'Eclectic' Hawthorne District, Portland

Wow- I happened on this place and it was like walking into a dream- as a health-counscious vegan I usually have to be picky about a menu, but everything here is for me! I had an INCREDIBLE mint-chocolate milkshake (no milk, of course) and "a taste of the sea". The place is in a revamped old Victorian building, and is stunning- it was worth it to me for the atmosphere alone, but the food also blew me away. Very hip crowd, friendly, and wholesome envoronment. Definitely one of the best things going for Hawthorne.

What to buy: Try something new- even if you don't know what "tempeh" is, if you get it from Calendula, I'll wager you'll like it, just like my grandma!

What to pay: Meals are reasonably priced- brunch from 8 dollars, and dinner ranging between 9 and 15 dollars.

Dollar Scholar offers quite a number of items, many of them children's toys, for $1 or under each. Some of them are $0.25 each. Customers can open anything and play with anything.

The store has been in operation for a number of years, and this is also a very good bet for local information.

What to buy: If your children are antsy for something to do, this is a good place to get face paint, cheap new toys, or something else they need to keep them going.

This is also a good place to get Hawthorne Buisness District maps.

What to pay: Nothing more than $1, (unless you want more than one thing!)

This shop has a little bit of everything, so long as it's goddess related. Statues of most every goddess, including the Virgin Mary; books on goddesses from all parts of the world: Celtic, Native American, Norse, Roman, Hindu, African... rituals and chants to follow; music...the list goes on.

What to buy: I never knew there were so many goddesses! I chose a statuette of one goddess I thought my aunt would relate to and got my aunt a book about her. There are so many cultures and goddesses to learn about!

What to pay: $20 and up. I'm sure you could spend more or less though.

This little store is packed with things to try. Candies, cheeses, meats, chocolates, coffees, teas, jams, condiments, sauces, juices, wines, beers, etc. from all over Europe. Mufko, the owner, is a kind guy from Bosnia who plans within a short time to add a variety of Balkan specialties to his menu, but don't wait to go. You can stop in and get the best capuccino in town from him right now!

What to buy: Though you'll find treats from all over Europe, I recommend the Balkan speicialties here. Kras chocolates from Croatia are good and cheaper than most other Euro chocolates. Ajvar, a bright orange condiment from eggplants and pepper with garlic & seasonings is one of my favorites, especially when eaten with the delicious and CHEAP Bulgarian feta. If you like pilsner beers, try the Karlovacko beer from the refridgerator.

Wear what's no longer trendy enough for the fashionable elite, and get it sorta cheap at the Red Light. If you're shopping with someone who takes forever, just hang out at the Atari games until they're finished. For shirts and jeans, skip this place and find the same stuff cheaper at Goodwill.

This is a plus size women's shop. The clothes are new or gently used. There are great bargains and unique styles. Owner has a great eye for clothes. Prices are great too since the clothes are used.