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Came for an espresso martini night cap. Quick and friendly service. Love being surrounded by books and cozy seating.
there's so much novel is doing well that portland has been lacking. first off - coffee AND cocktails? from morning to midnight? that's a surprisingly new concept in portland. they're also the only cafe i can think of that's open past 6 (which owes them a LOT of credit). the inside is super comfy, plenty of seating for studying, reading, or socializing. there's books and games everywhere. the noise and acoustics are perfect. quiet enough that i could easily study here, but also perfect for socializing. the quality of their coffee is okay - i noticed they use a fully automatic espresso machine which typically doesn't yield exceptional espresso. but $5 for a flavored latte? yes please! i've become accustomed to paying $7+ in portland. my friend is a bit of a matcha snob, and said their iced matcha latte was exceptional. i'd love to come back and try more of their drinks, but for now i'm extremely impressed by the concept!
What Novel really has going for them is that from 8am to 10pm from Wednesday through Sunday (their current hours as of writing this -- but, as always, check directly with the business for those) you can get coffee AND cocktails. And Portland was missing that: a place where you could go and get a cocktail first thing in the morning AND a place where you could go and have a cup of coffee past 2 or 4pm (OR a place where you can get both, because sometimes the second cup of coffee isn't coffee... it's an espresso martini). For people who work from home or are looking for a place to have a meeting, this is going to be a fantastic option! The staff were so friendly and patient with everyone in line, fielding questions while making drinks and taking orders effortlessly. The space itself is welcoming: lots of different places to sit whether that's the bar, on the couches, the rocking chairs, or at a four top (which is what you'll mostly find available). For me, the coffee is okay and the cocktails are okay; neither really stood out, and I'm not sure either make them a destination spot if you're not within immediate walking distance. I also don't have a problem reading alone at a bar/pub/restaurant with a pint or a dram anywhere I am in the world, so I don't personally need a designated space just for that; I acknowledge many people feel more comfortable in a place that encourages and promotes specifically that like Novel does though! All in all, I think other folks are going to dig this space, especially if Novel can maintain those hours running both coffee and cocktails all day long.
We were excited to try Novel and weren't quite sure what to expect. Is it a bookstore that serves coffee and drinks? Is it a café that has books and turns into a bar in the evenings? We went on a Sunday afternoon and easily found street parking in front of Blue, diagonally across the street. It's an inviting space; the lighting is just right, book shelves to the left, the right, and all the way in the back, and the tin ceiling makes it seem authentically Portland. There is a bar, a glass case of baked goods, and a small coffee roasting operation in the back. The menu is vegan/vegetarian friendly and offered several items I would like to try on future visits, such as the French Onion Quiche. We walked up to the bar and ordered a couple of chai lattes and slices of vegan pumpkin bread. It was easy to get served--the service was both polite and prompt. We sat at the bar next to the picture window which was a fun way to watch people inside the café as well as the passersby on Congress Street. Back to what kind of a place this is--honestly, I'd like to check it out a couple of more times, but based on this (Sunday afternoon) visit, it appeared to be more of a bar that offers some books, coffee, and light fare. The noise level, the fact that most people were drinking, very few (two maybe?) were reading or looking at books, and the book collection in general made it feel this way. Regarding the books: I realize book preference is so subjective, but it was really hard to get excited about this collection. It just seemed like a picked over collection of books from a book store clearance sale (a Woody Allen prose book, Fannie Flagg, etc.) They were books that were once popular enough to be mass produced but currently are the kind of books most people would be trying to unload. It made me wonder if the books were there as props. Overall four stars because we enjoyed the ambiance, service, and drinks, I love the idea of a book bar/café, and hope that when the dust settles Novel presents a better selection of books and draws a quieter crowd of book enjoying people.
