Tucked away behind an unassuming door in an industrial building at 109 S.E. Salmon St., lies a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable experience.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a lively second-floor atmosphere reminiscent of a speakeasy mixed with the whimsy of a circus and the vibrancy of an Asian street food market.
Adventurers must traverse three flights of stairs to reach the hub of fun and flavors on the second floor. Once there, a neon sign beckons down a long hallway, hinting at the hidden treasures that await.
To the left is a small room hosting a mysterious podcast, potentially featuring notable personalities from Ari Shapiro to Chuck Palahniuk.
As you continue down the hallway, look right to discover The Appartamento, a charming wine bar and tasting room for Buona Notte Wines.
Graham Markel, the winemaker, invites you to explore a space that blends the warmth of an Italian home with an eclectic wine experience.
The Appartamento is open Thursday and Friday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., welcoming both walk-ins and reservations via Buona Notte’s website.
A standard wine tasting includes approximately seven wines and a vermouth for $25 per person, but the full tasting menu, featuring various wine and food pairings for $65 per person, comes highly recommended.
Don’t forget to inquire about Markel’s “cellar list” for a glimpse into bottles that have inspired him throughout his career.
Just a short stroll past The Appartamento leads you to the Toro Room, an intimate space where culinary wizard LJ Brimfield of Otro Lado Beverage Co. shines in his element.
Here, guests are treated to a meticulously crafted tasting menu that challenges conventional wisdom, showcasing the art of pairing red wine with raw fish.
Brimfield presents five to six courses of exquisite sashimi and seafood, all perfectly matched with his own wines, at a price of $100 per person, all-inclusive.
The Toro Room operates Wednesday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., but given its capacity of just four guests, securing a reservation is advisable.
Next on the right is the Statera Cellars tasting room and wine bar, where Meredith Bell and Luke Wylde create an atmosphere bursting with personality.
Designed to be more than a typical tasting room, Statera Cellars invites guests to enjoy a lively experience, from late lunches to enjoyable snacks at night.
A five-wine flight is available for $25, with individual glasses priced at $10 to $14, complemented by options for half glasses and non-alcoholic beverages.
For just $50, Wylde prepares a prix fixe menu featuring five delicious dishes to pair with five of their wines—a true steal for food and wine enthusiasts.
The menu boasts unique offerings such as pork lumpia served with garlic and chili soy sauce, coconut shrimp, and potstickers accompanied by gochujang and miso sauce.
Rumors swirl about the inclusion of eye-catching dishes, including kimchi hot dogs and miso-infused deviled eggs, ensuring an ever-changing experience.
Like the other tasting rooms, walk-ins are welcome at Statera Cellars, although reservations can be made through their website.
Lastly, at the end of the hallway, discover Ours, a vibrant 700-square-foot event space shared by Wylde and Markel.
The ambiance shifts dramatically, as Ours can transform from a tasting room to an art gallery and event space, creating a dynamic experience for all attendees.
During a recent viewing party, the space buzzed with energy, with guests of all ages reveling in the creative atmosphere.
Ours regularly hosts unique events, such as Jacques Strappe, a gathering for queer folk and their friends, and special brunches like the Father’s Day event planned for June 14, featuring culinary creations from Markel and Wylde.
Be sure to check the Buona Notte website for ticket information for Jacques Strappe, with the next installment set for June 21 at a cost of $12.
In conclusion, the hidden culinary delights at 109 S.E. Salmon St. offer Portlanders and visitors alike a unique experience that merges exceptional food, innovative wine pairings, and a lively atmosphere.
Make sure to explore these tasting rooms—each one offers something special that goes beyond just the food and wine, creating a community and an experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.
image source from：https://www.oregonlive.com/wine/2025/06/southeast-salmon-street-is-home-to-a-second-story-wine-and-food-oasis.html
