Get to Know Northwest 21st Avenue
Northwest 21st Avenue is a hidden gem: It’s a slightly quieter, simply better version of nearby (and higher-profile) Northwest 23rd. It has practical conveniences, including a Trader Joe’s and a gas station. But it’s also perfect for a fun night out:
Northwest 21st Avenue is a hidden gem: It’s a slightly quieter, simply better version of nearby (and higher-profile) Northwest 23rd. It has practical conveniences, including a Trader Joe’s and a gas station. But it’s also perfect for a fun night out:
Eat Well
Here some solid restaurants, new and old:
- Besaws has a long history and Portland-famous brunch.
- Afuri, a Tokyo chain, is part of the ramen craze that’s been more than a passing Portland phase. (Afuri’s first location outside of Japan was here in Portland, on the eastside. Now there are four in the metro area.)
- Bhuna has some of the best Indian food east of the Washington County line. But it’s not the only Indian restaurant on the street:
- Swagat is another Portland favorite, with familiar Indian dishes like butter chicken and palak paneer.
- Ranch Pizza makes Sicilian-influenced pizza squares, with the eponymous ranch dipping sauce. (Yes, every pizza place should have some kind of dipping sauce for crust.)
- Bonus: When it’s time for dessert, there’s ice cream at 50 Licks and frozen yogurt at Ebb and Bean — both well-loved Portland chains.
Don’t Forget to Visit the Bakery
Ken’s Artisan Bakery offers a tasty breakfast and lunch, so you can fill up as you get your supply of freshly baked breads, sweet flaky croissants, and other baked treats.
Cheers to These Bars
Become a regular or just dip in for a visit at these bars:
- M Bar is in a tiny yet cozy spot to grab a beer or get a glass of wine.
- For natural wines, check out Bar Diane. It aims to be approachable, and yet it’s an elegant setting. (Tip: it has a must-try happy hour.)
- To get your karaoke fix any day of the week, 21st Avenue Kitchen & Bar has you covered. (Tip: Don’t miss their backyard in warmer weather.)
- Bantam Tavern is a go-to spot for tasty cocktails.
- If you’re looking for an old-school dive bar, Joe’s Cellar is the spot. (“Cruddy place. Crappy people. ….The music Level is way to [sic] Loud,” reads a one-star review on Yelp.)
And Go to the Movies
Cinema 21 is one of Portland’s best movie theaters. It hosts the Portland International Film Festival and runs a classic film series on Saturday mornings.
Are there favorite spots I missed? Feel free to email me.
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