We stopped in to Novel after walking around Portland on a rainy Saturday, arriving around 3:15 pm. The place was pretty busy with only 1 (dirty) table open to sit at. The selection of snacks and pastries was sad, but the bartenders were busy, and were very helpful crafting us some lovely espresso martinis. We cleaned off the dirty table, which was in a corner between bookshelves, and we drank our cocktails and people watched. There was a steady stream of people coming in. At some point we noticed they were selling bags of coffee beans with fun names like 'orator', 'writers block cure' and 'oxford comma'. By the time we were ready to leave, we noticed the pastries and snacks had been replenished....but by then we weren't as peckish. We did not look at books or buy any merchandise, but this place definitely gives the vibe of a combo between a library, a bookstore and a cafe, with nearly every person, couple or group we observed reading books. And, despite the fact that we were drinking boozy drinks, most everyone else we observed was doing the coffee thing...so the atmosphere was definitely NOT bar like. We all agreed we would go again; would like to sample snacks and coffee drinks, and maybe stay long enough to settle into one of the more comfy looking seating options. Last note - right outside the door there was free street parking.
My expectations for Novel were completely disassociated with the reality, in the best possible way. Expectations: a disorganized hipster "library" that serves bitter coffee and some overpriced cocktails . Reality: a sleek and trendy coffee shop with a really nice bar program. There are numerous books around the business to peruse, but it's not essential. From bar or counter seating to couches and desks, there's many options to get comfortable with a strong caffeinated or alcoholic (or both) beverage. And considering it was nearly full at 2:30 on a Friday, the positive word of mouth has spread. There are three variations of espresso martinis: traditional, salted caramel and lavender (all cocktails are $14 and you pay at the front counter). The bartender cautioned that the Traditional is potent, and offered free Bailey's, which I couldn't possibly refuse. From a pure coffee perspective, this was easily the best espresso martini I've ever had. The espresso really shone through. There are nearly a dozen other creative cocktails, along with wine and beer. Novel would be a great spot to work, browse online or (obviously) read a book. From coffee in the morning to booze in the afternoon, there's not a bad time to visit. And while Portland has many coffee shops, there are none quite like it. I'd almost say it's...novel?
This place was okay. I came here with my boyfriend on a Saturday early evening, and it was pretty busy. I do like the layout - plenty of space to get comfy on a couch, and it was nice to enjoy a local beer while perusing the books. I LOVE that they are partnered with The Green Hand - that is the coolest and nicest local book shop ever. We even saw the owner (I think?) come over and rearrange/restock some books while we were there! That being said, there weren't a ton of books - they kind of felt like a second thought. I was hoping for piles and piles, but selections were super limited. Knowing how amazing Green Hand is and how huge their selection is, I can only imagine that the Novel owners are thinking that less is more. But, it's not? The cocktails are pricey and meh. Skip. The lighting is kinda bizarre. Am I in a stadium? Am I at Amigo's? Why? The blue is just odd. Night club feeling while I'm trying to blend in with all the hipsters. I did like that they had a couple games. We played cribbage and it was fun to be able to do that and not feel like we were bothering people while trying to destroy each other and get dead hole. Some major wins: noise levels. I like that the music isn't deafening so conversations can actually be had. I like that you can just chill in your couch area for a bit without feeling rushed. Service is amazing. Really patient servers and very kind. Love the downstairs bathrooms - there's a plethora of little cubicle-like, closed off bathrooms that feel private. The overall vibe reminded me a lot of Portsmouth or Boston. Very "chic" and "sleek," as they say. I'll be curious to see how the downstairs reno goes. I wish it had some sort of Portland grunge feel - give me more piles of books and less "these titles are here because they look cool on a shelf" - and maybe I'll go back. Like their sign says - be gentle - so I'm sorry if I'm harsh. I am sure they will work out the kinks. They have the vision.
Been following Novel's development for a couple weeks and was looking forward to trying them out. Key points: 1. Lots of book shelves! 2. Lots of seating space! Plenty of "work" surfaces for doing some solo work 3. HOURS ARE 8-10 HOLY HELLLL 4. Coffee served all day I'm really excited about this place because they don't close until 10. In a small town where everything is closed by 5, this place will be a good step towards catering to a larger population. There is a reason Smalls in the west end has become such a hot spot. Cafe culture in the evening/night is much needed, especially in the dreary nights of winter. Ordered a Novel Latte -- their specialty -- with Lavender. Its not like other "flavored" lattes. It's a strong cup and the lavender doesn't seem to be a sweet flavored syrup but almost infused somehow in the coffee itself. It was surprising at first because I couldn't taste lavender but I could breathe it. I really enjoyed it. I had too much of a kick out of the latte "art". It looked like a flaccid...well...go take a look and let me know what you think. Novel is mixing a bar with a cafe so I understand the blue undertones -- the blue lights are not my preferred aesthetic -- or could be nice if that came on at night. Slightly distracting but I get that's preference. Nate one of the owners was very excited to finally open. There is a little momento of the place before in the bathroom. The owners have done a really nice job with this so definitely check them out!
