for a standby machine. They back it up with staff that are friendly and helpful and take their jobs seriously, which translates to excellent espresso drinks and perfect pour-over coffees. They use the owner's wood-fre roasted organic coffee beans which I have been a fan of since I first tried (and immensely enjoyed) several years ago as drip coffee at Frontier in Brunswick, Maine. Nice, clean, comfortable space with wi-fi and good music.
(5)Michael J.
I love this place! This is the first time that I've had and thoroughly enjoyed a no-foam latte with no sugar. The beans were roasted to perfection and Matt steamed the milk enough to bring up the sweetness in the milk - so no sugar added! I met Matt several years ago at Maine Fare, an awesome food event that was spearheaded by Nancy Harmon Jenkins and Sam Hayward, that was held in Camden. He operated Matt's Coffee out of Pownal, ME and did and outstanding roast. The Speckled Axe is now one of my go-to places in Portland. Matt has given me the courage to try to roast some green coffee beans in my wood-fired oven.
(5)Lauren G.
stopped here on the way out of Portland after a wedding weekend - really great coffee, cold brew was ok but the iced aero press Costa Rica was amazing. brought back a pound of beans to try at home. great little spot with lots of choices and cozy seating but the staff was less friendly than we've met at other Portland spots!
(4)Bobby S.
Amazing pour overs. Nice staff. Okay cookies. Good prices. Cool furniture. I took one star off for the cozy factor. Could be a bit more cozy for a coffee shop. I'd go here every day if I lived in Portland.
(4)Rory I.
The focus here is on the coffee. How it's made, where it comes from, what it tastes like. Any place I can get something that technically qualifies as a fair trade vegan coffee is automatically a favorite, but the Speckled Ax goes beyond the call of duty; their coffee tastes amazing. It's made with fascinating devices straight out of a mad scientist's laboratory. I even can choose almond milk instead of soy - always a plus. The coffee comes in those big, aesthetically pleasing white coffee mugs and the decor is minimalistic in a comfy sort of way. The fiscally unfortunate lack of crowd leads to a relaxingly quiet and intimate atmosphere. So just sit for a while with a Ghanian chocolate-infused cappuccino and people watch as Yann Tiersen plays. It's a lovely experience.
(5)Patrick C.
Let me first say my coffee background gave me good reason to be very excited about this new coffee destination in Portland. It boasts a gorgeous Slayer espresso machine, a siphon coffee setup (really fun to watch), and an elaborate cold-brew coffee system. For a moment I flashed back to being at Blue Bottle Coffee on Mission in San Francisco. I asked for a signature drink. I was recommended a mochaccino (this is my name for it, essentially a cappuccino with chocolate). Sweet coffee is usually a no-no with me (especially with so much milk) but I went ahead a tried it. The people were very polite and friendly. The latte art wasn't the best, however taste is WAY more important than having a rosetta on my coffee. The drink was sweet. Very sweet. The chocolate clumpy at the bottom of my cup (which I had "for here"). I expected more. This place presents itself as a hip 3rd wave coffeehouse. On the plus side, the coffee tasted great, and the regular cappuccino my partner got was very nice. I'll have to give this place another shot. As of now the end product hasn't quite lived up to the suite of world-class, drool-worthy equipment lining the counters. I'm looking forward to giving this place another shot. Portland has a lot of coffee, but only a couple great coffee producers. I'm hoping to categorize this as the later one day soon.
(2)Alex C.
Walking in the door and hearing Fleet Foxes playing is usually a good sign for me. The soy latte I had was delicious, one of the best I've ever had. One thing that kind of turned me off was how sparse the decor is! I know they are trying to go for a minimalist thing, and maybe it's just me, but I prefer a coffee shop to be cozy. The whole place seemed kind of bare and the lights were super bright. Plus it was COLD, and not just when the door opened! I had to keep my coat on the whole time I was there! One thing I did really life, and this is totally creep of me, but I over-heard a conversation between the guy working the counter and a friend saying he hoped that the Speckled Ax doesn't come off as pretentious or rude, the way so many specialty coffee shops do. He said that they always try to be friendly and welcoming, and how ridiculous it is that other shops tell their employees to act stuck up. That was so nice to hear, and the services was, in fact, charming. SO! Mixed review here. Great coffee, cool staff, good music, bad ambiance. That about sums it up!
(3)Jason W.
The Speckled Ax is like the dexters laboratory of coffee. Where serious and casual coffee drinkers alike come to get what I found to be a truly unique selection of bean offerings. I had an espresso and my wife a cappuccino on our first visit and it lived up to the hype. I will point out, like others here have, that the wood roast provides a deep and rich flavor that some might not find appealing. I thought personally that this process brought the bean to life in a way I had not experienced and that really impressed me. Definitely not your average coffee join, so I will give them an above average score. Cheers!
(4)eric s.
I ordered the tanzania and it was definitely some of the best coffee I have ever had. The staff was extremely friendly and the owners dog was an added bonus! My friend ordered a latte and also said it was one of the best she's ever had. Definitely going back!
(5)Eric S.
Best coffee in town.
(5)Nick M.
Easily the best espresso (and cappuccino) I've ever had. Portland is filled with good coffee, but they clearly have an edge. Fun environment with funky coffee brewing technology - a good mix of wood and steel. Open 7 days is unique in Portland for a coffee shop as well.
(5)Lydia W.
This is some of the best coffee I've ever had, it tastes amazing. Very friendly staff and a lovely shop overall. Feel very lucky to have this available to me every morning here in Portland.
(5)nicole w.
I confess, my partner loves this place so I wanted to love it, too. We're both long time coffee drinkers and serious about it. I do not like the taste of their coffee. It tastes murky, flat, with a bitter after taste. The owner and some of his employees seem bored to death with serving coffee, despite the many varieties of preparation.
(2)Heather S.
Cute coffee shop. Stopped in here after the guy at Tandem made the recommendation!
(4)Seamus C.
Yeah, it's good. I tested their latté and it was good -- not quite as good as Bards, but good. It's a sparsely-appointed shop with good Wifi access and plenty of space to sit. Off the beaten path a bit and worth a stop.
(4)David H.
Most amazing roaster in Portland. And just ask Matt any question about roasting, brewing or drinking coffee and you'll get an expert opinion.
(5)Sarah D.
These caffeine geeks brew a serious cup of coffee. My soy cappuccino was delicious, but next time I want to try it with their Fruity Pebbles-infused milk. My boyfriend said his Ethiopian pour-over was perfect. Couldn't be more pleased!
(5)Paul G.
Speckled Ax undoubtedly serves some of the best coffee I've ever had. I am a fan of black hot coffee, and that is all that I have ever had from Speckled Ax, so I can't comment on their iced or espresso drinks. The first thing to mention is that this place is very different than most coffee shops. Most coffee shops serve both coffee and a menu of other things like pastries, non-coffee drinks, and possibly even sandwiches. Speckled Ax serves coffee - if you are lucky, they might have some donuts from Holy Donut there as well, but the reason to go is for their coffee. How is their coffee? Well, to make a comparison to a less hip place, the coffee at Speckled Ax is similar to the Starbucks Reserve Coffees made on a Starbucks clover machine. Speckled Ax has different coffees available and not always the same coffees. They do taste noticeably different. I have never had a bad cup from Speckled Ax, but some I do like better than others. Right now they are selling a dry-processed coffee, which has almost a subtle fruitiness to it that I think is definitely worth trying. As for the atmosphere? I always get the coffee to go, but it looks like a place that I would have enjoyed hanging out if I were still in college. And finally, the service? Yes, the baristas are the target market of Urban Outfitters, but my own experience is that when I step up to the counter and ask questions about the menu or place an order, they are friendly and helpful. The only negative to this place is that they close early, so you can't go there for a late cup of coffee after dinner.
(5)Christina C.
Hands down one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland! I recently moved to Seattle, WA and while the coffee out here is excellent, I think the Speckled Ax rivals some of the best coffee shops in the Pacific Northwest. The coffee is just spectacular, the baristas are very knowledgeable and it is a great place to sit down and get some work done. I love the comfort of knowing there is a lot of care put into the selection of beans and the way the beans are roasted. I definitely miss this place and will be by on my next visit home to Portland.
(5)Dan W.
Simply the best cup of black coffee (pour over) I've ever had in Maine, and in New England for that matter. And for those who like milk in their coffee, they will steam the milk for you.
(5)Jay N.
