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.
This classic Portland bakery is Northwest 21st Avenue. (Rachel Monahan / City Cast Portland)
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.