Very cute spot with comfy couches! Bartender was super awesome and the vibes were high. Our coffees (shaken espresso and dirty chai) were fantastic! Space smelled a little like old books, but it worked somehow. Would definitely go back!
This is EASILY the best coffee shop in Portland! First off, their coffee specials are OFF THE CHARTS. Over Valentine's day they had an amazing chocolate covered strawberry iced latte with rose petals, for St patty's was a caramel vanilla latte topped with lucky charms (!!!!), and last summer they did a killer coconut latte with shaved toasted coconut on top..... that was the best coffee drink I've ever had!!! I love this place sooooo much I could go on and on, it's a large open space great for hanging with friends. I have even made friends there, as they frequently host events in their downstairs space (check their social media for events). It's just a cool place with even better drinks, and in the summer they have an outdoors patio in an amazing location... Don't sleep on Novel!
Great spot to study, work, read, chat and grab a quick drink. My friend and I stopped by here to grab a quick drink and there was not much seating. This place is small but very cozy. We saw a group doing book club meetings and another just working/studying.
Great spot! My friends and I (5 of us total) arrived on a Saturday afternoon and browsed the books and enjoyed some bevs. Everyone was friendly and we loved the cozy couches!
Following first speculation I saw online of Novel closing then after they confirmed they would be closing my wife wanted to make sure we came by before that! She is a book lover and we both love our coffees and cocktails. This is a spot that offers all of that and is a third space I think that has been popular and will in general be missed. We even visited during their opening day back in December 2023. They will be closing their doors on April 17th 2026. I will say that due to them getting their books from a local used bookstore they do not have the latest and greatest selection of books that you'd expect if they were a bookstore. I have not had complaints during any of our visits here. I have enjoyed their coffee as well as their chai lattes along with enjoyed all the cocktails I have tried. I have especially enjoyed the espresso martinis and have liked the fact you could in fact get the coffee drinks and cocktails any time of their hours opened. During the majority of their time open they would offer specialty espresso martinis as well. Some of my favorite cities to visit have many coffee cafe meets cocktail bar and is a concept I wish were more popular in Portland. It is a difficult time currently for all and any local business so with yet another closing I encourage you to support your favorite places when and how you can! Cheers to Novel and thanks for the space you offered to locals and visitors! read more
A place like Novel was long overdue in Downtown Portland. Coffee, cocktails, and books all day long? Yes, please. And they're open on Mondays?! The minute I walked in, I was surprised by how big the space was. But heads up, it's already a popular spot. I assumed a Monday visit would mean a quiet, empty cafe, but nope. Every table, couch, and chaise was taken, so I grabbed a seat at the bar. Not a problem, but if you're expecting a hidden gem, this isn't that. The ambiance was cool, hip, and laid-back. It's the kind of place where being solo feels encouraged. The only group chatting while I was there was practically whispering, so if you're looking for a catch-up spot with friends, this probably isn't it. But if you're in town alone and want a good drink and some quiet time, then it's the perfect spot. I ordered The Raven, and it was a delicious and balanced drink, just pricier than expected at $14 (though that's sadly the new norm in Portland). I also got a Negroni, which I just asked for offhand, and surprisingly, it was great and cheaper than my cocktail. Wish I'd known that was an option first. Overall, a fantastic addition to Portland and one I'll absolutely be back to. read more
Popped in here for the hour I had to kill before the concert at the state theater. What a find! Sat at the bar for one (or maybe two) specialty drinks named for books. "The flowers in the Attic" was delish! Bartenders were engaging a fun, and kept the retro records spinning; who knew I would get a vinyl hour discount?! As a book lover, I enjoyed the fabulous selection curated by the reseller down the block, and the tiny menu included a yummy premade flat bread. Highly recommend for a before or after the show cocktail; I'd love to get back for the espresso martini. read more
6 months ago
