In addition, there is a very nice selection of Oregon wines. The Willamette Valley in Oregon is well-known for its offerings and the shop provides a nice “sampling” from the “Valley.” Find In Good Taste at 231 NW 11th Avenue in Portland. You'll find In Good Taste just a few doors away from the decorative arts and antiques salvage shop: Bernadette Breu High Bohemian Antiques.
Dig is found further up 11th Avenue by taking a left on Glisan. The shop can be considered an urban garden shop housing supplies for creating container and herb gardens. You may wish to consider a Spanish Trug. This is a carrier tub with dozens of possible uses. There are three varying sizes. Also, the tub is made of 100% recycled material should you be environmentally concerned. In addition, Dig offers a variety of garden furniture and locally crafted gifts and art. Items include Dune chairs and unique garden umbrellas.
Circa AD is off 11th Avenue by taking a left on Glisan. The home and accessories shop provides a nice European theme. It is located at 1204 NW Glisan in Portland, Oregon.
After all of your shopping, you are sure to be hungry. Next door to Circa AD is Biways Café. You may wish to “plop” down at the soda fountain and check out the 50's era view masters while waiting for a hamburger fresh and hot off the grill. Also, I understand they have a delicious tuna melt and the best fries in Portland. If you are into chain-dining you won't truly appreciate Biways; however, if you are a real person that prefers really great food from a very special diner than Biways will have special appeal for you. You may easily locate Biways at 1212 NW Glisan in Portland. Additionally, I understand the French Toast (should you like to visit them for Breakfast) and the coffee are out of this world! Don't forget to use plenty of sugar and cream in that hot cup of coffee.
After lunch, just down the street at 13th and Glisan, you'll want to visit the Knit Knot Studio. Those who have not knitted before may receive an introduction to knitting at this fun shop. There are also “knitted” items for sale such as sweaters and scarves.
Additionally, shop Knit Knot Studio for the perfect yarn for your proposed knitting project. In example there are cotton/wool blends with a hint of Lycra for that perfect bit of give and stretch. Many of the quality yarns are imported from locations such as Australia and the price point is not cost-prohibitive. A great find or shopping experience is sure to be had at Knit Knot Studio located at 1238 NW Glisan Street in Portland.
Here are some other retailers you may wish to add to your shopping list while visiting Downtown Portland and the surrounding area:
Cielo Home is located at 528 West 12th Avenue. This is a very well-decorated store offering a diversity of products. I am told the store provides home décor items from the high-end price range to affordable. The staff is quite knowledgeable and friendly. Also, there is a nice mix of feminine as well as masculine offerings. If you are a bachelor looking for the perfect item for your apartment or home this may be a good place for you to shop.
Oblation Papers and Press is an old world letterpress print shop specializing in invitations and stationery. The invitations are printed on recycled cotton handmade paper. This paper is produced at their very own urban paper mill. The shop is a European-style stationery boutique. Some of the offerings I found on-line were really quite unique. For example they offer blue-tooth fairy envelopes, five for the tooth fairy and five from the tooth fairy; green monogram note sets and for the holidays--joyeux note set. Their European-style letterpress shop is a “must see” when visiting Downtown Portland.
Linens that are incomparable as far as quality and feel may be found at French Quarter Linens located at 1313 NW Glisan Street in Portland. This is a “must-shop.” Favorite things include: Charles Chocolate, Nancy Koltes Cashmere Throws, Zoeppritz Microstar Throws, Scandia Down Travel Pillow, Cotton Blankets, Legna Sheets, and Leitner of Austria Fine Linens. This last brand is perfectly representative of a quality linen. Leitner provides simple yet elegant European styling. The Leitner Company was established in 1853. You will find such quality finds throughout this truly unique shop.
After you have experienced many of the truly interesting shops Portland has to offer, you may like to round out your visit at the Andina Restaurant. The restaurant is colorfully decorated by its Peruvian owners. Here are some possible menu recommendations: Cheese stuffed peppers and smoked trout. The restaurant also offers venison pork; yucca stuffed with ricotta and crab and other adventuresome and delicious dishes: I am told the restaurant has a fabulous menu. For dessert the recommendation is the chocolate mousse (that is if you still have room after the meal). Live music is another bonus and is played nightly. The restaurant is conveniently located at 1314 NW Glisan Street in Portland.
Whether shopping or taking a long bike ride amidst a “forested” trail, you can't but feel a little bit more inspired after taking in Portland's nature and/or “artsy” side. It is a sure bet the weekend visit will rejuvenate your outlook.
Side Notes: Parking can be difficult once you reach the Pearl district; therefore, it is advised to take the streetcar from the downtown area. I-405 also runs right by the Pearl district. Portland International Airport is 12 miles away with available taxi service.
Enjoy a great weekend in Portland's Pearl district! Try to get your shopping done on Saturday when most of the shops are sure to be open; enjoy the City Park on Sunday or a nice café or restaurant. There is plenty to do in the way of activity or simple relaxation so keep Portland in mind for your next weekend adventure!
