Cricket Cafe opens at 8 AM from Monday through Friday and stays open until 1 PM. On Saturday and Sunday, it runs until 2 PM. That schedule makes it a clear breakfast and brunch stop, with weekends giving you one extra hour. If you want a calmer start, an early visit fits the rhythm best.
Reviews point to a bustling crowd, but they also mention quick seating and fast service. I would plan for a busy brunch feel, not a slow and empty room. The best window looks like the early part of the day, before the main rush builds. If you prefer a more social scene, the busy hours may suit you fine.
For a first visit, I would start with one of the signature breakfast plates. Eggs Benedict, the cricket omelet, the garden skillet, or biscuits and gravy all have strong support from guests. If you want a sweet start, French toast or hash brown cake can anchor the meal. A hazelnut latte or mimosa rounds out the table with ease.
The cafe offers wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet access. That makes the space more usable for a range of guests. Reviews also mention outdoor seating, which adds another choice when the weather lines up. If you plan to linger, the cozy feel and friendly service support a relaxed breakfast stop.
Some visitors come back every time they visit Portland, which says a lot about the pull of the place. That kind of loyalty grows from a mix of comfort food, easy warmth, and a room that feels local. I would treat it as a neighborhood breakfast ritual, not just a quick meal. It fits well for a meet-up, a solo plate, or a repeat stop with a friend.