Curator’s statement
In February of 2024, I had the opportunity to attend a Portland site inspection of The Hotel Grand Stark. This independent hotel is part of the Paliosociety group and is a FORA partner hotel. Starting as a family business, the Palio brand is expanding. The Hotel Grand Stark made Travel and Leisure's 2022 It List. I recommend visitors stay at this neighborhood friendly hotel and experience the unique, artsy Portland vibe.
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Location
The Grand Hotel Stark is located on the Central Eastside of Portland. It is a short 16 minute ride from Portland International Airport. It is a 5 minute Uber ride to the walking trail at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. I have several favorite places within walking distance of the hotel. One is Shalom Y'all. This great Mediterranean restaurant is a 0.3 mile walk. The largest used and new bookstore, Powell's City of Books is one mile from the hotel. Pro tip: The Willamette River at the Waterfront Park is a great place for a picnic!
Image 1: Hotel Grand Stark sign ; Image 2: Dining at the Grand Amari
Room Categories
There are 57 guest rooms to choose from at the Grand Hotel Stark. Room types are available as ADA and include the following:
*The Double measures 392 square feet. It holds two double beds and is ideal for families and friends.
*The Queen measures 221–252 square feet. It contains one queen bed and is ideal for business or solo travel.
*The King measures 222–325 square feet. It has one king sized bed. It is best for couples, solo travelers and work trips.
*The Grand King measures 267–338 square feet. It has one king sized bed and has more space than the traditional King.
*The Deluxe King measures 286–350 square feet. It holds one king bed. Having the most space, this room would be good for longer trip stays.
*Pro tip- Ask for a pet package if traveling with Rover! He will be pampered with organic treats, a dog bed and food/water bowls.
Image 1: Hotel Grand Stark lobby ; Image 2: Hotel Stark Queen guest room
Image 1: Guest room ; Image 2: Guest room sink
All of the different room types have the following features:
* 43 inch flatscreen TV
*Nepresso coffee machine with coffee pods
*SMEG refrigerator
*Walk in rain showers
*Italian Bellino linens
*Diptyque bath amenities
*Fully stocked mini bar
*In-room safe
Hotel Amenities:
*Valet parking at $42/day
*24 hour concierge
*Complimentary brewed coffee 7am- 10am daily
*Dry cleaning and laundry service
*Complimentary Wi-fi
Hotel Dining
The Hotel Grand Stark makes dining easy for the weary traveler. It has three dining choices.
*The Cafe Amari is open during the day. Coffee, sandwiches and light fare are available to order.
*The Little Bitter Bar is a cocktail bar. It can be found in the lobby. It serves pizza and antipasti. It is open daily.
*The Grand Amari is open to hotel guests and locals. This Italian restaurant serves dinner daily and takes reservations. Salads, pastas, steaks and cocktails are all on the menu!
Need to know
I recommend the Hotel Grand Stark to visitors looking to explore Portland. The developing Eastside of Portland is close to local shops, art displays and yummy Pacific NW dining. Another pro tip: Ask about the Grand Stark Vibes playlist. This handpicked selection of the locals favorite music is updated weekly. Reach out and let me plan your upcoming trip to Portland.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Jaclyn McCall’s guide, 5-Day Itinerary in Portland: Where Food, Arts and Nature Meet.
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