Rimsky Korsakoffee House

A gem, hidden in the shadows.  No signs.  Barely any lights.  A Portland institution tucked away like a speakeasy:  Rimsky-Korsakofee House.  In high school we always called it “Rimsky’s” and it was the only reason us Beaverton suburbanite kids would cross the Willamette River.  We went after movies, after dates, even once after prom!  And I’m happy to say it’s very much the same as it was back in the late 1990’s.  

 

 

  

Each night, Rimsky’s is open for service of coffee, tea and desserts in a old Victorian townhouse.  Every table is decorated for a different classical composer.  They even have live classical music!  Very classy.  Cloth napkins & mismatched china top off the funky old-school Portland ambiance.

 

 It’s very charming, but don’t be surprised if you get some gruff service.  They are kind of famous for it, but on my last visit it was great, so maybe it just depends who’s working?  But as always, the dessert is awesome.  Over the years the menu hasn’t changed much, look for some excellent mochas, ice cream, brownie sundaes, raspberry fool and chocolate pot de creme.   

 

 I make it in for a visit only about once a year now, but it’s always a great experience.  Make sure to visit the bathroom (one of the most famous restrooms in Portland!) and watch your table carefully… some of them are magic! 

 

There can be a wait on the weekends, but it’s worth it.  And don’t forget, IT  IS CASH ONLY so come prepared.  If you like this place, be sure to check out the Sylvia Beach Hotel on the Oregon Coast, owned by the same people who own Rimsky’s.  I stayed there a couple years ago.  It’s equally magical, but in a different way.  I hope you make it to Rimsky’s.  It’s high on my list of reasons why Portland is so awesome.  Enjoy!