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Ugly Mug Coffeehouse

4 star rating
based on 25 reviews

Category: Coffee & Tea  [Edit]

Neighborhoods: Southeast Portland, Sellwood
8017 SE 13th Ave
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 230-2010
Hours:

Mon-Fri. 6:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sat-Sun. 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Price Range:
$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Wi-Fi:
Free

25 reviews for Ugly Mug Coffeehouse

Review Highlights   

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"…the cocoa was good, the barista was friendly and they also had free wi-fi…" (in 5 reviews)
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"They serve Stumptown and make a mean espresso." (in 7 reviews)
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"Ugly Mug was our neighborhood coffee house when we lived in Portland." (in 8 reviews)
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Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of Jenifer R.

 

0

9

Jenifer R.

Clackamas, OR

4 star rating
8/25/2009

I REALLY enjoy coming here.  The Chai is fantastic, and don't miss the banana/walnut/chocolate chip bread/cake concoction.  The staff is friendly, and every person that walks in gets a "how was your day?".  I tend to go in at night when it isn't busy - which is my favorite way for a coffee shop to be, as I can focus on reading or surfing, or whatever it is that I'm doing.

Free wi-fi, and wine/beer for the days that I would like something slightly more, well, adult, but don't want to go to the bar.  All in all a great location.  My only negative is that there aren't a lot of outlets for plugging in, but they have added some power strips, which help!

I love dropping the husband and kids off at the gym and heading over here for an hour and a half of "mom-sanity" time.

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Photo of beth p.

Elite '10

13

63

beth p.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
1/13/2010

I like barista's who are too cool for school.Sometimes the folks working here will ignore you as is proper, others are known to ask 4+ times what you're "up to" while they froth that milk, chatting you up for what seems like an eternity.Unless I am a regular, barista chitty chat seems forced and leaves everyone feeling awkward. I'm awkward enough on my own thanks.
I adore from the bottom of my heart Ugly Mug's honey-lavender latte. I have never had anything like this anywhere else, and UM is the only place in town I will order a latte without feeling like a total jerk.  The ugly mug is small and there is rarely an open table or chair but I don't care about that, just serve me my fancy schmancy latte and let me go. I can still  whip around the twisty turns of the golf course and Reed college screaming " weeeeeeeee" while drinking this tasty concoction, so its all good.

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Photo of Joshua C.

Elite '10

17

38

Joshua C.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
8/9/2009

Quaint and colorful, the Ugly Mug feels like an urban cabin-in-the-woods.  Without the woods, of course.  They serve their caffeinated concoctions (Stumptown) in handmade mugs and have a cute alphabetized library of punch cards up front for those who frequent.  

After finding out the previous place I visited didn't have WiFi, I shot over to the Ugly Mug to get some work done.  Like I said, the place is quaint (aka small).  Luckily, there weren't many people there and the lounge area in the back was free.  I wanted to sit on the couch, which was comfy, but it wasn't near an outlet for the laptop.  So I ended up slouching on some tiny rigid "chair" for an hour instead.  Not comfy.  I recommend the couch and an extension cord.  

Anyway... the barista, who I think was the only person working, was cool and there looked to be some decent treats in the display case as well.  I kinda dig Sellwood - and that's what gets this place 4 stars.  It feels neighborhood-y and like a place where I could go everyday if i lived nearby.

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Photo of Joshua C.

Elite '10

461

317

Joshua C.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
5/4/2009

"Happy Star Wars Day! May the 4th be with you!" read the text I received this morning. Though the movie was actually released on the 25th, I suppose the pun as written above makes more sense.

--But I was going into Tosche Station to pick up some power converters!--

Taking my ugly mug into the Ugly Mug I noticed the current art show depicted familiar Star Wars characters positioned interestingly in scenes not from the films. Guided by the force or post dinner coffee craving? Worth a look if you're a fan and in the neighborhood.

--What an incredible smell you've discovered!--

*Note for those who like things to make sense, these quotes don't necessarily*

Love, the character of this place, the community vibe (want to know what's happening in Sellwood check out the message board), the friendly, service and the nicely pulled Stumptown shots.

--Great shot, kid! That was one in a million!--

After briefly chatting with Kim and walking out with my eight ounce cappuccino I smiled knowing I'd found my neighborhood spot for good coffee (the blueberry scone was decent too). Like the jedi you know I'll be returning.

--Aren't you a little short for a Stormtrooper?--

Minutes later I'm back at my terminal, how sweet is that? Well, since "your destiny lies along a different path from mine" here's a short clip for the road. In case you've never seen the Stormtrooper hit his head it's about time you did http://www.youtube.com... Oh yeah, and check out the Ugly Mug, it's much better than my writing in this review and another reason this neighborhood rocks.

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Photo of wess d.

 

30

41

wess d.

Camas, WA

4 star rating
11/14/2009

Great place. I had a really well crafted latte there. I will definitely go back.

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Photo of Neal W.