there's so much novel is doing well that portland has been lacking. first off - coffee AND cocktails? from morning to midnight? that's a surprisingly new concept in portland. they're also the only cafe i can think of that's open past 6 (which owes them a LOT of credit). the inside is super comfy, plenty of seating for studying, reading, or socializing. there's books and games everywhere. the noise and acoustics are perfect. quiet enough that i could easily study here, but also perfect for socializing. the quality of their coffee is okay - i noticed they use a fully automatic espresso machine which typically doesn't yield exceptional espresso. but $5 for a flavored latte? yes please! i've become accustomed to paying $7+ in portland. my friend is a bit of a matcha snob, and said their iced matcha latte was exceptional. i'd love to come back and try more of their drinks, but for now i'm extremely impressed by the concept! read more
What Novel really has going for them is that from 8am to 10pm from Wednesday through Sunday (their current hours as of writing this -- but, as always, check directly with the business for those) you can get coffee AND cocktails. And Portland was missing that: a place where you could go and get a cocktail first thing in the morning AND a place where you could go and have a cup of coffee past 2 or 4pm (OR a place where you can get both, because sometimes the second cup of coffee isn't coffee... it's an espresso martini). For people who work from home or are looking for a place to have a meeting, this is going to be a fantastic option! The staff were so friendly and patient with everyone in line, fielding questions while making drinks and taking orders effortlessly. The space itself is welcoming: lots of different places to sit whether that's the bar, on the couches, the rocking chairs, or at a four top (which is what you'll mostly find available). For me, the coffee is okay and the cocktails are okay; neither really stood out, and I'm not sure either make them a destination spot if you're not within immediate walking distance. I also don't have a problem reading alone at a bar/pub/restaurant with a pint or a dram anywhere I am in the world, so I don't personally need a designated space just for that; I acknowledge many people feel more comfortable in a place that encourages and promotes specifically that like Novel does though! All in all, I think other folks are going to dig this space, especially if Novel can maintain those hours running both coffee and cocktails all day long. read more
We were excited to try Novel and weren't quite sure what to expect. Is it a bookstore that serves coffee and drinks? Is it a café that has books and turns into a bar in the evenings? We went on a Sunday afternoon and easily found street parking in front of Blue, diagonally across the street. It's an inviting space; the lighting is just right, book shelves to the left, the right, and all the way in the back, and the tin ceiling makes it seem authentically Portland. There is a bar, a glass case of baked goods, and a small coffee roasting operation in the back. The menu is vegan/vegetarian friendly and offered several items I would like to try on future visits, such as the French Onion Quiche. We walked up to the bar and ordered a couple of chai lattes and slices of vegan pumpkin bread. It was easy to get served--the service was both polite and prompt. We sat at the bar next to the picture window which was a fun way to watch people inside the café as well as the passersby on Congress Street. Back to what kind of a place this is--honestly, I'd like to check it out a couple of more times, but based on this (Sunday afternoon) visit, it appeared to be more of a bar that offers some books, coffee, and light fare. The noise level, the fact that most people were drinking, very few (two maybe?) were reading or looking at books, and the book collection in general made it feel this way. Regarding the books: I realize book preference is so subjective, but it was really hard to get excited about this collection. It just seemed like a picked over collection of books from a book store clearance sale (a Woody Allen prose book, Fannie Flagg, etc.) They were books that were once popular enough to be mass produced but currently are the kind of books most people would be trying to unload. It made me wonder if the books were there as props. Overall four stars because we enjoyed the ambiance, service, and drinks, I love the idea of a book bar/café, and hope that when the dust settles Novel presents a better selection of books and draws a quieter crowd of book enjoying people. read more
We stopped in to Novel after walking around Portland on a rainy Saturday, arriving around 3:15 pm. The place was pretty busy with only 1 (dirty) table open to sit at. The selection of snacks and pastries was sad, but the bartenders were busy, and were very helpful crafting us some lovely espresso martinis. We cleaned off the dirty table, which was in a corner between bookshelves, and we drank our cocktails and people watched. There was a steady stream of people coming in. At some point we noticed they were selling bags of coffee beans with fun names like 'orator', 'writers block cure' and 'oxford comma'. By the time we were ready to leave, we noticed the pastries and snacks had been replenished....but by then we weren't as peckish. We did not look at books or buy any merchandise, but this place definitely gives the vibe of a combo between a library, a bookstore and a cafe, with nearly every person, couple or group we observed reading books. And, despite the fact that we were drinking boozy drinks, most everyone else we observed was doing the coffee thing...so the atmosphere was definitely NOT bar like. We all agreed we would go again; would like to sample snacks and coffee drinks, and maybe stay long enough to settle into one of the more comfy looking seating options. Last note - right outside the door there was free street parking. read more
