tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79277660780751277992024-03-12T18:37:50.843-07:00dining in the darkThis blog is about our adventures in dining at restaurants which we have never experienced and perhaps never even heard of before. You know, risking the possible bad meal in hopes of finding something outstanding!bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-12253892352392718912012-01-30T19:49:00.000-08:002012-01-30T21:58:52.572-08:00The Breakside Brewery<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXEqRgLpU_U/Tyd4WToJUFI/AAAAAAAABxE/XXxWfkq8pxI/s1600/Little%2BBaby%2B402.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXEqRgLpU_U/Tyd4WToJUFI/AAAAAAAABxE/XXxWfkq8pxI/s320/Little%2BBaby%2B402.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703659777709133906" /></a><p><br />This weekend my dining companion Debbie and I were out sifting through local estates for treasure and we found ourselves in the part of Portland that is the changeover from Northeast Portland to North Portland. It is a part of the city that has seen a significant effort to reclaim it from the rundown ghetto to which it was devolving. It was early afternoon and we were the kind of hungry that one finds themselves when coffee and a doughnut is all of the nourishment that we had experienced that particular day. <p> I had only the day before accidentally stumbled upon the website of a eat and drinkery in that part of the city and was eager to give it a try. I mean, that is what this "Dining In the Dark blog" is all about, right? <p>Well apparently, Debbie was just hungry enough to follow my lead so we parked the "rig" and strolled right into the <a href="http://www.breaksidebrews.com/">Breakside Brewery</a> like a couple of rockstars. <p>The place had a fun, homey kind of atmosphere and the sign at the door said "Seat Yourself" so like the rockstars that we were beginning to believe we were, we did just that.<br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QTaWTT2lnOE/Tyd4LLDzjII/AAAAAAAABwg/KvIKA1Qa2sc/s1600/Little%2BBaby%2B397.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QTaWTT2lnOE/Tyd4LLDzjII/AAAAAAAABwg/KvIKA1Qa2sc/s320/Little%2BBaby%2B397.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703659586430667906" /></a></br> <p> With almost no wait at all, a smiling and cheerful waitress came over and asked if she could bring us something to quench our powerful thirst while we perused the menu. We made our orders and continued to look over the <a href="http://www.breaksidebrews.com/menu-2/">menu</a>. There were more than a few things that I wanted to try but I decided to go with the Pulled Pork Sandwich.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2WbhZmv9JE/Tyd4Jweah_I/AAAAAAAABwI/oAEN1KWBu6Q/s1600/Little%2BBaby%2B393.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2WbhZmv9JE/Tyd4Jweah_I/AAAAAAAABwI/oAEN1KWBu6Q/s320/Little%2BBaby%2B393.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703659562114648050" /></a></br> Debbie chose the Blackened Chicken Burger.<br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sUwozT2xSzs/Tyd4KG514NI/AAAAAAAABwY/y0D2N-pPQHU/s1600/Little%2BBaby%2B394.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sUwozT2xSzs/Tyd4KG514NI/AAAAAAAABwY/y0D2N-pPQHU/s320/Little%2BBaby%2B394.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703659568135266514" /></a></br> I really enjoyed my selection, Debbie reported that hers was really spicy. Her tolerance of spice is somewhat limited and I never got to taste her sandwich so I can't give a second opinion. She did say it was good so I'll have to go with that.<br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yOhcD4laSUA/Tyd4LVA1BjI/AAAAAAAABw8/LSkbhDCG8sw/s1600/Little%2BBaby%2B400.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yOhcD4laSUA/Tyd4LVA1BjI/AAAAAAAABw8/LSkbhDCG8sw/s320/Little%2BBaby%2B400.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703659589102536242" /></a></br> <p>The bottom line is that it was a good experience and if I am in that neighborhood when the "hungry" hits me, I will not be hesitant to enter the doors of the Breakside Brewery again.bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-74045556983344289492011-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:002011-12-28T21:18:34.155-08:00Jam on Hawthorne Cafe and Arthouse<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wL2DZCH0FTg/TvvvbKOM2CI/AAAAAAAABuQ/0-guH3JL-8o/s1600/jam3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 174px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wL2DZCH0FTg/TvvvbKOM2CI/AAAAAAAABuQ/0-guH3JL-8o/s320/jam3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691405803992176674" /></a><br />I've written a couple of times about our visits to Grand Central Bakery. Whenever we've been to the Hawthorne location we've been amazed by the apparent crowds of people waiting to be seated at a little restaurant across the street. As it turned out, this last weekend we were at the bakery again and this time it looked like there wasn't a huge line across the street so on a whim we jaywalked across and entered the doors. <p>Now this place is anything but fancy but don't let that discourage you. There are secrets hiding behind all of that plain Jane decor.<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzA3MCXKY9Y/TvvvbpNystI/AAAAAAAABuw/ruAdVf-ojgQ/s1600/jam5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 277px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TzA3MCXKY9Y/TvvvbpNystI/AAAAAAAABuw/ruAdVf-ojgQ/s320/jam5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691405812311962322" /></a><br /><p> We quizzed one of the servers (each of the wait staff that we interacted with was friendly and helpful) regarding the restaurants current situation. Apparently, they recently expanded into the space next door. The city gave them trouble about modifying the walls so they just went ahead and decided to use both spaces without taking out the connecting wall. The espresso maker is still in the original unit so if a patron orders one the waiter walks outside and east a few steps and makes one and brings it back to you. You just have to shake your head when you think about how difficult Portland tries to make it for the small business person. OK, I digress.<p> You're probably wondering what kind of secrets lie inside the restaurant. The menu was pretty diverse. There were a lot of interesting options including a number of vegan possibilities. I, however, am a carnivore and tend to look for food made at least in part with meat. My dining companion, Debbie and I each chose something called a scramble though they each had different ingredients other than the eggs, of course. <p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkwLtCEMP7A/Tvvva0rBePI/AAAAAAAABuI/ZNqWsk6Jlg4/s1600/jam2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FkwLtCEMP7A/Tvvva0rBePI/AAAAAAAABuI/ZNqWsk6Jlg4/s320/jam2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691405798207486194" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUR4CzQd8T8/Tvvva4noh9I/AAAAAAAABuA/EpeBrlcsZKY/s1600/jam1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUR4CzQd8T8/Tvvva4noh9I/AAAAAAAABuA/EpeBrlcsZKY/s320/jam1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691405799267010514" /></a><br /><p>Unfortunately, the restaurant doesn't have a web site for me to offer a link to their menu.<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nz6SRafsNxE/TvvvbHTa8EI/AAAAAAAABuk/0gMJb28H2gg/s1600/jam4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nz6SRafsNxE/TvvvbHTa8EI/AAAAAAAABuk/0gMJb28H2gg/s320/jam4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5691405803208765506" /></a><br /><p> All I can say is that the food was really good and there was far too much for either of us to finish our portions. We inquired as to whether or not they would offer a half plate if it were requested and we were pleased to hear that they would be happy to serve half portions. That is good because normal people just couldn't possibly want to eat all of that food in one sitting.<p>Oh yeah! Since they don't have a web site yet, let me just add their address. This place is located in Southeast Portland at: <b> 2239 Se Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214</b>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-33536376636412554502011-11-27T21:43:00.000-08:002011-11-28T19:12:05.682-08:004th Street Brewing Company<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onBBZta8JUo/TtMgwmR1yZI/AAAAAAAABsI/1A5rmX1X0Ic/s1600/2011-11-19%2B20.10.24.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-onBBZta8JUo/TtMgwmR1yZI/AAAAAAAABsI/1A5rmX1X0Ic/s320/2011-11-19%2B20.10.24.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679919574325512594" /></a><br />The other night we took our 19 year old to Sandy, OR so he could watch a play that a friend of his was in. We were a bit hesitant to drive all the way out to Sandy, back home, and then all the way out to Sandy again. In lieu of all of that driving, we decided to kill some time in Gresham, OR. We had two stops to make but more time than that to kill so realizing that it was way past dinner time we decided to troll for a place to eat. Using my cool Android phone, I discovered a place nearby that had potential. It is called The <a href="http://www.4thstreetbrewing.com/">4th Street Brewing Company</a>. My wife who is my regular dining companion thought I was being kind of coy when she asked where we were going and I responded "4th street".<p>Well we pulled up to this establishment and noticed that the parking lot was full. Of course that is always an encouraging sign. We walked in and it appeared that there was a choice of restaurant seating or an even more casual kind of bar seating. The bar area was where the tv monitors were tuned in to an apparent football game. It sounded like a fun place immediately as every once in a while a cheer would sound. Apparently, there had been a great play or perhaps even a score. I don't know, we were there to eat. <p>We were not prepared to spend a lot of money, however, so our eyes drifted to the part of the menu that was a little more on the casual side. There were some selections that sounded really good that were a little more than we wanted to spend that night. Maybe next time. <p>I know it doesn't make good blogging fodder, but we both chose the same item off of the menu. It was the Black and Bleu Cask Burger. <br><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rCdsRLN9HUo/TtMpjtiUORI/AAAAAAAABsU/Y5d5XO_xhKc/s1600/2011-11-19%2B20.31.15.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rCdsRLN9HUo/TtMpjtiUORI/AAAAAAAABsU/Y5d5XO_xhKc/s320/2011-11-19%2B20.31.15.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679929248540014866" /></a><br /><br>It came looking great and it was very tasty with the emphasis on black pepper but what surprised me to the core was the fries. I don't know what they did to them and I'll need to return to verify that it wasn't some sort of anomily, but they were arguably, the best fries that I've ever tasted. I can't begin to describe to you how wonderful they were in my mouth. <p>We didn't eat everything off of our plate and asked for a take home box. Our thoughts were to share our dinner with our kid, Jonathan, when we picked him up from the play. His immediate comment upon tasting the food was "Oh my goodness, these fries are great. Where did you get them?" Enough said, we have to go back there and order something that comes with fries. I mean, I have to know. Was it some sort of anomoly or are those the best fries in the world. One of these days I'm definately going back to check out those fries. I'll let you know how it went.bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-35278234593173029812011-08-27T21:51:00.000-07:002011-08-27T22:38:42.005-07:00Wild Wood Cafe On Main<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEX1RGXXB4I/TlnM0XrfrKI/AAAAAAAABoY/bO4mwL1uK_0/s1600/2011-08-27%2B10.51.50.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MEX1RGXXB4I/TlnM0XrfrKI/AAAAAAAABoY/bO4mwL1uK_0/s320/2011-08-27%2B10.51.50.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645768807967337634" /></a>
<br />Today was a rather unusual Saturday. Normally, our Saturdays consist of a series stressful competitions with other antique dealers to aquire a collection of desirable items to which we can attach a price that will bring a desirable profit.
