Portland Winters

These are the months that it feels especially precious to be out in the community. I had a long overdue weekend of seeing old friends and bopping around town. Here's what's fresh (for me!)

Bishop & Wilde
I FINALLY made it! Bishop & Wilde is a queer-owned bookshop (and records and art and ephemera) on NW Thurman, just a stones throw from the hustle and bustle of NW 23rd. My friend and I had a lovely visit with Melissa and I was happy to take home an Amy Tan book that I've been meaning to read (used), and Mettlework by local author Jessica Johnson that was enthusiastically recommended to me by both my friend Maesie and Melissa. Bishop & Wilde does book consignment! And you can shop online! And they have cool monthly events! So, put them on your list of places to check out.

Bing Me
I know I'm behind the times in eating here, but it's really delicious. The bing is pretty reminiscent of the street stall snacks I know from living in Beijing as a young person. And, it's just a short walk from Bishop & Wilde! And it's quick, and hot and satisfying and they are very nice. 

Dragonfly Coffeehouse
I spent a lot of the early aughts working in coffeeshops (I am Peet's trained! Which meant something back then...) and Dragonfly takes me back. It's always bustling and lively in a way that feels rare these days. People were doing all the things- catching up with friends, knitting, an obvious first dates, refueling after a work-out, studying, talking about their dogs. Plus they make in-house pastries like their hearty cashew cookie which is alone worth the visit.

Betsy & Iya PLUS Superette
You can't go to NW without at least popping into Betsy & Iya (and Fina, their fab new fine jewelry shop right next door!) and Superette. We popped into Betsy & Iya for gifts for my nieces, then hit Superette to get (another) Ina Seifart bauble for my phone case.

Vivienne Culinary Books
I have been meaning to attend one of my old pal's book events since August, when her beautiful, relatable, heartwarming, funny and important book, Group Living, came out. So, I was extra happy to attend Lola's event at the new (to me!) Vivienne location on Alberta, which I have also been meaning to check out. Of course, the book talk was perfect, and we were treated to yummy food! Vivienne owner, Robin, is delightful and I was very happy to learn that she does consignment on cookbooks and kitchenware! She has a beautiful collection of cookware and every cookbook you didn't know you were looking for. If you haven't been in yet, please go. Robin has a robust schedule of culinary events that sell out quickly!