The Tippy Canoe
For decades the Tippy Canoe has been known as a ruff and tuff road side bar. Apart of the Columbia Highway Historic District dates the building back to the early 1940's. Often seen as a watering hole for bad boy bikers and the like. Too the dismay of some in the 1990's the Tippy was closed down and sat vacant for a few years. The Tippy Canoe had shut its doors, up until long time local resident Shirley Welton saw a great deal of potential and an opportunity.
Shirley's Tippy Canoe
Shirley bought the old dilapidated building in 2005 and began an extensive remolding and renovation project. Her goal was to re-open the Tippy Canoe, but with a whole new atmosphere. Having to keep much of the exterior the same, due to the historic classification of the building, most of here labor is seen on the inside. The half round bar still exist, but with a much updated and needed look. The dining area wraps itself all the way around the restaurant and the patio is now furnished with stone tables and a spattering of fire pits. The new look gives the Tippy a much needed update and a cozy feel. Shirley has brought all of her home made recipes and he sea food connections with her. Thus, making the Tippy a great place for some darned good food and great service. We hope to be considered the finest dining in Troutdale and beyond.
Shirley Welton
It all started in 1963 when Shirley and he husband at the ripe ages of 21 opened Sam's Hollywood Billiard in the Portland Hollywood distric. With one succesful restaurant behind Shirley moved to Lincoln City in 1978, purchased a building, and opened the Sip & Sand Deli and Ice Cream Parlor. Her goal was to semi-retire and take it easy. She felt that the Deli would be a fun thing to do for about 4 - 5 months a year, but o how she was in for a surprise! The business thrived and, in l980, it was remodeled into a two-floor, full-blown restaurant, and the fun began. In 1985 she opened the Towne House restaurant. I remodeled it and opened a Dinner House with two limousines for the pickup and delivery of patrons ( which was really fun) for an evening of elegant dining. Now with more than four decades of hospitality and restaurant experience Shirley's pride and joy can be seen in the Tippy Canoe day in and day out.
