Artists' studios and a few pioneering galleries began popping up on Portland's Northeast Alberta Street about a decade ago. Now the once-gritty neighborhood is one of the city's most vibrant art districts, with boutiques and fine restaurants starting to take hold too, mostly between 12th and 31st Avenues.
Stop by any day but Monday, when some galleries are closed, or plan a visit during the monthly Last Thursday Art Walk (next event Apr 27; www.artonalberta.org or 503/493-1909), when street vendors and performers add to the energy.
Buffalo Gardens.
WHAT: Gardening store with gifts, tools, and a choice selection of plants. WHEN: 10-7 Wed-Mon. WHERE: 3033 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/288-0220.
Onda Arte Latina Gallery.
WHAT: Fine contemporary art, crafts, and design from throughout Latin America. WHEN: 11-6 Tue-Thu, 11-8 Fri-Sat, 12-4 Sun. WHERE: 2215 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/493-1909.
Guardino Gallery.
WHAT: Fine art and crafts by Northwest artists in one of the neighborhood's first galleries; shows change monthly. WHEN: 11-5 Tue, 11-6 Wed-Sat, 11-4 Sun. WHERE: 2939 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/281-9048.
Talisman Gallery.
WHAT: Cooperative gallery displays paintings and other works by more than 20 artists. WHEN: 1-6 Fri-Sun. WHERE: 1476 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/284-8800.
Ciao Vito.
WHAT: Sophisticated Italian fare focused on Oregon's seasonal organic harvest. WHEN: Dinner daily. HOW MUCH: $$$. WHERE: 2203 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/282-5522.
Fold Crêperie.
WHAT: Sweet and savory crêpes served from a Streamline trailer parked behind a historic house. WHEN: Brunch Sat-Sun; also open Last Thursday Art Walk evenings. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 2921 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/750-1415.
Tin Shed Garden Cafe.
WHAT:Breakfast rules at the popular neighborhood gathering place; dogs welcome on the outdoor patio. WHEN: Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Wed-Sun. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 1438 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/288-6966.
Helser's on Alberta.
WHAT: Sophisticated breakfast through the afternoon: tri-tip and eggs, brioche French toast, pear-and-havarti pie. Plus soup and sandwiches on weekdays. WHEN: Breakfast and lunch Tue-Sun. HOW MUCH: $ WHERE: 1538 N.E. Alberta St.; 503/281-1477.
Info: From I-5 in downtown Portland, take exit 303 and follow signs to Alberta Street.
