Arabica

A good morning stop is so much more than a storefront to scamper into, cranky and bleary and still half-asleep, on your morning way to work. It's a place where you recognize the regulars, where the staff remembers you like the French roast, or your latte made with soy, or that you prefer the heel of the loaf when it comes to your toast, where people come to awaken and end up a community.

Arabica is such a place. Not only does it boost the moods of its patrons with its brews and specialty drinks, but the huge wall of windows overlooking the corner of Free and Union Streets lets the warmth and light pour in even on the grayest, coldest days of the year.

The bagels are great (especially with peanut butter), the toast fresh and soft and changing flavors, the staff will warm you with smiles and jokes, and for a caffeine blast (or just a great spot to linger over the paper on a Sunday morning), Arabica rules.

Arabica | 2 Free St, Portland | 207.879.0792