2017 is a year of growth for Caffè Umbria. We've been on the lookout for just the right buildings in just the right neighborhoods in several of our favorite cities. Last year when we learned the historic Sovereign Hotel in SW Portland was being restored, with space for retail on the first floor, we jumped at the chance to inhabit the beautiful space!

By Steve Morgan - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, 

The Sovereign Hotel has a rich history. Construction began in 1922, and upon its completion in 1923, the nine story building was considered Portland's first skyscraper. Almost one hundred years later, the building is being lovingly restored to its original glory by Emerick Architects. The Oregon Historic Society (OHS) owned the building until 2014, and commissioned world renowned mural artist, Richard Haas, to create four murals; two of which are eight stories high! Each mural depicts pieces of Oregon's history: the Lewis & Clark Expedition; fur trader, John Jacob Astor; Sacagawea, her baby Little Pom; the African slave, York and the Newfoundland Seaman.

Caffè Umbria is opening its second Portland café on the first floor of the Sovereign Hotel at 710 SW Madison. Renovations are under way as we speak, and the new cafe will open its doors in late Spring 2017. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to find our about new store openings, and other Caffè Umbria events.