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Everything You Need to Know about Foster-Powell in Portland

| Last Updated: November 2024

Foster-Powell, or “FoPo” as the locals call it, is a lively little neighborhood tucked into Southeast Portland. Shaped like a triangle, it’s a favorite for young families, immigrants, and just about anyone looking for a slice of Portland charm without breaking the bank. 

Where is Foster-Powell?

foster-powell-portland-map

Foster-Powell is located in Southeast Portland, Oregon. It’s nestled between Powell Boulevard to the north, Foster Road to the south, and 82nd Avenue to the east. 

What is the main road in Foster-Powell?

The main road in Foster-Powell is Foster Road, which defines the neighborhood’s southern border and gives it much of its character. It was once a route for farmers bringing goods downtown. 

Fast forward to today, Foster Road now serves as a lively artery lined with local businesses, cafes, and restaurants. 

How to Get to Foster-Powell?

Via bus: Take a 32-minute ride via the Line 17 bus at SW 5th & Harvey Milk. Your stop should be at SE Holgate & 72nd in Foster-Powell.

Via private care or taxi: Starting from SW 4th Ave, head north and take a right on SW Salmon St. Then, make another quick right onto SW 3rd Ave. 

Continue for a short stretch before turning left onto SW Madison St, keeping left to stay on the Hawthorne Bridge. After crossing the bridge, keep right to continue on SE Hawthorne Blvd, then take the ramp toward McLoughlin Blvd. 

Make a slight right onto SE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, which transitions into OR-99E S.

Follow OR-99E S for about a mile, then make a slight right onto SE Holgate Blvd. Stay on SE Holgate for about three miles until you arrive in the Foster-Powell neighborhood.

What to Do and See in Foster-Powell

Get into live music at Starday Tavern

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Address: 6517 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 971-888-4001
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 3:00 PM – 2:30 AM
Website

Tagged as “The Most OKest Bar in Portland”—trust us, they’re more than that!—Starday Tavern is the perfect spot to enjoy some old-school Portland vibes. This bar is known for its casual, laid-back atmosphere and some of the friendliest bartenders you’ll find in the area. 

Live music lovers will especially enjoy Starday Tavern’s lineup, which features bands nearly every night. The space fills up quickly though, so it’s best to arrive when the night is still young if you want a good seat. 

Besides the live music and welcoming crowd, Starday Tavern has a solid drink selection. This includes seltzers on tap, CBD shots, and even Jell-O shots for a bit of extra fun. 

There’s also outdoor seating for those who like to sip and people-watch or enjoy a smoke.

Dance your heart out at Tango Berretin

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Address: 6305 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 503-771-7470
Website

Think you have two left feet? Why not give dance schools a shot? 

This unique dance studio, led by Alex Krebs, is one of the best places to learn dances. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, there’s a class for everyone here.

Alex’s classes are known for being fun and accessible, thanks to his clear and engaging teaching style. For those wanting a more personal experience, private lessons with Alex are also available. These are best for those with zero experience.

Apart from the lessons, they also host milongas or social tango dance parties where the community gathers to practice and celebrate. There are even occasional live tango music nights where you can dance to authentic Argentine tunes – free snacks included!

Tour the Foster-Powell Community Garden

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Address: 3519 SE 62nd Ave
Contact: [email protected]
Website

Once an asphalt lot with underground gas tanks from a former gas station, this transformed space now hosts vibrant garden beds. This is all thanks to the dedication of local residents and the Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association. 

A major part of the garden’s charm is its resourcefulness. With no running water or electricity, all the garden’s needs are met through sustainable methods. 

This includes rainwater collected in large cisterns, and solar lighting that brightens the space after dusk. 

One of the highlights of the Foster-Powell Community Garden is the much-anticipated Annual FoPo Garden Tour. Held every June, this event invites neighbors and visitors alike to explore some of the most creative and colorful gardens in the area. 

With a selection of 18 to 25 gardens, each year’s tour showcases a variety of spaces like well-established yards and evolving green spaces. 

Where to Eat and Drink in Foster-Powell

Thunderbird Bar

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Address: 5339 SE Foster Rd
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Good to know: Offers plant-based dishes
Website

If you’re in Foster-Powell and looking for a place with serious character, Thunderbird Bar is a spot you can’t miss. 

This local favorite has an outdoor patio that’s both heated and covered, so you can hang out here year-round. The patio is smoker-friendly, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to smoke!

The menu at Thunderbird is a dream come true for plant-based eaters, with everything from vegan sliders to the must-try crispy vegan fried chicken sandwich. The latter one genuinely tastes like actual chicken – our entire team agrees!

The Marvin burger is also a top pick, and you can even add jalapeños for an extra burst of flavor if you like a little kick. And for those who like variety, there’s a great selection of beers, cocktails, and even CBD sodas to pair with your light meal.

Tambayan Restaurant

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Address: 6014 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 503-777-4217
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Sunday – Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Good to know: Best for home-style Filipino food
Website

This Filipino restaurant feels deceptively small from the outside, but step inside, and you’ll find it surprisingly spacious. So if you need a space for big family gatherings or a casual night out, you can’t miss this one.

On the menu, you’ll find Filipino classics like adobo pork, which is flavorful and tender and perfectly matches the garlic rice that it comes with. If you’re a fan of split pea dishes, the munggo with pork belly and spinach is highly recommended for its rich taste.

Breakfast? Try the longsilog, a traditional Filipino sausage dish served with garlic rice and egg. You can also opt for their popular mami chicken noodle soup, which is perfect for chilly Portland days. 

Last but not the least, you can’t say you’ve tried Filipino food without trying Halo-Halo – a cold, iced dessert topped with creamy caramel flan. End your meals with one!

