900 N.W. Lovejoy
Portland, OR 97209 (Map)
Phone: 503-477-8604
COURVOISIER, CAVIAR, CIGARS AND MORE — Oregonians are used to persnickety liquor laws, so it’s surprising to learn that the Oregon Liquor Control Commission does make exceptions now and again. Aside from distilled spirits, most liquor stores are allowed to sell only pre-approved items such as tonic water and glassware. But it was clear to the commissioners that the state’s toniest neighborhood warranted something different. To accommodate the Pearl District’s well-heeled clientele, the OLCC has granted a contract for a liquor store that is permitted to sell chocolate, caviar, cigars and champagne — in addition to a river of booze.
Flogging a deep selection of Scotch, regional spirits and bottled waters from more than 15 countries, Pearl Specialty Market & Spirits opened this week in the ground floor of swank apartment colossus the Burlington Tower. The 2,300-square-foot space is done up in the neighborhood’s contemporary industrial motif with polished concrete flooring, cherry wood accents and lofty ceilings. Unusual in its genre, it is a touch-and-feel liquor store, with all products on display for customers’ examination. There’s even a touch-screen kiosk for curious shoppers who want to learn more about the store’s varied inventory.
Open:
11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday.
