Laughing Planet is one of those distinctive Portland locales. A huge menu with tons of veggie and vegan options, bright colors, and cheap prices. I wish I liked the food a little more, but I can't get too excited about these uber-Americanized rice+bean+veggie burritos. It's cheap and quick though, and it's a decent place to grab a bite on your Belmont stroll.

Oh man the Rebuilding Center is awesome! Don't like that light in your living room? Come here and get a new one. Want to change out your electrical fixtures? Come here and do it on the cheap (but be safe!). Seriously, the Rebuilding Center has everything to make your new place truly YOUR place: doors, fixtures, door knobs, lumber, windows, drawers, etc... It's awesome!

Kalga is a great, vegetarian friendly, date destination. Candle-lit tables (and I mean candle-lit not too much other light in here) help to create it's sensual ambience. The food is not too pricey, but not single ($) either, but don't let that shy you away, as the food is delicious and creative. There are indian choises, asian choises, and even pizza options, but all of it with the delicious Kalga signature that makes the dish it's own. Go for it!

Jackpot records is great. After Ozone kicked the bucket (there used to be only one-like highlander in reverse), Jackpot is probably the best record store to fill the gap. If nothing else than for their great in-stores, but the fun design doesn't hurt either.

Hot lips is great pizza. Lots of creative and delicious combinations, and you're supporting the community, as opposed to Domi-whut. They use organic ingredients that rotate in season to create their wonders like the Wldorf (Olive oil base, locally grown apples, blue cheese, walnuts), or the Summer Squash with Brie. To top it all off, your delivery comes in a funny little smart car. How Portland can you get?