Barista

539 Northwest 13th Avenue
Portland, OR 97209

This coffee shop possesses a few qualities that I've come to associate with espresso excellence. An open, somewhat bare space. No plugs for computers. I approached the counter and noticed three espresso choices. Another indicator of superiority. The beans came from Ritual, out of San Francisco, and a few other roasters I didn't recognize. I went with a Costa Rican blend. I waited for my order to be called with heightened expectation, watching lattes with leaf art taken by the customers in front of me. Then came "Costa Rican doppio." I sat down and began to sip. It was salty, sour, savory, with a touch of something playful, but not quite sweet. I've never tasted espresso with such a range of flavor. Following the espresso, I toured the nearby Chinese Garden feeling serene and elevated.