Fine, artisan coffee. This isn't a chain style coffee join, they make some of their brew old school. It's potent, VERY potent. Staff can be a bit quiet but personable and you get a much better cup of strong, artisan coffee than you'll likely find anywhere near by. A must stop and so very worth the visit.
(5)P. And B. J.
The espresso was good. Price was crazy high. I mean who charges for 16oz for $5.32, and then charges almost $1 for chocolate? Just silly. Again, drink was decent, 2nd best I have had in Portland, but hard to justify the pricing.
(3)Nicole M.
Solid yelp recommendation!!!! Loved their pour-over options, the coffee was delicious, staff so friendly, vibe really chill. And coming from Boston where pour-over is rather pricey, I liked how much these ones cost :) Definitely worth a jaunt if you want to get away from boring ol' Starbucks and into a fabulous local place. Thanks yelp!
(4)Joseph D.
Best coffee in Portland! The coffees are all amazing and so is the staff. Pour over, aero press, or tradition espressos all top notch. Get your breakfast wherever you like but get your coffee here!
(5)Laura H.
Really great cold brew, not so great chai latte.
(4)Nicole B.
Do you ever wish the world would just stop, take a deep breath, and appreciate the morning? As a tea drinker, Speckled Axe stands out. It isn't for their vast selection of teas--it barely covers the basics--but rather because it seems to repel the inherent chaos found in every messy, crowded coffee shop in Portland. The seating area is quiet and clean, perfect for stopping to smell the roses before you start your day.
(4)Rich J.
Great service and good coffee...many MANY types of brew here..including cold brew and shit I never heard of (love my coffee but not a coffee snob).
(4)Bud P.
I love their coffee. I also love that they make it to order. Every time I go. I get a different roast and usually end of buying a bag of beans. All coffee shops seem to have a hipster thing going on but you can hang here and not feel too out of place if you are a fat, balding 40-something like me
(4)Becca B.
Guatamala El Pilar, absolutely delicious. This small and trendy coffee cafe is so clean looking and modern and with such excellent coffee. I can see it as a geat place to read a paper, chat with some friends, use the wifi, etc. If i'm ever in Portland in the near future I will make it an effort to stop by and grab another cup of their coffee, it was just so good and well crafted.
(5)Daniella L.
Speckled Ax offers really good coffee in a low-key, hip setting. I really liked that is was a small, intimate place. It was nice to see people just chillin' out, relaxed. It was fairly quiet in there, not boisterous with like, teenagers hanging out. We haven't tried any food there, but love their cappuccino!
(4)Millie S.
This is a serious coffee place, but the brew here is not like sipping the cappuccino you would in Sicily. You have to be a fan of boldly roasted coffee here, or you will not like this place. (TIP: You might be best equipped with some mints before you head-off to meet up with friends.) The wood roasting has a serious effect on the beans. I prefer a smoother espresso, so it wasn't so much for me or my confidant. The setting is very relaxed, the music a bit harried at times but you'll recognize some tunes here and there. Contrary to other commentators, I found SA to be very affordable. Bonus points for carrying fair-trade/gluten free chili chocolate - it's to die for!
(3)Sam D.
Good, locally-roasted espresso. Not the best I've ever had but certainly better than average. They roast their beans over wood fire and maybe it was my imagination (or at least the placebo effect) but I think I could taste the corresponding smokiness from said roasting. About on par for pricing relative to joints of this ilk. A little pricey, but justified for the quality. Excellent marks for service and friendliness. I was offered complimentary soda water for a palate-cleanser. Wifi is fast; Music is good---indie/house tracks; not esoteric deep cuts, but definitely not anything close to Top 40 crap, either. Decor is pretty nice---a little more contemporary/traditional than most shops of this type. Not big time industrial chic or the like, but some cool touches in that vein. Seating is limited, simply due to square footage; ~7 tables & a tiny bar. Solid coffee & espresso joint---check it out....
(4)Greg C.
A perfect shot with a carefully crafted almond milk latte. Serious about their coffee roasting and brewing. Great place to hang out and enjoy a perfect coffee served by really nice people.
(5)Jeannine K.
Really really good coffee. Thats all I have to say.
(5)Benjamin K.
This place has quality espresso for sure, along with a few quirks that made it stick out: soda water comes with the latte, which I didn't really appreciate at first but came to like as it cuts the greasy thick milk coating left on your tongue; good music (doom metal); and finally, its quiet location is conducive to getting work done. This was previously a kind of experience you couldn't really get in this part of the peninsula, so overall I'm pleased.
(4)AJ P.
Like lots of things in Portland, this is a place for hipsters and seem a little pretentious. But, if you can overlook that - the coffee is really awesome. They have a small selection of wood roasted coffee that you can choose from that they will brew for you. The flavors are very rich and distinct and can be brewed as pour over coffees or those chemistry looking glass siphons. If you don't want to wait for the individual brews, you can also order a cup of their pre-brewed coffee. Even the iced coffee is strong and made using an aeropress - a really cool gadget that brews a nice strong cup.
(4)Colin M.
Meh. Good coffee, not great. Snarky service. There are better options in Portland within an easy walking distance.
(3)Courty C.
Delicious pour over coffee worth the 10 minute wait. Came late on a Sunday morning and parking was easy. Service was a bit odd, got two coffees ordered one, couldn't tell if my winter wind blown hair was getting the stink eye or not, but don't really care because the coffee was that damn good.
(5)Brent H.
Really great coffee. I didn't get a chance to try the wood roasted coffee, it didn't appear you could order it at the bar, you have to buy a bag... bummer. Anyhow the baristas are legit. The drinks are well made. The place is nice, and comfortable. If I lived in Portland I'd go to this place frequently. Since posting this review I've had a couple people politely inform me all coffee at Speckled Ax is wood fired. I left out initially that I asked specifically about this and was told the coffee I was served, espresso and siphon, were not roasted with wood. Maybe there was some mix up? However, the real thing to concentrate on here is the quality of the coffee here. If the coffee i was drinking had a too smokey or woody taint to it, if the wood had detracted from the coffee, i would have panned this place as a gimmick. But the truth is the coffee was great. I will say my espresso was rich, velvety, sweet, and had just the right amount of citrus tang to it. The siphon was an Ethiopian i believe, and it was nice and fruity. I will say the siphon was under extracted. I don't know if the the grounds to water ratio was off, or what, but it was a lot weaker than i was hoping for. I could taste all the notes you want but i had to really swish and concentrate. Yes, i did rinse my palette and wait for the coffee to come down in temp to let the flavors establish. It wasn't the best coffee i had in Portland, which in my opinion has an embarrassment of good coffee spots for such a small city.
(4)Anthony R.
This is a mixed review. I worked around the corner for about a year so I have frequented this and other Portland coffee shops many a time. The coffee is superb, probably the best I've had anywhere. They roast their own and prepare it multiple ways. I always opt for the pour over, which is well worth the 5 minute wait. The menu is tiny, with about 5 coffees on offer. They usually have something unique . I tried a fruity pebbles latte once and the flavor was subtle but delicious. I would give the coffee 6 stars if I could! Now for the downside. The shop is small/quiet which makes it nice for working. The ambiance is nice. However, I give the staff a D- for personality. I don't know where they find these people but they are uninterested-too-cool-for-school-hipsters that would be rejected from Portlandia casting for being too hipster. In at least 20 trips I only once saw a smile or sense of personality from one girl(which might have been because she started to recognize I was a regular, not sure!). They were never negative but something just does't feel particularly appealing about the experience. Maybe the owner should mandate a shot of expresso before each shift to instill a pulse in their soul-less-dejected-too-skinny-jeans-and-plaid-Âshirt-wearing staff. Think of every south park/portlandia episode straw man ridiculous hipster that can't possibly be real; they do in fact exist. They work here. Again, I will come back again and again for the coffee but I feel indifferent to the people behind the counter.
(4)Lauren H.
The land of hipsters. This place looks like a torture chamber for coffee. They have multiple ways you can get your caffeine fix. I have to say the lovingly prepared cappuccino was totally delicious. Small place and every table taken on a Saturday afternoon.
(4)Ben E.
Pour over was bright, citrusy and smooth. Enjoyed the wood fired espresso as well - very balanced. Not over roasted like I expected. Good spot.
(5)Sarah W.