Assembly Brewing

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Address: 6112 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 971-888-5973
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Good to know: Patio seats available
Website

Assembly’s Detroit-style pizza is the star of the show here. With a thick, fluffy crust and perfectly crisp edges, it’s not hard to see why locals rave about this. 

Their Greek salad is also a surprise hit, as it’s loaded with fresh veggies that pair perfectly with their cold draft beers. 

Popular drink options include their crisp Kolsch and their rich, flavorful stout. Both of them complement their hearty pizzas really well! 

Though takeout for certain specials might be limited, dining in is a treat, especially with their heated patio.

Plus, there’s plenty of on-site and street parking, so it’s an easy spot to swing by on a weekend afternoon or evening. Just take note that this bar is strictly for 21 and over!

Where to Shop in Foster-Powell

Foster Outdoor 

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Address: 6615 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 503-327-8463
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Good to know: Outdoor clothing for men, women, and kids
Website

This shop is the best place to score both new and used outdoor gear. It features top outdoor brands for men, women, and youth. 

From hiking poles and rain jackets to high-quality boots and knives, they pretty much have it all here. 

When you visit their store, don’t miss the upstairs section, where you’ll find an impressive selection of pre-owned shoes. The costs here are such a great value for money, and you can even find quality brands without breaking the bank.

What’s nice is that they have solid customer support. When you’re browsing their store, you can call a staff over and they’ll find what you need in no time. 

Plus, they ensure that used items, like skis, are safe and serviceable before letting you leave with them.

I’ve Been Framed- Art Supply Center

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Address: 4950 SE Foster Rd
Phone: +1 503-775-2651
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Good to know: Sells rare fine art supplies
Website

When you’re looking to shop in Foster-Powell, I’ve Been Framed is an absolute gem that you don’t want to miss. This vibrant art supply store is packed with an eclectic mix of new and gently used items, making it a paradise for artists on a budget.

From high-end paint brushes to watercolor paints, the shelves are stocked with everything you need to spark your creativity. Plus, the store is well-organized, so it’s easy to find just what you’re looking for without feeling overwhelmed.

I’ve Been Framed also features a framing shop at their second location at SE Ash and 28th, where you can find custom framing solutions for your artwork. Consider going there if you’re looking to showcase your artwork in style. 

Birds & Bees Nursery

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Address: 3327 SE 50th Ave
Phone: +1 503-788-6088
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Good to know: Woman-owned shop that sells native Northwest plants
Website

For plant lovers and green thumbs alike, Birds & Bees Nursery is a must-visit. Although the space is small, it’s packed with a stunning variety of healthy and vibrant plants at fantastic prices. 

You’ll even find medicinal herbs that are often hard to come by elsewhere!

Beyond their great selection, Birds & Bees Nursery is committed to supporting the local community. The owners frequently donate to local organizations, so each purchase feels even more meaningful. 

While parking can be a bit tricky with street-only options, there’s a public lot nearby that you can access. The walk to the store will make it worth it, as it’s hard to come by a place that sells both household and outdoor plants in the variety they offer. 

Where to Stay in Foster-Powell

The Hotel Zags Portland

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Address: 515 SW Clay St
Phone: +1 855-523-6914
Pricing: $$
Hours: Check-in time: 4:00 PM | Check-out time: 12:00 PM
Distance from Foster-Powell: 17 minutes
Website

Located just a short walk from public transportation, this trendy hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the vibrant cafes and shops of downtown Portland. Even better, you’re only 7 minutes away from iconic attractions like Pioneer Courthouse Square and the Portland Art Museum!

The hotel features 174 newly revamped rooms and suites, each designed with a bright color palette and modern furnishings. With amenities like pillow-top beds, ample workspace, and eco-friendly bath products, you’ll feel right at home too.

During your stay, you can start the day with a complimentary continental breakfast that’s served in the hotel’s restaurant. You can also take advantage of their Gear Shed, where you can borrow bicycles or even rental cameras to capture your Portland experience.

The Society Hotel – Portland

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Address: 203 NW 3rd Ave
Phone: +1 503-445-0444
Pricing: $$
Hours: Check-in time: 3:00 PM | Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Distance from Foster-Powell: 18 minutes
Website

Housed in a 1881 building that once served as a boarding house for sailors, this hotel combines old-world charm with a modern vibe. It’s just a quick walk from the Old Town/Chinatown MAX Station, providing easy access to Portland’s art and cultural scene.

In addition, The Society Hotel offers several accommodation options to fit different styles and budgets. For an affordable community experience, their bunk rooms feature custom-built, triple-tall bunks. 

They also come with charging stations, reading lights, and privacy curtains. 

Guests looking for more privacy can opt for the private rooms with shared bathrooms, which is conveniently affordable. For a more traditional hotel experience, the private suites include a king-size bed, panoramic views, and en-suite bathrooms.  

Ramada by Wyndham Portland

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Address: 9707 SE Stark St
Phone: +1 503-388-5793
Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Check-in time: 3:00 PM | Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Distance from Foster-Powell: 10 minutes
Website

This straightforward hotel covers all the essentials with standout features that make it an enjoyable spot for travelers. With complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi, your mornings are off to a great start without any extra cost.

The rooms at the Ramada are designed for comfort and cleanliness. However, you’ll probably be better somewhere else if you’re looking for something luxurious. 

Simple enough, each room includes cozy beds and soft pillows. That said, it’s the level of cleanliness that makes them a fantastic choice. 

Another perk of staying here is the convenient location and added amenities. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers free parking, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs for your furry friend or your vehicle!

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