Online - August 01, 2007

PDX-stasy

DailyCandy Goes to Portland

Time to stop and smell the City of Roses. With its arty vibe and impressive food and wine scene, laid-back Portland has tons to sniff at these days.

NEST
Thread counters check into the plush Hotel deLuxe (729 SW 15th Ave.; 866-895-2094), a revamped art deco spot with Old Hollywood appeal. For an edgier experience, bunk at Ace Hotel (1022 SW Stark St.; 503-228-2277). Pendleton blankets, wall etchings, and vintage turntables adorn modern barracks-style rooms. Caffeine provided by Stumptown in the lobby.

INGEST
Order an Oregon pinot noir and popcorn shrimp at the cozy (if crowded) Driftwood Room (729 SW 15th Ave.; 503-223-6311). Or experiment in the liquor lab at Saucebox (214 SW Broadway; 503-241-3393). Try the “best drink” — and ask no further questions.

Take a side trip to Paris at Le Pigeon (738 E. Burnside St.; 503-546-8796). Sit at the counter to watch chef Gabriel Rucker work magic with beef cheek and monkfish. Another winner: 23Hoyt (529 NW 23rd Ave.; 503-445-7400) for zucchini-ricotta gnocchi and lavender honey crème brûlée. Ken’s Artisan Bakery (326 NW 21st Ave.; 503-248-2202) is a local fave for its hallowed pizzas.

INVEST
North Mississippi Avenue is the talk of the town. Pick up scented candles, unique stationery, and vintage jewelry at Flutter (3948 N. Mississippi Ave.; 503-288-1649). Handmade chocolates and specialty salts satisfy multiple cravings at The Meadow (3731 N. Mississippi Ave.; 503-288-4633). Add to your wardrobe at Phlox (3962 N. Mississippi Ave.; 503-890-0715) and Gypsy Chic (3966 N. Mississippi Ave.; 503-234-9779).

Quirky Northeast Alberta Street is a hidden gem. Office (2204 NE Alberta St.; 888-355-7467) brightens the work week with cool cube supplies. Stop by Mabel & Zora (1468 NE Alberta St.; 503-335-6169) for Angela Arnold baubles and retro clothes and Imp (1422 NE Alberta St.; 503-282-7467) for Urban Bird cards (now closed).

REST
Retreat to Aequis Spa (419 SW 11th Ave.; 503-223-7847) for aromatherapy, a warm footbath, and the legendary medley massage. Chill out post-knead with green tea at the venerable Powell’s Books (1005 W. Burnside St.; 503-228-4651).