Schoolhouse Wanders: Portland City Guide
The best experiences often come from seeing the world as more than an itinerary. To that end, we're starting a new series to connect with communities old and new. Each month, we'll ask various creatives near and far to give us the local scoop on the best places to eat, adventure, and imbibe in their city.
Last month we ventured to the sunny Central Coast of California and this month we're bringing it back to our home city of Portland, Oregon. Below, we asked the Schoolhouse Team to share their favorite spots to eat, shop, and adventure around town.
Hands-down my favorite retail experience in all of Portland, and I like to think that working three floors above it has no influence on that. Electrica, our in-house cafe, blends Japanese and Mexican influences in their drinks and pastries. Potted in Portland, our in-house plant shop, carries a great selection of plant + pottery options. The Schoolhouse store itself is stunningly beautiful and very well-designed.
Owned by May Barruel and located in northeast Portland, this gallery is both sweet and sweeping in its offerings. Showcasing world class art, community events, and performances, along with thought provoking books. There is always something fresh to check out so go give it a look!
Just the cutest little one-stop shop for all things kids. Caroline, the owner, has such a keen eye for well-designed and one-of-a-kind toys. It's impossible to leave empty handed. It’s one of my favorite shops to visit when I need a mood-boost—gifts, inspiration, nostalgic treasures (you'll find it all here).
Lunch hour? Happy hour? First date? Fancy grocery trip? Take your pick because Négociant can satisfy each of these needs. Their wine selection alone is enough to bring you in just to peruse the gorgeous labels and perfect curation of every kind of wine you could want. Their bistro seating and small plates menu lends a charm that almost has you believing you're in Europe.
Good Coffee in Slabtown is a modern gem and a must-visit if you find yourself in NW Portland. Its open-air windows and immense seating options make it a great place to take meetings, read a book, or stop by with your furry friend. Not to mention the coffee is better than good.
Tanaka not only serves up some of the tastiest katsu sandwiches on the fluffiest milk bread you can find, but has such a lovely bright and airy environment that you'll find yourself coming back again and again. From their beautifully presented yuzu house salad, to their light and crispy fries paired with curry aioli (seriously, don't skip the curry aioli), Tanaka is the perfect spot for a quick lunch bite, or a Saturday morning brunch date.
Hotel Grand Stark is a beautiful retreat located in the Central Eastside of Portland, close to downtown and within walking distance of the Willamette River and tons of restaurants and bars (their website offers an extensive neighborhood guide!). All the rooms are bright, pet-friendly, and feature my very favorite Schoolhouse coverlet. A must-stay if you're in Portland!
If you’re looking for a mini adventure, Suttle Lodge is your spot. Nestled in the trees and close enough to Sisters, Oregon—the area offers forest-filled views and lots of opportunities to wander. The main lounge looks out at the lake, which makes for a very dreamy setting—listen to the crackle of the fire while drinking craft cocktails and dining on some delicious seasonal fare.
Soft-serve and snacks? What more could you ask for? Located right off of the historic Columbia River Highway, it's the perfect place to stop for lunch or a snack on your way to a hike in the Columbia River Gorge. They also have a wide range of vegan ice-cream options!
A true Portland treasure. No matter the season, the island offers plenty of things to do from U-Pick Farms (berries, peaches, flowers, pumpkin patches, Christmas trees) to a quiet afternoon picnic or swim along the Willamette River.
