Cloudforest — Restaurant in Portland

This cafe is a delightful, hidden gem. They've embraced a minimalist aesthetic, which allows their attentive and friendly staff to shine. The star of the show is undeniably their hot chocolate - flavorful and not too sweet. Because the sweetness level is balanced so well, a toasted marshmallow is the perfect addition. I think the marshmallow size has shrunken over time, but the quality is still excellent. I promise you will be thrilled if you add one to your beverage order. You will be doubly thrilled if you get a chocolate chip cookie for later.

Back to the hot chocolate! Pure Dark Chocolate is my go-to. I was worried it would be bitter, but it's chocolaty and rich. I'm also a big fan of their Brown Buttermilk option, a current seasonal offering as of December 2023. It's got a nutty complexity (but is nut-free) that makes it interesting to sip on from start to finish.

Five stars for turning a simple, nostalgic beverage into...

After paying for a 12-ounce drink, I was given what was clearly an 8-ounce cup. They "don't have 12 oz to-go cups," the barista informed me when I politely inquired, and she "reduced the ice" for me instead, which I suppose is the new definition of a 12-ounce drink. I ignored it until the customer immediately after me miraculously got a full-size 12-ounce to-go cup. They do, it seems, exist, but not for everyone. Furthermore, the demeanor wasn't particularly friendly. As though doing the bare minimum was already a favor, the exchange felt hurried and dry. The size isn't really important. It all comes down to how you make your clients feel. A little honesty and and consistency go a long way. Or maybe just keep the 12 oz cups hidden...

This place is adorable and what they have is sooooooo high quality. Much like its name, the overall vibes of Cloudforest are whimsical and classy. They make their own chocolate. The café is pretty minimalistic, just like their menu, which features a lot of chocolates-themed items. However, they have a unique drink menu, including specialized hot chocolates, coffees, and teas. I stumbled here one day at work while craving a hot cocoa and got one mixed with hojicha powder, and it tasted elegant yet delicious. I want to try more from this place and buy some of their products, such as the chocolate bars or cooking materials. But I will have to wait until payday to do so as it is pricey here, though for very...