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Portland Dining Guide & Tip Sheet

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I finally finished the first version of the tip sheet I've been working on. Hopefully I won't need to update it too often, but as you'll see, there are still plenty of categories to be filled in. I'll be glad to hear any criticisms here or on the PortlandFood.org thread where we've been discussing it ( http://www.portlandfood.org/modules.php?na...viewtopic&t=123 ). You can also email me. I imagine the last section, the "Over-rated" restaurants will raise some eyebrows.

There are some features that won't quite come through, such as the links to discussions on Chowhound, eGullet, Craigslist, and PortlandFood, and also the links to miscellaneous publications' dining guides.

Here's the original:

http://www.extramsg.com/uploaded_misc/portland_tipsheet.html

PORTLAND METRO FOOD TIP SHEET AND DINING GUIDE v1.0

Last Updated July 20, 2005

This tip sheet is primarily intended for people who are new to Portland or just visiting and want a few quick recommendations. It may also be useful to people who are looking to explore a cuisine for the first time or who don't get beyond their own neighborhood often. It's not meant to be comprehensive. Nor is it intended to give the best three in each category. Some restaurants may be both among the best American restaurants and the best breakfast restaurants, perhaps. However, they will only be listed in one category. Also, there is some attempt to add variety in each category, giving both upscale and downscale options, for example, or variety in location or style. However, each should be among the better, and possibly best, choices in Portland for that category.

Following the restaurants and markets is a list of dinner options for Sundays and Mondays. Click here for that list now.

There are also external links to discussion of the best restaurants in Portland and dining guides by miscellaneous publications. Click here to view these links now.

For a twist, this tip sheet ends with a quick list of over-rated restaurants to avoid that either continue to be hyped despite being mediocre or bad or survive on a former reputation. Click here to see that list now.

You are encouraged to comment and make suggestions to improve this tip sheet. Click here to comment.

RESTAURANTS

| American | Bakeries | BBQ | Breakfast | Chinese & Korean |

| Desserts | French | Greek & Middle-Eastern |

| Hamburgers | Italian | Latin-American |

| Mexican | Mexican-American | Northwest Cuisine

| Pizza | Seafood | Thai | Vietnamese |

MARKETS

| Asian | Farmer's | Gourmet/Organic | Meat |

RESTAURANTS

AMERICAN

1. Fife Restaurant: Elegant and interesting food for carnivores. Lightly southern-influenced dishes. Very open dining room and good bar in front of open kitchen. Great desserts. Dinner Tu-Sa; 4440 NE Fremont St, Portland, 971.222.3433; http://www.fiferestaurant.com/

2. Mother's Bistro & Bar: Midscale comfort food with a slight emphasis on Jewish traditions. Rotating specials menu highlights a different country of origin each month. Don't pass on the daily mac and cheese. Very good breakfasts with bagels flown in from NYC. Good value. Dinner Tu-Sa, Lunch Tu-F, Brunch Sa-Su; 409 S.W. Second Ave, Portland, 503.464.1122; http://mothersbistro.citysearch.com/; online reservations via savvydiner.com

3. Acadia: Neighborhood Cajun/Creole restaurant with well-executed dishes. Offers a "cheap eats" menu on "Mardi Gras Mondays" with many dishes under $10. Dinner M-Sa, Lunch W; 1303 NE Fremont Street, Portland, 503.249.5001; http://www.creolapdx.com/; online reservation via Acadia

BAKERIES

1. Pearl Bakery: One of the first and still one of the best artisan bakeries in town. Focuses on Italian loaves. Excellent olive ciabattas and fig-anise paninis. Limited, but good, lunch and pastry options. Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 102 NW 9th Ave, Portland, 503.827.0910; http://www.pearlbakery.com/

2. Ken's Artisan Bakery: Possibly the best breads in town. Used by many restaurants. They spend three days to make each batch of croissants. The country brown has great depth of flavor. Emphasis on sourdoughs. Serves pizza Monday evenings. Dinner M, Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 338 NW 21st Ave, Portland, 503.248.2202; http://www.kensartisan.com/

3. Di Prima Dolci: Italian bakery and pastry shop. Several substantial items like stromboli and sausage bread. Fabulously light pignoli and tasty cannoli filled to order. Pizzas on weekends. Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 1936 N Killingsworth St, Portland, 503.283.5936