<br />Well, today the prospects looked a little grim and besides we had another responsibility that was equally pressing for priority. Our son had a meeting planned with another person and needed transportantion to downtown Gresham. Interestingly enough, we don't often find ourselves in downtown Gresham.<p>While we were there we noticed a farmers market and decided to wander around a bit.<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3m6lYvD4jc/TlnNodEiOBI/AAAAAAAABog/k9C1TXiyhj0/s1600/2011-08-27%2B09.53.02.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3m6lYvD4jc/TlnNodEiOBI/AAAAAAAABog/k9C1TXiyhj0/s320/2011-08-27%2B09.53.02.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645769702767736850" /></a>
<br /><p>Afterwards, we needed to kill a little time and chose to wander in to a little restaurant that we saw along the way. It was called the <a href="wildwood cafe gresham">Wild Wood Cafe</a>. It was a pleasant little establishment. The wait staff consisted of a couple of older women but they were both effective and attentive to their customers. The menu was not complicated but had an adequate variety of choices. We each found something desirable, and ordered our choices. Mine was a chicken fried steak<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aorKDAH7HU/TlnRXqbe4EI/AAAAAAAABoo/m-DJGCSjkRg/s1600/2011-08-27%2B10.21.18.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aorKDAH7HU/TlnRXqbe4EI/AAAAAAAABoo/m-DJGCSjkRg/s320/2011-08-27%2B10.21.18.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645773812342382658" /></a>
<br /> selection that was very good.<p>My dining companion selected an omlette that was a true delight to her pallet.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUaca5fDp1w/TlnSfUvY0xI/AAAAAAAABow/GlvkQywEYJM/s1600/2011-08-27%2B10.21.28.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUaca5fDp1w/TlnSfUvY0xI/AAAAAAAABow/GlvkQywEYJM/s320/2011-08-27%2B10.21.28.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645775043470873362" /></a><p>The prices were average and the fare was very nice. I would have to say that given another opportunity to enter to doors of the Wildwood Cafe, I would not hesitate and would in fact, boldly go where I have ventured before.
<br /> bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-12759916993096585032011-07-02T20:03:00.000-07:002011-07-02T21:19:48.366-07:00The Stepping Stone Cafe<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oZI6MCGj1dM/Tg_ka0MVYwI/AAAAAAAABmA/rRm2-brQA9E/s1600/A.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 155px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oZI6MCGj1dM/Tg_ka0MVYwI/AAAAAAAABmA/rRm2-brQA9E/s320/A.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624965608947147522" /></a><br />Do you ever watch the <a href="http://www.travelchannel.com/">travel channel</a>? We like to stream our tv content from Netfix and happened upon a show called <a href="http://www.travelchannel.com/TV_Shows/Man_V_Food">Man vs. Food</a>. The host of the show, a guy named Adam Richman goes around to various eating establishments and takes on food challenges ranging from quantities that would feed normal people for a week to perhaps plates that are so spicy that they might peal the skin off of the average tongue. When he was in Portland, Adam visited a little joint called The Stepping Stone Cafe. That is where we found ourselves this morning.<p>Now to be perfectly honest, this place does not create a great first impression. I mean there is a hand written sign on the door telling us that we are supposed to wait outside and the list to get in the place is taped to a window.<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xil87f-HQak/Tg_lZtEhjYI/AAAAAAAABmQ/zCw9ZKE81ew/s1600/070211%2B003.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xil87f-HQak/Tg_lZtEhjYI/AAAAAAAABmQ/zCw9ZKE81ew/s320/070211%2B003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624966689367100802" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ka8HqpF7Scc/Tg_lZHe8K6I/AAAAAAAABmI/E-DEStDLvR4/s1600/070211%2B004.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ka8HqpF7Scc/Tg_lZHe8K6I/AAAAAAAABmI/E-DEStDLvR4/s320/070211%2B004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624966679277349794" /></a><p>I mean, what is that about? The next impression to greet us once we got inside the place was that the place was badly in need of general maintenance. I'm talking bare sheets of plywood and missing tiles in the floor. I was thinking to myself that this place is one visit from the health inspector from getting shut down. It was like this place was banking its whole existance on a chance encounter with a celebrity from the Travel Channel.<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKC75rz7cgY/Tg_nt_06ChI/AAAAAAAABmY/6H-ThUFPr-Q/s1600/070211%2B009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XKC75rz7cgY/Tg_nt_06ChI/AAAAAAAABmY/6H-ThUFPr-Q/s320/070211%2B009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624969237022509586" /></a><br /><p>Well, thankfully, it's not all about first impressions. We were quickly asked what we'd like to drink and our coffee was brought promptly. The <a href="http://www.steppingstonecafe.com/menu.html">menu</a> was obviously well used but there were a number of interesting selections and we each chose one albeit not the "Man Cakes" as featured on Man vs. Food. Debbie chose the Chicken Scramble for $8.75<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zoFfQ8WpsZo/Tg_qTATzRGI/AAAAAAAABmg/OgFZlG9dY14/s1600/070211%2B011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zoFfQ8WpsZo/Tg_qTATzRGI/AAAAAAAABmg/OgFZlG9dY14/s320/070211%2B011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624972071830504546" /></a><br /><p> and mine was an Absolute Omelet for $9.00.<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V20fpt2O7Y0/Tg_qt5PvC4I/AAAAAAAABmo/bGF1vhhbujI/s1600/070211%2B013.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V20fpt2O7Y0/Tg_qt5PvC4I/AAAAAAAABmo/bGF1vhhbujI/s320/070211%2B013.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624972533790870402" /></a><br /><p> They arrived a bit sooner than I expected but they looked and smelled great. To be perfectly candid they tasted equally as good. I was eager to finish the entire plate and in this personal episode of man versus food, man won. Sorry Adam for borrowing your line.<p> To finish this post, we don't get down to this part of Portland very often so it may be a while before I return. However, it wasn't the food that is likely to keep us away. Just sayin'.bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-48784302540534911932011-05-29T21:34:00.000-07:002011-05-30T18:14:48.082-07:00Deschutes Brewery and Public House<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nzSEtIMwFc/TeMgVk-bMuI/AAAAAAAABhU/h7xvCZF09xo/s1600/IMG_4107.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612365115708617442" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nzSEtIMwFc/TeMgVk-bMuI/AAAAAAAABhU/h7xvCZF09xo/s320/IMG_4107.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><p><br />If you've been reading this blog, then you know that we've been enjoying our visits to eating establishments that fall into the brew pub category. It seems that they serve a lot of comfort food and the friendly, casual atmosphere is appealing to us. Debbie even said to me recently that we should try another pub because she has enjoyed the fare so much. For this reason, I was really looking forward to our visit to the Deschutes Brewery and Public House. I was pleased to see a crowd when we arrived and the wait for a table turned into close to fifty minutes though the estimate when we arrived was reported to be approximately thirty minutes. Oh well, to me that says that their patrons were enjoying themselves and afterall it is difficult to guess when people will be done eating.<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oW-1JFS7vWA/TeOx4AienRI/AAAAAAAABiU/hPkGG6YnXo4/s1600/IMG_4111.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oW-1JFS7vWA/TeOx4AienRI/AAAAAAAABiU/hPkGG6YnXo4/s320/IMG_4111.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612525136409173266" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1R_-mVH_F4/TeOyqJ4TXBI/AAAAAAAABic/SbpmupXNdCw/s1600/IMG_4110.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 217px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1R_-mVH_F4/TeOyqJ4TXBI/AAAAAAAABic/SbpmupXNdCw/s320/IMG_4110.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612525997910088722" /></a><br /><br /><p><br />After what seemed to be a long time, our beeper let us know it was our turn and we were seated. The waitress took us to a raised table for two which is ok but we do prefer sitting in a booth type setting.<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRq3Hmr-gZM/TeMlUAwqSzI/AAAAAAAABhk/J3pcOqzAu2s/s1600/IMG_4109.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612370586365479730" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cRq3Hmr-gZM/TeMlUAwqSzI/AAAAAAAABhk/J3pcOqzAu2s/s320/IMG_4109.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v9PMrMg2aUY/TeMlT5m1TWI/AAAAAAAABhc/H8KDoWvcM6c/s1600/IMG_4108.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612370584445209954" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v9PMrMg2aUY/TeMlT5m1TWI/AAAAAAAABhc/H8KDoWvcM6c/s320/IMG_4108.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>After spending a little time with the menu, I was ready to choose the Fish and Chips but Debbie suggested that I should try the Stewed Chicken. Ok, I yielded to her suggestion but when she ended up ordering the Fish and Chips I felt a little betrayed. I mean, why would it be unhealthy for me to eat deep fried cod but it was ok for her?<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jHrvPo7wzNw/TeMptTPMLcI/AAAAAAAABiE/mn80fC1mVGs/s1600/IMG_4115.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612375418868608450" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jHrvPo7wzNw/TeMptTPMLcI/AAAAAAAABiE/mn80fC1mVGs/s320/IMG_4115.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>Fortunately for me, she did allow me to enjoy one of her three filets. It was very good and certainly might be worth a return trip. On the other hand, my selecton, the Stewed Chicken<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-StdejJuAXQ0/TeMqde28rsI/AAAAAAAABiM/nlnmGoXa7jA/s1600/IMG_4112.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612376246621875906" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-StdejJuAXQ0/TeMqde28rsI/AAAAAAAABiM/nlnmGoXa7jA/s320/IMG_4112.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>was only ok. I thought the presentation was far too monochrome in that the red of the tomatoes was the only color present. I'm not going to say that it didn't taste good but it was a little under cooked in my opinion. I ate it all but I was just a little disappointed. That in itself is not a good reason to not give this establishment another chance but I might not go out of my way to get there. It is in the Pearl District and though its resident population may think there is something particularly special about "The Pearl" I am not impressed by a place solely because of a geographic location.<br /><br /><br /><p>In short, though I may return to this place, it will not be because of an outstanding first impression. It will only be because I am hungry and I won't have to go very far out of my way to get there. Perhaps sometime when I am visiting Bend, Oregon I will try the <a href="http://www.deschutesbrewery.com/locations/bend"></a>Deschutes Brewery and Public House's other location.<br /></p>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-10705189919770920672011-04-11T20:21:00.000-07:002011-04-11T21:23:02.925-07:00Gasthaus Pub<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic6ccDsXuKw/TaJ0jzn3fkI/AAAAAAAABc0/Rvr8fJVx9j8/s1600/IMG_2325.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 189px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic6ccDsXuKw/TaJ0jzn3fkI/AAAAAAAABc0/Rvr8fJVx9j8/s320/IMG_2325.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161845649243714" /></a><p>It has been over six months since we posted on this blog. My dinner companion and I have each missed doing this but we've been extremely busy with other distractions. We were each mentally and physically exhausted today so when it turned out that today was a payday of sorts, we decided that we deserved a special event like "Dining in the Dark".<br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omlKIkjenN0/TaJ0kYiLhZI/AAAAAAAABdE/njvu-2zHRn0/s1600/IMG_2342a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-omlKIkjenN0/TaJ0kYiLhZI/AAAAAAAABdE/njvu-2zHRn0/s320/IMG_2342a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161855557502354" /></a><p><a href="http://www.widmer.com/gasthaus.aspx">The Gasthaus Pub</a> is an extension of the Widmer Brothers Brewing Company. I drove past the place one time and thought to myself that it looked like an interesting establishment. It is situated in what appears to be an old industrial building between the the Rose Quarter and the railroad tracks along the Columbia River.