They call it the Alphabet District, although it's on the edge of Nob Hill, two vibrant streets (NW 21st NW 23rd) in a neighborhood of elegantly gentrified Victorian homes. It's lively and urban. Kids in strollers and dogs on leashes compete for territory on the shady sidewalks, and a steady parade of well-dressed tourists and flip-flop-shod locals make the rounds from shops to coffee houses, from theaters to bars and restaurants. So many of them were queuing up at Caffe Mingo, a wildly popular Italian spot, that the owners took over the space next door, renaming it Bar Mingo, so their customers would have a place to wait. Instead, many of them are opting to spend the entire evening. And at the happy hour prices, at least, who can blame them? A martini made with Monopolowa, $5. Lamb meatballs in tomato sauce, $5. A generous salumi plate with onion relish, $5. House wines, $5 Two PBRs, $5.
Bar Mingo, 811 NW 21st, Portland, 503-445-4646 
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