This Street In Portland Has The Most Eclectic And Charming Shops In The State
By Sarah McCosham|Published March 01, 2021
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Mississippi Avenue is a historic Portland neighborhood that’s undergone a big transformation in recent years. Like many inner suburbs, this neighborhood experienced a steady decline in residents and businesses beginning in the 1950s; and by the ’90s, Mississippi Avenue was a shell of its former self. But then something marvelous happened: the neighborhood rallied together. The Historic Mississippi Avenue Business Association was formed, and over the next few years, the neighborhood experienced a sea change. Today, Mississippi Avenue is a vibrant and tight-knit community — and a haven for local businesses. In fact, this street in Portland has the most eclectic and charming shops in the state, so let’s go explore Mississippi Avenue!
Mississippi Avenue is a North Portland neighborhood that was established in the late 1800s.
The stretch of Mississippi Avenue between North Skidmore and North Fremont Streets is home to an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, retailers, and other businesses.
Grass-fed beef, house-made ketchup, and a finger-licking "special sauce" make these burgers absolutely crave-worthy. And paired with a beer while watching a live show? That's a totally rockin' night out in Portland.
Another neighborhood institution is the eponymous Mississippi Pizza Pub.
You can order Mississippi Pizza by the slice, and we recommend trying a few different varieties. "The Portland" pizza—pesto sauce, roasted red pepper, spinach, red onion, and sheep feta—is obviously a must.
Outdoor dining is a big trend in this close-knit community, and The Rambler has absolutely lovely front and back patios (and they're dog-friendly, too!).
Of course, Radar's dishes are all gorgeously composed (think Top Chef-level presentation), but the food itself is unfussy and delicious. Like the steak frites, which are a local favorite.
The only thing that could make strolling down Mississippi Avenue any better is ice cream.
Plants can be kind of intimidating for those not gifted with a green thumb, but Pistils Nursery offers classes, personalized customer service, and everything you need to be an amazing plant parent.
If Mississippi Avenue in Portland is a living, breathing being, then ReBuilding Center is its heart and soul.
The ReBuilding Center is a Portland nonprofit that sells discounted reclaimed building materials, vintage furniture, household appliances, and even new pieces made from repurposed items.
The ReBuilding Center is recycling and upcycling at its best—finding new uses and places for items that would otherwise be discarded.
The ReBuilding Center epitomizes the spirit of Mississippi Avenue; it's a place that gives new life to old things, and the community spirit here is strong.
In the spirit of new beginnings, Prost Marketplace got a huge revamp in 2018, and under new management, emerged once again Portland's top food cart pod.
It's a place where retailers flourish, small businesses are supported, and restaurants thrive. Mississippi Avenue is easily one of Portland's most charming spots, and the local love here is palpable.
Mississippi Avenue is a microcosm of Portland itself: it’s eclectic and charming, a haven for local businesses, and a place that’s proud of where it’s been—and where it’s going.
Have you explored Mississippi Avenue in Portland? If so, what’s your favorite shop or restaurant there? Share it with us in the comments below!
If you’re looking for a more businesses to support in Oregon, you’ll love the Made In Oregon store. This retailer sells all things Oregon made, from iconic foods (including our beloved marionberry jam) and locally produced wine, to cozy textiles from Pendleton Woolen Mills and even reusable bottles from Hydro Flask!
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