Elite '10

41

95

Neal W.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
10/31/2009

Ugly Mug is my favorite place to work because it just has such a lovely atmosphere! I also love the seating. the table that is elevated near the front window is great when it's available. The long bench along the wall is quite comfortable and contains many nearby electrical outlets. They serve Stumptown and make a mean espresso. There are some small food items too. While it doesn't go above and beyond in terms of serving the best espresso or most amazing food items, it really delivers on comfort and atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and the combination of all of these elements makes for a wonderful coffeehouse experience!

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Photo of Ace C.

 

4

6

Ace C.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
7/1/2009

I was in search of a simple place to hide for a few hours to complete some much needed homework. UM was my place. It was simple, the cocoa was good, the barista was friendly and they also had free wi-fi. If you don't pay attention you could very well pass this place up. It's mixed in with a few other small businesses. There is also a Yelpers are invited sticker posted on the front window.

It was my first visit and certainly want be my last. I'll be returning for some organic chocolate in my cocoa.

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Photo of Melissa P.

Elite '10

76

262

Melissa P.

Portland, OR

2 star rating
12/14/2008

Of the several times I've been in, the service always has a smarmy attitude, smug, never engaging, completely disinterested. And the coffee of late? Tastes of bitter blackened apple cider vinegar. Which I appreciate in home remedy concoctions, not in my morning joe.

It's nice that they have wifi and a wine list, but egh.. egh.

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Photo of chris r.

 

0

6

chris r.

Fresno, CA

5 star rating
10/7/2009

Ugly Mug was our neighborhood coffee house when we lived in Portland.  It's been three years since we moved away and I still miss this place.  Kim has managed to cultivate the perfect environment here.  Warm, friendly, happy folks servin' up delicious coffee. My husband bought me a set of Kim's hand made "ugly" mugs for Christmas one year, and I think of her and her staff everytime I sip a cuppa joe from them.  Coming back for a visit this week and my first stop in the Rose City will be Ugly Mug.

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Photo of john b.

 

5000

456

john b.

Seattle, WA

3 star rating
10/20/2009

It would be difficult not to find some kind words for this charming neighborhood cafe and meeting place. The Ugly Mug is just what you'd expect to find in Sellwood - a bit mismatched but pulled together with soul and hope. It's comfortable like an old sweater and the Stumptown they serve goes down just as well as it does at their own stores. I came upon The Ugly Mug while doing some amateur antiquing and really enjoyed the warm vibe and comfortable nature of the place. Some odd chairs and a tired looking sofa along with some tables for two make up the seating of the UC, the big windows out on to 13th provide plenty of sunshine. It's a very neighborhood kind of place where outsiders are made to feel comfortable. They do drip along with all the usual cappuccino drinks. The emphasis here is on recycling and they're a bit manic about it; but that's Portland. I think the place has tremendous charm and would be fun to pop in on during cooler fall and winter months when I can imagine it being downright cozy.

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Photo of Mark W.

 

1

23

Mark W.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
9/3/2009

It is a great little, local coffee house.  They are not the quickest or the cheapest, but when it comes to mood and spirit, they are the gold standard.

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Photo of b s.

 

0

2

b s.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
6/15/2009

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. It's a true neighborhood coffee house. Do not mistake this place for a fast food, keep-it-moving Starbucks. This is all Euro style... No rush, time to relax, chat with some friends, read the paper, listen to good music, people watch, SIT and enjoy your coffee. And what could be better than Stumptown?!

A very big plus... experienced baristas know how to save the world and make it right.

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Photo of Laura N.

Elite '10

2045

843

Laura N.

London

UK

5 star rating
3/13/2008 1 photo

whaaa-BAM. Another easy 5 stars in my book.

This was the perfect nook to spend a rainy Portland afternoon; sipping on a delicious (i.e. Stupmtown) non-fat, no foam latte, and enjoying super-fast free wi-fi from a window bar.

It had all of the essentials:
-chill, appropriately volumed music (I don't know why more coffee shops don't cater to this most primal necessity),
-warm, friendly baristas,
-an appropriate selection of sweet, savory, and healthy snacks
-a very clean, "community orientated" bathroom, that was not locked.

My hour here flew by - even though I slurped down my latte from the "ugly" homemade mug in the first 5 minutes. This place is definitely deserving of rocking a People Love Us on Yelp sticker! Make it so!

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Photo of Timothy S.

 

0

6

Timothy S.

Clackamas, OR

3 star rating
8/1/2009

I went here about a month ago, and was happy to find the free wi-fi and a few open tables so I could check my e-mail while I was there.

It had decent atmosphere, and decently friendly staff, but my iced mocha had a funny taste to it. And when it comes down to it, what your drinking is what makes or breaks a coffee place. I think I'll be trying a few other coffee shops I saw in the area before going back.

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Photo of sarah k.

Elite '10

4

76

sarah k.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
5/28/2009

mmmmmm.
delicious espresso
and star war action figure oil paintings.
what more could you want?

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Photo of Beth B.

 

19

41

Beth B.

