With a diverse range of organizations and businesses, the Rose City has a vibrant Queer culture. Browse some of our highlighted Queer-owned businesses below, or check out Travel Portland to learn more about Queer history and cultural events.
Step into the future at Emperor Georgiou's Tea Room, a Black/Queer-owned haven in the heart of Portland that boldly redefines the traditional tearoom experience. Owned by the Star Trek aficionados Wellington and Brendon Georgiou, this well-appointed space is a homage to a post-scarcity utopia inspired by Star Trek Discovery. Imagined as a place where all people meet as equals, the tea room is adorned with extensive décor from the Star Trek universe, celebrating diversity and inclusivity. Guests rave about the safe and welcoming environment created by the owners, particularly for those on the margins. From the cozy ambiance to the commitment to equality, Emperor Georgiou's offers a unique haven for Star Trek enthusiasts and beyond. Reservations are recommended for this popular spot, where guests can enjoy a vegetarian menu that can be tailored to vegan and gluten-free preferences with advance notice. Whether you're a Trek fan or simply seeking an inclusive and celebratory space, Emperor Georgiou's is the perfect destination for unique celebrations or an unforgettable tea experience in Portland.
If delicious vegan Cali and Baja classics are your jam, come through to Mis Tacones, a trans- and Latine-owned taqueria in North Portland. Partners and co-owners Polo Bañuelos (they/them) and Carlos Reynoso (he/him) specialize in ooey-gooey cashew cheese and house-made seitan proteins. This shop is a local favorite and won second place in the Willamette Week Best of Portland Mexican Food category, which includes non-vegan establishments.
Discover Produce Row Cafe, a captivating queer-owned establishment that has evolved from its original craft beer bar roots into a stunning venue for celebrations of all sizes. With an unwavering commitment to staying true to its Old Portland origin, Pro Row keeps its vibes fresh and inviting. Patrons can indulge in American-style cuisine, savor classic cocktails, and experience service that goes above and beyond the ordinary. Located in the Inner Eastside, Pro Row serves as the ideal spot for gathering with friends, enjoying live music, and a myriad of experiences. Embrace diversity and community at this vibrant, queer-owned gem, where Produce Row Cafe invites everyone to share in the joy of memorable moments in the heart of Portland.
The gender-nonconforming answer to a bikini coffee, Speed-o Cappuccino is a walk-up coffee cart in the queer and POC-owned food cart pod, Lil’ America. Proudly self-proclaimed as “vegan as f*ck,” “Mexican as f*ck” and “sex worker-owned,” this little pink box of a coffee cart is also charming as f*ck. Follow the sign advertising “vegan food and thembos,” then take a swing through the rest of the pod. You’re sure to find new QTPOC friends and family around every corner.
Scandals exists as one of Portland’s most established gay bars since 1979. Having gone through many levels of transition over the last few decades, Scandals currently exists in the original “PinkTriangle” section of downtown Portland on SW Stark St. & SW 12th St.
Like any venue, club, or restaurant; Scandals has adapted over the years to fulfill the needs of a community that looks for a common ground venue to meet new friends and much more… Scandals is Portland’s Gay “Cheers.”
Comfortable, relaxing, yet filled with energy. Whether in regards to annual block parties, Tuesday karaoke nights, or weekly performances by local bands Scandals will always attempt to wet your palette for new and exciting performances, DJs, and just plain fun!
"THAT'S NO LADY! THAT'S DARCELLE XV AND COMPANY!"
For over five decades, this iconic drag show has been a beacon of entertainment in Portland, Oregon. From Las Vegas-style cabaret revues to performances that exude glitz, glamour, and comedy, Darcelle XV & Company captivates audiences from all walks of life. With a legacy that spans half a century, this extraordinary drag show continues to be a shining star, enchanting patrons with a dazzling spectacle of talent, humor, and unabashed celebration. Join the glittering journey as Darcelle XV & Company proves that when it comes to entertainment, they set the standard for fabulousness in Portland.
More than just a store – it's a brand, an idea, and a curated collection of the extraordinary. For 15 years, this queer-owned haven has roamed the globe, assembling a unique assortment of treasures: captivating art and photo-books, intriguing Japanese vinyl pieces, and one-of-a-kind items found nowhere else. Now, this unparalleled collection is unveiled to the public, housed in a brand new, one-of-a-kind store nestled in the heart of Portland's Pearl District. CULT is not just a destination for art lovers, collectors, and those in search of unique gifts; it's a vibrant space that transcends labels – a bookstore, a toy store, a home store, and an essential Portland destination. Immerse yourself in the coolest stuff on the planet, all under one roof at CULT.
Enter the world of The Electric Buffalo Tattoo, a distinctive, queer-owned studio offering custom tattoo and permanent cosmetic experiences. Conveniently situated just steps from the Pearl District in Downtown Portland, this private studio provides an intimate setting where artistic visions come to life. Renowned for its top-rated artists, each boasting over 15 years of industry experience, The Electric Buffalo specializes in various tattoo styles, including Illustrative, American Traditional, Scientific Botanical, and New School designs. Beyond tattoos, the team is Scalpa certified and proficient in Permanent Cosmetics, ensuring a holistic and expert approach to aesthetic aspirations. In The Electric Buffalo, clients are welcomed with warmth, creativity, and a commitment to transforming their unique visions into vibrant, permanent masterpieces.
Welcome to The Raven's Wing Magical Co-op, a radiant gem in the heart of Portland and a proudly queer-owned haven for all seekers of magic and enchantment. Infused with a vibrant and inclusive spirit, this mystical co-op invites you to explore a world of wonders, featuring an eclectic array of magical supplies, spellbinding tools, and spiritually inspired offerings. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious soul on a magical journey, The Raven's Wing is a welcoming space where the energies of the LGBTQ+ community harmonize with the mystical forces of the universe. Step into this haven, where every item tells a story, and magic is woven into the very fabric of your experience.
Visit Travel Portland to learn more about Queer history and culture.
Check out ASCA's "Businesses Owned by Members of Minoritized Communities" for a more extensive list of queer-owned businesses.