BBQ

1. LOW BBQ: Easily Portland's best BBQ, but only open one day a week. Each meat is sublime -- brisket, pork and lamb ribs, and pulled pork. But sides are quite good, too. Dinner M only; 4741 SE Hawthorne, Portland, 503.233.1286; http://www.apizzascholls.com/LOW_bbq.htm

2. Campbell's: When good, brisket is tender and smoky with a nice bark. Same with pork ribs. Good sides and sweet potato pie. Can be quite inconsistent. If they give you a bad cut, complain. Dinner Tu-Sa, Lunch Tu-Sa; 8701 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, 503.777.9795; http://www.campbellsbbq.com/

3. Cannon's Rib Express: Two words: "rib tips". While some of the tips will be chewy or fatty, the huge bucket-o-tips is a fabulous deal and some of those tips will be fantastic. Also has vegetarian options for some reason. Outdoor seating only. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 5410 NE 33rd, Portland, 503.288.3836

BREAKFAST

1. Zell's: Busy for a reason. Especially loved are the German Apple pancakes. Very good eggs Benedict and specials, as well. Many say they have the best pancakes in town. Interesting old soda fountain interior. Free scones. Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 1300 SE Morrison St, Portland, 503.239.0196

2. Daily Cafe in the Pearl: Their second location with a larger menu, plus dinner. Well-executed gourmet breakfasts in a bright and casual cafe. The fixed-price brunch is a must, though a bit spendy. Dinner W-Su, Lunch M-F, Breakfast M-F, Brunch Sa-Su; 902 NW 13th Ave, Portland, 503.242.1916

3. Gramma Lucy's: A relatively unknown neighborhood gem for classic no-frills breakfasts in a quaint diner setting. Near-perfect pancakes. Lunch T-Su, Breakfast T-Su; 5026 SE Division St, Portland, 503.236.4868

CHINESE & KOREAN

1. Wong's King Seafood: Comparable to good Cantonese and dim sum offerings in San Francisco and Vancouver, BC. Favorites include Peking duck, crispy pork, salt and pepper squid, and house special won ton soup. Dim sum every day. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su, Brunch M-Su; 8733 SE Division St, Portland, 503.788.8883

2. Sungari Pearl: One of only a few Szechuan restaurants in Portland -- and possibly the only truly good one. Mid-scale (they have wine) with another location downtown. Executions are impeccable. Nice seafood dishes. Flavors are often balanced for the Western palate. Try the Dragon and Phoenix or wintermelon soup. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Sa; 1105 NW Lovejoy St, Portland, 971.222.7327; http://www.sungarirestaurant.com/

3. Bewon: Could be the restaurant in Portland most deserving of more business. Best choice here is the fixed-price 7-course dinner, han jung shik. From butternut squash soup as an opener, to your choice of entree with a myriad of perfectly-prepared pan chan, to the finishing apple cider, it's a wonderful experience and a great value. Dinner M-Sa, Lunch M-Sa; 1203 N.W. 23rd Ave, Portland, 503.464.9222; online reservations via dinnerbroker.com

DESSERTS

1. Pix Patisserie: Funky, fanciful, and French pastries. Chocolate rules along with fruity mousses. Do not overlook the interesting and well-made ice creams, such as the chocolate-habenero. The Amelie is one of their signature desserts. Sunday "dim sum" is a good way to introduce yourself to Pix. As is Bar Pastiche, where you can get smaller versions of their desserts. Open late. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su, Brunch Su; 3402 SE Division St, Portland, 503.232.4407; http://www.pixpatisserie.com/

2. Criollo Bakery: Owner's travails are chronicled in a thread on eGullet. Cases are filled with mostly baked items -- croissants, cakes, tarts, rugelach, etc. Seasonal ingredients shine in sweets. Savory items are quite good, too. Dinner Tu-Sa, Lunch Tu-Sa, Breakfast Tu-Su; 4727 NE Fremont, Portland, 503.335.9331; http://www.criollobakery.com/

3. Papa Haydn: Decent NW cuisine restaurant with large dessert case filled mostly with cakes, tarts, and pies. Walk right up to the counter for to-go orders. Nice platings if you eat in. Standouts include the chocolate cube, St. Mortitz, and seasonal items. Wedding cakes made-to-order. Open late. Second smaller location in Westmoreland. Dinner M-Sa, Lunch M-Su, Brunch Sa-Su; 701 NW 23rd Avenue, Portland, 503.228.7317; http://papahaydn.citysearch.com

