STAY
The Nines Hotel // An SPG Luxury Collection property, The Nines is conveniently located in front of Pioneer Square. The hotel is modern and chic, and a wonderful place to stay in the heart of downtown Portland. If you’re able to get a room on the club level, you’ll gain all-day access to the lounge, which is stocked with drinks and snacks. That is the start to what is an intoxicating foodie love affair with Portland.
EAT
Bar Mingo // Order the Lasagna. Seriously. The meat and cheese plate is also a tasty option for sharing, but the complimentary bread and olive oil served at the beginning of the meal is the real stand out. All of the ingredients are fresh and simple. Isn’t that the Italian way?
Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessen // If you’re a breakfast person, Kenny & Zuke's will not disappoint. Whether you’re getting ready for a day of exploring or heading out on a road trip, this city deli serves up some ridiculously delicious food. The 222* special consists of two eggs, two slices of pastrami, two latkes, as well as some buttered rye toast. The pastrami is good enough to worship, thick and nicely seasoned. It’ll have you kvelling.
Swiss Hibiscus // In Portland's Alberta district, you can find the best Swiss food you’ll ever have. The rosti is starchy and buttery. The schnitzel pars with those in Vienna. What puts this restaurant over the top is its prices. The chicken or port schnitzel with two sides is $15.50, and the pasta Bolognese is $13.50. If you don’t already know, Oregon has no sales tax. The restaurant is small, so book in advance of your trip.
Ken's Artisan Bakery // If you don't eat carbs, well, don't go to Ken's, because you'll cry if you deny yourself fresh, handsome bread, piped eclairs, or flakey croissants. Each food item at this locals' establishment is a no-regrets-bet-guarrentee-to-be-good. One simply cannot explore the funky and cool Nobb Hill area without a treat from Ken's Bakery. (Glutten-Freebies, there are options for you!)
DO
Pearl District // After walking through Old Town Chinatown, you will happen upon the beginning of Portland’s Pearl District. Pearl Bakery offers tasty treats to nosh on as you peruse the area. Two blocks over from the bakery is the famous Powell's bookstore. It’s easy to spend several hours here, with its many levels and rooms. Don’t spend all your time shopping for books—the area is full of great cafes and boutiques, and has a cool urban, industrial feel. Make sure to check out World Food market on Everett Street for exotic bites.
Historic Columbia River Highway // This scenic route runs parallel to Highway 84 and is perfect for a one-day roadtrip. There are numerous waterfalls further along the route, including Latourell Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and the most picturesque, Multnomah Falls. Exploring these natural wonders is a great way to experience the beauty of the Pacific NorthWest.
Marchesi Vineyard // Along the route, you will find Marchesi Vineyards. For a rest, pull over here and enjoy a flight of wines and admire the fields of growing grapes. After your respite, there are several orchard farm stands along the road where you can buy some plump apples and juicy pears for a satisfying snack on the drive back to Portland.
Cannon Beach // Explore Oregon's impressive coast with an hour and a half drive to Cannon Beach, the recognizable film set of The Goonies. Before getting your feet sandy, stop at Sea Level Bakery for coffee and a light bite. From there, take a short walk to Stephanie's Inn where you can get some majestic views of the beach from an upscale lobby. Drive to downtown Cannon Beach where you'll find an ample selection free parking. Walking up and down the beach is heavenly, but the homemade hot chocolate at Sleepy Monks Coffee Roasters is a divine creation of its own. Since the restaurants in the area are rather touristy, we suggest waiting until you return to Portland for dinner. Make sure to check out Neahkahnie Viewpoint for a stunning sight before you head back to the city.