Full disclosure: my brother is one of the roasters/baristas here. I love hanging out to do some work or socialize at the Ax. Low key music of various genres, multiple types of seating (tables, benches, bar), friendly and knowledgeable staff, healthy(ish) snacks. Every customer is treated like a regular. They're very good at helping you figure out what you want by taste if you're intimidated by the sparely detailed menu or a relative coffee cretin (as I was). My personal favorite is the cold brew. It takes so much ground coffee to make at home that it feels like a steal at $3/16 oz. Last but definitely not least I love the attention to detail in bean selection, flavor, and roast using Maine materials (sap & wood). The unpretentious commitment to excellence is a big draw. Also, Fruity Pebbles milk.
(5)Skip S.
A great addition to the neighborhood. Stopped in and had an espresso with steamed milk...incredibly delicious 11/10. One star detracted for a really sub-par dirty chai latte. Very bitter and thin, made only marginally better by sweetening.
(4)Tiffany F.
Some of the best cold brew I've had in New England! I found out from this place from a friend who lives in San Francisco and claimed that it was one of the best coffee shops he's been to on the eastern seaboard. SF has a tough coffee crowd so a compliment from him means a lot. And he was absolutely right! I found the staff to be a little cold, especially for Portland. But the coffee quality was good enough where it didn't really matter. This place knows cold brew.
(5)Tyler L.
Speckled Ax would do great in Brooklyn as well. The staff is great at making a tasty cup, but will make you feel like a tiny human being doing so. The interior is tiny yet it somehow felt like it took hours to walk down to the register because of the stares. The cold brew was sublime, especially with fruity pebble milk, the key to my heart. Yes, they make a special milk by dissolving fruity pebbles and it is as delicious as it sounds. Because of the size of the place, it's not a place you really sit to enjoy the coffee, so it's best to take on the road.
(3)Col S.
This place is cute and quaint, and a great place to check out for espresso, at least once. The service was friendly and the place was clean. I was very disappointed with their beverage menu as well as that there is only on size for espresso drinks, I believe an 8oz cup. As always, I ordered an Americano. It came in the Super small cup which was left half full for milk... By the time I was half way down for the store, my drink was cold :/
(3)Kabloom K.
Really good coffee and expresso. Not too expensive either! My husband and I drove through Portland on our way up to Bar Harbor and stumbled upon this cute coffee shop with a last minute recommendation from a friend of a friend. My husband loved the coffee here so much he bought three bags and now regretting he didn't get more.
(5)Yelena S.
I felt like such a fish out of water when I visited the Speckled Axe for the first time. As someone else mentioned in one of their reviews, it does in fact feel and look like an episode out of Portlandia. The brewing tools and machines look like something you'd see in a chemistry class. Or a meth lab. The bow-ties and crop tops made me feel old. I'm only 26. The menu was short and confusing. I thought I knew coffee terminology thanks to my many years of Starbucks brews, but boy was I wrong. I looked over at my squeeze and he had a bewildered look on his face, clearly overwhelmed by the non-conventional coffee shop set-up and options. We had no idea what to order. I now keep seeing on Yelp about some delicious caramel latte, but the menu didn't obviously convey how to order that. We approached the girls at the register with a deer-in-the-headlights look and told them we'd never been here before. They were very nice, but didn't really offer up the kind of guidance I was hoping for. I managed to navigate the menu and we ended up leaving with two, on the small side, lattes. They were very good, but for the cost/size ration I'll stick to my usual coffee spots. I feel like three stars is more accurate, but the two star description of "Meh. I've experience better" is way more fitting.
(2)Kelly O.
- I look at the minimalist menu, don't see a latte on offer despite the rave reviews on here about their caramel latte, make decision to switch up intended order accordingly - Me: "Hi, can I have a cold brew iced coffee with caramel sauce?" - the 2 hipste
(3)Leah W.
I. love. this. place. I wish that I lived closer so that I could go here every day for work. It would totally be worth waking up early so I could have this deliciousness every day. The Speckled Ax knows their coffee. As a former barista, I can tell you, its hard to get the flavor just right but the people here always hit their target. I have never had an overly bitter or burnt coffee. They are super friendly and even though the offerings are definitely a little more "artisanal" than most cafes, the staff will happily explain it to you. Look, their menu is straightforward and simple. You come in for coffee, you might sit in the cozy booth and enjoy or you might take it to go. You move on with your day, but the coffee that you get here will give you an extra spring in your step.
(5)Guy G.
Maybe the coffee is good but the service was poor- the staff seemed irritated to help us, and it wasn't busy
(3)Stephanie M.
I need to give them a second try. We went in, because duh: lumberjack coffee shop. But I was confused by what was going on. Our coffee was good, but then against most coffee tastes good to me. Dan didn't like it, but it's not really his thing, so I can't fault the coffee. I just didn't get enough of a unique or extraordinary vibe off it. Maybe if I read reviews beforehand and new what to do/get. I will try it again though.
(3)Karen H.
Great coffee! What a terrific combination of a beautiful Saturday morning in Portland, combined with the fresh roasted coffee aroma, the patient barista (while trying to narrow down my selection) and the selections of both coffee options and accompanying pastries! Super fresh, flavorful and delicious!
(5)Tony W.
If there is a coffee version of an existential crisis, then I think I experienced it yesterday during my first visit to Speckled Ax. I love coffee. If I'm not having at least two cups of coffee a day then it's probably because I've fallen down a well or I've been handcuffed to a radiator just out of reach of my French press. Coffee is so great I've probably written it in for president a couple times. Everything I've read about Speckled Ax has been glowing: They roast beans using locally sourced wood and sap. They use weird laboratory tools and Science to assist with coffee brewing. Jesus himself comes down once a week to smite any beans that may end up being 'overly acidic'. I was pretty excited to check it out, and I finally had a reason to be over in the Arts District area of Congress Street to do just that. The inside is gorgeous. Everything is perfectly painted and designed. Everything. It's like an interactive art installation in the Arts District. The white tin(?) ceiling, the small wooden tables, the counter, the floor - it all feels like it just opened yesterday. The owners really put a lot of time and effort into the design and execution of this place, and it's quite an accomplishment. While I was chilling out on my laptop for 45 minutes, 4 dogs came in with owners. I feel like there MUST be some ordinance in Portland requiring at least two dog to be present in every commercial property at any given time. People dressed like Paul Bunyan were having quiet conversations with people dressed like David Bowie...but hey, that's the Arts District for you. The tall, thin gentleman running the counter when I was there might be the most laid back combination of friendly, indifferent and aloof I've ever met. If you could get a master's degree in Barista Studies, then this guy would be a professor. He was helpful in pointing out the nuances of each roast listed on the board and pulled a small card with the wifi password out of thin air to hand it to me when I was walking up to him, before I could even inquire. So cool. The coffee I had was $3.25. This wasn't so cool, and is about $1 more than I'd pay anywhere else. The coffee was brought to my table about 5 minutes later in a cute cup and a small carafe, so the adorability of what I got helped defray the feeling over overpaying. The coffee itself was a very bitter. Surprising, as I was expecting something more balanced, given the reputation. This is where the coffee-stential crisis came in. Speckled Ax treats coffee so seriously that I thought for a second that perhaps this bitter coffee was 'good' coffee, and perhaps every experience I had had with coffee up until this point had been incorrect. After another sip: nope, I'd been right the whole time. This was not a good cup of coffee. The other problem is that - for as nice a place as it is - I felt a bit out of place. Usually a place this fancy/artsy doesn't allow folks like me in. I typically like simple coffee shops with good coffee, fair, pricing, plentiful seating, decent baked goods, friendly courteous staff, and free wireless. No artsiness or pretentiousness. That's it. It's definitely a good coffee shop for some people, but not the people like me who spend two or three days a week working remotely out of one. I will give the coffee another shot next time I'm in the neighborhood. Maybe I can get the rating up to a 4?
(3)Ellen K.
Awesome customer service and enjoyed some beautiful latte art - the way lattes should be served.
(5)Liz G.
I'm admittedly not the best person to write this review. I do love coffee, but I'm completely unpretentious about it and not like, super impressed by all of the fancy types and ways to make it. The guy doing the pour over looked appropriately nonplussed, which I've come to expect with pour-over coffee. The less emotionally involved my barista is, the better the coffee (it seems). My brother tried to get me to get the crazy gravity bong-looking method of preparation but it was like $6. So no. If you're like, really interested in coffee, and know a lot about it, and want the absolute best, then you should come here. Or if you're really close by and want a cup. Otherwise there are a million other coffee shops in Portland.
(3)Ilya F.
Great atmosphere and great coffee. I don't get how such a small town supports so many cafes, but it somehow does. The barista was very friendly and capable. My shot was perfectly pulled. Not sour, like the disappointing espresso I usually get.
