In 2011, my wife and I took a four-day trip to Portland, Oregon. We were lucky enough to stay with dear friends who gave us a taste of the city’s amazing cocktail culture. Portland is known for its beer culture and food cart scene, but what really stood out to us was how cocktails were intertwined at nearly all levels of Portland dining.
Even the smallest taqueria, sandwich shop, and coffee joint all had custom cocktail menus. It was clear that the people of Portland take their cocktails seriously, and this was reflected in the quality of the drinks. The bartenders were knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, and the results were truly delicious.
One of the things that impressed us most about Portland’s cocktail scene was the way it was integrated into the dining experience. It wasn’t just a matter of having a drink with your meal, but rather a matter of having a carefully crafted cocktail that complemented the food in a unique and interesting way. Whether we were at a fancy restaurant or a hole-in-the-wall joint, everybody had cocktails, and not just half-assed ones either. Everywhere we went, the cocktails were thoughtful and totally appropriate to the venue.
Portland is divided into five quadrants, which I found fascinating, and something I still haven’t figured out. Each quadrant had its own unique vibe and attractions. We spent time exploring neighborhoods like the Pearl District, which is home to many trendy restaurants and shops, and Alberta, which has a more bohemian feel and is known for its street art.
But it was the cocktail culture that stuck out. We sampled drinks at many different places, from classic cocktail bars to trendy speakeasies to donut shops. Some of our favorites included Clyde Common, and Teardrop Lounge, both of which had a huge selection of inventive drinks and a sleek, modern atmosphere.
Overall, my four-day trip to Portland was one of the longest weeks of my life. All we did was eat, drink, and walk non-stop the whole time. Portland does pride itself on its uniqueness, its unusual spirit, and its beauty. It was clear that the people of Portland take their food and drink seriously. It’s a city that truly caters to lovers of good food and drink. I will be returning later this year and can’t wait to put in the work again. I strongly encourage you to do the same.
