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Kimpton Vintage Portland
September 17, 2025
The oldest hotel in Portland, Oregon is known now as Kimpton Vintage. When it opened in 1894 it was called the Imperial Hotel. Its history includes expansion and contraction through changes in ownership. I particularly enjoy the architecture of that period, which was built when the city was riding high. I have stayed in other Kimpton properties, which I admire for the reform and restoration of historic structures. Kimpton Vintage Portland is a shining example of artful design that creates an atmosphere of elegance and hospitality.
We had a wonderful visit in an elegant corner room before a long train journey. The front desk agent, Ben, convinced us to return at the end of our trip. We asked him what was happening on the 9th floor on the balconies. He told us about the jacuzzi suites available, then booked one for us.
This was a perfect grand finale to our trip. The hotel has a daily complimentary wine happy hour with excellent local wines. The convivial lobby event gives guests a cozy way to meet each other. We met a fellow guest who had borrowed the free bike the hotel offers to ride across the bridge to survey the city.
Too many superb options exist for dining within walking distance of the hotel. We only had time to visit a couple old favorites on our stay.
I love staying downtown Portland to experience history in a modern context. I have now found the perfect place to enjoy that. It’s a short walk to the waterfront, my fave place to stroll. Public transportation is super convenient and efficient. Cosmopolitan living at its finest is available for visitors to the Rose City. Dogs are welcome.
Pear With Me
September 14, 2025
To answer the question “How far can one elevate a cocktail experience?”, we turned to the Bellpine Bar high atop downtown Portland, Oregon. On the 20th floor of the Ritz-Carlton the bar delivers views, innovative drinks and snacks with the service that makes the Ritz so ritzy.
My husband had two delicious mocktails and I had a Pear With Me cocktail. Flavorful, garnished with a dried pear slice covered in sugar. I decided to eat the candied pear as a first course rather than sweeten my drink. It was crisp like candy apple. I sipped the complex mixture as we enjoyed the snack selection. Intense flavors paired well and peared well… A delicious treat with a stunning view.
The little log cabin built of French fried potatoes came with a delicate gravy lightly seasoned with truffles. The wontons contained spinach and peppers. The entire delightful evening was delivered with grace by our attentive server, Katrina.
10/10 highly recommended! Just don’t go there to save money.
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