(5)Tammy G.
Love this spot. Takes some time, so don't go if you are in a rush. Go if you want serious coffee. And get a donut while you wait for perfection in a cup.
(5)Maura Q.
Great service and great coffee makes for one great morning. The woman behind the counter slinging coffee was very friendly and didn't laugh when I asked what flavors they could add to the iced coffee. I got a cold brew with caramel. The caramel was rich and delicious! The cold brew was perfect and I think the caramel was homemade. I wish it was in an easier location for a commuter with a car, but finding parking is worth it! I didn't have time to stay but it seems like a great spot to hang out with a cup of coffee, with a friend, or both depending on what you value more.
(4)Megan C.
I have to say that I was really jazzed about having Speckled Ax walking distance from my hotel (Westin Harborview) when I was in Portland. It's always a nice change in pace to have the opportunity to sample some local color and flavor in a non-SB/DD coffee establishment. Some coffee shops that cater to the types of coffee connoisseurs that frequent Speckled Ax can be really intimidating and overwhelming (nay snooty), but this store is none of those things. While they do offer a full complement of coffee preparation methods from simple to complex, and of course a huge selection of different types of coffee beans, cold brew, roasting methods, and espresso options, it's the employees that make all the difference here and are passionate and patient. I knew that I needed coffee, stat. The line was short that morning, but there were enough patrons and just the right vibe, that I knew Speckled Ax was going to be good. Uh-oh: I was confronted with more than just the standard drip coffee or French Press; I saw Chemex, pour over, Kenyan, Ethiopian, Colombian, etc. Luckily for me, the barista/employee taking care of me took the time (sans attitude) to explain with method was her favorite with which bean, which led me to elect a pour over Kenyan as my choice for caffeinating. You can elect to watch your barista lovingly prepare your beverage, or you can amble over to the water cooler and enjoy some complimentary soda water. Prices are very fair, and I would say less expensive that the local 'Bucks, and of course you're getting much more for your $ at Speckled Ax. They offer, as you might expect, the total cadre of milk/milk alternatives, sugars, local honey, etc. The shop is on the small side, but it's tidy and well laid-out, plus there's some outdoor seating and some front-of-shop seating that's in the sun, so that's nice. I didn't drink my coffee in-house, so I didn't have a chance to check for ample power outlets.
(4)Steff D.
Yes, I know the coffee here is roasted using locally-sourced tree sap and wood. This seems to produce a much heartier, bolder, richer cup of coffee. Even as a fan of something so robust, I found my cup of coffee extremely bitter. So much so, I didn't finish it. I'm not sure why it was so caustic... my counterpart and I were among the first customers of the day, so it's not like it could have been siting there for very long. Maybe I'm more of a girlchild than I realized when it comes to my java. I liked the atmosphere of Speckled Ax; the appropriate hues of brown were warm and inviting. It didn't take long for the place to get very, very busy either (which they always seem to be) - good on them! I would have stayed longer and tried a different beverage if my laptop had been charged. Unfortunately, the seats by the windows (which I imagine offer breathtaking views when it's snowing! I wonder if "Coffee Shop" by Landon Pigg plays in the background during those moments?) didn't have an outlet, so I departed without getting the chance to redeem the experience I had with my unfortunately unpleasant initial cup of coffee here. Also, the Speckled Ax is not in the most convenient location if you don't live or work in the immediate area. I can't see folks from the extreme ends of the peninsula, or even just slightly off, going out of their way to come here given the infamously difficult parking situation. I will absolutely return to the Speckled Ax, but it will be extremely early in the AM before a meeting or a road trip; or, most likely, when I'm walking around the area on First Friday or for the Farmers' Market. As a mid-day caffeine fix, though? Just thinking about the parking is making me frustrated! Please don't misconstrue my three-stars as something negative, because it's definitely not! There are just so many "unique" coffee shops in town now, and their all trying to separate themselves from their competition somehow. And in reality, they can't all be perfect, can they? So, based on my personal tastes, while I liked Speckled Ax, currently it would not be the first place I would recommend to an outsider.
(3)Sarah M.
The service was less than friendly. My husband asked for a recommendation on the barista's favorite beans. The barista told him to read the descriptions and pick one that sounds good. Neither barista was interested in engaging in any sort of conversation. The coffee was okay--nothing to rave about.
(2)Clint B.
This is an amazing coffee shop. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. It is great for getting work done but still comfortable enough for having a nice conversation at the same time. The coffee selection is superb and the prices are very good for a coffee shop of this quality. I got a Kenyan pour over and it was as good as it gets. $3.25 after tax for a large. After being to many coffee shops in my life, these people definitely do everything correctly. Moreover, the staff here was friendly. There is free wi-fi here; just as the baristia for the password. I came on a Sunday, so street parking was free. I had to park a couple blocks away, but the walk down Congress St. was very enjoyable. If I had to pick one negative aspect about this place, it would be the parking, but it's by no means Speckled Ax's fault. I would definitely come back here in the future.
(5)Mike S.
I have two places I got for coffee -- here and Tandem. Which do I pick? Depends on what I want. Speckled ax is my go to for dark roast (well, the Matt's coffee that is) -- and there's always fresher roasted stuff here. Tandem is my light and medium roast selection. Speckled as has great services, many different types of brewing choices and staff thats willing to talk coffee. They make a cup of coffee not to be missed in this town! I've explored Seattle quite a bit for coffee and this place would be in the upper ranks there. The downside is that there's limited seating, hard to find plugs for studying with a laptop, and parking is hard since its downtown. Fire roasted huh? I don't quite get it... I think that consistent, accurate heat is a bit more important than the source of the heat --- its not like food that has a flavor change with the different wood or coal vs heat fired.
(4)Rachel D.
Speckled Ax is one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland. I'm not usually over on this part of Congress St. but have been known to go out of my way to grab a coffee or specialty drink at Speckled Ax. Recently, they partnered with Allagash White to bring an Allagash white infused coffee to the people of Portland. I mistakenly didn't make it over there soon enough to grab a cup of this but next time they have it in house someone needs to notify me (I'll buy you a cup too ;) ). With great atmosphere and an ancient Japanese method of coffee brewing, Speckled Ax is definitely a to do on coffee lovers list's, when visiting Portland. I did wish they had more seats as it's almost always full whenever I stop by. It's a small space so I'm not sure how they would manage that (maybe bar seating on the left wall?) but I thought I'd mention it. Once you go Speckled Ax you'll never go back.
(4)Dave P.
Plenty of time to start this review as I ordered my coffee 8 minutes ago. I get it, flannel, mustaches, hipsters, individual brew coffee, all of that is cool. But please at least have a sign letting busy people know this coffee takes forever to brew. By the time I got it my attitude was so soiled I really didn't enjoy how good the coffee probably was. The atmosphere was cool here. Hipster chic, plenty of flannel, and I'm sure live poetry readings. Probably won't stop back but if you have the time the coffee was decent.
(2)Bruce D.
If you're looking for the pinnacle of precision coffee making, you've found it. There is a level above the careful preparation and attention to detail found in the global empire of the dominant green machine Seattle based chain. This is the next frontier. The attention to detail, in both knowledge and preparation borders on the insane, in a good way. A very good way. The choices are limited and very specific. Think the coffee versions of rare single malt scotches or fine wines displayed in glass cases at the liquor store. That is what this experience is to coffee. Each cup is individually ground, brewed and during our visit sampled before serving. Staff are cheerful, friendly and helpful in an introverted and endearing 'Portlandia' sort of way. For example, at one point a coffee flavor was described as being 'Stephen Tyler' in flavor. Cute. Cryptic but cute. As noted by other Yelp reviewers, the coffee is strong and potent. After a cup of one of these excellent brews, you will be well equipped to lift heavy things or preside over a fast paced auction. In addition to cupped coffee bags of coffee beans are also offered for sale. I took some home and our dinner guests raved about it. The atmosphere, despite the scientific looking brewing apparatus on display and in use behind the counter, is warm and inviting. I have a friend who used to come here and linger with a book most mornings. There are tables and chairs to make that easier. It isn't difficult to figure out why The Speckled Ax has achieved a somewhat cult following in the local coffee drinking world. They have, for now, perfected the art of the roast, brew and grind, claiming the crown. This is a great place to either begin or end a downtown culinary adventure. Skip the 'restaurant coffee' at the end of your meal and end your evening with a truly special cup.
(5)Olivia R.
