Categories > Guides and Tips
Everything You Need to Know about South Tabor in Portland
- Where is South Tabor?
- What is the main boulevard in South Tabor?
- How to Get to South Tabor?
- Best Time to Go to South Tabor
- What to Do and See in South Tabor
- Try the art of metalsmithing at Custom Deluxe Studio
- Get inked at Birdhouse Tattoo
- Learn tea etiquette at Tea Zen - Tea House
- Where to Eat and Drink in South Tabor
- Steakadelphia
- The Porch Coffee Space
- Pizzicato Pizza
- Where to Shop in South Tabor
- ABC Seafood Company
- Continental Textiles
- Ruby Press
- Where to Stay in South Tabor
- Division Inns - The Evermore Guesthouse
- Division Inns - The Bluebird Guesthouse
- Ramada by Wyndham
- FAQ
South Tabor, tucked into Southeast Portland, is like the city’s chill best friend—close enough to the action to stay in the loop, but perfectly content with its own easygoing charm. At its heart is Mount Tabor Park, where locals hike, picnic, and chase sunsets worth stopping for.
Then there’s the historic 1894 Mount Tabor Water Tower—part landmark, part lookout, and totally photo-worthy.
This neighborhood hums with cozy cafes, offbeat shops, and a sense of community that feels effortless. South Tabor is a place that invites you to slow down, soak up its personality, and discover something new with every visit.
If you’re not sure where to start exploring on your visit, then this guide is all you need!
Where is South Tabor?
South Tabor is located in the southeastern part of Portland. It’s bordered to the north by Mount Tabor Park, to the east by SE 82nd Avenue, to the south by SE Division Street, and to the west by SE 60th Avenue.
Just a few miles from downtown, it’s close enough for easy access while still keeping its own unique neighborhood vibe.
What is the main boulevard in South Tabor?
The main street in South Tabor is SE Hawthorne Boulevard. This vibrant thoroughfare is lined with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a central hub for the community and a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
How to Get to South Tabor?
Metro Bus Service: You can take several TriMet bus routes serving South Tabor. The #71, #15, and #75 buses frequently stop in this area. You can get off at stops along SE Hawthorne Boulevard or SE 60th Avenue within the neighborhood.
Light Rail options: You can take the MAX Blue Line or MAX Green Line and get off at the SE 60th Avenue station, which is the closest stop to South Tabor.
Best Time to Go to South Tabor
The best time to visit is in early September, during the Harvest Festival. This event features a community celebration with activities for all ages, including games, music, and local vendors.
What to Do and See in South Tabor
1. Try the art of metalsmithing at Custom Deluxe Studio
Media credit: customdeluxestudio
Address: 2631 SE 81st Ave
Phone: (503) 498-8446
Pricing: $
Operating hours: By schedule
Website
Custom Deluxe Studio is a creative hub for artists and makers looking to level up their skills. The space is equipped with everything from printmaking tools to painting and crafting supplies, offering plenty of room for hands-on projects.
A standout feature is their “One Night Workshops,” where participants dive into different mediums and techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. These workshops are perfect for trying something new and completing a project in just one evening.
2. Get inked at Birdhouse Tattoo
Media credit: michelle_iris_tattoos and birdhouse.tattoo
Address: 5823 SE Powell Blvd
Phone: (503) 340-5634
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Website
Birdhouse Tattoo is a well-known tattoo studio founded by a group of talented artists. They can do a wide range of tattoo styles, from classic to modern.
To make the most of your visit, consider scheduling a consultation with an artist to discuss your ideas and preferences.
The studio also occasionally hosts art shows featuring local artists, providing an opportunity to appreciate and purchase unique artworks.
3. Learn tea etiquette at Tea Zen – Tea House
Media credit: teazen_teahouse
Address: 2847 SE 58th Ave
Contact: [email protected]
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Be appointment
Website
Tea Zen is a serene tea house where visitors can dive into the art of tea ceremonies and etiquette.
Through guided sessions, it introduces guests to traditions like Chinese gongfu tea and Japanese matcha rituals.
Whether you’re new to tea or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll learn a lot of brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and the meditative side of tea here.
Where to Eat and Drink in South Tabor
1. Steakadelphia
Media credit: steakadelphia
Address: 5835 SE Powell Blvd
Phone: (503) 788-7141
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Good to know: Ideal for lunch and dinner
Website
Steakadelphia is a go-to spot for cheesesteak lovers, serving up hearty eats in a laid-back setting.
Their standout Philly Cheesesteak features a soft hoagie roll stuffed with tender ribeye, sautéed onions, and gooey provolone. Add their signature spicy sauce for an extra kick of flavor and you’re in for a treat.
Beyond the cheesesteaks, they’ve got crave-worthy sides like loaded fries piled high with cheese, bacon, and jalapeños. And to wash it all down? A rotating selection of local craft beers that perfectly complement the rich, savory menu.
