TLDR: Forage Coffee Company at 529 E Main St, Medford, OR, off I-5, shines with in-house roasted drip and espresso, hearty vegetarian-leaning eats, and a vibrant, plant-filled atmosphere with a great vibe in a former filling station. With reliable Wi-Fi, ample seating, and unique goods like plants and cards, it’s an ideal work spot and a must-visit for coffee lovers in Southern Oregon.
Medford's Coffee Lifeline
As a Medford resident, I've spent countless hours at Forage Coffee Company at 529 E Main St, and it's easy to see why. Operated by Jacob Terando and Mason Faulconer, this place feels like an extension of my own home. Their team is genuine, consistently welcoming, and their shift to roasting their own coffee has elevated the experience to new heights. The coffee is unparalleled, and you can purchase their beans online to maintain that connection wherever you travel. Here's why Forage stands as a cornerstone for coffee enthusiasts in my hometown.
Why Forage Is Special to Me
Forage isn't just a coffee shop; it's my sanctuary in Medford, a place that's woven into the fabric of my daily life. Whether I'm catching up with friends, reflecting on my travels, or just soaking in the familiar hum of my hometown, this spot has been my constant. The staff, led by Jacob and Mason, treat me like family, remembering my usual order and sharing stories that make every visit feel personal. Countless mornings and afternoons spent here have turned Forage into more than a coffee stop—it's where I recharge, find inspiration for my next road trip, and feel grounded in Medford's community. Their passion for coffee and commitment to creating a welcoming space make it my true home base, a place I return to no matter where my travels take me.
Ambiance: A Plant Filled Former Filling Station with Edge
Forage Coffee transforms a former gas station into an urban oasis, blending industrial metal and concrete with a lush array of houseplants and warm wood accents. Large windows flood the space with light, creating an open and lively feel, while whitewashed walls and leather details add rugged charm. The raccoon mascot pays homage to the location's gritty past, situated at the corner of East Main and Hawthorne near Hawthorne Park. The layout balances spaciousness with intimacy, featuring black metal tables and vibrant yellow chairs. The outdoor patio, shaded and adorned with planters, is perfect for sunny days, allowing you to absorb Medford's relaxed downtown rhythm. Jacob, Mason, and their team maintain a smooth operation, greeting you like family without excess. It's a place where you can settle in and feel completely at ease.
Coffee Quality: In House Roasts That Hit Hard
Forage delivers coffee that means business, roasting their own beans with a commitment to flavor and ethical sourcing. Their drip coffee, such as the singleorigin Ethiopian I return to repeatedly, is outstanding, offering vibrant berry notes and a clean floral finish that's bold yet balanced. The espresso is meticulously crafted, producing shots with rich toasty depth that shine alone or in a smooth latte. The baristas are experts, preparing each drink with precision that reflects their dedication to the beans roasted onsite. Their nitro cold brew, with its creamy texture and bright berry punch, stands out, particularly on warm Oregon days. For a unique option, their cardamomrose latte, crafted with housemade syrup, combines astringent spice and floral notes for a bold distinctive sip. Noncoffee drinkers are wellcatered for with perfectly spiced chai lattes and real fruit smoothies, like the one with local peaches and berries, delivering a fresh zesty complement to their food. You can purchase their exceptional beans online at foragecoffeeco.com, and they're a worthy addition to your home brewing setup.
Additional Products: Fantastic Eats and Unique Finds
Forage emphasizes vegetarian friendly fare without compromising on taste for all palates, and they go beyond food with a curated selection of plants, cards, and unique goods. Their small batch kitchen produces breakfast and brunch that's fresh and fulfilling. The roasted pork belly sandwich, layered with a fried egg, cheddar, arugula, and fennel aioli on a housemade biscuit, is a substantial choice for meat enthusiasts. Vegetarians are treated to avocado toast on rustic levain, topped with pickled red onion and cured egg yolk for a savory punch. Pastries like vegan brownies and sausagefennel scones are impressive, crafted with care and local ingredients. Beyond eats, Forage sells potted houseplants that echo their lush decor, perfect for adding a touch of their vibe to your space. They also offer locallymade greeting cards and various items like ceramic mugs and artisanal goods, ideal for gifts or personal keepsakes. Their in house roasted coffee bags are available at the shop or online, perfect for travelers or locals like me aiming to sustain the Forage experience. Check their social media for seasonal specials and new merchandise to keep things fresh. You can grab their products at the shop or online, simplifying the process of stocking up.
Working on the Road: A Solid Spot to Grind
Forage isn't solely a coffee stop; it's a dependable hub for productivity. The free WiFi is robust, supporting video calls and downloads without interruption. Spacious tables, both indoors and on the patio, provide ample room for your laptop and notes. The large windows ensure a bright environment, and the atmosphere remains calm but inviting for remote workers and families alike. Outlets are readily available, and the staff is unfazed if you linger with a coffee and a scone. I've powered through emails, planned trips, and drafted blog posts here, and it consistently feels like an effective setup. Whether you're a local tackling a project or a traveler needing a temporary office, Forage delivers.
The Verdict
Forage Coffee Company keeps it authentic with unmatched in house roasted drip and espresso, a plant filled atmosphere in a former filling station, and vegetarian leaning eats paired with unique plants and goods that don't mess around. If you're passing through Medford, just off I5 and steps from Hawthorne Park, this is your spot for a coffee stop that respects your time and leaves you eager to explore Southern Oregon's backroads.
Hours: Monday Saturday 7am 3pm Sunday 8am 2pm
Location: 529 E Main St Medford OR 97504
Tip: Grab a nitro cold brew and the pork belly sandwich then settle on the patio to enjoy the sun and plan your next move.
Website: Forage Coffee Company
Social Media: Instagram
On the road or at home in Medford, places like Forage make the pursuit of great coffee worthwhile. Got a favorite coffee shop on your route? Share it below with your top find. I'd love to visit.