CITY GUIDE: PORTLAND EDITION
The Woodsman Tavern The great thing about this restaurant is that is combines the rugged outdoorsy pacific northwest with the hip food scene that Portland is known for. This lumberjack themed restaurant is the “fancy” restaurant on our list but they do it in a real down to earth way. With items on the menu like a bucket of fried chicken and Dungeness crab salad, everyone is sure be pleased at The Woodsman Tavern. This place gets louder the later it gets so go early if you’re offended by that sort of thing.
Ataula If you are a tapas lover, then you have to go to Atuala. There may be a wait to get in, that’s how good this place is. Tapas are meant to be shared with friends so definitely grab a few plates and pass them around. You’ll feel as if you’ve been whisked away to Barcelona. Get the sangria to wash it all down with. And don’t forget the paella, you have to have the paella.
Ken’s Artisan Bakery Grab breakfast or lunch at this bakery that is run by a James Beard award winning chef, Ken Forkish. The offerings change with the seasons but it is always delicious. Lunch sandwich options include Roast Beef, Grilled Cheese, Croque Monsieur, Croque Portobello and Brisket Sandwich. Soup is offered but not in the summer. The breads and pastries rival those you would find in Paris. It’s the perfect place to load up on carbs before a long day of touring the city.
Rustic Tiny Home When you’re in the Portland, you might want to get a little closer to the spirit of the Pacific Northwest and this tiny home is the way to do it. It’s somewhere between camping and a hotel. It’s tiny and rustic and super cute. It’s walking distance to Woodlawn Park along with lots of shops, cafes and restaurants. It also is complete with all the amenities you will need with the exception of a bathroom. BUT don’t fret, there is a main house with indoor plumbing that you have 24 hour access to. Like I said, it’s like camping. At only $68/night, it is the romantic getaway spot for you and that someone special.
The Society Hotel Okay, so I’ve already recommended one place that doesn’t’ have indoor plumbing and now I’m going to recommend a hostel. Bear with me, I have good reason. The Society Hotel is a piece of history that has been transformed into a budget hotel that is focused on design and their customers. They do have private rooms if you’re into that sort of thing (I know I am) with private bathrooms. They also have private rooms with shared bathrooms and dorm style rooms. The Society Hotel also has a rooftop deck that has 360 degree views of the city where they provide a number of activities like movie nights. This is the type of hotel that has something for everyone.
Hotel DeLuxe Now it’s time for a real deal hotel without any trickery. With Hotel DeLuxe, you get history and modern amenities. The rooms and suites are decorated in a luxe but approachable way. The bar is top notch and their commitment to service is unmatched. This is where you need to go for a real vacation from everyday life.
The Alibi This place is over the top and up for anything. It’s a tiki bar with karaoke that is loud and wild with strong drinks. Go here for a real good time, not for a nice glass of wine. Open since 1947, it’s authentic Portland and not to be missed.
The Solo Club If you want a place with delicious drinks and a little sophistication, The Solo Club has you covered. The decor and drinks are European inspired with a cafe/bar vibe that is cool and classy. The drinks are designed around a few key ingredients: Amari, Bitters and Vermouth. They also serve coffee in the morning and asian inspired food all day.
Mississippi Studios Their tag line is “Built, Owned & Operated by Musicians” so you know it’s gonna be good. Mississippi Studios is small and intimate with a killer sound system. The main floor can get a little too crowded to dance but there is a balcony level with seating to retreat to. What people love about this place is how close you are to the performers and how interactive the experience becomes. Food and drinks are also available and down right tasty.
Lan Su Chinese Garden Take a walk through an authentic Chinese garden and be transported to China. The Lan Su Garden is serenity personified and melds art, architecture, design and nature in perfect harmony. Public and private tours are available along with lots of events that aim to educate visitors about the Chinese culture. There is even a tea shop so you can have tea amid the garden and take it all in.
Pittock Mansion Built in 1914 for Henry Pittock and wife (he owed The Oregonian newspaper), it’s a place filled with rich Oregon history. With 22 rooms and sprawling gardens, this mansion is historical and beautiful. The guided tours give you a peak into life back then and the views of Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood are not to be missed. 
Red Sail Owned by Stacy Maiano, Red Sail is committed to thoughtfully design objects for you and your home. Carrying everything from jewelry to kitchen items, you will find treasures for the entire fam. Stacy prides herself on being fully supportive of artist/makers like American Heirloom and proudly carry our Oregon State Cutting Board. And we are proud to work with such inspiring shop owners like her.
