Reviews (100)
Beneath the guise of exposed bricks and rustic aesthetics, Tandem Coffee and Bakery in Portland, Maine, parades itself as a beacon of artisanal coffee and scrumptious bakery items. Yet, upon close inspection, the truth of its dreary offerings quickly seeps into the palate like over-extracted coffee. First, let's address the architectural eyesore masquerading as 'industrial-chic.' With a façade as inviting as a prison wall, it’s as if the designers were striving for a dystopian coffee shop ambiance. The resulting structure is as warm and appealing as a snowstorm in April. Onto the coffee, the lifeblood of any self-respecting coffeehouse. Tandem's brews are so tragically average they should come with a disclaimer. Each sip is a woeful testament to the countless beans that made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of mediocrity. If Tandem's coffee was a symphony, it would be played entirely out of tune, serving as a grim dirge for what could have been a delightful coffee experience. Their pre-made sandwiches are an epicurean travesty. One can only wonder if the soggy bread and uninspired fillings are a cruel social experiment testing how far people will go for convenience. The sandwiches, it seems, have taken on the building’s charm – unappealing, cold, and utterly forgettable. But the true pièce de résistance is Tandem's staff, a gaggle of painfully cheerful individuals who seemingly mainline their own middling coffee. The level of feigned enthusiasm displayed borders on insufferable. A simple order turns into an over-extravagant theater performance, leaving you wondering if you've walked into a coffee shop or an overzealous improv class. In short, Tandem Coffee and Bakery is a disappointing ode to the art of coffee and culinary creativity. Its attempts at charming customers are as artificial as the saccharine smiles of its staff. Much like a tandem bicycle, it’s a quaint concept on paper, but in reality, it's awkward, cumbersome, and you're likely to find yourself
There are no wrong choices, but if you aren't getting a biscuit sandwich then you might be making a mistake
Coffee was lovely, but the pastries were even better! We had the horchata chocolate pie and it was one of the most interesting and delicious pies I've ever had.
Sneeze guard very low and everyone leans over it to spit their orders. Can food places just stop being disgusting. Why is it so hard?
Ummmm the biscuits yummy! Line moves fast! I wish they had cheddar instead of American cheese for their breakfast Sammie’s.
Easy 6 stars. Biscuit egg and cheese is a masterpiece. Cold brew is excellent, too.
SO delicious! I was here from out of town for 2 days, and Im so glad I stopped by here!
We went for pastries after breakfast and, oh my gosh. First of all, so many great choices! I really enjoyed the banana bread. The guava scone was great, too.
My go-to coffee spot in Portland. Perfect cortado, delicious pastries, and the egg biscuit sandwich is out of this world good. Spacious and airy with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Staff are so friendly too.
I came for blueberry scones and found out they are out of season but the blood orange scones were really delicious as well.
I dunno what they make their biscuits with, but it's delish. Loaded jam biscuit was HUGE and took me an hour to nibble on. Lol
I read they have the best breakfast sandwiches but do not agree. They only offered American cheese and did not have any bacon. I was also handed an empty mug after ordering coffee and then had to ask for them to fill, it was weird. Hipster vibes
Don’t let yourself leave without having a pastry with your coffee. From scones and quiche to drip coffees and cappuccinos, Tandem does it right. Space is limited inside, so bring your to-go cup or be willing to wait for a table or countertop seat.
I can't speak to the coffee but the scones and biscuits are crunchy, dynamic, luscious in flavor and texture. I had the date and chocolate scone and they also incorporate a streusel (?) crumble on top. Breakfast sandwich with broken up sausage, fluffy eggs, and cheese was delicious too.
The long lines at this bakery should be a sign- it is AMAZING! The cinnamon roll, quiche, biscuit...honestly, all the things we tried were so good. We return every time we're in Portland.
Delicious coffee & pastries, lots to choose from.
Didn't live up to expectations set by "Milk Street" hype. Bought 5 different items. All were insipid and uninspired. Not worth a "destination" trip. Will give it a 2nd try if on the way to another destination.
Food was decent, I appreciate some of the unique flavors. However, some of the staff, including the manager on duty, were extremely rude and condescending. Very unprofessional and immature. Learn some respect!
Waited nearing 45 minutes. Was excited to get some coffee. Due to my thick African accent, Lady there was extremely judgemental and laughed at me. I felt unwanted and uncomfortable by the staff.This place does not respect nor appreciate people of color.
Really good breakfast sandwich and oatmeal! Coffee is excellent too.