I had a latte and a scone, both of which were very good. They don't always have food apparently, but when I was there they had scones and a few flavors of donuts. The main attraction here is the siphon coffee, which comes with a bunch of extra in a carafe. I am not a huge fan of black coffee so I didn't get it, but just looking at the instruments they use was pretty cool. There is free wifi so it's a nice place to come and get work done.
(4)Katie T.
I love places like this that have a good dirty chia and a place to read in peace. The music list that they played was super chill. The serves was fast and I received beautiful latte art!
(5)Mariah L.
If you haven't been made a fool of yet today, come in here and ask for a large Americano. Not only will everyone treat you with disgust you will have to verify it with everyone on staff and deal with over and over. I'm sure these guys have a dunk tank. Just hasn't been approved by the city yet.
(1)Paul G.
Speckled Ax undoubtedly serves some of the best coffee I've ever had. I am a fan of black hot coffee, and that is all that I have ever had from Speckled Ax, so I can't comment on their iced or espresso drinks. The first thing to mention is that this place is very different than most coffee shops. Most coffee shops serve both coffee and a menu of other things like pastries, non-coffee drinks, and possibly even sandwiches. Speckled Ax serves coffee - if you are lucky, they might have some donuts from Holy Donut there as well, but the reason to go is for their coffee. How is their coffee? Well, to make a comparison to a less hip place, the coffee at Speckled Ax is similar to the Starbucks Reserve Coffees made on a Starbucks clover machine. Speckled Ax has different coffees available and not always the same coffees. They do taste noticeably different. I have never had a bad cup from Speckled Ax, but some I do like better than others. Right now they are selling a dry-processed coffee, which has almost a subtle fruitiness to it that I think is definitely worth trying. As for the atmosphere? I always get the coffee to go, but it looks like a place that I would have enjoyed hanging out if I were still in college. And finally, the service? Yes, the baristas are the target market of Urban Outfitters, but my own experience is that when I step up to the counter and ask questions about the menu or place an order, they are friendly and helpful. The only negative to this place is that they close early, so you can't go there for a late cup of coffee after dinner.
(5)Christina C.
Hands down one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland! I recently moved to Seattle, WA and while the coffee out here is excellent, I think the Speckled Ax rivals some of the best coffee shops in the Pacific Northwest. The coffee is just spectacular, the baristas are very knowledgeable and it is a great place to sit down and get some work done. I love the comfort of knowing there is a lot of care put into the selection of beans and the way the beans are roasted. I definitely miss this place and will be by on my next visit home to Portland.
(5)Dan W.
Simply the best cup of black coffee (pour over) I've ever had in Maine, and in New England for that matter. And for those who like milk in their coffee, they will steam the milk for you.
(5)Jay N.
Fine, artisan coffee. This isn't a chain style coffee join, they make some of their brew old school. It's potent, VERY potent. Staff can be a bit quiet but personable and you get a much better cup of strong, artisan coffee than you'll likely find anywhere near by. A must stop and so very worth the visit.
(5)P. And B. J.
The espresso was good. Price was crazy high. I mean who charges for 16oz for $5.32, and then charges almost $1 for chocolate? Just silly. Again, drink was decent, 2nd best I have had in Portland, but hard to justify the pricing.
(3)Laura H.
Really great cold brew, not so great chai latte.
(4)Nicole M.
Solid yelp recommendation!!!! Loved their pour-over options, the coffee was delicious, staff so friendly, vibe really chill. And coming from Boston where pour-over is rather pricey, I liked how much these ones cost :) Definitely worth a jaunt if you want to get away from boring ol' Starbucks and into a fabulous local place. Thanks yelp!
(4)Joseph D.
Best coffee in Portland! The coffees are all amazing and so is the staff. Pour over, aero press, or tradition espressos all top notch. Get your breakfast wherever you like but get your coffee here!
(5)Becca B.
Guatamala El Pilar, absolutely delicious. This small and trendy coffee cafe is so clean looking and modern and with such excellent coffee. I can see it as a geat place to read a paper, chat with some friends, use the wifi, etc. If i'm ever in Portland in the near future I will make it an effort to stop by and grab another cup of their coffee, it was just so good and well crafted.
(5)Daniella L.
Speckled Ax offers really good coffee in a low-key, hip setting. I really liked that is was a small, intimate place. It was nice to see people just chillin' out, relaxed. It was fairly quiet in there, not boisterous with like, teenagers hanging out. We haven't tried any food there, but love their cappuccino!
(4)Millie S.
This is a serious coffee place, but the brew here is not like sipping the cappuccino you would in Sicily. You have to be a fan of boldly roasted coffee here, or you will not like this place. (TIP: You might be best equipped with some mints before you head-off to meet up with friends.) The wood roasting has a serious effect on the beans. I prefer a smoother espresso, so it wasn't so much for me or my confidant. The setting is very relaxed, the music a bit harried at times but you'll recognize some tunes here and there. Contrary to other commentators, I found SA to be very affordable. Bonus points for carrying fair-trade/gluten free chili chocolate - it's to die for!
(3)Sam D.
Good, locally-roasted espresso. Not the best I've ever had but certainly better than average. They roast their beans over wood fire and maybe it was my imagination (or at least the placebo effect) but I think I could taste the corresponding smokiness from said roasting. About on par for pricing relative to joints of this ilk. A little pricey, but justified for the quality. Excellent marks for service and friendliness. I was offered complimentary soda water for a palate-cleanser. Wifi is fast; Music is good---indie/house tracks; not esoteric deep cuts, but definitely not anything close to Top 40 crap, either. Decor is pretty nice---a little more contemporary/traditional than most shops of this type. Not big time industrial chic or the like, but some cool touches in that vein. Seating is limited, simply due to square footage; ~7 tables & a tiny bar. Solid coffee & espresso joint---check it out....
(4)Greg C.
A perfect shot with a carefully crafted almond milk latte. Serious about their coffee roasting and brewing. Great place to hang out and enjoy a perfect coffee served by really nice people.
(5)Jeannine K.
Really really good coffee. Thats all I have to say.
(5)Benjamin K.
This place has quality espresso for sure, along with a few quirks that made it stick out: soda water comes with the latte, which I didn't really appreciate at first but came to like as it cuts the greasy thick milk coating left on your tongue; good music (doom metal); and finally, its quiet location is conducive to getting work done. This was previously a kind of experience you couldn't really get in this part of the peninsula, so overall I'm pleased.
(4)AJ P.
Like lots of things in Portland, this is a place for hipsters and seem a little pretentious. But, if you can overlook that - the coffee is really awesome. They have a small selection of wood roasted coffee that you can choose from that they will brew for you. The flavors are very rich and distinct and can be brewed as pour over coffees or those chemistry looking glass siphons. If you don't want to wait for the individual brews, you can also order a cup of their pre-brewed coffee. Even the iced coffee is strong and made using an aeropress - a really cool gadget that brews a nice strong cup.
(4)Colin M.
Meh. Good coffee, not great. Snarky service. There are better options in Portland within an easy walking distance.
(3)Courty C.
Delicious pour over coffee worth the 10 minute wait. Came late on a Sunday morning and parking was easy. Service was a bit odd, got two coffees ordered one, couldn't tell if my winter wind blown hair was getting the stink eye or not, but don't really care because the coffee was that damn good.
(5)Brent H.
Really great coffee. I didn't get a chance to try the wood roasted coffee, it didn't appear you could order it at the bar, you have to buy a bag... bummer. Anyhow the baristas are legit. The drinks are well made. The place is nice, and comfortable. If I lived in Portland I'd go to this place frequently. Since posting this review I've had a couple people politely inform me all coffee at Speckled Ax is wood fired. I left out initially that I asked specifically about this and was told the coffee I was served, espresso and siphon, were not roasted with wood. Maybe there was some mix up? However, the real thing to concentrate on here is the quality of the coffee here. If the coffee i was drinking had a too smokey or woody taint to it, if the wood had detracted from the coffee, i would have panned this place as a gimmick. But the truth is the coffee was great. I will say my espresso was rich, velvety, sweet, and had just the right amount of citrus tang to it. The siphon was an Ethiopian i believe, and it was nice and fruity. I will say the siphon was under extracted. I don't know if the the grounds to water ratio was off, or what, but it was a lot weaker than i was hoping for. I could taste all the notes you want but i had to really swish and concentrate. Yes, i did rinse my palette and wait for the coffee to come down in temp to let the flavors establish. It wasn't the best coffee i had in Portland, which in my opinion has an embarrassment of good coffee spots for such a small city.
