Goodies Snack Shop

For those of us living in Oregon, especially in the vibrant city of Portland, the idea of a "convenience store" often conjures images of quick stops for gas station coffee or standard packaged goods. However, there's a local gem that redefines this concept, transforming it into a delightful experience of discovery and community. We're talking about Goodies Snack Shop, a unique establishment that's quickly become a beloved spot for Portlanders seeking something a little different from their everyday grab-and-go.

Goodies Snack Shop isn't your typical convenience store. Founded in 2022 by partners and entrepreneurs Joyce Chung and Terence Brasch, it's a first-generation snack shop and market that embodies a fresh take on curated convenience. Their vision was to create a space where snacking culture is celebrated through the lens of discovery, flavor, and community. They meticulously curate a selection of snacks and beverages that not only include nostalgic flavors from their own childhoods but also highlight exciting new and emerging independent brands from around the globe. This dedication to thoughtful sourcing means every visit offers the chance to unearth new favorites, from unique international treats to specialized local goods. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of bustling Portland, designed to be a welcoming hub where you can explore diverse tastes and even connect with the stories behind the products you're enjoying. Far from the generic aisles of a traditional corner store, Goodies Snack Shop provides a personalized and engaging retail experience that truly stands out in the Oregon landscape.

Goodies Snack Shop is ideally situated at 139 NW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA. This address places it right in the heart of Portland's historic Old Town Chinatown district, a dynamic and culturally rich area of the city. Being nestled within the historic Merchant Hotel building adds to its charm and character.

The location offers excellent accessibility for Portland locals and visitors alike. Northwest 2nd Avenue is a well-trafficked street, making it easy to find. For those utilizing public transportation, the shop is conveniently located near several MAX Light Rail stops and Portland Streetcar lines, ensuring a straightforward journey from various parts of the city. If you're coming by car, while street parking in downtown Portland can sometimes be a challenge, numerous parking garages are available within a short walking distance. Its proximity to popular attractions like the Lan Su Chinese Garden and the vibrant waterfront means you can easily combine a visit to Goodies Snack Shop with other errands or leisure activities, making it a convenient and enjoyable stop in your Portland rotation. The founders, Joyce and Terence, even took inspiration from the building's 139-year-old history and its former role as a corner market, aiming to revive its legacy as a community hub, which is reflected in its welcoming and accessible location.

Goodies Snack Shop provides a thoughtfully curated selection of products and services that go beyond typical convenience store offerings, focusing on quality, uniqueness, and discovery:

• Curated Snack Selection: A diverse array of sweet, salty, and savory snacks, ranging from classic comfort foods to unique international and independent brands. This includes popular items like BjornQorn popcorn and Momofuku noodles, alongside lesser-known delights.

• Unique Beverages: A wide range of refreshing and interesting drinks, including various matcha options, popular Kace Tea flavors (like Peach Green Tea), and other fun new beverages that you might not find elsewhere.

• Pantry Essentials: A selection of specialty pantry items such as noodles, chili crisps, unique sauces, Japanese mayo, and a variety of gourmet coffee and tea blends, perfect for elevating home cooking or discovering new staples.

• Beauty & Self-Care Products: A surprising and delightful offering of Korean beauty essentials and other travel-friendly self-care items, catering to a growing interest in K-beauty and unique wellness products.

• Dried Goods: A collection of dried goods that further expands their pantry offerings, ideal for those seeking specific ingredients or healthy alternatives.

• Dog Treats: Even your furry friends are considered, with a selection of dog treats available, making it a welcoming stop for pet owners.

• Product Backstories & Recommendations: The owners, Joyce and Terence, are known for their helpfulness in narrowing down choices and sharing the unique backstories behind the products they carry, enriching the shopping experience.

• UPS Access Point: For added convenience, Goodies Snack Shop serves as a UPS Access Point, allowing customers to pick up and drop off pre-packaged, pre-labeled shipments. This is a valuable service for busy individuals in the downtown area.

