Concerning the Park Block between Morrison and Yamhill:
The new building going up is not un-handsome, and the Virginia Cafe is re-opening on 10th street. I know it's not the same, and it's a little sad, but what can you do? As much as I loved hanging out at Virginia Cafe, The Driftwood at Hotel Mallory (now called something else) is my favorite bar in Portland. Oh, and My Father's Place rocks me too. And Sandy Hut. And Club 21.
dvdmsy, yes I agree the tower is going to be a good addition. I just wish it could've been built in a block that wasn't so full of nice buildings. That's why I had to immortalize the Virginia Cafe in photos. At least I'll never forget what it felt like to walk by there at night and see that glowing sign with the Christmas lights inside... it was magical. I'll have to check out those other places you listed. So far, I haven't been to any of them.
^^^ Great shots all over downtown! I agree with you on the demise of the Virginia Cafe's building, but mostly b/c of the classic, funky vibe inside (I think it opened in 1914?) ... but I can't say I'll miss the actual building, though. The brick one on the south end of the block was nice. Anyway, Park Avenue West will be I great addition to the skyline, but I would WAY rather see it built on a surface parking lot than here! The city oughta require some sort of extensive landscaping for those damn lots, so they're not so lucrative -- then maybe the owners would be willing to build on them. Thanks for the tour!
Yeah, those surface lots are an outrage. The one between Park and tenth, and Washington and Alder is the one that most makes me want to stick a fireplace poker through my neck. They should put a roller coaster there.
Linear Mode