<p> <br /><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sR-PzREFvd0/TaJ0kIQJJOI/AAAAAAAABc8/qPuWNIgLx8U/s1600/IMG_2324.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 297px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sR-PzREFvd0/TaJ0kIQJJOI/AAAAAAAABc8/qPuWNIgLx8U/s320/IMG_2324.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161851186881762" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7rAONect0s/TaJz_AxjUcI/AAAAAAAABcs/jiAeUpfvehQ/s1600/IMG_2326.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 241px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A7rAONect0s/TaJz_AxjUcI/AAAAAAAABcs/jiAeUpfvehQ/s320/IMG_2326.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161213524365762" /></a><br /><p>Growing up I never would have entered a place which had the word "Pub" in its name. However, if you've read all of my previous posts you'll have noticed that I have discovered that many of those establishments are not just a collection of dingy bars but, in fact, are family friendly, well respected restaurants. This one I am pleased to say is exactly that.<p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BELV3_x_quY/TaJ0k7bbPVI/AAAAAAAABdU/Bjb_YvJOFyk/s1600/IMG_2329.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BELV3_x_quY/TaJ0k7bbPVI/AAAAAAAABdU/Bjb_YvJOFyk/s320/IMG_2329.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161864924413266" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-340nj9FGXeI/TaJ0k4rjPRI/AAAAAAAABdM/ReJTlOVpwR8/s1600/IMG_2327.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-340nj9FGXeI/TaJ0k4rjPRI/AAAAAAAABdM/ReJTlOVpwR8/s320/IMG_2327.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594161864186739986" /></a><p><br /><p> The place was full when we entered and there is no waiting room. We were only waiting for a short five minutes or less. The clientele ranged in ages from infants to senior citizens.<br /><p><br />We started our dinner with a really good appetizer which was described as a spinach artichoke cheese dip. It came with half a baguette of French bread. Wow! That was a good start. <br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8tdSKAhukE/TaJ1VKAns5I/AAAAAAAABdk/bRX258u4ovk/s1600/IMG_2332.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b8tdSKAhukE/TaJ1VKAns5I/AAAAAAAABdk/bRX258u4ovk/s320/IMG_2332.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594162693472236434" /></a><p>Along with a full line of adult malt beverages, they brew their own root beer. I saw someone order what looked like a cola also. <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8rtnN98avY/TaJ1U3eeDsI/AAAAAAAABdc/B7N_eO5HnxM/s1600/IMG_2331.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 302px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8rtnN98avY/TaJ1U3eeDsI/AAAAAAAABdc/B7N_eO5HnxM/s320/IMG_2331.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594162688497159874" /></a> <p>Debbie ordered a green salad which I got to sample. It was good and came with a delightful variety of croutons. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WScOcuoRn_U/TaJ1VRN-XAI/AAAAAAAABds/iqBov6TYcrA/s1600/IMG_2335.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WScOcuoRn_U/TaJ1VRN-XAI/AAAAAAAABds/iqBov6TYcrA/s320/IMG_2335.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594162695407295490" /></a><p>Her entree was a bowl of Goulash over mashed potatoes. I got to eat a significant portion of her plate. It too was excellent. It was the real Hungarian style with lots of paprika. There were peppers as well which whispered hints of Hispanic cuisine.<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-99Jkm3yQnPQ/TaJ1VvlxL-I/AAAAAAAABd0/AYWzl3xVpow/s1600/IMG_2338.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-99Jkm3yQnPQ/TaJ1VvlxL-I/AAAAAAAABd0/AYWzl3xVpow/s320/IMG_2338.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594162703560159202" /></a><p>My choice was chicken schnitzel. It came with garlic mashed potatoes and what I believe were beet greens. Again, it was very tasty and after eating Debbie's goulash, I'll be eating the balance of my plate tomorrow for lunch. I am sooo looking forward to it.<p> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhlAxMZ6Exs/TaJ1VzqvicI/AAAAAAAABd8/9GUHr90Pyfo/s1600/IMG_2340.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhlAxMZ6Exs/TaJ1VzqvicI/AAAAAAAABd8/9GUHr90Pyfo/s320/IMG_2340.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594162704654764482" /></a><br /><p>We are definitely returning to this place. We are thinking that it might be fun to just order appetizers and share each others choices. I'm <b><i>like totally</i></b> looking forward to that.bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-3117139806260385612010-10-13T19:22:00.001-07:002010-10-13T22:26:33.375-07:00Screen Door<center><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp3ItER8I/AAAAAAAABWk/KGUYFcvusDk/s1600/The+Screen+Door+020a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp3ItER8I/AAAAAAAABWk/KGUYFcvusDk/s320/The+Screen+Door+020a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527721988594091970" /></a><p>This was our second attempt to eat at the <a href="http://www.screendoorrestaurant.com/">Screen Door</a>. A couple of weeks ago we came by for the Sunday brunch. However, the line of customers came out the door and around the corner and it was raining that day. That is a good sign in my book but not that day. We just rolled on by. Tonight we were looking for some of the best southern fried chicken in town.<p><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2vNvxmI/AAAAAAAABWc/d531vy1f2CQ/s1600/The+Screen+Door+002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2vNvxmI/AAAAAAAABWc/d531vy1f2CQ/s320/The+Screen+Door+002a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527721981751838306" /></a><p>The restaurant featured a nice area for outside seating.<p><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2QqVygI/AAAAAAAABWU/rioY7vsZkno/s1600/The+Screen+Door+004a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 269px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2QqVygI/AAAAAAAABWU/rioY7vsZkno/s320/The+Screen+Door+004a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527721973550270978" /></a><p>We chose to dine inside. It is fun to watch the employees practising their craft. <p><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZqTcTS5AI/AAAAAAAABWs/4EH_G_cZSuU/s1600/The+Screen+Door+005a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZqTcTS5AI/AAAAAAAABWs/4EH_G_cZSuU/s320/The+Screen+Door+005a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527722474891043842" /></a><p>We arrived just before the restaurant opened for the evening and were in the dining room early. Around an hour later the place had only a couple of open tables. <p><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2C51-8I/AAAAAAAABWM/bPFMI8lenFM/s1600/The+Screen+Door+008a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TLZp2C51-8I/AAAAAAAABWM/bPFMI8lenFM/s320/The+Screen+Door+008a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527721969857199042" /></a><p>Ok. I know this is the part for which you're waiting. The special on the chalk board sounded good but we'd come in for chicken. Debbie and I each ordered the fried chicken plate. It came with a nice glop of mashed potatoes and some ham gravy and a bit of cooked greens. I have to tell you that I'm a dark meat guy and usually only eat drumsticks and thighs and I was a little disappointed when I saw that my plate had a piece of breast on it. Don't stop reading yet! Oh my goodness! How did this magic happen? I have never had a better piece of chicken breast. The crust was delicious and the chicken interior was sooo juicy. I still don't know if this is the best fried chicken in Portland but there is something that I do know. This is the best chicken breast I ever ate. Hands down. I'd swear it in court. I suppose that means that almost no body knows how to properly cook a chicken breast. Well the folks down at the Screen Door know how and my suggestion to you is to try it yourself. <br /></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-65120989228924444392010-10-08T20:20:00.000-07:002010-10-08T23:27:47.956-07:00Eleni's<center><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gO8ECIsI/AAAAAAAABV0/iBBi90yhoiU/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gO8ECIsI/AAAAAAAABV0/iBBi90yhoiU/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+002a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881815052722882" /></a><p><br />Earlier today we decided that once again we should venture out beyond our "safe zone". I suggested a destination to Debbie in an email but when I arrived at home she was busy on the net frantically searching for something, anything else. I told her that they appeared to have a couple of nice shrimp selections so she relented and off we headed to <a href="http://www.elenisrestaurant.com/">Eleni's</a>.<br /><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gOeIOXpI/AAAAAAAABVs/5JFktmyiGxo/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gOeIOXpI/AAAAAAAABVs/5JFktmyiGxo/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881807017238162" /></a><br /><p>This establishment features Greek or more specifically Cretian cuisine. The dining area was attractively decorated and the tables were adorned with white napkins but the expected attire appeared to be casual although we could have dressed up and been comfortable as well. We were a little early, perhaps 5:00 pm and the place was nearly empty. I get concerned when I arrive at a restaurant and no one else is there. However, as the evening grew later, more patrons began to arrive. The waiter was pleasant as he seated us. He quoted from memory about five specials that were being featured this evening. The menu was ala carte which always tends to give me pause. I prefer to just have to read the entree selection and what comes with it. Anyway, we each chose a salad and an entree. At first I thought it curious that the waiter then asked if I'd like some kind of rice and spinach dish. I thought that was weird but wisely received his council. Debbie also ordered a salad and an entree and he then suggested an addition. She took him up on it and I'd have to say that it was a good thing. <p><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gNzdQ8VI/AAAAAAAABVk/fukfSlcacEM/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+005a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gNzdQ8VI/AAAAAAAABVk/fukfSlcacEM/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+005a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881795562762578" /></a><p>The first thing to arrive after our beverages of choice was a lovely plate of bread with an olive oil and kalamata olive dip. Kalamata olives are not Debbie's favorite but I loved it.<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gl53LyaI/AAAAAAAABV8/AqDajHHPkuQ/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+006a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gl53LyaI/AAAAAAAABV8/AqDajHHPkuQ/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+006a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525882209598949794" /></a><p>This was Debbie's salad selection.<br />SALADS EXOCHIKI SALATA $10<br />Roma tomatoes, cucumber, green onion, peppers, olives and feta dressed in white balsamic and olive oil <br />I ate the last third of it. It was lovely!<br /><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gAvbkmXI/AAAAAAAABVU/YrlxVIz78Ug/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+007a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gAvbkmXI/AAAAAAAABVU/YrlxVIz78Ug/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+007a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881571143620978" /></a><p>My salad was the KRITIKIA SALATA $11<br />Tender mixed greens with tomatoes, English cucumber, peppers, mushrooms, avocado, onions and currants; dressed with a honey balsamic vinaigrette<br />It was absolutely delicious. Perhaps a bit sweet but it was a honey vinagrette after all. