May 24

Portland City Guide

After spending a year living in Portland, I've updated my original city guide with my current favorite spots in the area.

A lot has changed since moving to Portland last May (besides the worldwide obvious). My wife and I have full-time jobs, we’ve settled in our apartment quite nicely, and made new friends along the way. If you follow my page on Instagram, it probably needs no mention that this place has also influenced my style as far as what I wear and the pictures I take. Not only that, but I feel like a true Portlander knowing all of the best places to shop and dine in town. My city guide I wrote a year ago has most definitely changed, with some reliables still making the list and others being discarded to make room for newly found favorites. This may seem like the wrong time to make a travel guide of businesses that aren’t even open during this time, but I believe these places deserve all the attention they can get and hopefully this blog post will still be of value when everything blows over. It’s a tough time for all and I’m only including these places as I would hate to see any of them not make it out from this global pandemic. So when you start traveling again and Portland happens to be on your list, here are all my favorite places to visit around the city.

Retail:

Aesop

You can’t visit a city without going to the local Aesop store. I highly recommend taking the opportunity to try out their products in person if you haven’t already. The service at their stores is always top notch.

Blu Dot

I hadn't heard of this store until they recently opened a showroom in my neighborhood a few months ago. HAY is still my favorite when it comes to simple modern design but Blu Dot has to be a close second.

Frances May

One of the best local clothing stores in town. They offer pieces from several great brands such as Our Legacy and Acne Studios.

HAY

This was their first showroom in the US with one now in Costa Mesa, California as well as Chicago, Illinois. If you’re into Scandinavian design then this is the place to go.

Le Labo

By far some of the most unique fragrances you’ll experience at this shop. You’ve probably heard of their most popular scent Santal 33, but I urge you to try them all if you get the chance.

MUJI

The Japanese-based retailer has a huge space in the heart of Pioneer Square. This place screams minimalism, offering basic essentials in home, apparel, and much more.

Snow Peak

Think of Patagonia's functionality with a Japanese twist. This is definitely going to be the place that I buy all of my outdoor gear. They are currently in the works of moving to a larger space located on 23rd.

Woonwinkel

It's all fun and games here. Bright colors, bold prints, and everything you need for sleek decor and a good time.

Food & Drink:

AVIV

I crave these guys on a weekly basis. A 100% vegan take on Israeli and Middle Eastern favorites.

Away Days Brewing Co

Okay I haven't tried this place out yet but by the looks of their beer packaging and playful interior, I think it's safe to say this is a must try. I'll be making my way over to the brewery once they open back up again.

Bamboo Sushi

An update from my last city guide, I did revisit Bamboo with their new menu and I can still confirm an A+ experience. They offer a pretty large variety of dishes so even if you don't like sushi they will not disappoint.

Blossoming Lotus

Try the biscuits & gravy. Just trust me.

G-Love

In my last guide, I mentioned Departure being my favorite restaurant. They've since changed their menu, but luckily I soon found G-Love to take it's place. The restaurant is Portland's first 'Reverse Steakhouse', meaning their menu is vegetable based with protein acting as a side dish rather than a main.

Good Coffee

I am still yet to have a bad latte from them. The baristas at the Slabtown location are always top notch and couldn't recommend them enough.

Petunia's Pies & Pastries

Offering a full vegan menu, this is my heaven when it comes to desserts. If you aren’t in the mood for sweets, give their mac & cheese a try.

The Solo Club

If you're looking for a place to just hang out, The Solo Club is perfect. A great place to grab a drink after work or sip some coffee while waiting for brunch at Besaws next door.