Marlene R.
Yelp
After watching an Instagram post of Matta cafe, I immediately saved it to my archive of places I want to experience. The post highlighted what I assumed to be the top favorite foods and drinks of local Portlanders. Seeing the options of delights gave me high hopes, until, after a few bites of their food steered my mind. Not the worst, but not a 10/10 either.
On our morning visit, the space was inviting. I felt welcomed with its large garage style doors, with an industrial terrarium vibe, and cool toned tunes. It gave me a feeling of seclusion. (It was an early Sunday morning, so maybe that's why.)
First up, we ordered a drip coffee, an americano, pan de bono (freshly baked cheese bread), empanada, arepa de queso y huevo, and both these small plates came with plantain chips.
The coffee was served calientito, and had a deliciously smooth reveal of flavors that seized, and drifted across the palate. The after taste was bold, and peacefully unaggressive.
The article that's posted on Matta Cafe's IG page reports that the food is supplied by El Pilo Columbian Restaurant in Portland. I admire that local small businesses have the heart to support each other.
The pan de bono was my favorite. The texture was soft and the intensity of the cheese was mild, and not overpowering. Though, I wish the bread would have been warmer.
The texture of the reheated empanada, and arepa was the disappointment to the dish. Generally, these foods are at peak taste and texture when they are freshly fried.
One main factor that could have affected the result of the food was that it was reheated in an air fryer, or a mini oven. The texture of the cornmeal was stale, and there was no crisp crunch. The empanadas and arepas are served with plantain chips. Not sure where these are sourced from, but despite their crunchy, sweet, and salty kick these chips reminded me of Trader Joe's plantain chips.
Do not get me wrong, I am not here to bash Matta cafe, instead I am here to give my honest review of their food and coffee. I'm so proud by the dedication of the Matta family. As a Latina myself, it's such an inspiration knowing that a Latin family pursued such an amazing vision to ultimately become a dream come true. Gracias familia Matta.