I packed my bags and headed out to Portland for a whirlwind west coast weekend to celebrate my younger sister. As I set out, I made my wishlist of everything I wanted to see and eat, and made sure the few days there were packed full of experiences.

If you know me, you know I love good food and great coffee. Portland did not disappoint! Day 1 started with an amazing brunch at Proud Mary on Alberta. The avocado toast succotash was out of this world. So good, that I have got to figure out all of the ingredients used and replicate at home! A beautiful drive to the coast later in the day took us to Cannon Beach where of course we walked the beach, documented the infamous Haystack rock and ate amazingly fresh fish and chips at a local brewery.

Day 2 got off to a slow start before hitting the Saturday market. There were so many amazing artisans in one location. The market went on for a few blocks and had me wishing we had something like this back home.  After the market we made a quick pitstop to Stumptown before exploring more of the downtown area including checking out Voodoo Donuts where the line stretched out the door and a walk through Powell's Bookstore.

The rest of the afternoon and evening were spent with good company and more great food walking the city before grabbing my bags and making my way toward the airport. One last quick stop at an evening market and food truck port, where I ate the best street tacos of my life, was followed by stumbling into a surf bar and movie screening. Then I was off.

As quickly as it started, it was over and I was on my flight back to New York. It is always exciting to explore a new city and I hope to return again soon.