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gAdcVizI/AAAAAAAABVM/JMxqOKmkR4A/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+008a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gAdcVizI/AAAAAAAABVM/JMxqOKmkR4A/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+008a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881566314990386" /></a><p>This was Debbie's entree. Here is where the description gets a little dicey. I suspect that the pilaf bed that her shrimp arrived on was the suggestion made by the waiter. I can't determine by the menu what it was. It was good as I had a chance to finish off what she was unable to accomplish. <p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gANzRgMI/AAAAAAAABVE/I_SjfPJC6k4/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+010a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 207px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_gANzRgMI/AAAAAAAABVE/I_SjfPJC6k4/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881562116227266" /></a><p>This blurred image (apologies offered)is the suggestion made by the waiter. Essentially, it was a rice and spinach dish. It was good. There was a lemony flavor complementing this dish. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_f_2drpfI/AAAAAAAABU8/e-m9VYKY5bc/s1600/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+011a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TK_f_2drpfI/AAAAAAAABU8/e-m9VYKY5bc/s320/Dining+In+The+Dark+%239+011a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525881555851650546" /></a>This was my shrimp entree. It was wonderful but without the addition of the rice and spinach, would have left me hungry and probably a bit cranky.<p>Obviously the chef at Eleni's is a master and an artist. Art is not enough for me as I require a certain quantity as well. You know, we spent nearly $60.00. Without the opportunity to finish off Debbie's salad and entree, I would have left hungry and would have been completely bummed out. I noticed as I looked around the restaurant that there were about seven men and perhaps twenty or twenty-one women. I wonder if Eleni's is perhaps a bit heavy on the ambiance side and a bit weak on the quantity side. Look, the experience was a delight. The food looked and tasted outstanding but I hate it when I need to eat everybody elses food to feel satisfied. Just sayin'. <p><br /></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-51572566436191842322010-09-11T22:02:00.000-07:002010-09-11T22:45:21.909-07:00The ObservatoryIt was Friday night around 6:00 pm. We were taking care of some business when we bumped into a couple of friends. Someone suggested that it was dinner time and our friends wondered if we had researched any new places to explore for this blog. I had been distracted with life events and hadn't even thought about eating out for a while. I quickly pulled out my Android mobile device and started searching for a place worthy of a visit within close proximity. I stumbled on the <a href="http://www.theobservatorypdx.com/">The Observatory</a>. It sounded safe enough and was only four blocks or so away.<p> <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN9DbcX9I/AAAAAAAABUM/WwxIxHCagMs/s1600/1284167480087.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 244px; height: 197px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN9DbcX9I/AAAAAAAABUM/WwxIxHCagMs/s320/1284167480087.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515517511188897746" /></a><br />This was the view from the street. There were a small number of tables outside. When we ventured inside, we noticed the the place was small but busy. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. We were offered a table fairly quickly but our companions suggested to the hostess that it might be fun to eat outside and that we'd be willing to wait a few minutes for that opportunity. She pleasantly responded that that would be fine and she'd see how quickly she could get a table for us. We only waited another short while till one of the tables cleared and we were promptly seated. <p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN8ndm3iI/AAAAAAAABUE/d5cJ4mu4zXA/s1600/1284169600456.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 293px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN8ndm3iI/AAAAAAAABUE/d5cJ4mu4zXA/s320/1284169600456.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515517503681781282" /></a>The waitress was at the table shortly to deliver the menu and take beverage orders. We each chose water but being a bit hydrophobic I asked if she could supply lemon wedges and the quick response was "of course". One of our dinner companions asked if she could suggest a good value appetizer and she quickly replied that a great choice would be the Oregeno Fry Bread for $4.00. I have to say that the girls were each very attentive, friendly, helpful, and were well worth their wages.<p> <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN8e__7MI/AAAAAAAABT8/ZVP4Ba6Ghqo/s1600/1284169868774.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 289px; height: 235px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN8e__7MI/AAAAAAAABT8/ZVP4Ba6Ghqo/s320/1284169868774.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515517501410110658" /></a>My choice for an entree was the Roasted Pork Loin. Wow! It was so tender that I could cut it with a fork and the sauce was a splendid spiced apple flavor. It came with a couple of light polenta wedges and mustard greens. I ate every morsel on the plate. It was just a delicious dinner. The presentation was wonderful and I really would not suggest any changes.<p> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN70FvvhI/AAAAAAAABT0/WKyiY5xCJYc/s1600/1284169874941.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 235px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIsN70FvvhI/AAAAAAAABT0/WKyiY5xCJYc/s320/1284169874941.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515517489891491346" /></a><p>Our companions chose to split a plate and it happened that it was the same selection as Debbie chose. I don't exactly remember the name because it was a special and is not on the menu. Essentially, it was a pasta dish with penne noodles and andouille sausage with a creamy tomato sauce. Our companions reported that they enjoyed the plate. Debbie wasn't as pleased with it as they were. I had the opportunity to finish off a significant portion of her plate and have to say that though I appreciated my primary selection better, her meal was still very good. You know, one must realize that different tastebuds often just react differently to food. <p>This "first contact" experience with this restaurant was certainly positive and I would recommend it wholeheartedly. I plan to revisit this establishment and investigate some of the other selections on the menu. I feel particularly fortunate that it is located reletively close to home.<p>Ok. This next picture probably doesn't belong on this post. Afterall, it wasn't taken at The Observatory. It was taken a few blocks away at a cute little pastery shop that we wandered into after dinner. We each tried a fun little cookie. Actually, it was two cookies with a creamy flavored filling between them. I don't remember what everyone else ate but mine was a couple of snickerdoodles with vanilla cream in between. Yumm! <p> <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIxouqA5wUI/AAAAAAAABUc/Ko4BQb_jQFw/s1600/1284172757720.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 272px; height: 168px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TIxouqA5wUI/AAAAAAAABUc/Ko4BQb_jQFw/s320/1284172757720.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515898794383360322" /></a><br /><p>Yes! This was a great evening filled with food, conversation, and friends.bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-84282763608145229572010-09-05T23:10:00.000-07:002010-09-05T23:10:00.201-07:00Pine State BiscuitsA friend recently asked if we had ever heard of <a href="http://pinestatebiscuits.com/">Pine State Biscuits</a>. Neither of us had so we decided to do a drive by.<p> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH878yFcg5I/AAAAAAAABSk/7ElXaL8iT2g/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+008a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 272px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH878yFcg5I/AAAAAAAABSk/7ElXaL8iT2g/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+008a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190384347579282" /></a><p><br />Whoa! Sure didn't look like much from the outside. We determined that this place was just the sort of establishment that we needed to try. Adding to our interest was the fact that a line of people was forming outside the building onto the sidewalk. That's always a good sign.<p> <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87v_7-5LI/AAAAAAAABSc/4PtBqZHKIwY/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+001a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87v_7-5LI/AAAAAAAABSc/4PtBqZHKIwY/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+001a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190164727686322" /></a><p>As we get inside the door we notice that there are about four people behind the counter working feverishly. The menu is chalked up on a board hanging over the counter.<p> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87vZkR-iI/AAAAAAAABSU/-TV74FTHK9E/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87vZkR-iI/AAAAAAAABSU/-TV74FTHK9E/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190154427726370" /></a><p>We look around the corner and discover that this place apparently only seats about a dozen patrons. Interesting! Being mildly claustrophobic and agoraphobic, I suggest that we get the biscuits to go and eat them in the car.<p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87u9hkEbI/AAAAAAAABSM/Ucz_39gn8ak/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+004a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87u9hkEbI/AAAAAAAABSM/Ucz_39gn8ak/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+004a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190146900136370" /></a><p>I ordered the deluxe "Reggie" which seems to be their pride and joy. It is also the first item on the <a href="http://pinestatebiscuits.com/menu/">menu</a>. <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87uAd4-YI/AAAAAAAABSE/yNV4R49NgXs/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+010a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87uAd4-YI/AAAAAAAABSE/yNV4R49NgXs/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190130510166402" /></a>Debbie's selection was the Reggie, though not deluxe. The only difference between the two orders was the egg on my "deluxe" biscuit. <p>Anyway, the Reggie is made of a wonderful biscuit with a slab of fried chicken breast, bacon, cheese, and sausage gravy and, of course, an egg if you order the deluxe version. <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87t304NmI/AAAAAAAABR8/LrRyzac-Row/s1600/Pine+State+Biscutits+011a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 264px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TH87t304NmI/AAAAAAAABR8/LrRyzac-Row/s320/Pine+State+Biscutits+011a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512190128190666338" /></a><p>We each thoroughly enjoyed our selections and our appetites were completely satiated. In fact, I had to finish off a portion of Debbie's biscuit which she would have been unable to finish. This is not the sort of place for the stringently health conscious. It is Southern comfort food in its truest form. I can't imagine what person could have tasted that item and not been completely intoxicated by the flavors. I will give a thumbs up on this place as our experience was pleasent. I understand, however, that a visit on the week-end often requires a significant wait in the line. Oh well, sometimes the best things are the ones for which we wait the longest!bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-71291486174867133092010-08-20T06:28:00.000-07:002010-08-20T06:47:20.220-07:00Swagat<center><br />Once again we have dined outside the box, as it were, and lived to dine again another day!<p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycx-esLXI/AAAAAAAABRg/3KrJzPP9PUI/s1600/Swagat+002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycx-esLXI/AAAAAAAABRg/3KrJzPP9PUI/s320/Swagat+002a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948826766519666" /></a><p><br />This time the cuisine was from India. We chose a small restaurant in NW Portland called <a href="http://www.swagat.com/">Swagat</a>. It had a kind of quaint, friendly look on the outside. The host greeted us as we entered and promptly seated us in the dining area. There were only a few other guests but that was certainly ok because the dining room wasn't a really large place anyway. Very quickly the waitress was at the table ready to take our beverage order and to place a tray of three different sauces on our table.