(4)Anthony R.
This is a mixed review. I worked around the corner for about a year so I have frequented this and other Portland coffee shops many a time. The coffee is superb, probably the best I've had anywhere. They roast their own and prepare it multiple ways. I always opt for the pour over, which is well worth the 5 minute wait. The menu is tiny, with about 5 coffees on offer. They usually have something unique . I tried a fruity pebbles latte once and the flavor was subtle but delicious. I would give the coffee 6 stars if I could! Now for the downside. The shop is small/quiet which makes it nice for working. The ambiance is nice. However, I give the staff a D- for personality. I don't know where they find these people but they are uninterested-too-cool-for-school-hipsters that would be rejected from Portlandia casting for being too hipster. In at least 20 trips I only once saw a smile or sense of personality from one girl(which might have been because she started to recognize I was a regular, not sure!). They were never negative but something just does't feel particularly appealing about the experience. Maybe the owner should mandate a shot of expresso before each shift to instill a pulse in their soul-less-dejected-too-skinny-jeans-and-plaid-Âshirt-wearing staff. Think of every south park/portlandia episode straw man ridiculous hipster that can't possibly be real; they do in fact exist. They work here. Again, I will come back again and again for the coffee but I feel indifferent to the people behind the counter.
(4)Lauren H.
The land of hipsters. This place looks like a torture chamber for coffee. They have multiple ways you can get your caffeine fix. I have to say the lovingly prepared cappuccino was totally delicious. Small place and every table taken on a Saturday afternoon.
(4)Ben E.
Pour over was bright, citrusy and smooth. Enjoyed the wood fired espresso as well - very balanced. Not over roasted like I expected. Good spot.
(5)ZP W.
i was in town for a wedding and came here to enjoy some coffee with a friend. just what the hell was that double bourbon roast? it is four months later and i'm still thinking about it. it was one of the best and most interesting cups i have ever had. staff is quiet and professional. the layout feels cozy and enjoyable. i would frequent this establishment if i were local.
(4)Lee L.
I travel around a bit, and stop at coffee shops pretty much all over the US. Speckled Axe has some of the best espresso blend I've ever tried. Their bird dog espresso blend is amazing. The barista's know their coffee extremely well, understand how to make a proper cup and an excellent shot. A friend recently brought me some Hula daddy coffee from the big Island at $45 a pound and I would take Speckled Axe blends any day of the week over that.
(5)Jeremy P.
I don't know how to describe how much I love coming here. I have been doing so since the opening and it feels like a second home to me. I am a barista myself and find the methods and quality and variety of drinks here to be second to none. (at least in Portland. to add to this - I love everyone who here! there is a really wonderful mixture of personalities, and that is important. Often you will encounter a lively conversation about philosophy! Or you may simply be welcomed by a handsome and calm gentlemen with long hair who's aura is enough to make you feel comfortable and warm. I could go on forever. I love Speckled Ax and all of the people that make it what it is!
(5)jena b.
The caramel lattes are fantastic. The caramel is real caramel made by a local bakery, not syrup out of a bottle. They also have a great selection of teas, the bancha being one of my favorites to order iced. The atmosphere is inviting and the shop is located in an interesting stretch of Congress St. Highly recommend!
(5)Amy D.
Speckled Ax is probably one of my favorite coffee places ever. Their fancy coffee brewing equipment almost give you the feel that you are back in your high school chemistry lab, but with far more hipsters. I love grabbing a bag of either the Speckled Ax or Matt's Coffee whole beans to brew up at home. I really love their tower shot (concentrated iced coffee that almost has the taste of liquor it is so strong), their delicious espresso w/ steamed milk. And I especially love the refreshing glass of bubbly water that is complimentary with espresso drinks. Cold coffee, hot coffee, it's all delicious. This isn't a place where you are going to get a snickerdoodle latte or some other syrupy-saturated beverage. This is a place where you go to get coffee. Period. And let me tell you, it is tasty.
(5)Amanda U.
Want to order coffee from the most unfriendly, least enthusiastic, unhelpful baristas? Come here, you're in for a special treat. The coffee is good but would taste so much better if the experience of being here included joyful and happy to help baristas. Can't get behind a place that emphasizes product only - and not customer service.
(1)Sam F.
Stopped in for Monday am coffee- folks were very kind to this out of towner. Make sure to check out the crazy Japanese (?) style induction brewing set up and forewarned- this coffee is serious stuff.
(5)Emily L.
I happened on this little nook of a place while driving somewhat haphazardly along Portland's main drags, looking for an inviting spot to grab a hot drink and something sweet for the road. The Speckled Axe was just the place. The place was fairly empty at the end of a Saturday night, but the woodsy modern atmosphere drew us in. The Tall Man got a coffee, which he rated highly (a big compliment from one who drinks himself through many a brew) while I got a soy hot chocolate (lovely, warm, and not too sweet). We also got a sticky sweet donut as a late night treat and grabbed a bag of beans to grind and brew at home, savoring the calm before a long drive. Being cafe and coffee "addicts," the Tall Man and I make it a goal to find a nice coffee place in cities we visit (big plus for having multiple brewing gadgets), and SA was a satisfying find for the night. If I were a Portland local, I'd make this part of my daily routine somehow.
(4)Brave G.
this was another spot-on recommendation by vinland's david levy. the story started back in nyc at a new coffee spot in west chelsea on 9th avenue called pushcart. the wait at sullivan st was just too long and the line moving too slowiy (cursing, yet also noting the positive for the venue, even though it's taken sullivan st more than a year to rev up to that level of popularity), anyway, i bagged it in frustration and went in search of something faster and less frustrating. pushcart is on the corner and across 9th, with big windows for sidewalk-gazing. when i got inside, i remembered that i also needed some home beans and saw a very cool-looking label of a bicycle on the front of the coffees. closer inspection revealed it was made by tandem coffee roasters based in ... portland maine. only two days before we'd booked a trip up there -- before that, i'd barely known the town existed. portland maine suddenly everywhere... the pushcart manager loves the tandem people and suggested i pay them a visit. righteo! but when we got up there and saw on the local map that there were about a half dozen coffee roaster companies in town, it seemed to say a whole lot about what portland was about, which was later borne out. anyway, tandem was way on the other side of town so we never made it. but thanks to david, we went to speckled ax which was a few minutes away from us. it was great. i'd had a little of the tandem roast at home before we left so i had an idea of the intensity of the portland roast. speckled was all that and maybe more. they do the blue bottle type of elite coffee stuff, with cold brew, slow pour, chemistry set spontaneous combustion heating, summer solstice slow roasting for five years, etc, but in the end what is a regular brewed coffee with a little cream gonna taste like? i let it cool down a bit so the flavors wouldn't get swallowed up by the heat, and then let it swirl and float around my mouth to savor it, sipping it down. yes! it was fabulous, super strong, well defined, edgy, clean, giving way to all the richness and darkness and finally the caffeine sizzle. i remembered back ten years ago to what i thought was the pinnacle of coffee, in the french bistros and italian espresso bars that were cropping up around manhattan, and how this was light years beyond that. so i wondered, will there be ten years from now that much improvement again, or have we hit the ceiling and this is as good as it gets? if this is the end, it's a good end. and they are really nice (they are portland maine!) and the room is clean with lots of new wood and high ceilings, and you'll also find the random macbook people here and there. there are snacks, pastries, the usual coffee accompaniments, and indeed they looked fine but we didn't touch them. just that exquisite coffee, and then it was on to the next wonderful portland experience.
(5)Nora C.
I was so groggy walking in that I not only could barely walk straight, but I ordered a cafe late instead of the au lait that I wanted and I just didn't care because it is so delicious. Also, the coffee is as good or better than that awesome place in Nichols arcade in Ann Arbor, and that is high high praise. It's like the best of dark chocolate and coffee put together. And the people who work there seem to really know their stuff. I'm not normally a coffee person, so take this as you will, but I was impressed with the variety of apparatus they used to prepare different brews.
(5)Andrew R.
Very good coffee. Would do well in a bigger city. Kinda small seating area, but totally fine for Portland. Would happily go back.
(4)Nathan K.
