A review of the Portfolio Coffeehouse in Long Beach, CA
Early in its life two decades ago, the Portfolio Coffeehouse attracted writers, artists, and musicians. At that time personal computer weren’t common and the Portfolio rented computers for customer use. Several local writers have written their novels seated at those computers, which are still available today. Others spread their work on one of the large wooden tables and were content to work with pen and paper.
The atmosphere of the Portfolio has changed some over the years, now attracting a more upscale, trendy clientele. However, much of the creative atmosphere remains very much intact. They were the first coffeehouse in Long Beach, CA. to present live poetry readings. While that is no longer a regular feature, they do have occasional readings by new writers. Some of the local musicians have had their first serious public venue during their Wednesday open mic night.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Portfolio Coffeehouse is the continuous art exhibits. They feature the works of emerging West Coast artists on their walls. Each show lasts from six to eight weeks before another artist’s works replace it. Portfolio has presented some very daring, cutting edge works over the years as well as some that are simply visually stunning.
With its two spacious rooms and the elegant vintage furniture, the Portfolio provides an inherently creative atmosphere. Storefront windows on all exterior walls provide good but not harsh lighting. This seems to provide adequate lighting for the many plants inside make the coffeehouse homey. The various styles of music played from opening to closing are loud enough to hear, but quiet enough to be unobtrusive.
There’s a patio on the Junipero side of the coffeehouse for those who smoke or just want to sit outside. Many people bring their dogs to the Portfolio and sit with them on the patio. The Portfolio is kind enough to provide water bowls for the dogs so they can enjoy their own beverage of choice. The patio has tables that will seat for guests each and large umbrellas for shade.
The beverage menu includes the standard drinks you would expect at a coffeehouse, but some more unusual beverages as well. It’s one of the few coffeehouses in the local area to offer Mexican hot chocolate. It’s also the only local, non-chain coffee house to serve freshly brewed loose leaf tea. They sell a wide variety of foods including fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches available from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. After that time, you can still purchase ready-made sandwiches, pastries, and desserts.
The Portfolio Coffeehouse is located at 2300 E. 4th Street, Long Beach, CA, in the heart of Retro Row. There is also a Portfolio Annex at 2023 4th Street adjacent to the Art Theatre. The Annex serves movie patrons, but you can enter from the street side as well. Both locations have a friendly environment and good service, though it can be slow when either place is busy. In all it’s a pleasant place to, read, listen to the music, or just sit and drink your coffee.
brewed on Feb 23rd, 2010
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