“We did not advertise for, like, ten years,” said Deby Barnhart, co-owner of Cornell Farm. “People just started showing up. And we just got a reputation for having very high quality plants and a fun place to come.”
Owned by Edward Blatter and Deby Barnhart, the destination nursery and cafe sits on a 100-year-old farmstead established in 1926 by Blatter’s great-grandparents. The nursery opened to the public in 1987 and has since grown into a must-see stop for gardeners, dabblers and anyone looking to spend time outdoors surrounded by flowers and plants.
Today, the farm grows around 750 varieties of annual and perennial plants, as well as edible and native plants. The greenhouse is located on site, which has reduced the farm’s carbon footprint dramatically. Additionally, solar panels and a solid recycling plan further support the farm’s sustainability efforts. The seasonal blooms and shaded garden spaces encourage visitors to slow down and explore at their own pace.
The cafe is housed in the original Dutch Colonial house, which is listed on the Washington County History Register. With a seasonal menu created by Executive Chef Tamiko Voorhees, the cafe has evolved from a “little coffee shop” into a popular brunch destination with a variety of options, from classic breakfast dishes such as eggs and bacon to inspired creations like avocado toast made with squash and feta cheese, all prepared with fresh ingredients.
“So for the cafe, we always love to support local growers,” said Ranann Bell, Ed and Deby’s daughter. “As much as we can, we try to get the freshest, closest ingredients.”
This West Hills property and the farmhouse was not originally built by the Blatter family, four generations ago. The property changed hands before coming into the family, and its history adds to the charm and character that visitors experience today.
“It was finished in 1926 by a builder who built it for his wife, who was from, I believe, New York,” said Deby. “When she first came out here to see the house, she was horrified about how far away it was in the boondocks. And so she never wanted to live here.”
Today, Cornell Farm has become one of Portland’s most distinctive garden destinations, blending a retail nursery with non-plant gifts, such as books, knick-knacks, home decor and more, with historic architecture and a popular brunch experience in one setting. In September 2026, the farm added a Victorian Teahouse event venue. Seasonal afternoon garden tea services, complete with fresh mini pastries, tea sandwiches and more, served alongside freshly brewed teas, are available as special events throughout the year by reservation only. (Visit the website for upcoming teahouse events.)
“With the farmhouse and the hilly land, no one would pick this type of land for a nursery if they had the choice,” added Ranann. “But it has turned out to be so unique and special, and that’s what makes people want to come in. It’s a special place.”
That unique character of the property also shapes the experience visitors have, creating a calm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the nursery.
“I would hope when guests come to visit, they feel a sense of peace walking around the nursery, Ranann said. “I want (guests) to feel welcomed, of course number one, but also just a sense of peace and hope. Because that is one thing that gardening really provides us, is a sense of hope, right?”
Nearly four decades after opening to the public, Cornell Farm continues to draw gardeners, brunch-goers and visitors looking for a peaceful escape in Tualatin Valley, just minutes from Portland.
