Aalto Lounge, Portland, Oregon

In the vibrant Belmont Street area of eastern Portland, the Aalto Lounge (3356 S.E. Belmont St., 503-235-6041) is one of several gay-friendly but mixed hangouts (i.e., the Side Street Tavern, Stumptown Coffee) in this part of town catering to a decidedly artsy, singularly unconventional crowd. The bar takes its name and aesthetica inspiration from Finnish designer Alvar Aalto, its interior feeling very minimalist and relaxed - Sunday nights have an especially strong GLBT following. An excellent spot to meet a friend for a glass of wine or a pint of hefeweizen before dinner along nearby Hawthorne Boulevard, or perhaps pre-clubbing downtown.