#3 Portland Series: Old Town with Kimiko Matsuda

Our 3rd mini series about where to shop, see and discover in Portland!

This week I had the absolute delight of re-discovering Old Town with the wonderful Kimiko Matsuda. Maybe you haven't been to Old Town in a while, but maybe it's time to head there - grab a pal and support some of these gems our city is so lucky to have.

Today we are focusing on the all the incredible businesses down there thriving and more than surviving (but also it has been a rough year for mannnnny small businesses this year so drop in and support any of your other local favorites old and new!)

Being with Kimiko is like a warm and literal hug. She knows EVERYONE everywhere, and everyone knows her. She has the keys and connections to all the best kept secret and not so secret spots. Kimiko wears the biggest smile and a lover of leopard, like me, so of course we both showed up in our fav print.

Kimiko knows Portland (and is the winner of Travel Portland's Community Connector Award!!) so when I asked her if she wanted to take part in this series with me, I was delighted she said yes - and also that she chose Old Town as her highlight spot.

Here is where she took us in a quick 2 hour tour.

Let's go!

Deadstock Coffee

First up, Deadstock! A sneaker themed coffee shop - owned by a former Nike shoe designer. They sell their own coffee beans as well as a great assortment of apparel tees. The walls are adorned in great art and Nike sneakers (and a lot more - see for yourself!) The drinks were delicious - I ordered an iced Masha Chai and Kimiko the oat latte with an Air Force 1 on top (you get to choose your favorite sneaker for the latte art). We sat outside in the last of the summer sun before heading off to our next spot...

Orox Leather Goods

Just a 30 second walk was Orox Leather Goods . We were welcomed (and more hugs given) into the most wonderful store owned by a Father and Son duo (and actually four generations of leather makers with roots beginning in Oaxaca, Mexico - their name Orox represents the merging their past (Oaxaca) with the present (Oregon) THIS store is the reason why I love getting out and doing this series - seeing other business owners thriving and inspiring.

The other side of the store is where they make all of the products they sell. It was such an amazing process to see and talk to the makers and owners who sent us away with a beautiful gift. Such a 10/10 experience, thank you Orox!

Index

New to me, but with a big Instagram and local following is Index - a consignment sneaker store - the staff were super lovely. As it happens, they has the exact sneakers I've been searching for on eBay in MY size, it was meant to be. Near by, is another store Unspoken

Iindependent brands and emerging designers to Portland. Unspoken sits halfway between street culture and contemporary menswear)

Goodies Snack Shop!

Yes to allllll the snacks! A stunning store space and a joy to meet and chat with the owner. This place is GREAT to pick up some snacks, work from the tables or / and hang out. I loved it here. YUM.

Goodies is a 1st generation Snack Shop + Market - a focused marketplace where snacking culture is represented through the lens of discovery, flavor and community.

Lan Su Chinese Garden

Beautiful, stunning Lan Su Chinese Garden is at the heart of Old Town. So serene, incredibly calm and a lovely tea house to hydrate and eat at the end of your day. More info can be found here from their website with current offerings and events.

Society Hotel

In Old Town, is the Society's OG hotel. Society Hotel has two very different locations and although I've been out to the one in Bingen for a soak and stay - this was my first time here. Grab a drink at the bar and head up to their stunning rooftop for some incredible Portland views.

Lastly!

We tried to visit Barnes and Morgan but they were closed that day - next time for sure. Chess Club just opened - a rad store offering global magazines and art - check for opening times here.

I loved our 2 hour tour, thank you Kimiko for your time, your talent, sharing your love and your HUGS! And of course, the wonderful Kaitlin Green for taking all these amazing photos and hanging out with us xx

#3 Portland Series: Old Town with Kimiko Matsuda

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