FRENCH

1. Hurley's: Portland's most luxurious menu. Very good service, creative and perfectly executed dishes. Taste at least one dish with truffles, caviar, or foie gras. Order a savory flan. Expensive. Desserts do not live up to savory dishes. Dinner W-Su; 1987 N.W. Kearney St, Portland, 503.295.6487; reservations online via dinnerbroker.com and savvydiner.com; http://www.hurleys-restaurant.com

2. Carafe: Top-notch bistro in a casual downtown location next to Keller Auditorium. Free valet parking, but packed when there's a show. The cold appetizers and braised rabbit stand out. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-F; 200 SW Market St, Portland, 503.248.0004

3. St. Honore Boulangerie: One of Portland's several artisan bakeries. Croque monsieurs and a variety of sandwiches made with their baguettes for lunch. Nice pain au chocolat and beautiful pastries. Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 2335 NW Thurman St, Portland, 503.445.4342

GREEK & MIDDLE-EASTERN

1. Karam: Not only the nicest owners in town, but some of the best food in any cuisine. Falafel are made fresh and fried-to-order. A must. Goat and eggplant dishes are exemplary. Get the whole wheat pita. Dinner M-Sa, Lunch M-Sa, Brunch Sa, Breakfast M-F; 316 SW Stark St, Portland, OR 97204, 503.223.0830; http://www.karamrestaurant.com/

2. Eleni's Estiatorio: Original location for the best Greek food in Portland. Skip the pasta and try not to order too many dishes with tomato sauce. Fill up on appetizers, rather than entrees. Try the feta in filo, the calamari, grilled or fried, and meat-stuffed eggplant. Dinner Tu-Sa; 7712 SE 13th Ave., Portland, OR, 503.230.2165; http://www.elenis-estiatorio.com

3. Ya Hala: Far east-side Lebanese with an adjacent Middle-Eastern market. Strangely overly-smoky baba ghanouj. Order the sambousak, a meat pie, and the stews. Pita comes out steaming hot. Excellent value. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 8005 SE Stark St, Portland, 503.256.4484; http://www.yahalarestaurant.com/

HAMBURGERS

1. Mike's Drive-In: Local chain of classic drive-ins with thick shakes and a plethora of burgers. Order double-the-meat and top it with bacon, egg, and cheese. Thin and crispy fries. Look for seasonal shakes. Locations in Milwaukie, Oregon City, and Sellwood. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 1707 SE Tenino St, Portland, OR 97202, 503.236.4537; 3045 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR, 503.654.0131; 10695 SE 42nd Ave, Portland, 503.786.0595; 905 7th St, Oregon City, OR, 503.656.5588

2. Helvetia Tavern: For those who live by the maxim that "bigger is better" this is your burger. A huge, sloppy mass of meat, cheese, dressing, and bun. Giant stack of thick fries. Make sure you Mapquest it, because it's on a road to nowhere. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 10275 NW Helvetia Rd, Hillsboro, 503.647.5286

3. Cafe Castagna: Casual, bistro-style sister to more upscale French/NW restaurant. High quality meat on a soft house-made sesame seed bun. Order it medium-rare with choice of swiss or blue cheese (the cheddar is useless) and bacon. There are better bistro burgers, but the excellent fries make it a winner. Dinner M-Su; 1758 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, 503.231.9959; http://www.castagnarestaurant.com/

ITALIAN

1. Alba Osteria: Piedmontese dishes that go far beyond typical pastas. Ask for center dining room. Far left room can be rather cold and bare. Get the carne cruda, agnolotti, and duck. Good wine list. Dinner Tu-Su, Lunch W-F; 6440 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, 503.977.3045

2. Genoa: Portland's only true multi-course meal (7 dishes for $75) and four-star Mobil-rated restaurant. Relatively rustic food which leaves some underwhelmed compared with the style of restaurant. Service is very attentive and professional. The sitting room is more inviting than the dining room. Menu changes often. (Warning: Recently changed chefs.) M-Su; 2832 SE Belmont St, Portland, 503.238.1464; http://genoa.citysearch.com/

3. Mama Mia Trattoria: Red sauce, East Coast, Sopranos-style Italian by the owner of Mother's Bistro. Huge, tasty portions in very nice downtown location. Fork-tender veal. Housemade mozzarella. Also has late-night menu. Lunch M-F, Dinner M-Su; 439 SW Second Ave, Portland, 503.295.6464; http://www.mamamiatrattoria.com/

