A blustery cold day calls for warm cosy cafes and coffee along with a good book or a good friend.B Today I wandered into Costello’s Travel Caffe at 2222 NE BroadwayB on the edge ofB the Irvington Neighborhood. Armed with my camera and my latest book, I had the good fortune of meeting Chris Costello–part owner of thisB unique spot! Open for almost seven years, Costello’s has created a wonderful niche in Portland and their desire to create an atmosphere of a European Cafe has been accomplished by more just the decor.B
Caffe Umbria Roasters, based out of Seattle, makes a smooth cappuccino and while Costello’s sells a lot of espresso, they also have over 120 types of seasonal scones that are made by momma Patty and sister Leah Costello on the premises. Yowza.B If you ever need 60 scones for an event or a meeting, I’d call ahead and have this dynamic pastry duo take care of it!
Want to do something unusual during the week–check out the schedule on their website for more details:
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Monday Night–Mercy Corp Night—25% of sales go directly to MC ( I LOVE THIS)
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Tuesday Night–foreign language conversation night–rotates between Italian, Spanish, Dutch, French and Mandarin.
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Wednesday Night–Foreign Film night
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Thursday–Live Music
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Friday–Live Music
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June 11-July 11–look out–the big screens will be caught up in all that is World Cup!
When soccer or a foreign film isn’t on the big screen, you’ll find running film of over 80 cities in 30 countries that the Costello family shot and edited themselves. I so enjoy how this family has found their niche and just goes for it. And you can tell that many people from other countries love hanging out in this spot too. Each time I’ve been here, the tables are full and the drone of multiple different languages fills the air.B If you close your eyes, it’s very easy to think you aren’t in KansasB any more and I love how that feels. B The other thing that I think is unusual, is that while it’s free wifi M-F, on the weekends it’s a wifi free zone. Why? Because the owners place value on fostering an atmosphere that is more social.B THAT is unusual and I think it’s awesome how purposeful they areB about it.
Chris it was delightful to meet you!! I’ll be in again! Ann & Lisa–you both were so fun to meet and talk with!
Here’s the run down:
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M-F check out their on line schedule for happenings
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Serve Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (check out their calzones–their dough and sauces are all made from scratch!)
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They welcome the community and invite small groups i.e. knitters, book clubs etc. to pop on in.
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Focus on community and strive to provide healthy affordable meals
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Family owned!!!