My expectations for Novel were completely disassociated with the reality, in the best possible way. Expectations: a disorganized hipster "library" that serves bitter coffee and some overpriced cocktails . Reality: a sleek and trendy coffee shop with a really nice bar program. There are numerous books around the business to peruse, but it's not essential. From bar or counter seating to couches and desks, there's many options to get comfortable with a strong caffeinated or alcoholic (or both) beverage. And considering it was nearly full at 2:30 on a Friday, the positive word of mouth has spread. There are three variations of espresso martinis: traditional, salted caramel and lavender (all cocktails are $14 and you pay at the front counter). The bartender cautioned that the Traditional is potent, and offered free Bailey's, which I couldn't possibly refuse. From a pure coffee perspective, this was easily the best espresso martini I've ever had. The espresso really shone through. There are nearly a dozen other creative cocktails, along with wine and beer. Novel would be a great spot to work, browse online or (obviously) read a book. From coffee in the morning to booze in the afternoon, there's not a bad time to visit. And while Portland has many coffee shops, there are none quite like it. I'd almost say it's...novel? read more
This place was okay. I came here with my boyfriend on a Saturday early evening, and it was pretty busy. I do like the layout - plenty of space to get comfy on a couch, and it was nice to enjoy a local beer while perusing the books. I LOVE that they are partnered with The Green Hand - that is the coolest and nicest local book shop ever. We even saw the owner (I think?) come over and rearrange/restock some books while we were there! That being said, there weren't a ton of books - they kind of felt like a second thought. I was hoping for piles and piles, but selections were super limited. Knowing how amazing Green Hand is and how huge their selection is, I can only imagine that the Novel owners are thinking that less is more. But, it's not? The cocktails are pricey and meh. Skip. The lighting is kinda bizarre. Am I in a stadium? Am I at Amigo's? Why? The blue is just odd. Night club feeling while I'm trying to blend in with all the hipsters. I did like that they had a couple games. We played cribbage and it was fun to be able to do that and not feel like we were bothering people while trying to destroy each other and get dead hole. Some major wins: noise levels. I like that the music isn't deafening so conversations can actually be had. I like that you can just chill in your couch area for a bit without feeling rushed. Service is amazing. Really patient servers and very kind. Love the downstairs bathrooms - there's a plethora of little cubicle-like, closed off bathrooms that feel private. The overall vibe reminded me a lot of Portsmouth or Boston. Very "chic" and "sleek," as they say. I'll be curious to see how the downstairs reno goes. I wish it had some sort of Portland grunge feel - give me more piles of books and less "these titles are here because they look cool on a shelf" - and maybe I'll go back. Like their sign says - be gentle - so I'm sorry if I'm harsh. I am sure they will work out the kinks. They have the vision. read more
Been following Novel's development for a couple weeks and was looking forward to trying them out. Key points: 1. Lots of book shelves! 2. Lots of seating space! Plenty of "work" surfaces for doing some solo work 3. HOURS ARE 8-10 HOLY HELLLL 4. Coffee served all day I'm really excited about this place because they don't close until 10. In a small town where everything is closed by 5, this place will be a good step towards catering to a larger population. There is a reason Smalls in the west end has become such a hot spot. Cafe culture in the evening/night is much needed, especially in the dreary nights of winter. Ordered a Novel Latte -- their specialty -- with Lavender. Its not like other "flavored" lattes. It's a strong cup and the lavender doesn't seem to be a sweet flavored syrup but almost infused somehow in the coffee itself. It was surprising at first because I couldn't taste lavender but I could breathe it. I really enjoyed it. I had too much of a kick out of the latte "art". It looked like a flaccid...well...go take a look and let me know what you think. Novel is mixing a bar with a cafe so I understand the blue undertones -- the blue lights are not my preferred aesthetic -- or could be nice if that came on at night. Slightly distracting but I get that's preference. Nate one of the owners was very excited to finally open. There is a little momento of the place before in the bathroom. The owners have done a really nice job with this so definitely check them out! read more
