With roots that run deep in Beaverton, family-owned Cornell Farm Nursery & Cafe treats customers like kin.

Starting as a dairy operation founded in 1921, the farm has transformed over generations in the hands of the Blatter family.

On Mother’s Day in 1987, Ed Blatter — the grandson of the founder — decided to open a retail stand with his wife Deby Barnhart on their property. Selling geraniums, hanging fuchsia baskets and buckets of cherry tomatoes, what was once a single-greenhouse operation planted the seeds for the nursery that thrives today.

Slowly growing over the past 37 years, the farm has blossomed into a vibrant, viridescent space filled with more than 800 varieties of annuals and perennials grown on-site. On top sourcing plants from local and regional growers, Cornell Farm has become a one-stop shop for supplies, decor and advice to keep gardens looking beautiful.

Interwoven with its vast selection, the Blatters have always had a focus on helping people, according marketing coordinator Will Coleburn.

“That’s really something that we pride ourselves on: being local and family owned,” Coleburn said. “We certainly want to make sure that we’re doing right by our customers. And that really just extends through everything we do.”

Whether a customer is hoping to troubleshoot issues with a plant at home or trying to track down the perfect addition to the garden, Cornell Farm is happy to help, Coleburn said.

In 2016, the family decided to expand its operations with a cafe, converting the family’s 1926 historic farmhouse into a spot to grab seasonal fare.

“The family has sort of put a lot of love into renovating the home, keeping a lot of the fixtures but making it work as a functioning cafe,” Coleburn said.

The quaint, yellow house offers a full-espresso bar, fresh pastries and a brunch menu that shifts with what’s in harvest.

“We always offer a seasonal waffle, and that’s something our guests really enjoy — especially if they have a little bit of a sweet tooth,” Coleburn said. “It’s quite a decadent treat.”

As an extension of the nursery, Coleburn emphasized how cafe staff are committed to maintaining the same level of hospitality.

“We really work to make sure we are giving our guests the best dining experience. We’re always listening to our guests and adapting,” he said.

From helping reduce wait times to providing more meal accommodations, the cafe continues to enhance the experience for customers.

“Great customer service starts with a great customer experience. And that is what we strive for at both the nursery and cafe,” Coleburn expressed. “We pride ourselves on the beauty and charm of our little yellow farmhouse surrounded by display gardens, as well as the quality of our offerings, whether those are gorgeously-grown plants or delicious seasonal brunch dishes that show off the bounty that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.”

CORNELL FARM NURSERY & CAFE

Category: Best Customer Service

Address: 8212 S.W. Barnes Road, Portland, OR 97225

Website: cornellfarms.com

The 2024 Beaverton’s Best Awards are part of Pamplin Media Group’s annual Reader’s Choice contest, a community-driven celebration aimed at highlighting and honoring outstanding local businesses across Washington County. The awards are determined solely by reader votes.

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