LATIN-AMERICAN

1. Pambiche: Cramped and funky source for Cuban eats. Rich dishes such as lovely stewed oxtails and black beans. Comforting appetizers such as croquettes, empenadas, and fried plantains. Great dessert case utilizing tropical flavors. No reservations and often long waits. Open late. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 2811 NE Glisan, Portland, 503.233.0511; http://www.pambiche.com/

2. Andina: Upscale Peruvian restaurant with dishes frustratingly close to being truly good. Extensive "tapas" menu more consistent. Best ceviches in Portland. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Sa; 1314 NW Glisan St, Portland, 503.228.9535; http://www.andinarestaurant.com/; online reservations via opentable.com

3. Antojitos Hondurenos: Casual Honduran fare cooked with care. Flour tortillas made by hand. Great beans and fried plantains. Seafood and coconut cream soups served on weekends. Fresh juices and licuados. 17466 SE Division St, Portland, 503.762.6373

3. Brazil Butikim: Tiny dive on the far east side of town serves . 12306 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, 97236, 503.762.9167

MEXICAN

1. Tortilleria y Tienda de Leon: Deli in the back hides a treasure trove of Mexican stews. Can be fiery and intensely flavored, so ask for a taste. The pork with nopales (cactus paddle) is a favorite. Purchase by the pound or as part of a platter with fabulously rico beans. Excellent carnitas and tamales. Tortillas are made on-site. Purchase the magma-hot fluorescent green and orange salsas and take them home. Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 16223 NE Glisan, Gresham, 503.255.4356; 2519 E Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver

2. Taqueria Nueve: Midscale regional Mexican with emphasis on lighter preparations and high quality ingredients. Interesting seasonal chile rellenos and ceviches. Ala carte tacos available, including wild boar carnitas and cochinita pibil. Good desserts. Sister-restaurant, DF, open in Pearl. Dinner M-Su; 28 NE 28th Ave, Portland, 503.236.6195; http://www.taco9.com/

3. Taqueria Ochoa: The premier taqueria amidst downtown HIllsboro, Washington county's Little Mexico. Huge photo menu on the wall. Try the gargatuan huaraches platter topped with birria, sided by stewed cactus and fresh guacamole. First-class salsa bar. Tamales in packs to-go and carnitas by the pound. Outdoor grill and al pastor spit on weekends. Look for specials on carboard signs at the register. 943 SE Oak St, Hillsboro, 503.640.4755

MEXICAN-AMERICAN

1. Esparza's Tex-Mex: Whimsical interior with marionettes, stuffed armadillo, and rattlesnakes hanging from the ceiling. Thick chips and spicy beans and salsa. Proper choices are important here. Lean smoked meats are too dry, but items such as the BBQ pork nachos are sublime. Mediocre margaritas despite large tequila selection. Very busy. 2725 SE Ankeny St, Portland, 503.234.7909

2. Catalina's: Ceviches, cocktails, fish tacos -- mariscos are the specialty here. Feel assured that even the oysters will be tasty. More typical oversized combo platters are decent as well. Two locations on opposite sides of Northeast Portland. Great value. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 517 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, 97211, 503.288.5911; 10902 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, 503.262.7272

3. Cha, Cha, Cha: Popular taqueria mini-chain specializing in brick-heavy, mission-style burritos in a less divey atmosphere. Fresh ingredients and traditional filling options put this above the national chains and many of the more "authentic" places. Tacos and tortas available as well. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 1208 NW Glisan St, Portland, 97209, 503.221.2111; 2635 NE Broadway St, Portland, 503.288.1045; 1605 SE Bybee Blvd, Portland, 97202, 503.232.0437

NORTHWEST CUISINE

1. Wildwood Restaurant & Bar: Established Grand Dame of Portland NW Cuisine. Great bar overlooking the open kitchen with friendly cooks. Booths provide some privacy. Main entree prices are high for Portland, but portions are generous. Simple bar/lunch food, such as burger, pizza, and salads, are surprisingly good and interesting -- and much cheaper than other menu items. Desserts are seasonal and tasty. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Sa, Brunch Su; 1221 NW 21st Ave, Portland, 503.248.9663; http://www.wildwoodrestaurant.com; online reservations via dinnerbroker.com

2. Park Kitchen: Semi-casual with interesting flavors and a very good pastry chef. Small dining room that only recently started accepting reservations. Do not overlook the "cold plates". Dinner Tu-Sa, Lunch Tu-F, Breakfast Tu-F, Brunch Sa-Su; 422 NW 8th Ave, Portland, 503.223.7275; http://www.parkkitchen.com