<p> <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycrWHJ9dI/AAAAAAAABRY/74sgqZYhFKs/s1600/Swagat+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycrWHJ9dI/AAAAAAAABRY/74sgqZYhFKs/s320/Swagat+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948712851174866" /></a><p><br />We admitted our ignorance of Indian cuisine early on and she patiently explained the various terms, types of food, and how it is normally enjoyed.<p> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycrHORSQI/AAAAAAAABRQ/oRoq2D9QP-s/s1600/Swagat+007a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycrHORSQI/AAAAAAAABRQ/oRoq2D9QP-s/s320/Swagat+007a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948708854483202" /></a><p><br />We each received a cracker like this and were told it was proper to dip it in the various sauces which we did. It was good. I am a bit more tolerant of spices than Debbie. The green sauce was the hottest but it was good. I think she was ok with it too. She did comment that the cracker was good and I completely concurred with that assessment.<p> <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycqdOj9GI/AAAAAAAABRI/ibIrgTMRWGQ/s1600/Swagat+009a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 261px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycqdOj9GI/AAAAAAAABRI/ibIrgTMRWGQ/s320/Swagat+009a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948697581417570" /></a><br /><p><br />We decided that we should at least try an appetizer. We chose the assorted vegetable pakoras. The vegetables came in a deep fried batter cocoon so it was sometimes difficult to identify each but I'm guessing that at least one was a slice of potato, perhaps a slice of eggplant, a couple of varieties of pepper, and some onions. This was very good and also dipped well in our three sauces. I am afraid that we were becoming full by the time we completed our appetizer and perhaps weren't hungry enough to truly enjoy our entree to it fullest.<p> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycpkyTx7I/AAAAAAAABQ4/SUtA-CvLfsU/s1600/Swagat+010a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycpkyTx7I/AAAAAAAABQ4/SUtA-CvLfsU/s320/Swagat+010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948682430531506" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycQC57PcI/AAAAAAAABQw/fC31v7CKrg4/s1600/Swagat+012a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycQC57PcI/AAAAAAAABQw/fC31v7CKrg4/s320/Swagat+012a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948243838942658" /></a><br /><p>This was Debbie's choice. It was called Chicken Saag. Essentially, it is chunks of chicken breast cooked in a mild spinach curry.<p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycP7wXEiI/AAAAAAAABQo/OVTXOuGe00M/s1600/Swagat+015a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycP7wXEiI/AAAAAAAABQo/OVTXOuGe00M/s320/Swagat+015a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948241919775266" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycPfKP3CI/AAAAAAAABQg/d3ic4CdabmE/s1600/Swagat+016a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 265px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycPfKP3CI/AAAAAAAABQg/d3ic4CdabmE/s320/Swagat+016a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948234243726370" /></a><p>My selection, far more spicy I might add, was called Lamb Karai. It was lamb cooked in a tomato and green pepper curry. <p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycPNVmJhI/AAAAAAAABQY/0Ld2XuN1OHk/s1600/Swagat+013a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 244px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycPNVmJhI/AAAAAAAABQY/0Ld2XuN1OHk/s320/Swagat+013a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948229459486226" /></a><br />This is the bread that was served with the meal. I believe it is called naan. It was a lot like a pancake. Apparently, the dough is splattered on the brick oven to cook. It was good and relieved the effects of the spices on my tongue. <p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycOjTBXXI/AAAAAAAABQQ/79QnA-10a7k/s1600/Picnik+collagea.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 138px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGycOjTBXXI/AAAAAAAABQQ/79QnA-10a7k/s320/Picnik+collagea.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506948218174397810" /></a><p>This image portraits the two desert selections that were included in the price of the meal. Debbie chose the white rice pudding. It was tasty, kind of thin, and an appropriate end to this meal. My choice was the pastry. Essentially, it was a cake doughnut hole with a thin honey sauce spread over the top. It was good and if I hadn't already had far too much to eat I would have enjoyed it more.<br /><p><br />The service was fine. I believe the food was good as well. Debbie is not a friend of curry generally and though I can appreciate curry, I was too full to enjoy my entree to its fullest. Actually, we brought significant portions home and I enjoyed it far more the second night. I have to think that it was good both nights and that overeating on the first night tainted my overall opinion. I would encourage you to try the Swagat and see for yourselves. </center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-38352280182298762132010-08-14T21:59:00.000-07:002010-08-14T22:22:02.612-07:00Gustav's<center><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOv8LjxtI/AAAAAAAABPw/kGkC0NBUrD8/s1600/Gustouffs+003a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 210px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103811278259922" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOv8LjxtI/AAAAAAAABPw/kGkC0NBUrD8/s320/Gustouffs+003a.jpg" /></a>I was grateful that it was once again time to go out and find a new establishment to try. Somehow, it seemed like it had been a long time since our last post and I was looking forward to this visit. We were out Friday doing a little hobby income business when it occurred to us that it was past dinner time, we were hungry, and the outside temperature was somewhere in the nineties. Cooking didn't sound like a great idea so we chose to go "exploring".<p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOvjwERkI/AAAAAAAABPo/-VWG03H7QdM/s1600/Gustouffs+004a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 306px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103804720498242" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOvjwERkI/AAAAAAAABPo/-VWG03H7QdM/s320/Gustouffs+004a.jpg" /></a><p><br />We thought between us for a few moments and then the suggestion of German cuisine was offered and agreed upon. <a href="http://www.gustavs.net/index.html">Gustav's</a> is an off shoot of the Rheinlander but is a bit more casual. That was perfect as we weren't exactly dressed to the "T" if you know what I mean. When we arrived, we noticed that the parking lot was full which is always a good sign. Of course, here in Portland Gustav's patrons share parking with Rheinlander patrons. I probably should note that there are four Gustav's located in the greater Portland area if one includes the Vancouver, WA annex across the river and the Washington Square location on the westside. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOfoEN5PI/AAAAAAAABPg/H9UTeyDgxk0/s1600/Gustouffs+006a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 310px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103531000849650" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOfoEN5PI/AAAAAAAABPg/H9UTeyDgxk0/s320/Gustouffs+006a.jpg" /></a><p><br />We entered the doors and gave our name to the hostess. At this point we were asked our preference between eating inside or out. We chose outside but somehow the wires got crossed and they ultimately seated us inside which to be honest was probably better due to the ambient temperature outside. It probably took 20 minutes to seat us which I think is pretty good on a Friday evening at around 6:00 pm. <p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOfKPMNnI/AAAAAAAABPQ/ranHcP0hefk/s1600/Gustouffs+009a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103522993813106" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOfKPMNnI/AAAAAAAABPQ/ranHcP0hefk/s320/Gustouffs+009a.jpg" /></a><p>The waiter was friendly, helpful and knowlegable regarding the <a href="http://www.gustavs.net/frame_menu.htm">menu</a>. We chose to start the evening with the swiss cheese fondue. It comes with at least three different european style breads to enjoy. <p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOeuBzkeI/AAAAAAAABPI/NKCzWFWQZaE/s1600/Gustouffs+012a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 261px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103515421479394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOeuBzkeI/AAAAAAAABPI/NKCzWFWQZaE/s320/Gustouffs+012a.jpg" /></a><p>Debbie's selection was:<br /> Mushroom schnitzel ~ grilled chicken breast & portabella mushroom, roasted garlic, feta cheese 13.95 <br /> She enjoyed her meal and I also got the opportunity to appreciate a taste of the mushrooms and the chicken. I concurred wholeheartedly with her opinion. It was delightful! <p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOeVKwQhI/AAAAAAAABPA/ZleoxLV-GIs/s1600/Gustouffs+014a.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 306px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505103508748124690" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TGYOeVKwQhI/AAAAAAAABPA/ZleoxLV-GIs/s320/Gustouffs+014a.jpg" /></a><p>My selection was:<br /> Jagerschnitzel ~ top round veal or chicken breast grilled, with shiitake, button and oyster mushrooms, creamy paprika sauce and seasonal vegetables (veal 15.25,<br />chicken 13.25) <br /> In english it means hunter's schnitzel. I chose the veal as (don't tell anyone) I had never had veal before. It was tender, flavorful, and a true joy to consume. My plate also came with green beans which were done perfectly to my palate and spatzel, an egg noodle starchy food that was ok I guess. It apparently is popular in some of the middle european countries. To me, they were like tiny doughy dumplings. They weren't bad, only different than food to which I am normally accustomed.<p><br /></p>Overall, the experience was completely pleasant. We were never rushed which I always appreciate when I am eating. I would go again in a minute and believe that I can recommend this place without reservations.</center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-4526229150781506572010-07-25T16:17:00.000-07:002010-07-25T16:32:30.195-07:00Ya Hala<center><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu8IibDr4I/AAAAAAAABLo/pmcJNItrzME/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+019a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu8IibDr4I/AAAAAAAABLo/pmcJNItrzME/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+019a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497694625001090946" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu7R_prrtI/AAAAAAAABLY/ujD9XLAAzzQ/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 296px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu7R_prrtI/AAAAAAAABLY/ujD9XLAAzzQ/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+002a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497693687954255570" /></a><br /><p>I have been wanting to branch out of our comfort zone a bit and try some ethnic cuisine which might include flavors and sensations outside of what we normally partake. I believe that we breached our safety zone last evening with cuisine from Lebanon and we emerged from the doors of the restaurant with pleased palates. In fact, due to the copious quantities and our desires to taste each of the items set before us, we came away a bit over full. The host generously offered us carry out boxes so we can continue our enjoyment at home. <p>Not being at all familiar with the items offered in the<br /><a href="http://www.yahalarestaurant.com/dinner.htm">menu</a>, we asked our server to help us with our choices which she did with a pleasant smile. We started with a mezza selection which is an appetizer apparently. We chose the Veggie Mezza. It was an assortment of various finger foods, pastes, and what we normally call salsa to be eaten with the wonderfully freshly baked pita bread. That was where the over eating began. The flavors were delightful and in essence, we ate too much bread at the very beginning. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu7Rfa1leI/AAAAAAAABLQ/x7HsfW4_G2s/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu7Rfa1leI/AAAAAAAABLQ/x7HsfW4_G2s/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497693679302055394" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Ee26FLI/AAAAAAAABKw/bzQLR9Z0hZk/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 262px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Ee26FLI/AAAAAAAABKw/bzQLR9Z0hZk/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497692356301427890" /></a><br /><p>Freshly baked pita bread. They brought more after we ate the first two. