Local Business Spotlight: Rise & Grind Coffeehouse — Brewing Community One Cup at a Time

Nestled in the heart of Portland’s bustling Hawthorne District, Rise & Grind Coffeehouse

Isn’t just pouring lattes — it’s pouring heart, soul, and a whole lot of community spirit into its every move. As a standout listing in the “Most Visible Brands” section of CompaniesByZipCode.com and a rising star in Portland’s social scene, this local favorite is redefining what it means to be a neighborhood coffee shop. With sustainability at its core, art on its walls, and local flavor in every single roast, Rise & Grind offers more than just your morning caffeine — it offers a genuine connection to the beating heart of Portland.

Hook: Why Everyone’s Talking About Rise & Grind

What do you get when you combine ethically sourced coffee, locally made pastries, an in-house art gallery, and a passion for community outreach? A business that the whole city talks about — and one you’ll want to visit right after you finish reading. Rise & Grind Coffeehouse doesn’t just serve a product, it serves a purpose. Whether you saw them featured on Portland Eats’ latest Instagram Reel or read about their partnership with Portland Shelter Alliance, Rise & Grind’s buzz is real — and you’re about to find out why.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Rise & Grind Coffeehouse

Founded in 2017 by Portland-native siblings Jamie and Tasha Reynolds, Rise & Grind Coffeehouse set out with a singular mission: to create a coffee experience that’s rooted in community, creativity, and care for the environment. Six years later, they’ve done just that — and then some.

Today, Rise & Grind is considered an anchor of the Hawthorne district, drawing locals, students, artists, and tourists alike. Its inviting wooden façade, cozy lighting, and signature rainbow latte art have made it a destination for those seeking comfort and connection in a cup.

Business Overview

History and Origins

Jamie and Tasha grew up just three blocks from what is now Rise & Grind’s flagship location. After graduating from PSU with backgrounds in business and environmental sciences, the two decided to combine their shared love of coffee and community. Their vision: a coffeehouse driven by values just as strong as espresso shots.

Securing a location in one of Portland’s most culturally rich neighborhoods turned out to be a blessing. Access to foot traffic, proximity to famed vintage shops, and a mixed demographic allowed Rise & Grind to blossom organically.

Rise & Grind’s menu is tightly curated but creative, catering to every palate. Here are a few customer-favorite highlights:

  • The “Grindhouse Espresso” – Custom roasted blend exclusive to Rise & Grind, with notes of dark chocolate and blackberry.
  • Portland Fog – Their twist on the London Fog, featuring smoked lavender and house-made vanilla bean syrup.
  • Golden Immunity Latte – A turmeric, ginger, and oat milk infusion with immunity-boosting properties.
  • Locally Baked Goods – Vegan and gluten-free banana muffins, elderflower scones, and out-of-this-world cinnamon rolls.

The shop also features rotating seasonal drinks and uses plant-based milk by default (though dairy is available), reflecting their commitment to sustainability.

What Sets Them Apart

Beyond impeccable taste and service, what truly separates Rise & Grind from any other café is their threefold philosophy: Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Artistry.

  • Sustainable operations including biodegradable cups, carbon-neutral deliveries, and compost partnerships with ScrappDX.
  • An inclusive workplace where employees are paid a living wage and undergo DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) training.
  • Support for local artists, with monthly live performances, community mural projects, and a rotating art exhibit featuring new local talent each season.

Community Impact

Sustainability Efforts

Portland is known for its eco-conscious population, and Rise & Grind has answered the call. From sourcing Rainforest Alliance Certified beans to offering discounts for customers who bring reusable cups, every aspect of their operation considers the environment.

Behind the scenes, the business partners with local farm collectives to compost all food waste, sources milk from regionally-owned Oregon dairies with humane practices, and even offers free spent coffee grounds for anyone looking to enrich their garden soil.

Local Cause Involvement

Rise & Grind is a committed local changemaker. Every quarter, they partner with a different nonprofit. Recent efforts include:

  • A “Coffee for Coats” charity drive benefiting Portland Shelter Alliance
  • Hosting open mics that double as fundraisers for LGBTQ+ youth programs
  • Running a “Pay It Forward” board allowing guests to pre-pay drinks for community members in need—no questions asked

Creating Artistic Opportunities

Art sings through the veins of Rise & Grind — and they make sure artists from all walks of life can thrive. With weekend poetry readings, acoustic nights, First Thursday art showcases, and barista-created latte art contests, this café is also a platform.

Each season, a local painter or visual artist is chosen by community vote to feature their work throughout the café. Notably, several past artists have gone on to land gallery shows thanks to the exposure they received here.

Customer Experience

Notable Reviews

Rise & Grind averages a near-perfect 4.9 out of 5 stars across reviews on Yelp, Google Maps, and CompaniesByZipCode.com. Customers rave about the environment, the staff, and, naturally, the coffee.

Here are just a few highlights:

“Best coffee I’ve had in Portland. But more importantly, the love in this place is tangible.” — Nina T., on Yelp

“I come for the chai, stay for the mural changes, and always leave with a smile. This isn’t just a coffee shop, it’s a community anchor.” — Jamal W., on CompaniesByZipCode.com

“Their non-dairy options are next-level, and every barista knows your name by the third visit. This place has heart.” — Beck R., local blogger

Events and Atmosphere

Beyond the drinks and service, the vibe is what keeps people coming back. With mismatched vintage chairs, constant jazz or local indie artists playing in the background, and a patio lush with greenery, Rise & Grind feels like Portland’s living room.

Some ongoing events that draw crowds include:

  • Latte Art Fridays – Watch baristas go cup-to-cup in friendly foil-art competitions.
  • Slam Sundays – Open mic nights for spoken word and acoustic sets.
  • Book Swap Wednesdays – Grab a drink, leave a book, take a book.

Visual Showcase

Note: All photography provided with permission from Rise & Grind Coffeehouse and local photographer Lucy Marquez.

  • Exterior shot showing customers on the rustic patio, sipping drinks under hanging Edison bulbs
  • Barista mid-pour on a rainbow latte
  • Wall mural by featured artist Chloe B. (Spring 2024 showcase)
  • Cinnamon swirl pastry close-up with the Oregonian’s Foodie Award plaque in the background
  • Group shot of staff during the last “Pay It Forward” charity event

Call to Action

Feeling inspired to try the best turmeric latte in town or attend a community-driven art night that’ll leave you feeling something deeper than just caffeine? Visit Rise & Grind Coffeehouse at 1234 Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, and see what the buzz is truly about.

Better still, support this amazing business and find others just like it by exploring the “Most Visible Brands” and top-rated businesses in your area through CompaniesByZipCode.com. Your next favorite spot is just a click away.

Discover, support, and share — your local economy will thank you.


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