First off, let me say that I want to give this place four or five stars. On paper, it should be getting them. Its simple, but sturdy decor is pretty much universally appealing while not being touristy. I love the Edison bulb lighting. Every item on the menu is executed near-flawlessly. Even the standard drip coffee is done well, but this place shines in its pour-overs. Also, if you've never had one before, you must try a tower shot. The staff is, on the whole, friendly and knowledgeable. The reason it's losing so many stars are as follows: There are a bunch of minor problems. Things that, even combined, would make me only knock off one star: the drinks are on the expensive side. You may or may not feel they are worth the price. You have to try them for yourself. While it's well decorated, it's a small and cramped space. It's not always my go-to coffee shop because I can't guarantee I'll get a seat. The elaborate coffee making systems are cool and do produce delicious coffee, but they definitely can slow things down. The biggest problem, though, is the shop's founder and owner, Matt. Speckled Ax was started by a man who is well-known in Maine for his coffee roasting business, which has been very popular, as we like our local businesses. I won't deny that Matt roasts good coffee. But if I had to use one word to describe him, it's a word I wouldn't use in front of my grandmother. Matt behaves as though someone forced him to open and work at this coffee shop. Like it is a huge inconvenience for him to be there, making you coffee that you pay him for; like you have no choice in coffee shops and so he has no obligation to be even passingly pleasant; like he'd rather be ANYWHERE but in this coffee shop, serving you your drink. Now, if it was just some employee, I'd still make note of this and maybe knock off a star. But I find this attitude from the owner of the shop totally unacceptable. There are so many owner-run coffee shops where those owners are pleasant, responsive and at least pretending to appreciate your custom. I visit coffee shops in Portland a few times a week. If the owner weren't such a jerk, I'd go to Matts for almost every one of these visits. As it is, I'll go a couple of times in the summer to treat myself to a tower shot and otherwise I'll patronize an establishment that actually appreciates its customers.
(2)Lili K.
Interesting coffes to choose from. They have tons of coffee devices to bring that flavor out! I don't drink real coffee but my boo's espresso was too dark, and the vibe here is pretty uptight. I wouldn't want to just hang out/do work here. There was a cute dog sleeping here, though! Free wifi too.
(3)Lynn S.
Worth it to let them walk you through their menu, good stuff
(4)Rob R.
I have been getting my coffee at Speckled Ax for a couple of years now and even today, l am impressed. Speckled Ax is special because of the staff and their humble dedication to coffee. When food or drink is cared for in process from start to finish, there is an incomparable energy present in it. Matt's wood roasted coffee is handled and considered with appreciation in every phase before being served. It is a treat to have Matt's wood roasted coffee available to us here in Portland. I recommend to anyone who enjoys excellent coffee and takes the experience of drinking coffee as personally as I do to stop by Speckled Ax. Thanks guys!
(5)Jennie Y.
Can't gush strongly enough about Speckled Ax. The baristas are friendly (!), knowledgeable, and patient. Totally in love with their coffee to boot. My new go-to cafe when I'm in town!
(5)Bruce D.
I returned to the Ax a couple of days ago on my way to work and I've decided to update in regard to one of my biggest complaints: the price point. But, my most recent visit took those words right out of my mouth! It wasn't really unreasonable and is now definitely in the neighborhood of all other coffee shops around, only this coffee is unlike anything I've ever had - and this includes the freshest coffee I've had on my travels through Hawaii and the Caribbean. Earlier I commented on the tipping system that I really didn't appreciate (it more-or-less makes your feel obligated to tip 20%) but after paying with cash a few times and just leaving the change I realized that I was tipping way more than 20% so... foot, meet mouth. As such, I have decided to update my review to a full 5 stars. Since then, I've experienced even better service, the waitstaff is quickly remembering my order, and I just can't get over the atmosphere and coffee. It's just too close to perfect for me. Quiet and chill, lots of wood and glass, calm and comfortable lighting... I just want to go right now. This place will make you feel like you're living in an Edison bulb and it always smells amazing. Jeez - I haven't even been here in a few days. I guess I'll have to change that tomorrow morning!
(5)Christian S.
I loved this place. Enter into a long, minimalist room adorned with wood and cool lighting. The coffee bar sits at the back. Both the man and woman working are friendly and wait intently as we decide from the plethora of options. They didn't seem like they wanted to chat, but neither did I. I figured I needed to try espresso, so I ordered an Americano. It was perfectly executed, and the wood roasting certainly impacted the taste - positively. And it only cost $2.75. I'll definitely return the next time I'm in Portland.
(5)Whanza P.
Grab a book or laptop and enjoy ur coffee here. The atmosphere is very warm and cozy as well as the service.
(4)Aaron T.
Without a doubt the best coffee place in Portland. I was a regular there when I visited Portland. I would just grab my morning Latte, turn on the computer and sit down and relax. While waiting you are also given a complimentary soda water. The coffee itself tastes great, always at the right temperature. Go there!
(5)Jeremy S.
After a few days in the woods this place was an absolute godsend. The baristo recommended a great bean for my pour-over. The cup was expertly crafted and was just what the doctor ordered. If Portland and I cross paths again, I will come in for sure.
(5)Erna r.
Very serious about their coffee, and it may be the best in Portland. What i really LOVE about this coffee shop, in addition to the coffee, is that they play music but it is not intrusive - It's not too loud to hear yourself think, talk across a table, or just enjoy your coffee, as it is in most coffee shops. I stay far away from all but this one and CBD exactly because of the loud music issue. Speckled Ax feels like a coffee shop for adults. (And all ages do hang out here!)
(4)Ainsley W.
Speckled Ax is like Bard, before Bard got cool. Delicious and unique selections, designer pour-over coffees, free wi-fi, cozy space but not crowded (though they're probably sad about this), great windows and lighting, high-tech gadgets (including a cool iPad-ish payment interface), good Pandora stations pumping, wood floors, friendly dog in the window. Hipstamatic to the core. My first time in I tried the "cascara," a tea made of coffee berries which I'd never heard of despite frequenting Portland's plentiful coffee shops. I was impressed. It was sweet, flavorful, and DELICIOUS. The second time, I spent hours working on a writing assignment and never felt like I was taking up too much space (though I tried to be a good doobie and buy stuff every hour). The cookie and coffee beverages I had were delish. Best of all, late hours (for Portland!). Open 'til 9:30 every night! Get on the bandwagon before the Speckled Ax becomes the next Bard or Arabica.
(4)Anthony G.
Yes! This coffee is excellent. I had a macchiato that was perfect. My girlfriend's latte was great as well. I even bought some whole bean coffee to grind at home that was excellent. If you're in Portland, you need to try this place.
(5)Barry D.
I LOVE great coffee and when I am preparing to visit a new city, I will often Google: City Name+Synesso or City Name+Slayer, knowing that 95% of the shops that own a Synesso or Slayer machine will likely be able to deliver an excellent shot of espresso. The Speckled Ax takes it to another level with a beautiful Slayer unit for their main machine and a shiny Synesso in the back room for a standby machine. They back it up with staff that are friendly and helpful and take their jobs seriously, which translates to excellent espresso drinks and perfect pour-over coffees. They use the owner's wood-fre roasted organic coffee beans which I have been a fan of since I first tried (and immensely enjoyed) several years ago as drip coffee at Frontier in Brunswick, Maine. Nice, clean, comfortable space with wi-fi and good music.
(5)Michael J.
I love this place! This is the first time that I've had and thoroughly enjoyed a no-foam latte with no sugar. The beans were roasted to perfection and Matt steamed the milk enough to bring up the sweetness in the milk - so no sugar added! I met Matt several years ago at Maine Fare, an awesome food event that was spearheaded by Nancy Harmon Jenkins and Sam Hayward, that was held in Camden. He operated Matt's Coffee out of Pownal, ME and did and outstanding roast. The Speckled Axe is now one of my go-to places in Portland. Matt has given me the courage to try to roast some green coffee beans in my wood-fired oven.
(5)Lauren G.
stopped here on the way out of Portland after a wedding weekend - really great coffee, cold brew was ok but the iced aero press Costa Rica was amazing. brought back a pound of beans to try at home. great little spot with lots of choices and cozy seating but the staff was less friendly than we've met at other Portland spots!
(4)Bobby S.
Amazing pour overs. Nice staff. Okay cookies. Good prices. Cool furniture. I took one star off for the cozy factor. Could be a bit more cozy for a coffee shop. I'd go here every day if I lived in Portland.
(4)Rory I.
The focus here is on the coffee. How it's made, where it comes from, what it tastes like. Any place I can get something that technically qualifies as a fair trade vegan coffee is automatically a favorite, but the Speckled Ax goes beyond the call of duty; their coffee tastes amazing. It's made with fascinating devices straight out of a mad scientist's laboratory. I even can choose almond milk instead of soy - always a plus. The coffee comes in those big, aesthetically pleasing white coffee mugs and the decor is minimalistic in a comfy sort of way. The fiscally unfortunate lack of crowd leads to a relaxingly quiet and intimate atmosphere. So just sit for a while with a Ghanian chocolate-infused cappuccino and people watch as Yann Tiersen plays. It's a lovely experience.