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6EHYywbI/AAAAAAAABKo/b11IyR1odm8/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+010a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6EHYywbI/AAAAAAAABKo/b11IyR1odm8/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497692350001103282" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Dk88cpI/AAAAAAAABKg/_mqaQv4fEVI/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+006a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 224px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Dk88cpI/AAAAAAAABKg/_mqaQv4fEVI/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+006a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497692340757492370" /></a><br /><p>Here is the homous. It is a paste made of garbanzo beans with various additional ingredients to enhance and complete the dish. The Baba Ghanouj looked nearly the same but its main ingredient is eggplant. Click on the image above with all of the mezze plates pictured together for a better look at the subtle color differences. The flavor, of course, was far more distinct but each was good in its own way. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Cg84bJI/AAAAAAAABKY/7BFaFMIeF30/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+008a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6Cg84bJI/AAAAAAAABKY/7BFaFMIeF30/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+008a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497692322503617682" /></a><br /><p>This mezze dish was called Tabouli. As I mentioned earlier, it is much the same as what we call Salsa. It, too, went well with the pita.<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6CObOufI/AAAAAAAABKQ/rOOKVZlsxZA/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+009a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu6CObOufI/AAAAAAAABKQ/rOOKVZlsxZA/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+009a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497692317530634738" /></a><br /><p>Our last mezze plate featured Aranabeet which essentially is a piece of quickly deep fried cauliflower. It is not my favorite choice of vegetable but I ate it and am still here today to report that it really wasn't that bad. This plate also featured a couple of grape leaf wraps. They were good. I have no idea what was in them. It was a bit like eating a pickle but not really. I would certainly eat them again. The final two items on this dish were called Falafel. These are apparently a deep fried dumpling made of finely ground garbanzo beans. I ate one and it was good but I was already beginning to suffer from over-indulgence so the flavor was some-what wasted on my palate. I brought one home so perhaps if it retains its characteristics through to the next day, I will know better how good they were. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5X_LazdI/AAAAAAAABKI/jMQ9b79SQQg/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+011a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5X_LazdI/AAAAAAAABKI/jMQ9b79SQQg/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+011a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497691591883279826" /></a><br /><p>There was one thing that I wanted to mention but was hesitant to place it at the end of this post because I prefer being able to end on a high note. Debbie ordered lemonade. The menu describes it as lemonade with orange blossom water. She let me have a taste because it was just so weird. It was like someone poured perfume into the drink. I had to agree with her that it just didn't taste good. Ok, let's get back to the things we really enjoyed.<p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5XcS48dI/AAAAAAAABKA/leT4MJ8Nrx8/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+012a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5XcS48dI/AAAAAAAABKA/leT4MJ8Nrx8/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+012a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497691582519374290" /></a><br /><p>Our entrees each came with an green salad topped with a vinagrette.<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5WxsnNxI/AAAAAAAABJ4/Zd1UKEEzjzo/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+013a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5WxsnNxI/AAAAAAAABJ4/Zd1UKEEzjzo/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+013a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497691571084539666" /></a><br /><p>Debbie chose a chicken kabob on a bed of rice. She could have chosen beef or lamb but I suspect that she felt that chicken was a "safe bet".<p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5WceOQrI/AAAAAAAABJw/SIJUOyFLD_Y/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+016aa.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5WceOQrI/AAAAAAAABJw/SIJUOyFLD_Y/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+016aa.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497691565387039410" /></a><br /><p>My choice was a couple of lamb shanks in a nice sauce with the rice on the side. It was very interesting that the lamb was cooked in such a way that the distinct lamb flavor was somewhat more subtle than it often is. The dish was garnished with mint which is also different to me. I really haven't experienced it with savory dishes before. It was good and I am looking forward to my plate of leftovers. <p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5V1sW35I/AAAAAAAABJo/6NubymS8Ryw/s1600/Ya+Hala+Rest.+017a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 246px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TEu5V1sW35I/AAAAAAAABJo/6NubymS8Ryw/s320/Ya+Hala+Rest.+017a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497691554977341330" /></a><p>I am confident that we will eat here again. I'm pretty sure that even with some of her reservations about certain unusual foods, even Debbie enjoyed her meal. Perhaps next time it would be prudent to only order selections from the mezza list. It would be much more economical as well although now that I've said that I should mention that we got out of there for less than $50.00 and brought home enough to eat a light meal later. I think it would be worth the trip for you if you're in the area. </center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-86028606021185742422010-07-12T00:00:00.000-07:002010-07-12T00:14:46.793-07:00Cadillac Cafe<center><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowqM0M-FI/AAAAAAAABIQ/TPdLzhT_uEU/s1600/cadillac+cafe+016a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 244px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowqM0M-FI/AAAAAAAABIQ/TPdLzhT_uEU/s320/cadillac+cafe+016a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492756197084559442" /></a><p><br />Now let me be perfectly candid for a moment. This blog is normally about places which we have visited without any previous experience. This particular restaurant is one with which we do have some history. We visited it again this morning and wish to comment without bias as if we'd never been there before.<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowiBDl2QI/AAAAAAAABII/8Rb2PTacoX8/s1600/cadillac+cafe+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowiBDl2QI/AAAAAAAABII/8Rb2PTacoX8/s320/cadillac+cafe+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492756056488925442" /></a><br /><p>Each of my experiences with the Cadillac Cafe has been during breakfast hours and the breakfast menu has been the menu from which we chose a meal. As has been the case in each of our visits, today we signed in and waited for a table to become available. Today the wait was only 5 minutes or so. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowdK5PSzI/AAAAAAAABIA/6UTDO73Ncqo/s1600/cadillac+cafe+013a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowdK5PSzI/AAAAAAAABIA/6UTDO73Ncqo/s320/cadillac+cafe+013a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755973230512946" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowIpHDf8I/AAAAAAAABHw/JVcDXrbhCf4/s1600/cadillac+cafe+004.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowIpHDf8I/AAAAAAAABHw/JVcDXrbhCf4/s320/cadillac+cafe+004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755620564271042" /></a><p>The waiter was quick to our table, made some friendly small talk and then was quick to answer any questions which we had and take the order. The first item on the order was coffee. The quality of the coffee was supurb. I should have asked for the name of the supplier of their bean. <p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowQYj_B7I/AAAAAAAABH4/OvIMKko_1ZI/s1600/cadillac+cafe+007a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowQYj_B7I/AAAAAAAABH4/OvIMKko_1ZI/s320/cadillac+cafe+007a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755753561163698" /></a><br /><p>Debbie chose an item off of the menu with which she was familiar. It was their Hazelnut French Toast.<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowBtZfLtI/AAAAAAAABHg/AqjMmHw3CU4/s1600/cadillac+cafe+008a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 223px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowBtZfLtI/AAAAAAAABHg/AqjMmHw3CU4/s320/cadillac+cafe+008a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755501456240338" /></a><p>I, on the other hand, chose a selection with which I was unfamiliar. I chose Eggs Mazatlan. It was a couple of poached eggs on a flour tortilla with hashed browns on the side. There was a nice salsa and a delightful "glop" of quacomole. I chose to add to the plate with a healthy helping of hot sauce.<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowCEJWO3I/AAAAAAAABHo/fvDFyPf6GcQ/s1600/cadillac+cafe+012a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 225px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDowCEJWO3I/AAAAAAAABHo/fvDFyPf6GcQ/s320/cadillac+cafe+012a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755507562560370" /></a><p> I truly enjoyed my breakfast and would have been pleasantly pleased with my portion but Debbie was full after only one slice of French Toast and I had the opportunity to over-indulge by finishing her second slice of toast. I would have to add that her breakfast was very good as well. It came with sufficient maple syrup but I found that between the butter, the hazelnuts, and whatever other secret ingredients were in the recipe, I didn't need any of the maple syrup to please my palate.<br /> <p>You will not be disappointed with the Cadillac Cafe. The wait staff is efficient and effective. The menu choices are wide and delicious, and the atmosphere is interesting and eclectic. I encourage you to put this establishment on your list of restaurants to visit. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDov3utstpI/AAAAAAAABHY/qDNDPisgLSA/s1600/cadillac+cafe+014a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 263px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDov3utstpI/AAAAAAAABHY/qDNDPisgLSA/s320/cadillac+cafe+014a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492755330010756754" /></a><p>As they do not have a website. You can find the cafe at:<p>Cadillac Cafe<p>1801 Northeast Broadway<br /><p>Portland, OR 97232<p></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-76622143296246106882010-07-10T07:11:00.000-07:002010-07-10T15:17:57.061-07:00Joe's Crab Shack<p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDfzc78PzHI/AAAAAAAABFY/Jgdi03iZiLg/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDfzc78PzHI/AAAAAAAABFY/Jgdi03iZiLg/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492125949053881458" /></a><p><center>Apparently we've developed a habit! Tonight we needed to get another "fix". I was actually anticipating something a little more exotic but Debbie's hopes for the evening fell somewhere different than we'd ever been before but within our normal paradigm of eating establishments. Tonight we ventured across the Columbia River to the Portland suburb of (tongue in cheek) Vancouver, WA. This evening our destination was <a href="http://www.joescrabshack.com/locations/store/default.aspx?store=115">Joe's Crab Shack</a>. It is located right along the river and features a choice of indoor<p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf16uFfW_I/AAAAAAAABGY/f7nH_BRJWVE/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+009a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf16uFfW_I/AAAAAAAABGY/f7nH_BRJWVE/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+009a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492128659753884658" /></a><br /><p> or outdoor seating.