The Start Up Coffee — Restaurant in Hood River

I'm a fan. I do a lot of walking in the Hood River area, and sometimes as I'm walking along the heights on my way home, I think, "You know sounds good? A coffee and a chat. And I know just where to go." The Red trailer and flag out front both stand out to help prompt my memory.

The owner is quite friendly, and we get into some really great conversations talking about lifestyle, hiking around the area, inspiration for why we do what we do, and culture.

It's clear that he has a passion for what he does and some of the cultural influence that is shown through his shop are Mexican inspired. It shines through in his classic "Cafe con leche." The good stuff.

The Start Up Coffee just fits when I'm looking for coffee that's slightly on the sweet side at baseline, and when I'm looking for that boost of caffeine that corresponds with the size of coffee I'm in the mood for.

The philosophy behind this is simple. He strives to give his customers "more of what they want, and less of what they don't." Simple. The way it should be.

Thanks Jerry! For adding this unique flavor to the Hood River...

Pretty decent coffee stop. I usually get a spiced chai latte; they offered a similar chai as they don't carry spiced. It was similar, sweet, not harsh. It wasn't vanilla or Oregon, which I typically don't care for anyway. Overall, a good chai. The breakfast burrito was good, surprised it was only 2.50, other places would be double for the same thing. A little more filling that a McD's burrito, tasted better, and was homemade. The potatoes could have been a little more cooked inside the burrito, but they were not hard or otherwise bad. The green salsa was very mild. I will be back to try the other salsa on a burrito and another chai. Somewhere between 4 and 5 stars, rounded up for the friendly discussion, quick service, and nice setting for take away or dining in...

The perfect coffee shop! The barista is super friendly and helpful! The hand-crafted drinks taste like they are made with care, not just churned out of an assembly line. The breakfast burritos are fresh and delicious. The outdoor seating is lovely, but if you are in a hurry, it's easy to get in and out fast. Prices are very reasonable....