Portland, OR

3 star rating
1/25/2009

I ended up having to stop in on Saturday evening for a cappacino as I did NOT want a starbucks and nothing else was open.  The service was slow (molasses...lay off the dube-z) and my cap was more like a lat.  My lovely companion had more foam on his mocha than I got on my cap...but alas. It tasted alright and got me throught the night alrighty-right.

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Photo of Jessica T.

 

17

28

Jessica T.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
11/24/2007

Small, locally owned and FANTASTIC coffee. You heard me. FANTASTIC.

The seats are not very cozy but it's cute and it's kid friendly. If you run or ride the Springwater trail on a sunny morning, finish it off in Sellwood at this place to get fueled up for the ride back.

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Photo of Ranie G.

 

8

22

Ranie G.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
10/7/2007

I've only been here once, back before I knew exactly where Sellwood was or how long it takes to get there when not driving 99E.

The inside is nicely arranged, and the local art they had up at the time was enjoyable. It was pretty low-key and not at all busy, which I consider to be a bonus. I ordered an iced soy latte and when I asked the barista for honey, she pointed to a three bottle selection, one of which was lavender honey. I had never had lavender honey before, but I immediately set out to by some and found that not only is it elusive, but it's expensive as well.
That says something for quality.

Still, as good of an impression as this place gave me, I find it silly to drive so far out when there are plenty of just-as-good coffee shops in my area. However, I'm looking forward to when I can rationalize a trip out to Sellwood for another taste of Ugly Mug. Maybe for A Piece of Cake?

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Photo of Olivia B.

 

0

6

Olivia B.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
12/17/2007

My good ol' standby!
I am always impressed how the morning barista chick can multi-task so efficently! Their coffee is good... though again "ANOTHER" Stumptown supplied coffee shop! (Stumptown and Longbottom, out to take over Portland one coffee shop at a time!)
Anyhow back to the Ugly Mug... 90% of the time great service! Other 10% of the time, pissed me off... barista guy (though I am not sure he is around anymore) just would like plain out ignore me when I would walk in... chatting away to everyone else... Hello! I Want Some Coffee!! Say hello and take me order!! Then go back to chatting! Don't make me have to walk across the street to Starbucks! (Hah! Never in a million years!)
Otherwise I really do like the Ugly Mug... small, fast enough, tasty.

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Photo of Nic Z.

 

78

575

Nic Z.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
1/22/2008

Awesome little coffeehouse, really great energy inside.  The barista was incredible warm and friendly, really cool.  They had a great selection of herbal teas, I really enjoyed the cup that I had.  I can't wait to go back and try the different types of lemonade and hot apple cider that they had.  They sounded great.  

Very cool place, really great prices!

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Photo of Jake D.

 

0

8

Jake D.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
3/31/2009

The Ugly Mug is a great neighborhood coffee shop down in Sellwood.
The coffee is Stumptown and the best thing about the place is the staff.
The baristas are always friendly, welcoming and you soon feel like an old regular. They always great with a smile. They also serve beer and wine which makes it a place to stay a little longer at night, bring friends and hang out. Free Wi-fi is widely used with a usual crowd of lap-toppers along the wall.
With art changing out every month the Ugly Mugs promotes local artists. Some of the art may not be the best but providing people with a place and a chance to show is a plus. The collection of ugly mugs along the upper wall are also worth a scan and a laugh. The boob mug ranks at the top.

The quaint hood of sellwood is made better by The Ugly Mug and its staff, also the gang of regulars make for a fun place to people watch, sip some brew (beer or bean) and anjoy one of the best coffee shops in Portland.

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Photo of Sara M.

 

38

99

Sara M.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
1/4/2009

Very sweet place. More stars for the 'feel' of this place (ie I would spend an entire afternoon or morning in here no sweat - it's sweet & the people are friendly) than the food or coffee. Not that the food or coffee are bad, I'm just picky. My coffee was tasty and honestly, I just wanted a place to sit quietly, people-watch and read. All of these things were afforded to me by The Ugly Mug. The woman working here when I've been in here was very nice and was joking around with the regulars, exactly how a neighborhood coffeeshop should feel. I liked that there weren't just lurky 20-somethings (ahem - like myself) hanging out here - it really seems like a charming place (I am not being sarcastic - it really is a sweet little spot) that a variety of Sellwood residents enjoy patronizing.

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Photo of Linda F.

 

5

15

Linda F.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
12/6/2007

This is my favorite coffee house.  I love sitting outside on a summer morning and watching the people go by.  I'll drive out of my way to get their great coffee.  Once a barista made an iris out of the foam on the top.  And Jen remembers my name even though I hardly ever get out that way anymore.  I also like that if you're drinking in the cafe, you get a real mug to drink from, not paper.

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Photo of Evelyn S.

 

15

20

Evelyn S.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
6/22/2007

A wonderful neighborhood locally owned and operated coffee house that serves wine and beer too.  Try the Ginger Lemonade on a hot day, awesome!

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Photo of austin b.

 

0

14

austin b.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
3/25/2009

The Ugly Mug is a great place to relax, have a cup of coffee and check your e-mail on there super fast free wifi. The food is pretty good. I would recommend  the bars with coconut and chocolate chips!!

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