Sunnyside

This Southeast Portland neighborhood lies between Stark Street to the North and Hawthorne Boulevard to the South. It is sometimes known by the name Belmont, after the road that passes through the center of the neighborhood.

This is a popular and trendy neighborhood boasting a number of unique cafes and shops. Belmont serves as the center of Sunnyside, both geographically and commercially. My personal favorite here is Saint Cupcake, a cupcake boutique. You're sure to find your favorite hangout after spending an afternoon strolling down this comfortable urban street. Other popular shops are located in the south end of the neighborhood, along Hawthorne Boulevard.

Homes here are large Victorians that have been lovingly restored. You'll find a lot of charm and personality here. Think brightly colored Victorian homes with vegetable gardens planted out front and car-free residents who bike everywhere. This urban neighborhood is inhabited by a diverse group of artsy and offbeat professionals, giving it a very funky atmosphere.

Because the neighborhood is so popular, home prices tend to be expensive. If you really want to live here, check out the apartment buildings and condos scattered throughout the neighborhood, which offer all of the fun of living in Sunnyside without the high purchase price.

I used to live in the Sunnyside neighborhood, and I absolutely loved it. Sunnyside is located slightly north and south of Belmont Street. Belmont offers a variety of interesting shops and restaurants including some of my favorites like the adorable cupcake store St. Cupcake. Right across the street from St. Cupcake is the independently owned grocery store Zupan's. Zupan's is really a lovely store with fantastic pre-prepared foods and pastries. However, be forewarned the Zupan's is expensive. Sunnyside is situated in a great spot, as it borders on the Laurelhurst Park and is just a short walk away. Also it is conveniently located to Mt. Tabor Park as well. Great public transportation options run right through this area. You probably don't even need a car.

Although you will see fun and artistic looking homes in Sunnyside, it is actually a pretty expensive neighborhood to live in. Also since it is relatively small, it probably isn't too easy to find an available home in this area.

Sunnyside has a great community vibe. You can often see neighbors working together on volunteer projects. In fact, right in the neighborhood there is a adorable mural with the image of a sunflower on it. You get the feeling that the neighbors know each other and genuinely like one another.

Those who like peace and quiet should know that because there are some bars in Sunnyside, it can get a little bit rowdy on the weekend nights.