Neighborhood:
Northwest 21st & 23rd Wedged between Nob Hill and the Pearl District are Northwest 21st and 23rd avenues. Predating most of Portland’s other hip strips, these twin thoroughfares of the west side host an eclectic mix of upscale chain stores and local (but still mostly upscale) boutiques, cafes and bookshops that keep Portland more chic than weird. (read more) The two streets complement each other nicely. While 23rd hosts some of the best clothing and accessory shops in town, 21st is where you’ll find fresh produce, tasty brunches and bargain happy hours. On 23rd, Oh Baby (722 NW 23rd Ave., 274-4190) specializes in gorgeous, indulgent lingerie with just a hint of naughty. Great gift ideas come from shops like Hello! (525 NW 23rd Ave., 274-0771), where you’ll find sassy stationery and hilarious photo frames. Ether (600 NW 23rd Ave., 295-7959) is a treasure chest for shoppers looking for a clever scarf or a great pair of heels. For more practical shopping, head down to 21st’s gourmet grocery stores, pharmacies and brunch hot spots. Pick up artisanal cheeses, cured meats and freshly dried fruit at City Market (735 NW 21st Ave., 221-3007). Equipped with espresso and free wi-fi, Coffee Time (712 NW 21st Ave., 497-1090) brings in night-owl college students and kids too young for the bars. For a more highbrow experience, dine at Wildwood (1221 NW 21st Ave., 248-9663); it was a pioneer of Portland “sustainable” cuisine, and its standards aren’t slipping 13 years after it opened. —Shefali Kulkarni.