3. clarklewis: Noisy and semi-industrial interior, but excellent food. Dishes can be ordered in small, large, or family portions. Look for spit-roasted items and pork. The peasant salad, too. Desserts can be inconsistent. Recently opened sister-restaurant, Gotham Bldg Tavern, is as good or better. Dinner M-Sa, Lunch M-Sa, Espresso Mornings M-Sa; 1001 SE Water Ave, Portland, 503.235.2294; http://www.ripepdx.com

PIZZA

1. Apizza Scholls: New York style thin crust pizza is cooked until it crisps and begins to blister. Limited number of toppings creates a near-perfect balance of crust, cheese, and sauce. Try the margherita, fragrant with fresh basil, or the tartufo bianco, fragrant with truffle oil. Very busy and no reservations. Dinner W-Su; 4741 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, 503.233.1286; http://www.apizzascholls.com

2. Flying Pie: Thick, focaccia style crust piled high with toppings. A slice is a meal in itself. Choice of whole wheat dough at variable thicknesses available as well. Massive sandwiches are fabulous values. 7804 SE Stark St, Portland, 97215, 503.254.2016; 1600 NW Fairview Dr, Gresham, 97030, 503.328.0018; 3 Monroe Pkwy, Lake Oswego, 503. 675.7377; http://www.flying-pie.com/

3. Escape from New York Pizza: Greasy, bendable slices from a tiny dive among the boutiques of Nob Hill. Slices are the focus, but whole pies are available. Very reasonable prices. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 622 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, 503.227.5423

SEAFOOD

1. Jake's Famous Crawfish: One of Portland's oldest restaurants -- a restaurant that spawned the McCormick & Schmick's chain. Dishes are only marginally better than the chain's, but the restaurant has more character. Get a fish that's local and in season. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-F; 401 SW 12th Ave, Portland, 503.226.1419; http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/

2. Southpark Seafood Grill & Wine Bar: Falls short in execution of being truly good. Nice uses of Mediterranean flavors and local ingredients. Pleasant high-ceiling interior and good location downtown. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 901 SW Salmon St, Portland, 503.326.1300; http://southpark.citysearch.com/; online reservations via dinnerbroker.com and savvydiner.com

3. Corbett Fish House: Spendy, but decent fried fish. Rice flour breading is light and crisp -- not greasy. Also serve broiled salmon and tuna and sweet potato fries. Gluten free options. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 5901 SW Corbett Ave, Portland, 503.246.4434; http://www.corbettfishhouse.com/; No reservations

THAI

1. Cha Ba Thai: Large list of monthly rotating specials separate Cha Ba from the herd. More interesting than their basic menu, although they do a good job with the standard stir fries and curries, too, especially the green curry. Whole fried fish can be delicious if fresh. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Sa; 5810 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, 503.282.3970

2. Typhoon!: Adds a touch of Northwest flavors and French techniques to Thai dishes. Salmon, halibut, and quality cuts of meat. Large selection of teas. Prices are above, sometimes well-above, the average Thai joint. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-F; 2310 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97210, 503.243.7557; 720 SW Washington St, Portland, 503.224.8285; 12600 SW Crescent St, Beaverton, 503.644.8010; 543 NW 12th St, Gresham, 503.669.9995; http://www.typhoonrestaurants.com/; online reservations via savvydiner.com

3. Sukhothai: Housed in Victorian, emphasizing Northern Thai. Chef's Specials are better than more typical dishes which are only slightly above average. Try the angel wings. Best khao soi in town. 2014 NE Broadway, Portland, 503.331.1235; http://sukhothairestaurant.com/

VIETNAMESE

1. Yen Ha: Largest Vietnamese menu in town with over 160 items, including difficult to find dishes such as escargot noodle soup, plus daily specials. Mediocre pho, but other soups, such as duck egg noodle soup abound with flavor. Several dishes meant for groups, such as the seven courses of beef, where diners cook ingredients over a Mongolian stove. Great prices. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 6820 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, 503.287.3698

2. Pho Van Bistro: Midscale Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Portland's most trendy neighborhood. Refined preparations with comparatively muted, but well-balanced flavors. Try the banana blossom salad. Decent desserts. Two other locations with slightly less interesting menus. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su, Breakfast M-Su; 1012 NW Glisan St, Portland, 503.248.2172

