CITY GUIDES: Portland, Oregon

Atlanta-born (plus a bonus stint in Austin), I landed in Portland right as the pandemic was fading – and while I only planted my flag in the City of Roses for 5 years, I prided myself in diving all-in. The food + beverage scene is flourishing, as is the music scene (my home turf no matter the city). I was mostly sober for most of my time here, so you can trust me as a sound source for intel on how to spend a dynamic visit to Portland without alcohol.

Portland doesn’t necessarily announce itself as an NA-forward city, but spend a bit of time here and you’ll realize: it’s everywhere. Thoughtful menus, bartenders who actually care, and enough cozy, slightly offbeat spaces to make you want to linger.

Food and beverage

If you’re looking to anchor your trip with a proper night out, start with Kann (by James Beard award winning chef Gregory Gourdet, who is sober!). It’s one of those places you build a reservation around – yes, a bit of a splurge, but worth it. The menu draws from Haitian flavors (I highly recommend the half chicken dish). The NA program isn’t an afterthought: you’ll feel taken care of whether you’re drinking or not.

For something a little more casual but equally dialed, Canard is another standout. It leans indulgent (in that classic French way), but there’s an intentionality behind it that makes the whole experience feel balanced and approachable.

Pacific Standard is another reliable go-to: comfort food, unfussy in the best way, and a team that knows how to make a proper NA cocktail without making a big deal about it. Refreshing.

Radio Room, which does classic cocktails well in NA form. It sits conveniently across from Cascada, one of the best spas in town. You could totally build a whole afternoon here: sauna, soak, with a drink at Radio Room after.
And listen, I’m a high-low girl. Notably, there’s also a hot dog situation nearby (Donnie’s) that should NOT be overlooked.

Check out Victoria Bar, especially when the weather cooperates. The patio is expansive, the food is solid, and the NA options hold their own.

Holy Ghost and Blank Slate are both a bit more under-the-radar, but worth popping into if you want something that feels a little more local.
By the way – if you’re a fan of deliciously high-quality leather items, Portland Leather Goods is near the former and could be a fun spot to pass through.
Blank Slate sits near a neighborhood called Mt. Tabor where you’ll find a beautiful park to stroll through, have a picnic, or enjoy views of the city from.

This one is not for everyone, but when it hits, it hits. The Uncanny is straight up spooky. Like, weird art, scary dolls... You get the picture. That said, you’ll find a fully vegan menu and NA drinks that feel intentional, not obligatory. I’m into it year-round, but if you’re on the fence, an October visit would fit right in.

Then… there’s Hale Pele, which is… a whole experience. It’s theatrical in the best tiki-themed way. You’ll get a heavily-themed atmosphere, multiple (not just one) drinks involving fire, tastefully kitsch glassware, and drinks that feel like an event. Even without the alcohol. Order a virgin daiquiri and settle in. It’s part escapism, part spectacle.

Living Room Wines is a solid wine bar. Events, community, and a genuinely nice place to spend time. It’s an easy entry point if you’re NA-curious or just want to be around people who care about what they’re drinking.

Beer lovers, this is for you. Belmont Station offers a solid tap setup that does include NA options. It’s low-key, unpretentious, and a nice reminder that you don’t have to fully opt out of the “beer scene” to participate in it.

Off the shelf

If you’re wanting to grab something off the shelf to enjoy at home or outdoors (given the weather is on your side), Wellspent Market is a great option. Goods for a beautifully curated pantry, and a STRONG selection of NA bottles, mixers, and ingredients.

To stay

Hotel Grand Stark is a wonderful eastside stay in the city – great for modern-minimalist-design lovers. The bar has a great happy hour.

If a retro aesthetic is more your thing, Kennedy School is a renovated elementary school-turned-hotel/restaurant/movie theater. Of course it has literary themes throughout. Discover original chalkboards and other scholastic ephemera, and a GORGEOUS ceramic-lined heated pool located in a flourishing private outdoor courtyard.

Coffee

Push x Pull
Best pourovers. Nuff said.

Heart coffee
Best espresso. Nuff said.

Activities

PAM is our small but mighty art museum. It’s a lovely stop if you’re looking to catch some art. There’s a great Hockney exhibit right now. They also own Tomorrow Theater – if film is your thing, they maintain a great programming schedule and host screenings and guest speakers.

ISO fresh air? If you’re in Portland during the summer and you’re looking for a swimming opp, hang out at the docks in the middle of the city. Take a dip.

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Portland rewards curiosity. It’s a city where a good plan will serve you well, but leaving room to wander… ducking into a bar, a shop, a show… is often where the magic happens. Whether you’re drinking or not is beside the point.