Why: Cupidone Coffee House opened Feb. 1 in the strip mall located on the southeast corner of Fourth Plain Boulevard and Andresen Road. The family-owned-and-operated establishment offers fresh fruit and ice cream smoothies, loose-leaf, organic tea by The Tao of Tea company, a smattering of ice cream flavors, waffles, pastries and a beverage menu comparable to other coffee houses. Coffee beans are procured from local Ristretto Roasters in Portland.
What I tried: I had a double-shot latte and a strawberry cupcake. I also ordered a mini caramel apple loaf to take home.Espresso drinks are made with Beaumont Blend, which I found delicious in the latte. The flavor was robust, full-bodied and complex. The cupcake was topped with a good amount of pink whipped frosting, and the cake was moist with a strawberry jelly center.
When I got home and opened the paper bag that contained my to-go order, I was surprised to find a slice of raisin carrot cake instead of the apple loaf. I chalked it up to a simple misunderstanding and popped the thick slice of dense cake in the toaster oven to heat it up. It had a flavor similar to spice cake, and the texture was like some gluten-free cakes I have tried.
Menu highlights beyond what I tried: Waffles are made to order with varied toppings, including fresh fruit and ice cream. Cupidone serves organic oatmeal.