3. Bun Bo Hue: Tiny gem specializing in their namesake, the spicy meat and vermicelli soup of central Vietnam. More complex version than any other spot in town with a very nice side of herbs and vegetables. Other dishes on the small menu are good as well. Dinner M-Su, Lunch M-Su; 7002 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, 503.771.1141

MARKETS

ASIAN MARKETS

1. Uwajimaya: Mega-mart with Japanese emphasis. High-quality selection of fish, including live lobster, crab, tilapia, oysters, geoduck, clams, mussells, and crayfish. Great produce and meat selections as well, plus aisle after aisle of noodles, sauces, snacks, frozen goods, and so on. Portland's largest Asian market. Open M-Su; 10500 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton, 503.643.4512; http://www.uwajimaya.com/

2. An Dong: All-purpose Asian market with impeccable meats and offal. Fish and produce are varied and fresh. Shelves stock variety of goods: shark fin soup in a can, preserved ginger, pickled mango, dried squid, unrefined fish sauce, monstrous bags of MSG, etc. Excellent prices on Thai-style granite mortars. 5441 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, 503.777.2463

3. Phu Hoa: Vietnamese grocer in center of the city also has nice selection of Thai goods. Fresh banana blossom and kaffir lime leaves, all parts of the lotus, green papaya, rau ram, even durian. Inexpensive meats and hard to find cuts. BBQ counter includes whole fowl and pig's heads. 3811 SE Belmont St, Portland, 503.238.2599

FARMER'S MARKETS

1. Portland Farmer's Market: Largest and busiest farmer's market in the region. Perhaps one of the best in the country. Emphasis on actual producers. Very few non-food merchants. All varieties of produce with mid- and late-summer berries and stone fruit especially popular. Great wild mushrooms in spring and fall. Amazing selection of apples, pears, and squash in fall. Several artisan cheese and bread makers. Fresh seafood, lamb, pork, and beef all year. Kid's activities and chefs demos. Also provides smaller weekday markets on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Beware of dogs and double-wide strollers. Open Sa 8:30am-2pm April-December; Park Blocks at Portland State University between SW Montgomery and SW Harrison, Portland, 503.241.0032; http://www.portlandfarmersmarket.org

2. People's Farmer's Market: Tiny weekday market with unique products and neo-hippy clientelle. Never overly crowded. Farmers are eager to discuss their goods. Rarities like stinging nettles in spring along with fiddlehead ferns and wild mushrooms. Great selection of tomatoes in late summer, especially cherry and heirloom varieties. Artisan bread, cheese, and chocolates. Open W 2-7pm All Year; 3029 SE 21st Ave, Portland, 503.232.9051; http://www.peoples.coop/frmmkt.html

3. Beaverton Farmer's Market: As expansive as the suburbs it inhabits. Competes with Portland Farmer's Market in size, but not in diversity or quality of products. Still, quite good, sharing many vendors with the other markets in town, but also a few unique ones. Strong emphasis on plant starts early in season. Asian merchants often have interesting greens and produce, along with gorgeous flowers. Smaller Wednesday afternoon market as well. Open Sa 8:00am-1:30pm May-Nov; SW Hall Boulevard, between Third and Fifth Streets, just south of Farmington Road; http://www.beavertonfarmersmarket.com

GOURMET/ORGANIC MARKETS

1. New Seasons: In a town with many gourmet supermarket chains -- Whole Foods, Wild Oats, Zupan's, Market of Choice, Lamb's Thriftway -- New Seasons is the best. Knowledgable and helpful staff. Produce is adeptly selected and often outshines farmer's market offerings. Quality organic meats and excellent bulk foods. Open M-Su; 5320 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, 503.288.3838; 1214 SE Tacoma St, Portland, 503.230.4949; 1954 SE Division St, Portland, 503.445.2888; 7300 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, 503.292.6838; 1453 NE 61st Ave, Hillsboro, 503.648.6968; 6400 N Interstate Ave, Portland (Opens in August '05); http://www.newseasonsmarket.com/

2. City Market NW: A co-op with three great stores in one: Pastaworks, Viande Meats, Newman's Fish Market. Pastaworks supplies the bulk of the merchanise, including fabulous produce, cheeses, salumi, expensive balsamics, wine, and, of course, freshly made pasta. Viande sells quality raw meats and fowl, pates, sausages, and cooked or smoked meats. Newman's provides fish and seafood, including smoked salmon, raw and cooked crab, and live oysters. Each is tops in the city for their products. Parking in rear for customers only. Pastaworks has larger location on Hawthorne. Open M-Su; 735 NW 21st Ave, Portland, 503.221.3007

