In Praise of Portland

During the day, try the Tea Zone for invigorating tonics that target the mind, body and spirit. P.F. Chang's China Bistro is part of a national chain, but it's still a tasty choice. Later on, take in some live music (every night of the week) at Jimmy Mak's Bar & Grill.

Northwest Nob Hill

The neighborhood known as Nob Hill, or Northwest 23rd Avenue, is just minutes from the Pearl.

Home to perhaps the city's liveliest street scene, it's a well-established destination for upscale shopping and elegant dining.

Some of Portland's most intricate Victorian architecture accommodates these outstanding boutiques and restaurants.

You'll find well-known anchor stores here including Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma Home, Restoration Hardware and Urban Outfitters.

But the vast majority of local retailers offer unique items. Compleat Bed & Breakfast features luxurious linens for bed and bath. Rich's Cigar Store, a landmark destination for 112 years, offers premium cigars, pipes and outstanding tobaccos. The Laura Russo Gallery exhibits work by both established and emerging Pacific Northwest artists.

There are lots of places in the area to stop to eat.

Kornblatt's (628 N.W. 23rd Ave.) features New York-style deli service and specialties. Pastini Pastaria is a casual Italian bistro with a warm, urban atmosphere accented with cozy wood booths and art glass lights. It's a good bet that the people in line at Papa Haydn aren't there for lunch or dinner but for the scrumptious desserts that are served all day long. The St. Honore Boulangerie is where Francophiles can get their fix of authentic French snacks and pastries.

Northeast Alberta Street

I was particularly taken by Alberta Street between Northeast 12th and 33rd Avenues.

Instead of the ubiquitous banners that hang from the streetlights of most urban shopping areas, area artisans have fashioned distinctive metalwork pieces into permanent displays of art.