<br /><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2FppaZFI/AAAAAAAABGg/k798dENepsE/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+023a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 262px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2FppaZFI/AAAAAAAABGg/k798dENepsE/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+023a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492128847540937810" /></a><br /><p> Our concern regarding the outrageously obnoxious mosquito population this year heavily weighted our decision to dine within the sanctuary of the inside dining area. <p>This establishment is a fun and happening sort of restaurant. The wait staff seemed generally helpful, eager, and youthful. Nearly all of them were in their late teens or early twenties. Good for them! They probably need to tap into that energy because along with their focus on their patrons, every 45 minutes or so, they break into some entertaining group dance. Just a few minutes into our visit we were treated with the Macarena, perhaps three quarters of an hour later it was some choreographed rendition of "Staying Alive". I got the impression that we as guests were invited to join them but it would have required copious amounts of tequila to get me to do that. In fact, the only people that I saw involved in the dancing, that weren't employed by Joe's, was a couple of kids a few tables away. <br /><p><br />Well now, Mateys. Let's get down to the <a href="http://www.joescrabshack.com/Libraries/Menus/Joe_s_Crab_Shack_Main_Menu_NP.sflb.ashx">menu</a> and our dinner selections. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2QpeGxHI/AAAAAAAABGo/bDmP086Ihnw/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+007a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2QpeGxHI/AAAAAAAABGo/bDmP086Ihnw/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+007a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492129036472075378" /></a><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2wxf8SFI/AAAAAAAABHA/-4PbMRbSY5U/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+010a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2wxf8SFI/AAAAAAAABHA/-4PbMRbSY5U/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+010a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492129588383074386" /></a><br /><p><br />Now I would have loved to try and tie into one of Joe's buckets of crab and things but that would have set me back at least $27.00 per plate and up to over $40.00 depending on what was in them. We decided to be a little conservative though we still spent what I consider to be a lot for two people. Debbie chose something called Salmon Orleans<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2e38YAkI/AAAAAAAABGw/9Zkbm0rLuAI/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+014a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2e38YAkI/AAAAAAAABGw/9Zkbm0rLuAI/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+014a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492129280875299394" /></a><br /><p> which I suppose was a Cajun influenced blackened salmon. It came on a bed of rice and according to her was quite good. Mine was a platter which included fried clams, shrimp a couple of different ways, and a nice fried fillet of fish.<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2fdlRDAI/AAAAAAAABG4/1b_MucNcg-w/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+015a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf2fdlRDAI/AAAAAAAABG4/1b_MucNcg-w/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+015a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492129290978921474" /></a><br /><p> Unfortunately, neither of these selections is featured in the online menu so I can't let you read for yourself what it was like. I suppose you'll have to take my word that it was good. With all of that fried food, however, I'd wager that any benefit from eating fish was heavily compromised. But, like I said, it was good! We were unable to be tempted by the dessert plate due to our over indulgence in the main course. There were some very interesting selections available, however, and perhaps we might be tempted to sneak up there just for dessert sometime. <br /><p><br />Now this particular establishment is part of a national chain and like so many has chosen to offer various souvenirs to boost the bottom line. They have a rather large, in my opinion, selection of T-Shirts available for purchase. They didn't suck us in this time as the colors were far more flamboyant than my boring tastes will allow. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf3AMMtUmI/AAAAAAAABHI/4r2Rze4fabM/s1600/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+022a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TDf3AMMtUmI/AAAAAAAABHI/4r2Rze4fabM/s320/dining+in+the+dark+Joes+Crab+House+022a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492129853248197218" /></a><br /><p>Overall, a very nice time. So, if you're looking for a casual atmosphere with good seafood and a great view, Joe's Crab Shack is a lot of fun!<p></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-44176908900818025222010-07-02T22:00:00.000-07:002010-07-06T09:22:25.537-07:00Montage<center>We really did step outside the box on this visit. I was showing this blog off at work the other day and someone said one of the places which he enjoyed was called <a href="http://www.montageportland.com/">Montage</a>. The rather brief description was that the place was kind of cajun. Well, I suppose that it is, in fact, kind of cajun. <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FhmzeyHI/AAAAAAAABEY/jK3DPOUeos0/s1600/070210+051a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FhmzeyHI/AAAAAAAABEY/jK3DPOUeos0/s320/070210+051a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489542176954042482" /></a><p>When we first saw the place, there were a number of people standing outside the door. Many of them were very well dressed. Oh, wow I thought, were we a little underdressed? As it turned out, the reason people were standing outside was because the doors were locked only to be opened promptly at 6:00pm and I don't know why that group had decided to dress up a bit. What matters is that one can apparently eat at Montage dressed well or down a few notches like we were. <br /><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FRc6EBYI/AAAAAAAABEA/b6fh--9gSF4/s1600/070210+052.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FRc6EBYI/AAAAAAAABEA/b6fh--9gSF4/s320/070210+052.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541899419387266" /></a><p><br /><p>My first impression from the street was, uh oh, this reminds me of some kind of dingy little bar. When they finally opened the door, I was shocked to see all of the white linens. It was kind of weird. I mean the place turned out to be really casual and the tables were adorned with fancy white linens. <p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FSVPvhfI/AAAAAAAABEQ/zqPm0Z2U_ew/s1600/070210+055a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FSVPvhfI/AAAAAAAABEQ/zqPm0Z2U_ew/s320/070210+055a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541914542704114" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FR4LIUUI/AAAAAAAABEI/SXtc1wQXM7M/s1600/070210+054a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7FR4LIUUI/AAAAAAAABEI/SXtc1wQXM7M/s320/070210+054a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541906738729282" /></a><p><br />Ok. You need to know. The second question we were asked after how many in your party was, "Do you want to sit at a table with people you don't know or would you rather sit at the counter?" We chose to eat at the counter. That was interesting in itself. It put us very close to the kitchen and allowed us to watch and listen to the cook staff as they announced to the wait staff when a order was completed and ready to be delivered.<br /><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7Ewv72uLI/AAAAAAAABDg/WrToYqTgzFI/s1600/070210+059a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7Ewv72uLI/AAAAAAAABDg/WrToYqTgzFI/s320/070210+059a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541337591494834" /></a> <br /><p><br />Between the hollering from the kitchen, the music being played on the dining room speakers, and the general conversations going on between patrons, the room noise was remarkable. I mean it was really quite loud in there. In order to pass a private message between the two of us it was nearly neccessary to talk directly into each other's ear. <br /><p><br />Let me get to the waiter and the meal. Our waiter was attentive and helpful. He answered questions and was very responsive to our needs. I am apparently a bit more at ease with experiencing new foods than Debbie is because as I looked at the menu, I felt that I could have comfortably tried any number of selections. Debbie, on the other hand, didn't step out too far and ordered chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes, and a vegetable medley. Her meal also came with a lovely garden salad. <br /><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7Ex7hPLdI/AAAAAAAABD4/gM4ae7yhzE4/s1600/070210+056a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7Ex7hPLdI/AAAAAAAABD4/gM4ae7yhzE4/s320/070210+056a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541357880946130" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7ExVt7P4I/AAAAAAAABDw/5yclYu8zw2Y/s1600/070210+057a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7ExVt7P4I/AAAAAAAABDw/5yclYu8zw2Y/s320/070210+057a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541347733618562" /></a><p><br />I chose a jambalaya with scallops and for three dollars more was allowed to pick an additional meat. I couldn't resist the temptation to order alligator. I couldn't really tell you what it was like. I'm not going to say it tastes like chicken. It was actually difficult to separate all of the flavors due to the spices and herbs in the sauce. It was good, however, and I ate it all and had to make a consious effort not to lick the bowl.<br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7ExCuazFI/AAAAAAAABDo/PGZ0NEEQMlI/s1600/070210+058a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 222px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7ExCuazFI/AAAAAAAABDo/PGZ0NEEQMlI/s320/070210+058a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541342635412562" /></a> <br /><p><br />I probably would be remiss in not mentioning some of the items which seemed to be popular. There were a lot of macaroni and cheese dishes coming out of the kitchen. We actually decided to purchase their "Old Mack" selection and bring it home to our 17 year old son. He said it was the best he'd ever eaten. Now that is pretty high marks from him.<br /><p>Wow! I want to mention something else. We were just too full to have appreciated another bite of anything, but there were some truly wonderful looking desserts coming out of the kitchen as well. I saw some really tempting cheesecakes and a couple of chocolate cake dishes that were probably really worthy of our attention. But in the words of the contemparary philosopher, Dirty Harry, "A man has got to know his limitations." <br /><p><br /><p>Overall, it was good, fun, and way outside of our comfort zone in any number of categories. From our single experience, I would recommend this establishment as long as you're willing to have a go with some of the things which I've described.<p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7EwHsO3WI/AAAAAAAABDY/69U5sMDZTxo/s1600/070210+061a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TC7EwHsO3WI/AAAAAAAABDY/69U5sMDZTxo/s320/070210+061a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489541326788549986" /></a><p>Bon chance and bon appetit!</center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-39323215764755638612010-06-29T22:45:00.000-07:002010-06-30T07:03:40.613-07:00Casa Naranja<center><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZQpEoV5I/AAAAAAAABCg/kbtWkrD1TyM/s1600/062910+049a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZQpEoV5I/AAAAAAAABCg/kbtWkrD1TyM/s320/062910+049a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437975830779794" /></a><p><br />Guess what! I learned a new word the other day. It is actualy Spanish. The word is <strong>tapas</strong>. Apparently, the word refers to what might be considered appetizers or snacks in Spanish quisine. <p>This brings us to our subject this evening. <p>Tonight we dined at a cozy little place called <a href="http://www.casanaranjapdx.com/">Casa Naranja</a>. It is a new place in North Portland. The whole menu is filled with items that would normally be considered appetizers. <p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZQOdmyKI/AAAAAAAABCY/NAhWfeElajw/s1600/062910+050a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZQOdmyKI/AAAAAAAABCY/NAhWfeElajw/s320/062910+050a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437968687777954" /></a><p><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZPlMqF5I/AAAAAAAABCQ/st2UzHtGuWs/s1600/062910+051a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZPlMqF5I/AAAAAAAABCQ/st2UzHtGuWs/s320/062910+051a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437957610837906" /></a><br /><p><br />We ordered seven items from the menu. Each was small, meant to be shared, and tasty. This first image is of the Bacon-wrapped Painted Hills flat iron steak bites with cranberry coulis.