In spite of its humble size, Portland has a thriving and globally inspired culinary scene. So perhaps it is unsurprising that a shop like Onggi can thrive here as well as it might in North Brooklyn. The sunny shop thrives in the summer, while offering some brightness to greyer seasons, with plenty of fermented things, lots of condiments and snacks and bottled bevvies lining the shelves of the front market section.

Onggi is derived from the name of Korean earthenware vessels used for fermenting kimchi and soy sauce and makgeolli, and began as…you guessed it, a pandemic project on Instagram and evolved into a brick and mortar footprint in 2021. The shop stays true to its name, with staff more than eager to introduce patrons to the world of fermentation. It also is a great place to discover and support local makers, with deliciously curated pantry goods. In the back cafe, they serve up coffee and teas that would make any Korean cafe proud, and sweet and savory treats made in house. The intent for building community comes though from the product curation to the (very cute) merch to the various pop ups and collaborations they’re doing with other small businesses. It’s a place that embraces curiosity in the best way.