3. Whole Foods: Yes, a national chain. Free parking with purchase alone makes them worth a visit if you need to go to the nearby Powell's. But they're also one of the best sources for produce, cheese, meats, and fish in PDX, and easily the best in the grocery wasteland of Downtown/Pearl. They're the only source for 4+ year aged gouda. Nice prepared food options for cheap lunch or gourmet food to-go. Best value for cooking classes in the city. Open M-Su; 1210 NW Couch St, Portland, 503.525.4343; http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/portland/

MEAT MARKETS

1. Gartner's: Classic butcher where the people behind the counter know their meat and will cut it to your liking. Marinated meats, over 50 house-made sausages, smoked turkey, thick and tender jerky, and sliced meats. They also smoke their own hams and bacons and process game meats. Open Tu-Su; 7450 N.E. Killingsworth, Portland, 503.252.7801; http://www.gartnersmeats.com/

2. Phil's: Small boutique butcher in upscale part of town. Carries aged prime and Kobe beef, Carlton Farms pork, salmon, and even quality wines and champagne. Grills up tasty bites for lunch out front. Open Tu-Sa; 17 NW 23rd Pl, Portland, 503.224.9541

3. Nicky USA: A wholesale distributor of game meats, primarily, that also sells to the general public. Mammoth product list that includes American Kobe beef, wild Scottish game, elk, wild boar, and foie gras. No retail store. Order by phone using online product list and pickup in their Southeast location. Be warned: purchase minimums both in total cost and number of pieces/pounds. Open M-F; 223 SE 3rd Avenue, Portland, 800.469.4162; http://www.nickyusa.com

Future categories: Cheap eats, Happy hour, Hawaiian, ice cream, Indian, kid-friendly, late night, steak, sushi, vegetarian, European markets, Mexican markets, South/Southeast Asian markets, and wine markets. Feel free to suggest others.

RESTAURANTS OPEN SUNDAY OR MONDAY FOR DINNER

KEY

B = Burbs

D = Downtown

N = North Portland

NE = Northeast Portland

NW = Northwest Portland

P = Pearl District

SE = Southeast Portland

SW = Southwest Portland

OPEN SUNDAY & MONDAY

* Andina (P)

* Basta's Trattoria (NW)

* Cafe Castagna (SE)

* Caffe Mingo (NW, B)

* Carafe (D)

* Ciao Vito (NE)

* Gino's (SW)

* Heathman (D)

* Higgins (D)

* Il Piatto (SE)

* Jake's Famous Crawfish (D)

* Oba (NW)

* Paley's (NW)

* Pambiche (NE)

* Pazzo Ristorante (D)

* Pho Van (NE)

* Red Star Tavern (D)

* Rivers (SW)

* Roots (B)

* Serrato (NW)

* Southpark (D)

* Sungari Pearl (P)

* Tabla (NE)

* Taqueria Nueve (NE)

* Tuscany Grill (NW)

* Typhoon! (D, NW, B)

* Veritible Quandary (D)

* Wildwood (NW)

OPEN SUNDAY

* Alba Osteria (SW)

* Bar Pastiche (SE)

* Gotham Bldg Tavern (N)

* Lovely Hula Hands (N)

OPEN MONDAY

* Acadia (NE)

* Assaggio (SW)

* Basilico Ristorante (NW)

* Bluehour (P)

* Caffe Allora (NW)

* Carlyle (NW)

* clarklewis (SE)

* Cobras and Matadors (NW)

* Karam (D)

* Lucy's Table (NW)

* Navarre (NE)

* Noble Rot (SE)

* Papa Haydn (NW, SW)

* Pho Van Bistro (P)

* Ripe (N)

EXTERNAL LINKS

DISCUSSIONS

A week's worth of ideas for Portland (Chowhound)

Best Food Items (PortlandFood)

Downtown Portland Restaurant (Craigslist)

Downtown or public-transit available (Chowhound)

Looking to take a MAX food tour of Portland (Chowhound)

Must eats in Portland? (Craigslist)

One Night in Portland--Only the Best (Chowhound)

Oregon Recommendations Needed (eGullet)

Portland Dining Suggestions? Running out of ideas (eGullet)

Portland Peeps -- I need some ideas (Craigslist)

Portland recs? here for the weekend (eGullet)

