I usually eat at Arleta Library Cafe to mark some important event, like a birthday, even though it’s not the most convenient place to take a larger group. It’s just so good and it’s in my neighborhood. Being a small, popular brunch spot, Arleta Library Cafe tends to get really packed, especially since they were featured on the Food Network. Be patient. Everything from your table to the check will most likely take a while on weekends. It’s well worth the wait.

Since I’ve ordered or sampled pretty much everything on the menu at Arleta at this point, I feel qualified to offer some opinions:

If you’re really, really hungry, go for Portland’s Best Biscuts and Gravy. That’s a bold claim but Arleta backs it up. They really are.

Carnivores, I have three words for you but it’s served on weekends only: Corned Beef Hash.

Vegetarians, try the Hawthorne, a simple medley of local veggies, sauteed potatoes, and cheese.

Amazing pastries any day of the week, a cut above what you find in most coffee shops. Memorable coffee cake.

A few interesting points: Most of the veggies they serve are grown nearby in Southeast Portland by Your Backyard Farmer. It’s worth mentioning their lavatory decor feels like stepping into a rustic kitchen somewhere in 19th century France. Arleta serves their own homemade ketchup (or should I say catsup?). It puts that store-bought stuff to shame.

There’s not much of a library to speak of, but for brunch, it’s Arleta Library Cafe all the way.

Location:

5513 Southeast 72nd Avenue

Open Tue-Fri 8am-7pm; Weekends 9am-3pm

To view an interactive map of the Mt. Scott neighborhood, where this is located, click here!