Of all of the sections in Portland, I would argue that North Portland is the hippest, the weirdest…and the all-around coolest part of the city.
And there’s definitely some weird shit going on here.
Where else can you walk down a traditional residential street, only to turn into an alleyway and find this? (Click the link below.)
Back Alley Star Wars
The owner is quite obviously a Star Wars fan (as am I!) There is even a little cutout in the fence below, with a plastic covering, where the family dog can peek out at you (thankfully the pooch is not a barker).
And further down the next street is this…
Throughout the neighborhood, you will find tiny surprises like this. It seems each and every house has a distinct personality, where the residents are hell-bent on expressing their individuality in so many varied ways. It’s a beautiful thing, and one of the reasons I’m proud to call Portland home!
North Mississippi and Williams Streets
These two main drags, which are mere blocks from each other, hold all manner of goodies and is a great place to hang out, any time of day or evening. Here’s my post on Mississippi Ave.
On North Williams, there is more of a ‘gentrified’ vibe than Mississippi, with a Whole Foods store and several brand new, upscale apartment buildings springing up. But there are still tons of places to eat and shop. One of my favorite food carts, MF Tasty, resides here. Walk up the street a little bit and there are coffee shops, family-friendly bars, trendy restaurants, wood-fired pizza, and eclectic shops.
About a mile north of here is the Alberta Arts District, which I talk about here.
As with any neighborhood, it is a living, breathing organism, where businesses come and go, but a few tried and true hallmarks stick around for the duration. For all three North Portland neighborhoods, Alberta, Mississippi, and Williams, here is my pick for Brunch, Shopping and Hanging Outs.
Mississippi
Brunch: Gravy – only open until about 3 pm, this is a true Portland-style cafe that serves incredibly tasty comfort food. Get here early on the weekends, as there WILL be a line out the door.
Shopping: Sock Dreams – I loooooove my socks, and these guys never disappoint, with the largest variety of socks I’ve see so far on the planet.
Hangout: Bar Bar – next to Mississippi Studios, grab a drink and head out to their beer garden where, rain or shine, is a nice, inviting place to just kick back and relax for a while.
Williams
Brunch: MF Tasty – as I mentioned above, this is a food cart. But it’s actually run by a chef, who whips up the best grilled burritos and other specials he just happens to whip up that day. You can also by beer/wine/mimosas here.
Shopping: Ink & Peat – is a really great little boutique for just browsing. With unique home décor, clothes and gifts with a modern yet eclectic style – you will inevitably walk out with something you just couldn’t live without.
Hangout. Either/Or – is it a coffee shop or a bar? It’s both! With counter service and ultra-chic seating, come here for a cup of joe, and stay for that early afternoon cocktail.
Alberta
Brunch: Petite Provence – if you come here for anything, come for the authentic French croissants – they are out of this world! A cozy atmosphere and great food all around.
Shopping: Ampersand Gallery and Fine Books – they have great collectible new and used books, as well as local artistry and monthly art shows.
Hangout: Nearby is Peninsula Park – a wonderful city park with a fountain in the middle, a gorgeous flower garden when in season, and several places to sit and eat a picnic lunch.
Let’s face it – in North Portland, there’s just so much to love. It’s hands-down my favorite part of the city. I invite you to see for yourself.