Portland Tip Sheet (PortlandFood)

Visiting Portland, Where to eat!! (eGullet)

We're moving to Portland, OR (Craigslist)

Worst Restaurants in PDX (PortlandFood)

GUIDES

Fodor's Portland Dining Guide

Frommer's Best Dining Bets

Gourmet 2004 Restaurant Guide

Oregonian Diner 2005

Portland Mercury 2005 Food Issue

Portland Tribune 2005 Entree

Willamette Week Food Finder

OVER-RATED RESTAURANTS TO AVOID

* Adobe Rose

* Alexis

* Big Daddy's BBQ

* Cafe Du Berry

* Cup and Saucer

* Doug Fir

* E-SAN

* Garbanzo's

* Harrison

* Hoda's

* Legin

* Mint

* Old Wive's Tale

* Patanegra

* Rivers

* Sweet Basil

* Three Square Grill

PortlandFood.org: Chow and Charity

Extramsg.com: Portland Food Guide and Travel Blog

Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessen

kitchenmage

kitchenmage

Posted
Posted

wow! now there is one cool list, thanks...

last year i moved to a place where Portland is my closest "big city" (all you New Yorkers quit snickering at what i think is a "big city") and while i don't get down there a lot, this is incredibly useful for those occasions when i do... like the blues festival a couple weekends ago--awesome location, great music, but the food...well, the half dozen food vendors seemed okay, but i'd be surprised if there were more than a total of a dozen and a half options for actual food... next time i can use your list to scope out a place to head after the music ends...

and you even included markets! for those of us who live outside the city and come in to shop, this is truly sweet... :biggrin:

OMG!!! I wrote a cookbook!

Picture Yourself Cooking With Your Kids

kitchenmage's blog

A Year in Bread: 3 passionate bakers, 12 months, 36 recipes

malarkey

malarkey

Posted
Posted

EXCELLENT list!! thanks for what was obviously a TON of work. It will come in handy everytime I visit :smile:

Born Free, Now Expensive

  • 4 weeks later...
Vaughan

Vaughan

Posted
Posted (edited)

Hi all,

Thanks for the great Tip Sheet, couple of questions. Have you considered a wine section, or is that somewhere else (I'm a newbie). Asking because I'm a wine collector, also because I called Wildwood for a reservation and asked about corkage and they said they'd waive it, so looking to get a good bottle of wine, Northwest probably preferred but very open.

One more question, discussion around "PCG" looked interesting but don't know what it stands for.

Thanks,

Vaughan

PS going on to Walla Walla for a couple of days and likely then Spokane for two or three days, any tips?

PSS For the record, I helped the person at Wildwood out with something so they offered the corkage waiver, don't want to create erroneous expectations or get someone in trouble! Ciao.

Edited by Vaughan (log)
Vaughan

Vaughan

Posted
Posted
Hi all,

Thanks for the great Tip Sheet, couple of questions.  Have you considered a wine section, or is that somewhere else (I'm a newbie). Asking because I'm a wine collector, also because I called Wildwood for a reservation and asked about corkage and they said they'd waive it, so looking to get a good bottle of wine, Northwest probably preferred but very open.

One more question, discussion around "PCG" looked interesting but don't know what it stands for.

Thanks,

Vaughan

PS going on to Walla Walla for a couple of days and likely then Spokane for two or three days, any tips?

PSS For the record, I helped the person at Wildwood out with something so they offered the corkage waiver, don't want to create erroneous expectations or get someone in trouble! Ciao.

Vaughan

Vaughan

Posted
Posted

Thank you, and I'll post our dining adventures for Walla Walla and Spokane in the appropriate place for anyone that's interested. Also after querying PCG I stumbled on it elsewhere in the article so my apologies. Looking forward to coming down.

Vaughan

Hi all,

Thanks for the great Tip Sheet, couple of questions.  Have you considered a wine section, or is that somewhere else (I'm a newbie). Asking because I'm a wine collector, also because I called Wildwood for a reservation and asked about corkage and they said they'd waive it, so looking to get a good bottle of wine, Northwest probably preferred but very open.

One more question, discussion around "PCG" looked interesting but don't know what it stands for.

Thanks,

Vaughan

PS going on to Walla Walla for a couple of days and likely then Spokane for two or three days, any tips?

PSS For the record, I helped the person at Wildwood out with something so they offered the corkage waiver, don't want to create erroneous expectations or get someone in trouble! Ciao.

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