The Meadow Neighborhood Guide
The Meadow - 805 NW 23rd Ave Portland, OR
Victorian Elegance Meets Urban Chic Northwest
NW 23rd Avenue—affectionately known as Nob Hill or "Trendy-Third"—is where Portland puts on its fancy pants without losing its soul. This neighborhood takes its name from San Francisco's Nob Hill, and the comparison fits: it's Portland's most sophisticated shopping district, lined with Victorian and Edwardian mansions that have been lovingly converted into boutiques, cafés and restaurants.
The neighborhood's story begins with Captain John Couch, who arrived in Portland in 1840 and became one of the city's early developers. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Portland's wealthy built grand homes in these West Hills, creating the "Alphabet District" (streets run alphabetically from Burnside to Vaughn—though they mysteriously skipped X and Z). The Portland Streetcar arrived in the early 1900s, connecting the neighborhood to downtown and turning NW 23rd into a bustling commercial corridor.
By the mid-20th century, the area had faded somewhat, but by the 1980s and '90s, a revival was underway. Historic homes were restored, independent shops opened, and the neighborhood became a destination for both locals and visitors. Today, it's a perfect blend: sophisticated yet approachable, upscale yet walkable, with tree-lined streets and sidewalk cafés that evoke European charm.
What makes Nob Hill different? It's Portland's grown-up neighborhood—less gritty than Mississippi, less corporate than downtown, less hipster than Hawthorne. It's where you go for quality over irony, for beautiful things made by artisans who care, for a meal that feels like an occasion. Forest Park's 70 miles of trails start at the northern edge, so you can hike in the morning and shop in the afternoon.
Independent Retail Treasures Near The Meadow
Betsy & Iya (812 NW 23rd Ave) Handcrafted jewelry designed and made in Portland. Bold, sculptural pieces for people who want their accessories to tell a story. Each piece is unique and beautifully crafted.
Sloan Boutique (738 NW 23rd Ave) A fashion-forward women's boutique featuring independent designers and carefully curated collections. Sophistication with a Portland edge.
Smith Teamaker (500 NW 23rd Ave) A tea lover's sanctuary. Sample artisan teas, take a tasting class, or browse their selection of loose-leaf teas and tea accessories. Zen in a cup.
Freakybuttrue Peculiarium (2234 NW Thurman St) Nob Hill's wonderfully weird contribution to Portland oddity. A museum of curiosities with art, novelties, oddities, and (yes) a snack bar serving edible bugs. Free admission, priceless memories.
Margaret O'Leary (802 NW 23rd Ave) Luxury knitwear made from natural fibers—merino, cashmere, linen, organic cotton. Hand-loomed pieces worn by celebrities but accessible to mere mortals. Perfect for Pacific Northwest layering.
Case Study Coffee Roasters (802 NW 23rd Ave) Set inside a stunning white Victorian, this café offers spectacular coffee and a gorgeous space for lingering. Order a latte, grab a table by the wrap-around window, and watch Nob Hill stroll by.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry!
Top Burmese Burma Joy (1305 NW 23rd Ave) Set inside a cozy dining room, with decor inspired by the beautiful places of Myanmar. The fermented tea leaf salad and coconut noodle soup are to live for!
Papa Haydn (701 NW 23rd Ave) Legendary for desserts—especially the triple chocolate cake and towering carrot cake. The entrées are solid too, but let's be honest: you're here for the sweets. Perfect for celebrating with friends.
St. Jack (1610 NW 23rd Ave) A charming French restaurant serving rustic, hearty fare. Pop in for happy hour with girlfriends for wine and small plates, or come for a full dinner of coq au vin and duck confit.
