I don't know why but this place struck a chord in me. Probably because it's a cozy cafe with giant windows that lets that intoxicating LA light flood in... and the decor is ridiculously simple but still mod and homey (how do they do that?). But mostly because it's a cafe that was started by Koreans. I don't know, I guess I find that inspiring and empowering. I feel asians are a minority that are often left out or kind of forgotten so knowing there are Korean people doing super cool things like Maru, puts a smile on my face. Keep it coming guys.
Shop Johan
I swear, every single garment and product Laura brings into her shop is perfection. My friends and I have been visiting her back when she used to run the shop out of a garage and now she's all grown up, in this light and airy space. You can see the intentionality behind every decision of her carefully curated product mix and she supports local designers and small businesses, so you know it's the good stuff. Shop Johan is a must pitstop for all you minimalists.
Courier Coffee
Courier Coffee. Tucked around the corner from Powell's. They roast their own beans and on Saturdays, you can get small-batch Japanese shaved ice.
Find more of my Portland favorites here.