River Forum Cafe

4380 S Macadam Ave # 168, Portland, OR 97239, United States
+1 503-478-0994
$$$ cafe
(24 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you’re searching for a delightful spot to unwind with a delicious meal in Portland, look no further than River Forum Cafe. Nestled right on the waterfront at 4380 S Macadam Ave #168, this charming café offers a quaint and cozy atmosphere that's perfect for both a quick bite and a leisurely meal.

At River Forum Cafe, the menu is a celebration of classic deli offerings, featuring a range of freshly prepared sandwiches that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Savor the Turkey Sandwich or indulge in the savory Pastrami paired beautifully with your favorite drink. Each sandwich is lovingly crafted, offering an authentic taste of comfort food without the fuss of unnecessary frills. If you’re in the mood for something light, their Gourmet Salads, like the Oriental Chicken Sesame Salad, deliver a delightful crunch topped with a harmonious mix of flavors, perfect for a midday boost.

One of the highlights is the daily rotating soup, priced affordably at just $3.75. Locals rave about how it complements their meals wonderfully, making River Forum Cafe a true gem among Portland’s eateries. Customers like Jazzmyn Massey have noted the café's knack for delivering “amazing sandwiches” without the hefty price tags found elsewhere, which is a refreshing change in the dining landscape.

The café buzzes with a friendly yet relaxed energy, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a productive work session. As Daniel L. shared, the café is not only about good food—it’s about feeling welcomed and taken care of by the dedicated staff, perfectly blending hospitality with culinary variety. Louis Halley II adds that the weekly deals make dining here both fun and financially wise!

And let's not forget the beverage options! River Forum Cafe offers a rich selection of drinks, including an array of coffees and flavored Redbulls that keep patrons coming back for their afternoon pick-me-ups. Lesley Barrios emphasizes their versatility, noting it as a go-to for when you need that special energy boost!

In short, River Forum Cafe isn’t just a place to eat; it’s an experience characterized by great personality, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting traveler, make sure to stop by this beloved café for your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Atmosphere
Casual
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Friday

7:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

24 Reviews
Daniel L

04 Oct 2025

Nearly all of the reviews about this hidden gem indicate that this is not an ideal place to go. As of this morning, 15 April 2021, I can tell you that THIS IS NOT THE CASE!! The menu selection is just what you need for a quick bite of food. I had an English muffin breakfast sandwich (made to order) and some fresh fruit, along side a sugar-free Redbull. Coffee, cappuccino, espresso etc are available and soft drinks are plentiful. This cafe is not a huge establishment so seating is not available do to stupid Covid, but hauling your items back to the hotel is easy and quick. There is also the river to watch as you eat your food and drink your coffee. I watched the Portland weather report while I waited for my turn in line. I'm at the hotel next door (Rivers Edge) and just passing through. You should definitely check this place out. It is always good to support the little guy, especially now during these 'uncertain' times. To the owner: Thank you very much for the excellent experience! I'll see you in May, when I pass through again!

Louis Halley II

23 Sep 2025

The food is always good, the weekly deals are affordable and to top it off the owners are always cool and kind. The chicken wrap on Tuesdays are my favorite!

matthew betts

10 Aug 2025

Great personality, great food, prices are a bargain.

Lesley Barrios

10 Aug 2025

Great stop for a quick bite and lots of beverage options, I love to get my flavored redbulls from here

Jazzmyn Massey

23 Jul 2025

This café is a gem with a special lady who takes care of you. The lunch options are great and quick. They make regular sandwiches, like an actual REGULAR amazing sandwich without all the extra bits. And they are reasonably priced as well for what you get. I was craving a regular ol' sandwich and chips without spending over $20 at some overpriced restaurant and then I came across this café on a random google search of mine. I bought a sandwich, a juice and some chips all for under $11 bucks. Cant beat that, really!! I recommend this to any of my simple folks out there looking for a quick bite.

Kevin Keeland

13 Jul 2025

This place is a great quick stop on a walk through the south waterfront. The teriyaki was great and the lady has been doing this for 17 years. Shes so kind and warm! Love the breakfast and the specials are always really good!!!

Chelsea Wilcox

16 Jun 2025

I used River Forum Cafe for my employers team lunch for 10+ people for a two day event. The shop was a wonderful shop to partner with! Everything was organized and ready to go at pick up. The store owner is incredibly kind, generous and appreciative. We really loved supporting this local business and encourage others in the area to do the same!

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