Nestled in the heart of Northwest Portland, specifically on 23rd Street Portland Or, lies a location rich in community history and now a haven for craft beverage enthusiasts. This spot, across the parking lot from Tavern and Pool and within a building that once served as a beloved old grocery store in the Slabtown area, has a fascinating story to tell.
For years, the 23rd Avenue Bottle Shop was a neighborhood fixture under the ownership of Homer Medica and his mother, Rose. Longtime friends of McMenamins, Homer and Rose built a welcoming space that was captured in time in various ways, including photographs and local literature. Homer’s presence in the shop is documented in photos from 1985 and more recent years, showcasing his enduring connection to this corner of 23rd Street Portland OR.
The significance of this location on 23rd Street Portland OR extends beyond its role as a local shop. In 1993, the esteemed Portland author Ursula K. Le Guin, known for her vast body of work including novels, essays, and poetry, featured Homer and his bottle shop in her photo essay book, Blue Moon Over Thurman Street. This book documented the people and places along Thurman Street, highlighting the essence of the neighborhood. Homer’s inclusion and interview in Le Guin’s book underscores the bottle shop’s integral part in the fabric of 23rd Street Portland OR and the wider community. Even reviews of Le Guin’s book at the time noted the street’s enduring appeal, blending the old and new, and maintaining its vibrant character.
Today, McMenamins proudly carries forward the legacy of this cherished neighborhood spot on 23rd Street Portland OR. While the offerings have evolved from the days of sandwiches and sodas, the welcoming spirit remains. The modern McMenamins Bottle Shop boasts an impressive selection of over 800 craft beers, ciders, wines, and spirits sourced from both local producers and around the globe. This evolution ensures that 23rd Street Portland OR continues to be a destination for those seeking quality beverages.
Beyond the extensive bottled selection, the shop also features sparkling wine, special cocktail selections, growler fills, and a curated menu of small bites. With 20 taps pouring McMenamins’ own beers and ciders, alongside rotating guest brews, the current iteration of the bottle shop on 23rd Street Portland OR provides a comprehensive experience for beverage lovers. For anyone looking to explore a wide world of drinks in a location with deep roots, a visit to the north end of NW 23rd is a must.
