Why: If you’ve never had a reason to check this place out, the new location will likely pique your interest. A mere half a block from its former location, Battle Grounds Coffee House has taken up residence in a building that was established as a Catholic church in 1928. The coffee house still serves Stumptown brews, but it has added Premium Boar’s Head deli meats to expand the lunchtime options.
Atmosphere: With the additional space that came with the new address, the coffee house has more family appeal than it used to. Seating extends onto an outdoor porch for enjoying those warm weather days that are just around the corner. The building still has a churchy feel, with cathedral-style windows trimmed in green glass and a wood floor, but the altar has been replaced with a cozy electric fireplace, leather sofas and club chairs. The coffee house also has meeting rooms downstairs for large groups.
What I tried: I tried the Reuben sandwich with pea salad, a popular lunch choice among customers. My dining companion had a turkey sandwich with potato salad. For dessert we tried the Peach Pecan Cake. I also had a Cinful Latte, a special cinnamon and caramel invention.
The Reuben was an exceptionally balanced sandwich made with black-and-white sweet rye instead of traditional full rye, an appetizing change-up. The sauerkraut was mild, as was the Swiss cheese. The corned beef was very lean. The sandwich had just enough Thousand Island dressing to flatter the other ingredients, and was toasted just enough to crisp the outside and melt the cheese inside.