The Food
Best Of...
In a town where coffeehouse culture has transformed into a lifestyle, the search for the best yields several great competitors.. With Rockin Frog Cafe's ideal home setting and Coffeehouse Northwest's unbeatable cappuccinos, all fall short of Crema's holistic atmosphere. The food combines simplicity with perfect pastry crusts and solid breakfast cuisine. The environment can accommodate large crowds, yet still manages to present quiet, workable undertones. Overall, they're trendy, they're fast and they're friendly.. individual traits that are rarely mastered together in this city.
Crema
Brunch has become a staple to most Portlanders. With thousands of exquisite options and specialties, it can often be an overwhelming decision. Among too many classic favorites, including the Tin Shed's doggie menu and Pine State's cheap, Southern fare, I must say that the stand-out Portland breakfast can only be found in my neighborhood's Bridges Cafe & Catering. The Sunrise Benedict adds the perfect amount of Californian spice with avocado and Chipotle Hollandaise sauce while the Catfish Hash creates its own hearty category. Adding to its unique flair, the owner combines a sense of hospitality and feisty humor to deliver an unbeatable Southern experience.
Tin Shed
Honorable Mention..
Killer Burger offers an eclectic taste of combinations that stretch all boundaries of the conventional burger. I highly recommend the Peanut Butter-Bacon-Pickle Burger. Greeley Ave Bar & Grill (Yorgos) is another hidden gem, offering amazing quality at low prices.
Killer Burger
With such a big food-cart culture, On-the-Go waffles have become a bit of a specialty here. Waffle Window is a must-have experience, with the 3-B's Waffle: Pepper Bacon, Brie and Fresh Basil topped with house-made peach jam.
Waffle Window
There are countless vegan/vegetarian options in Portland, but someone with any diet will fall in love with Junior's Cafe.
And last, for a great night out, The Alibi is a fantastic Tiki-themed bar with a relaxed atmosphere. For a decent happy hour, live piano music and a fantastic view of the city, the Portland City Bar and Grill is another wonderful way to start off the night.
The Alibi
The Scene
Soul Nights
Dress up and enjoy a scene of good music and bad dancers. Among other places, Rotture hosts a splendid Soul Night on the 2nd Thursday of each month.
Bingo!
At the Speakeasy, a younger crowd takes over the game. Porn and Ramen noodle prizes. Free entry and amazing food/drink specials every Monday night.
Independent Theaters
Couches, local brews and classic films can be found at several venues around town. The Laurelhurst, Bagdad, Living Room, Academy and Hollywood Theaters, to mention a few.
Organized Bike Rides
Join thousands of naked bike riders in the annual World Naked Bike Ride. Celebrate events such as the "Worst Day of the Year" with hundreds of bikers in crazy costumes. Or discover a new area of town with monthly Midnight Mystery Bike Rides.
The Lifestyle
Projects
A town of crafters, artists and DIY-ers has created a lifestyle of learning new skills.
Childhood Melancholia
21+ nights at OMSI, adult arcades such as the Avalon and Craigslist ads to play Four Square.
Free Boxes
Consuming counter consumerism at its finest.
Music
Any given day, time and venue.. there WILL be live music. And it will be amazing. Never pay more than $5 for a show.
Any given day, time and venue.. there WILL be live music. And it will be amazing. Never pay more than $5 for a show.
Front Porches
In the summertime, 97% of your time at home will be spent on your front porch. Crack open a beer and enjoy the free people-watching.
Sports
Stay active and entertain yourself by playing a sport. Even if you suck at it.
Sports: Mini Golf - Underdog League