<br /><p> <br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZBMHp5yI/AAAAAAAABCI/-GMxCIL7Euw/s1600/062910+054a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZBMHp5yI/AAAAAAAABCI/-GMxCIL7Euw/s320/062910+054a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437710360799010" /></a><br /><p><br />Next up is the Chicken and fennel- stuffed piquillo peppers with honey cayenne aioli.<p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZA8fRbkI/AAAAAAAABCA/jhCxfX2P3ug/s1600/062910+056a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZA8fRbkI/AAAAAAAABCA/jhCxfX2P3ug/s320/062910+056a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437706164891202" /></a><p><br /><p>Fried razor clams with romesco and lemon.<br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZAYHwlWI/AAAAAAAABB4/9LZ8Ia2yXG8/s1600/062910+058a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrZAYHwlWI/AAAAAAAABB4/9LZ8Ia2yXG8/s320/062910+058a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437696402593122" /></a><p><br />Painted Hills half lb. beef casa burger with escabeche and chevre. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCtNRomINHI/AAAAAAAABCo/OZAUvJRXM4Q/s1600/062910+059a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 255px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCtNRomINHI/AAAAAAAABCo/OZAUvJRXM4Q/s320/062910+059a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488565536231535730" /></a><br /><p><br />Yam fries with lemon cayenne aioli. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrY_bYyMxI/AAAAAAAABBo/O9NZJUjfZyw/s1600/062910+062a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrY_bYyMxI/AAAAAAAABBo/O9NZJUjfZyw/s320/062910+062a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437680099439378" /></a><p><br />Garlic sherry green beans topped with Argentine reggiano and served with a piece of toast .<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYdF7r6-I/AAAAAAAABBg/_5cPfw4-T2o/s1600/062910+065a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYdF7r6-I/AAAAAAAABBg/_5cPfw4-T2o/s320/062910+065a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437090224696290" /></a><p><br />Tiger shrimp with fried anchovies and garlic sherry sauce .<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYclFZ2VI/AAAAAAAABBY/WfRIluxvNyE/s1600/062910+067a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYclFZ2VI/AAAAAAAABBY/WfRIluxvNyE/s320/062910+067a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437081407084882" /></a><p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYcElTaQI/AAAAAAAABBQ/_IaZsHblpXk/s1600/062910+063a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TCrYcElTaQI/AAAAAAAABBQ/_IaZsHblpXk/s320/062910+063a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488437072682510594" /></a><br /><p><br />These were the orders which we made. I was pleased with each of the items we ordered. Each of them was pregnant with flavor and the chef employed a thoughtful eye in his presentations. <p>It was a completely different idea of how a meal should be served and I enjoyed each flavorful bite.</center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-40493017730898079242010-06-18T19:50:00.000-07:002010-06-18T21:55:21.621-07:00Laurelwood Public House and Brewery<center><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwxgIV_ZfI/AAAAAAAAA9I/Z2_0cvh04QU/s1600/laurelwood+012a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwxgIV_ZfI/AAAAAAAAA9I/Z2_0cvh04QU/s320/laurelwood+012a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484312874295715314" /></a><br /><p>I suppose that the name <a href="http://www.laurelwoodbrewpub.com/locations-menus/">Laurelwood Public House and Brewery</a> might give some people pause about entering these doors but let me put you at ease. These people are proud of the national awards they've received for their brewed adult beverages but they are equally eager to proclaim the quality of the ingredients that go into food which they prepare. They try to purchase their ingredients organic and locally if possible. <p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwwnl3-cZI/AAAAAAAAA8w/quOj6AOxzX0/s1600/laurelwood+001a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwwnl3-cZI/AAAAAAAAA8w/quOj6AOxzX0/s320/laurelwood+001a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484311902970343826" /></a><br /><p>To begin with, I found it interesting to note that the parking lot was nearly full. In fact, I think we got the last space available. Once we got in the door it was apparent that the place was popular with young families. Many of the groups in the waiting area had very young children with them. Now the atmosphere was bustling and a bit noisy and people seemed to be enjoying their visit. The area where we ate had a number of monitors on and game 7 of the 2010 NBA finals was playing. Some people were viewing the game but it appeared to me that far more were engaged in conversations with friends over a meal. <p>The <a href="http://www.laurelwoodbrewpub.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Laurelwood51stmenu06.09.pdf">menu</a> had an average number of selections with many that I'd have loved to try but alas, I only have so much stomach space and equally significant is the liquidity of my bank account.<p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBww9KdgzoI/AAAAAAAAA84/7DBJfR1SafQ/s1600/laurelwood+002a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBww9KdgzoI/AAAAAAAAA84/7DBJfR1SafQ/s320/laurelwood+002a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484312273568714370" /></a><br /><p>Speaking of meals, I suppose it is time to let you know what we had and how we liked it. Now to be honest, I was dying to have the New York Steak but that is probably a little common so I reached outside the box and had the Mediterranean Sandwich. It really was good and it came with some deep fried onion rings which caused my tastebuds to sing with abandon.<p> <br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwxNF6N0iI/AAAAAAAAA9A/Wlfwlns8bu8/s1600/laurelwood+007a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBwxNF6N0iI/AAAAAAAAA9A/Wlfwlns8bu8/s320/laurelwood+007a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484312547224834594" /></a><br /><p>Debbie chose not to go outside the box and had some really outstanding fish and chips which she really enjoyed but felt really guilty afterwards knowing that though they tasted good they were sooo not good for her. She promised that next time, and there probably will be a next time, she'll try to look for something a little less fatty.<p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBxJ-0f42XI/AAAAAAAAA9g/KNZatHc4Xo4/s1600/laurelwood+003a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBxJ-0f42XI/AAAAAAAAA9g/KNZatHc4Xo4/s320/laurelwood+003a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484339789823531378" /></a><br /><p>Ok, here's the final score. For a casual and friendly atmosphere and really tasty food, I think we can place the Laurelwood in the winner column. <br /></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7927766078075127799.post-61802820230118169222010-06-16T14:10:00.000-07:002010-06-16T19:56:23.656-07:00La Petite Provence<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBlIijVR5qI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/hy82Y-ucTcI/s1600/Petite+Provence.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 221px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBlIijVR5qI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/hy82Y-ucTcI/s400/Petite+Provence.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483493779737536162" /></a><center><br /><p>The actual full name of this little place is <a href="http://www.provence-portland.com/specialties.html">La Petite Provence Boulangerie and Patisserie</a>. This is a fun and kind of cozy little restaurant in the heart of SE Portland. The decor is simple and elegant and provides an inviting atmosphere. Let me quickly give a short lesson in French. A boulangerie is a bakery for bread and a patisserie is a bakery for pastries. One can purchace either or both in addition to a full meal here. I will add that in addition to the location to which I visited, there are three others. One is in North Portland, one in Lake Oswego, and one in The Dalles. <p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk_A5KVF9I/AAAAAAAAA6I/jLfBVrRMU74/s1600/food+blog+1+028a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 315px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk_A5KVF9I/AAAAAAAAA6I/jLfBVrRMU74/s400/food+blog+1+028a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483483305876985810" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-4P3VvuI/AAAAAAAAA6A/1G5dMzCgx-Y/s1600/food+blog+1+027a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-4P3VvuI/AAAAAAAAA6A/1G5dMzCgx-Y/s400/food+blog+1+027a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483483157352529634" /></a><br /><p>My wife and partner in this little endeavor had the special of the day which was an omlette smothered in a delicious creamy sauce. It was dreamy. I tried to help her finish it but, alas, after conquering my own selection, I was chagrined to have to leave some of it behind.<br /><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBle0JUwQkI/AAAAAAAAA6g/bra6ITDxjIg/s1600/maila.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 363px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBle0JUwQkI/AAAAAAAAA6g/bra6ITDxjIg/s400/maila.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483518271249465922" /></a><br /> <p>My selection was from the regular <a href="http://www.provence-portland.com/fic/menu2010.pdf">menu</a> and titled Eggs Provencal. It was a delight to the palate. It was sufficiently addequate to appease the pangs gnawing relentlessly at my stomach prior to our entry. Pardon the pictures of our selections. I was remiss in not having my camera with me and had to take the pictures with my phone. Let me just say that each plate was as pleasing to the eye as it was to our palate.<p><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBlezjvGtcI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/is--zwodfjA/s1600/mail1a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 316px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBlezjvGtcI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/is--zwodfjA/s400/mail1a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483518261159441858" /></a><br /><p>We certainly will be returning again to at least sample some of these beautiful pastries!<p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-mqqYqoI/AAAAAAAAA54/V28kjDGYZ1k/s1600/food+blog+1+026a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-mqqYqoI/AAAAAAAAA54/V28kjDGYZ1k/s400/food+blog+1+026a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483482855308307074" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-mK7zuSI/AAAAAAAAA5w/jWz6AqtZNb4/s1600/food+blog+1+024a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 209px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-mK7zuSI/AAAAAAAAA5w/jWz6AqtZNb4/s400/food+blog+1+024a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483482846791448866" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-lnh8aFI/AAAAAAAAA5o/1KMvFVfHn88/s1600/food+blog+1+023a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 231px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-lnh8aFI/AAAAAAAAA5o/1KMvFVfHn88/s400/food+blog+1+023a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483482837287725138" /></a><br /><p><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-lDcCD2I/AAAAAAAAA5g/DyGK6FabRhw/s1600/food+blog+1+022a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 237px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_kcf8fqeGhLc/TBk-lDcCD2I/AAAAAAAAA5g/DyGK6FabRhw/s400/food+blog+1+022a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483482827599253346" /></a></center>bartpear3http://www.blogger.com/profile/05908822393082669477noreply@blogger.com2