Café Rica USA
62 E Michigan Ave, Portage, MI
Crema's Take
“This Portage gem strikes a perfect balance between quick caffeine fix and lingering third place, with a knowledgeable team (regulars rave about baristas like Katie and Amanda) who clearly care about both their espresso pulls and cold brew technique. The vanilla nitro cold brew is a standout that keeps people coming back, and the vibe supports everything from solo coffee contemplation to business meetings and friend gatherings—just expect a lively, buzzy atmosphere that some find irresistible and others find a bit loud. Beyond coffee, their toasted bagel sandwiches and food offerings round out an experience that feels more like a craft-focused neighborhood spot than a typical café chain.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
I was disappointed with my experience today. A few weeks ago I stopped in for a vanilla nitro cold brew and it was creamy and a good dark roast. I enjoyed it, I actually came back in earlier this week for another one and was told they had no cold brew at all (I was not asked if I wanted something else or given another option so I left). I came back today and they had the vanilla nitro cold brew. However the first sip or 2 did not taste like my initial experience a few weeks ago, the brew tasted weak and not like I had before. I brought it to the attention of the person who had taken my order, it was looked over and was told nothing was wrong, another person who I assume is a manager took a sip from the tap and also said nothing was wrong, so I thought maybe it was me but when I got back to my office my nitro cold brew went flat, and I know this didn't happen the last time I had this, there was creamy foam in the bottom at the end. You can also see from the picture that it indeed is a pretty weak brew. For the price ($5.50 for a 16 oz) since I brought concerns up in the store and my concerns weren't acknowledged and wasn't offered something else since I wasn't 100% happy, especially with the price paid for a cold brew, I will be hesitant to stop back in again. Disappointed by the lack of consistency for the price.
Excellent coffee, Katie!! I am visiting from Maine and come here every time I’m visiting my boyfriend in Battle Creek. It’s such a cool spot with very good quality coffee and food! Open a satellite location in midcoast Maine :-)
Stopped in for a quick coffee, not from around the area and it was a awesome surprise to find fellow coffee lovers. Definitely recommend, and Amanda is the reason for the review. Super knowledgeable, friendly, and personable; plus she called out a knew the difference of how to make a traditional flat white. Keep it up y'all! Sister remarks best cold brew she has ever had! She ordered the black honey cold brew, with oat milk
This is a fantastic place with good food, coffee/tea, and cocktails. Business lunch? Perfect. Gal pal time? You bet. The only, and I mean only, consideration is that it can get loud inside. If you are hard of hearing, this might be something to think about. Otherwise, everything is 10/10. Affordable, lots of variety, and an inviting, quirky aesthetic.
We ordered breakfast bagel sandwiches which were very good. They toast the bagels and have a great selection of toppings. Lattes were served quickly & were delicious. We don’t live in the area but will recommend this eatery for anyone who lives here or is passing through.
Crema Reviews
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