There is a specific vibe that comes to mind when visitors think of Portland, and North Portland’s Historic Mississippi District definitely embodies that vibe – eclectic, evolved, whimsical and bohemian. In the spirit of Keeping Portland Weird, we have divided our beloved city into quadrants – five of them! North Portland is the fifth quadrant, jutting out from Northeast. Mississippi Avenue is one of the most charming areas of North Portland, or NoPo.
Strolling along Mississippi Avenue is an adventure and a pleasure all at the same time. The boutique shopping is diverse and personal, the area exudes a festive energy even on a weekday and the dining scene is unmatched. You will find the most decadent treats, the most daring cocktails and the most mind-blowingly delicious international cuisine on this street, all with your choice of indoor or outdoor seating. You can’t beat that!
Here are some picks from Portland’s Where To Eat Guide to light you on your way:
The Pastrami Reuben at Oregon Deli Company. Photo: Oregon Deli Company
What could be more delightful than diving into a soup, salad or sandwich made with locally-sourced ingredients, including house cured meats, pickled vegetables and fresh-baked biscuits in a Victorian House? Well, with Oregon Deli Company’s help, you could do that, or have those same goodies in a boxed lunch at your next company party. Or Oregon Deli Company could cater your next event. Swing by, sample the magic, and discuss your catering needs. Ask about gluten-free options. A Kid’s Menu is also available.
Eat this: Pastrami Rueben, Roast Beef Dip, Bison Chili, Chickpea and Veggie Stew, Roasted Vegetables, Deviled Eggs with pickled shallot and fresh dill, house made cookies or lemon bars!
Drink this: Dry Lavender Soda, Humm Original Kombucha, Organic Juices.
3560 N Mississippi Ave
Brunch at North Light. Photo: North Light Facebook
North Light’s calming atmosphere both inside and out makes tasting the “sophisticated take on comfort food” especially enjoyable. The New American menu and full bar make it an excellent choice for brunch, happy hour or dinner. There are plenty of satisfying options for vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diners. The menu changes seasonally.
Eat this: Gluten-free Huevos Rancheros, Vegan Tofu Scramble, Vegetarian Black Bean Fry Bread Taco
Drink this: Brunch Cocktails, like the Spicy Bloody Mary and the Peach Bellini
3746 N Mississippi Ave
Shrimp & Grits at Miss Delta. Photo: Miss Delta Facebook
Hope you're extra hungry, ‘cause Miss Delta serves up a heap of delicious made-from-scratch Cajun/Creole cuisine and also has a full bar that serves adorable mason jar cocktails. Try the hearty house smoked meats, hush puppies, grits, fried okra and corn bread.
Eat this: Shrimp & Grits, Crawfish or Shrimp Étouffée, Pork Baby Back Ribs, Grandma’s Banana Pudding
Drink this: Mississippi Mule, Sazerac, Pomegranate Margarita
3950 N Mississippi Ave