No one neighborhood is a monolith, but Eliot is particularly eclectic — both in its history and the types of things you’ll find there today.
The History of the Eliot Neighborhood
Have you ever wondered why the Eliot neighborhood is spelled with only one “l?” That’s because it’s named after Reverend Thomas Lamb Eliot, a Unitarian minister who is perhaps one of Portland’s most influential figures. Eliot was central in building the Rose City we know today, founding organizations like Reed College and the Oregon Humane Society.
The identity of Portland neighborhoods is always changing, and Eliot is no exception. Today, NE Portland is home to the city’s largest population of Black residents, but that history is full of dark chapters of targeted displacement efforts against Black people.
A Beginners Guide to the Eliot Neighborhood
Our friend and editor-in-chief at Portland Monthly Brooke Jackson-Glidden is a longtime Eliot resident, so we asked for her recommendations on where to take first-time visitors.
Brooke said her ideal day in the neighborhood would begin with an everything bagel from Bernstein Bagels, a cup of joe from Kalesa Coffee, and a stroll through Dawson Park. The shops near Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard are perfect for some afternoon shopping — Musique Plastique is a must for audiophiles.
After working up an appetite, try the Ethiopian dishes at Queen of Sheba. For something more upscale, there’s Ox, the James Beard Award-winning Latin American steakhouse. And why not burn a few of those calories dancing to live music at Wonder Ballroom.
Essential Spots for Locals
Your friend has left town and you’re done playing tourist guide. Chances are you’re immediately making your way to Billy Ray’s Dive. There’s just something so cozy about a proper neighborhood dive bar. Brooke also recommends The Pocket Pub — more of an Italian restaurant than a pub, but delicious nonetheless. And because we live in modern times, bring your laptop out on the patio at TwentySix Cafe and order an avocado toast.
For even more recommendations (and a story about Janelle Monáe that resembles a Chappel Roan song) listen to our full conversation with Brooke Jackson-Glidden.
Correction: A previous version of this post misidentified what kind of food Queen of Sheba serves.