Goodies Snack Shop distinguishes itself from conventional convenience stores through several charming and unique features that resonate deeply with its local customer base:

• Thoughtfully Curated Selection: The most prominent highlight is the carefully hand-picked inventory. Instead of mass-produced items, Goodies focuses on unique, often international, and independent brands that offer distinct flavors and experiences. This means every visit is a discovery.

• Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere: Customers consistently describe the shop as "cute" and a "peaceful oasis." The friendly and welcoming demeanor of the owners, Joyce and Terence, creates an inviting environment that fosters a sense of community.

• Owner Interaction and Expertise: Joyce and Terence are not just shopkeepers; they are passionate curators. They actively engage with customers, offering recommendations, sharing insights into the products, and creating a personalized shopping experience that goes beyond a simple transaction.

• Unique Product Categories: Beyond typical snacks, the inclusion of Korean skincare and specialized pantry items like chili crisps and Japanese mayo sets Goodies apart, catering to diverse tastes and interests within the Portland community.

• Shop Dog (Hachiko): The presence of their sweet shop dog, Hachiko, adds a delightful and memorable touch to the shopping experience, contributing to the cozy and friendly ambiance.

• Community Hub Vision: The founders aimed to revive the building's legacy as a corner market and cultural hub, and this vision shines through in their approach to customer interaction and product selection. It feels like a place where you can learn, explore, and connect.

• Support for Independent Brands: By featuring new and emerging independent brands, Goodies Snack Shop not only offers unique products but also supports smaller businesses and promotes a diverse retail landscape.

While Goodies Snack Shop prides itself on its everyday curated value and unique product offerings, there are ways for locals to stay connected and potentially benefit from special opportunities:

• In-Store Discoveries: The best "promotion" at Goodies is often the discovery of new and exciting products that are not readily available elsewhere. Their constantly rotating inventory means there's always something fresh to explore.

• Owner Recommendations: Engaging with Joyce and Terence can often lead to personalized recommendations based on your preferences, sometimes highlighting lesser-known items that offer exceptional value or a delightful new experience.

• Social Media Updates: Following Goodies Snack Shop on social media (e.g., Instagram: @goodiessnackshop) is an excellent way to stay informed about new product arrivals, limited-time special items, or any potential in-store events or tastings they might host.

• Community Engagement: As a local business deeply rooted in community, they may occasionally participate in local Portland events or collaborate with other businesses, which could lead to special offers or unique bundled items.

• Newsletter Sign-Up (if available): Check their website or inquire in-store if they offer a newsletter. This is often a way for small businesses to communicate directly about new stock or exclusive deals to their loyal customers.

To plan your visit or get in touch with the friendly team at Goodies Snack Shop, here’s their contact information:

Address: 139 NW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA

Phone: (503) 343-4767

For the residents of Oregon, particularly those in and around Portland, Goodies Snack Shop is far more than just a convenience store; it's a refreshing and valuable addition to the local community. Its prime location in the historic Old Town Chinatown makes it easily accessible, whether you're commuting, exploring the neighborhood, or simply looking for a quick and unique stop.

What truly makes Goodies suitable for locals is its commitment to a thoughtfully curated experience. In a world saturated with generic options, this shop offers a peaceful oasis where discovery and quality are paramount. The ability to find unique international snacks, specialty beverages, Korean skincare, and even treats for your dog, all while being guided by the welcoming and knowledgeable owners, Joyce and Terence (and their sweet dog, Hachiko!), creates a personalized and enjoyable outing. It fosters a sense of community and supports independent brands, aligning with the values many Oregonians hold dear. Whether you're seeking a specific hard-to-find item, a delightful new flavor adventure, or simply a friendly face and a cozy atmosphere, Goodies Snack Shop provides a refreshing alternative to the mundane, solidifying its place as a cherished local favorite in Portland.