The Hawthorne District is the epitome of what we look for in a Weekly Wander. There’s always something going on, it has plenty of places to get lost (in the best way), and everything is incredibly walkable — or bikeable, if that’s how you roll.
Why You Should Visit This Week: Hawthorne Street Fair
This event celebrates its 43rd anniversary on Sunday, Aug. 23, closing Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard to cars from 30th Avenue to César E. Chávez Boulevard. Over 200 local businesses will open their doors and spill onto the sidewalks as attendees enjoy sizzling sales, tasty bites, live music and entertainment, and other family-friendly activities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Eat & Drink: 5 Meals for the Day
When showing someone around (kind of like we’re doing right now), everyone has their go-to spots. So here’s where we’re heading on Hawthorne — and what we’re having.
☕ Coffee: The day has got to start with Tov Coffee Roasters, which serves cups of Egyptian-style dark roast in a colorful shop with Middle Eastern decor. Our order: Nectar of the Gods (cardamom-infused double espresso with cream and caramel sauce).
🍳 Breakfast: Bread and Ink Cafe provides the consistency and quality you want in the morning, from the waffle to the eggs Benedict. Our order: The Big Bruce (buttermilk biscuit, fried chicken, cheddar, pepper bacon, and a fried egg slathered in country gravy).
🥟 Lunch: Ai Shang Tea House is a peaceful oasis where you can step away from the bustle and catch your breath with a loose-leaf brew and a pastry, or two. Our order: Dongding oolong, beef and onion dumplings, and pineapple cake.
🍜 Dinner: As you slurp at Baka Umai Ramen House, you’ll find its recipes usurp more-conventional flavors with ingredients like ghost peppers, lime juice, or chorizo. Our order: Yuzu shio with crispy pulled pork.
🍹 Cocktails: Moody with the mixology to match, The Sapphire Hotel was once a lodging of ill repute and today remains an alluring place for a late-night libation. Our order: Witchy Vibes (vodka, pisco, crème de violette, lemon, balsamic, and egg white finished with lavender-black salt).
Shopping: Local Looks
It’s hard to beat the variety of clothing shops — many of them dealing in second-hand fits — along Hawthorne, especially if you’re looking to add a bit of whimsy to your wardrobe.
🎩 Starting at the top, you can’t go wrong with Classic Collection Hats, whose knowledgeable staff can help you select the right fit and style.
🏀 Find retro gear to rep your team, from jerseys to crewneck sweatshirts, at Back to the Basket.
🎭 Masquerade balls, rainbow raves, steampunk parties — you name it, Metro Boutique has the costume you’ll need.
👚 Portland’s only plus-size resale shop, I Want Seconds, offers an inclusive shopping experience as well as community events.
📞 Vintage pieces come to you at Telephone, courtesy of the garment conveyor.
Did we miss something in the Hawthorne District? Send us a line to share your recs.