(5)Patrick C.
Let me first say my coffee background gave me good reason to be very excited about this new coffee destination in Portland. It boasts a gorgeous Slayer espresso machine, a siphon coffee setup (really fun to watch), and an elaborate cold-brew coffee system. For a moment I flashed back to being at Blue Bottle Coffee on Mission in San Francisco. I asked for a signature drink. I was recommended a mochaccino (this is my name for it, essentially a cappuccino with chocolate). Sweet coffee is usually a no-no with me (especially with so much milk) but I went ahead a tried it. The people were very polite and friendly. The latte art wasn't the best, however taste is WAY more important than having a rosetta on my coffee. The drink was sweet. Very sweet. The chocolate clumpy at the bottom of my cup (which I had "for here"). I expected more. This place presents itself as a hip 3rd wave coffeehouse. On the plus side, the coffee tasted great, and the regular cappuccino my partner got was very nice. I'll have to give this place another shot. As of now the end product hasn't quite lived up to the suite of world-class, drool-worthy equipment lining the counters. I'm looking forward to giving this place another shot. Portland has a lot of coffee, but only a couple great coffee producers. I'm hoping to categorize this as the later one day soon.
(2)Alex C.
Walking in the door and hearing Fleet Foxes playing is usually a good sign for me. The soy latte I had was delicious, one of the best I've ever had. One thing that kind of turned me off was how sparse the decor is! I know they are trying to go for a minimalist thing, and maybe it's just me, but I prefer a coffee shop to be cozy. The whole place seemed kind of bare and the lights were super bright. Plus it was COLD, and not just when the door opened! I had to keep my coat on the whole time I was there! One thing I did really life, and this is totally creep of me, but I over-heard a conversation between the guy working the counter and a friend saying he hoped that the Speckled Ax doesn't come off as pretentious or rude, the way so many specialty coffee shops do. He said that they always try to be friendly and welcoming, and how ridiculous it is that other shops tell their employees to act stuck up. That was so nice to hear, and the services was, in fact, charming. SO! Mixed review here. Great coffee, cool staff, good music, bad ambiance. That about sums it up!
(3)Jason W.
The Speckled Ax is like the dexters laboratory of coffee. Where serious and casual coffee drinkers alike come to get what I found to be a truly unique selection of bean offerings. I had an espresso and my wife a cappuccino on our first visit and it lived up to the hype. I will point out, like others here have, that the wood roast provides a deep and rich flavor that some might not find appealing. I thought personally that this process brought the bean to life in a way I had not experienced and that really impressed me. Definitely not your average coffee join, so I will give them an above average score. Cheers!
(4)eric s.
I ordered the tanzania and it was definitely some of the best coffee I have ever had. The staff was extremely friendly and the owners dog was an added bonus! My friend ordered a latte and also said it was one of the best she's ever had. Definitely going back!
(5)Eric S.
Best coffee in town.
(5)Nick M.
Easily the best espresso (and cappuccino) I've ever had. Portland is filled with good coffee, but they clearly have an edge. Fun environment with funky coffee brewing technology - a good mix of wood and steel. Open 7 days is unique in Portland for a coffee shop as well.
(5)Lydia W.
This is some of the best coffee I've ever had, it tastes amazing. Very friendly staff and a lovely shop overall. Feel very lucky to have this available to me every morning here in Portland.
(5)nicole w.
I confess, my partner loves this place so I wanted to love it, too. We're both long time coffee drinkers and serious about it. I do not like the taste of their coffee. It tastes murky, flat, with a bitter after taste. The owner and some of his employees seem bored to death with serving coffee, despite the many varieties of preparation.
(2)Heather S.
Cute coffee shop. Stopped in here after the guy at Tandem made the recommendation!
(4)Seamus C.
Yeah, it's good. I tested their latté and it was good -- not quite as good as Bards, but good. It's a sparsely-appointed shop with good Wifi access and plenty of space to sit. Off the beaten path a bit and worth a stop.
(4)David H.
Most amazing roaster in Portland. And just ask Matt any question about roasting, brewing or drinking coffee and you'll get an expert opinion.
(5)Sarah D.
These caffeine geeks brew a serious cup of coffee. My soy cappuccino was delicious, but next time I want to try it with their Fruity Pebbles-infused milk. My boyfriend said his Ethiopian pour-over was perfect. Couldn't be more pleased!
(5)Jessika G.
I hate when this happens. When you read all of the Yelp reviews, you get hyped about a place, and then BOOM - it looks like all of your Yelp reviews are forged and the place disappoints. My husband and I were walking around downtown Portland for the day and I was craving coffee. Instead of stopping in the first place we saw, I decided to get on mobile Yelp and feel it out. "THIS IS IT" I told my husband, and even though the place was FOREVER away, we decided to make the trek for the sake of a good cup of coffee, awesome atmosphere, and great customer service. UGH. I can't lie, the atmosphere was cool - I snapped a couple of pictures. The service was terrible. I mean, I felt like I was an inconvenience more than anything. The woman and the man behind the counter looked like they didn't even want to be there. If it was just one person I would maybe chock it up as them having a bad day, but I don't think so. We ordered mocha's. They were bland. I have nothing else to say about that.
(2)Eva R.
This place is getting it right. The slightly aloof atmosphere I've come to expect at serious third wave coffee purveyors/hipster hangouts, a very cool ambiance, and most of all delicious coffee. Ordered an espresso with 6 oz. steamed milk (this portion of the menu is listed as espresso shot + varying amounts of steam milk). The beverage I got was delightful - a truly success without bitterness or a burnt taste, and beautiful art as well. Highly recommended for locals or the coffee connoisseur passing through town.
(5)Patrick H.
Great place with friendly staff. Try the hot chocolate if you're not in a coffee mind set.
(4)Katie R.
The coffee was good, I'll give it that. The reason for my mediocre review was the seriously snotty attitude of the guy behind the counter. Fine, maybe he had a bad night, I'll let that go. Then he swipes my card and turns the touch screen display around for me to sign, and it displays "Tip- 15%, 20% or Custom Tip". To skip tipping, I had to go into 'Custom Tip" and pick "0%. I'm all about tipping for a job well done, but please don't try to force me into it. Obnoxious, I won't go back.
(2)Tarra H.
You always know your coffee will be perfectly made here. The baristas are friendly and knowledgeable about whatever is being poured that day (expect 3-4 options for pour over on top of their exquisite espresso drinks). Milk and sugar would only take away from the intelligently (light) roasted coffees. Hands down, my favorite coffee shop in Portland.
(5)Tonya S.
For a quick caffeine fix, this is a nice quiet cafe in the area. I picked out the aeropressed Ethiopian coffee blend over ice which was delicious with a hint of nutmeg. A small ice coffee for $3.50 was a little steep, as I've had comparable coffee at better prices.
(3)Tess G.
I'll start by saying that we LOVE the Speckled Ax- we love purchasing their ground coffee for home, and I've never had a better caramel latte (made with Scratch's housemade caramel sauce....amazing.) Unfortunately, we're putting the brakes on our visits. There's one particularly grumpy barista who just totally ruined our experience. When my husband asked which of the donuts (from Holy Donuts) he'd recommend with his coffee, the barista gave him a sour look and said, quite seriously, "I don't get paid to talk about donuts." Seriously?! We deserve better service than this. Have a talk with your staff, and we'll consider coming back- we'd hate to give this place up for good.
(2)Nicole B.
Do you ever wish the world would just stop, take a deep breath, and appreciate the morning? As a tea drinker, Speckled Axe stands out. It isn't for their vast selection of teas--it barely covers the basics--but rather because it seems to repel the inherent chaos found in every messy, crowded coffee shop in Portland. The seating area is quiet and clean, perfect for stopping to smell the roses before you start your day.
(4)Rich J.
Great service and good coffee...many MANY types of brew here..including cold brew and shit I never heard of (love my coffee but not a coffee snob).
(4)Bud P.
I love their coffee. I also love that they make it to order. Every time I go. I get a different roast and usually end of buying a bag of beans. All coffee shops seem to have a hipster thing going on but you can hang here and not feel too out of place if you are a fat, balding 40-something like me
(4)