1 year ago
Very cute spot with comfy couches! Bartender was super awesome and the vibes were high. Our coffees (shaken espresso and dirty chai) were fantastic! Space smelled a little like old books, but it worked somehow. Would definitely go back! read more
2 years ago
This is EASILY the best coffee shop in Portland! First off, their coffee specials are OFF THE CHARTS. Over Valentine's day they had an amazing chocolate covered strawberry iced latte with rose petals, for St patty's was a caramel vanilla latte topped with lucky charms (!!!!), and last summer they did a killer coconut latte with shaved toasted coconut on top..... that was the best coffee drink I've ever had!!! I love this place sooooo much I could go on and on, it's a large open space great for hanging with friends. I have even made friends there, as they frequently host events in their downstairs space (check their social media for events). It's just a cool place with even better drinks, and in the summer they have an outdoors patio in an amazing location... Don't sleep on Novel! read more
Great spot to study, work, read, chat and grab a quick drink. My friend and I stopped by here to grab a quick drink and there was not much seating. This place is small but very cozy. We saw a group doing book club meetings and another just working/studying. read more
1 year ago
Neat spot on Congress, books for sale and espresso martinis, yes please! The space is cozy on a rainy day. read more
8 months ago
3 years ago
New spot on Congress Street. Such a cute vibe with lots of different seating options. You can get a great coffee here and come work or come get a drink and chat with a friend. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and everyone seemed to be having a great time. I got the salted Carmel espresso martini and it was probably one of the best espresso martinis I ever had. It wasn't too sweet and so good. A cool new space that was needed in Portland! read more
Novel is a cool spot tucked into a congress street brick building not too far from the PMA, the state theater venue and delicious restaurants and unique shops. Inside is a bar and cafe hybrid that serves excellent and consistent cocktails, bottled and draft beer, tea, coffee (haven't tried the coffee but they roast on site) and some baked goods. It also happens to be a smaller curated book store with various sections of interesting and not always what you might easily find at your typical bookstore reads. There is a fair amount of seating, mostly tables for 2-4 and some couches and bar as well. Light is low but they have enough light to read and make this a working cafe, but it also easily work for it to be a spot for a couple or smaller group to hang out with variety of board games with drinks, etc. Beer selection is not extensive. but they have decent options and usually a draft on special that is reasonably priced. We have been back many times and are impressed by all the cocktails we've ordered, cost wise they are on par with most Portland spots. Highly recommended for a quieter and lower key spot. read more
1 year ago
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2 years ago
Great spot to visit in Portland! Books, beers and excellent service! We love the Tumbledown Red! read more
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I've been excited for this place to open, and it lives up to my expectations! It's great timing (as CBD and Starbucks on the next block have both closed those locations), and the coffee and drinks are available all day. Plus, the books (from a local store on the same block) are a cozy touch and it's more than acceptable to read a book or work on a laptop there (they have guest wifi) The drink prices are on the pricey side - though that's the case with any cafe now. They roast their own coffee which I enjoyed, and the latte milk options are unique. Novel has more of a bar vibe than a coffee shop vibe, but is still clean and quiet. It's the first book bar in Portland (I believe) so be sure to check it out! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Stopped in for a salted caramel espresso martini and a tattie puff! Was not disappointed. The drink was excellent and so was the food. We will definitely be returning, the cozy vibe is perfect for a wintertime date night drink! read more
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More info about Novel
643 Congress St
Portland, ME 04101
West End
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(207) 370-9593
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https://novelmaine.com
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