2. The Porch Coffee Space
Media credit: theporchcoffeepdx
Address: 6725 SE Kelly St
Phone: (503) 774-2322
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Good to know: Ideal for coffee lovers and freshly baked goods
Website
The Porch Coffee Space is a cozy café with a relaxed vibe that locals love. The comfy indoor seating and small outdoor space make it a great spot to unwind or get some work done.
Their Cinnamon Roll Latte is a must-try. It features espresso, creamy steamed milk, and just the right touch of cinnamon for a comforting pick-me-up.
They also whip up fresh-baked treats, with their homemade cinnamon rolls being crowd favorites.
3. Pizzicato Pizza
Media credit: pizzicatopdx
Address: 6042 SE Division St
Phone: (503) 546-1686
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Good to know: Ideal for heavy afternoon snacks and dinner
Website
Pizzicato Pizza is a local favorite for its artisanal pizzas.
The Wild Mushroom Pizza is a definite standout. It’s loaded with gourmet mushrooms, garlic, and mozzarella on a hand-tossed crust for a rich, earthy flavor.
Beyond pizza, they whip up fresh salads and appetizers. The House Salad, which features seasonal greens, tomatoes, and house-made dressing, is a top pick among us locals.
To round out the meal, they’ve got a solid lineup of local beers and wines that are perfect for pairing with your slice.
Where to Shop in South Tabor
1. ABC Seafood Company
Media credit: abcseafoodcompany
Address: 6509 SE Powell Blvd
Phone: (503) 771-5802
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
ABC Seafood Company is a go-to spot for fresh seafood. From wild-caught salmon and Pacific Northwest halibut to shellfish like Dungeness crab and oysters, they’ve got it all.
The friendly staff is always ready to offer cooking tips or suggest recipes to help you get the most out of your seafood.
They also stock a variety of specialty items, including marinades, sauces, and local seafood products. If you’re looking for something easy, they offer pre-made options like crab cakes and seafood chowders, perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
2. Continental Textiles
Media credit: continental_textiles
Address: 7715 SE Powell Blvd
Phone: (503) 777-3850
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Continental Textiles is a local favorite for all things fabric and crafting. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro, the shop has a great selection of high-quality textiles, from cotton and linens to unique blends.
Along with fabrics, you’ll find everything you need for your projects—thread, notions, and sewing tools. They even have supplies for quilting, yarn projects, and felting too!
The friendly staff is always ready to offer tips and advice, making it the go-to spot for anyone looking to get creative with their sewing or craft projects.
3. Ruby Press
Address: 2710 SE 50th Ave
Phone: (503) 709-0069
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Ruby Press is a letterpress and print shop specializing in custom stationery, invitations, and printed materials. The shop uses traditional letterpress techniques to create everything from wedding invitations to business cards.
It also offers a selection of paper goods, notebooks, and art prints featuring work from local artists and designers.
The shop blends craftsmanship with a personal touch, serving both individuals and businesses looking for unique printed items.
Where to Stay in South Tabor
1. Division Inns – The Evermore Guesthouse
Media credit: sjbartnikowski
Address: 3860 SE Clinton St
Distance from South Tabor: 6 minutes away
Phone: (503) 206-6509
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 12:00 PM
Division Inns – The Evermore Guesthouse near South Tabor is a cozy and unique spot for travelers. This boutique guesthouse offers modern amenities and vintage charm in its rooms, making for a welcoming and comfortable stay.
Guests get free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and access to a shared kitchen and lounge. Plus, it’s close to local restaurants, attractions, and public transport, so it’s a great place to base yourself while exploring Portland.
The Evermore also focuses on sustainability, making it a good pick for eco-conscious visitors.
2. Division Inns – The Bluebird Guesthouse
Media credit: visionsofamerica
Address: 3517 SE Division St
Distance from South Tabor: 7 minutes away
Phone: (503) 206-6509
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 12:00 PM
Division Inns – The Bluebird Guesthouse provides a cozy and inviting accommodation option for visitors to the city.
This charming guesthouse features thoughtfully designed guest rooms with modern conveniences such as Wi-Fi, comfortable bedding, and private or shared bathrooms.
Guests can take advantage of communal spaces, including a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy lounge area, fostering a sense of community among travelers. It’s a short walk to cafes, shops, and transit, perfect for exploring nearby neighborhoods.
3. Ramada by Wyndham
Media credit: ramadabywyndham
Address: 9707 SE Stark St
Distance from South Tabor: 8 minutes away
Phone: (503) 388-5793
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
Ramada by Wyndham is a handy spot for travelers looking for comfort and convenience. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and mini-fridges.
Guests can start the day with a complimentary breakfast, hit the on-site fitness center, or relax in the heated indoor pool. With business services available too, it works for both work trips and vacations.