So I just returned from a trip to Portland and I discovered that the oh so hip boutique neighborhood “The Pearl District” has been turned into a blocks long, yuppie loft, high end restaurant, gallery alley. True, I haven’t been to Portland for 10 years, but what a change! There’s a Whole Foods in the Pearl now.
If you like me are longing for the good old days I’d suggest heading to N. Mississippi Avenue. It’s an emerging neighborhood (read: sorta gentrified) that has a number of cool little boutiques, a chocolate and flower shop and some nice restaurants. Here are my favorites:
Hovel – Sadly closed when I was there. It’s like your crazy aunt opened an interiors store.
Gypsy Chic – Cool girl clothes without the sales girl attitude and so affordable!
Bella Norte – Some of the most beautiful antique stained glass I’ve ever seen.
Muddy’s Coffee House – Home of green eggs & ham!
Belle Epoque Salon – With a picture of Amelie in their window, they totally hooked me.
Pin Me Apparel – Total high end hipster cool. I especially loved the purses & wallets.
Pistils Plant Nursery – Gorgeous, exotic plants. Don’t miss their backyard.
The Meadow – Purveyor of all things pleasurable, chocolate, flowers, wine and artisinal salts.
Amnesia Brewing – For the name alone you’ve gotta love it. And it has outdoor seating.
The neighborhood is a great mix of innovative retailers and gorgeous buildings. You should definitely check it out!