The 500 square foot store in the historic Hamilton Building, will focus on take-away, but window counter seating will also be available. Think white penny tile, dark cabinetry,, and possibly a tin ceiling.

Billy says he “would love top open the second week of April in time for the US Barista Competition, but that’s only two months away, so it may not happen”.

¹The Hamilton building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Completed in 1893, it is an anomaly among its contemporaries. While many buildings built during the late 19th century were often ornate, the Hamilton building has little decoration. It is said that architects Whidden & Lewis designed a ground-breaking building, built decades ahead of later (and similar) trends in commercial architecture. Decoration comes in the form of granite-clad cast iron entry columns and cable mouldings, set against a Japanese-brick facade.

The building is 6 stories tall, and is named after Hamilton Corbett, son of Henry Corbett, an American businessman and politician. It is also the first building in Portland designed in the Classical Revival style.

The other main retail tenant in the building is Malka Diamonds. This will join the other two locations at 1725 NE Alberta St, and 539 NW 13th Ave.

¹Source: Wikipedia.org

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

Jack is a foodie himself, because his “better idea” has a hint of food fantasy behind it. Ice cream+Bacon=creamy deliciousness. What could go wrong? Unfortunately, we all know too well, that any dish is as good as its weakest ingredient. In this case, the weakness is the lack of almost any natural ingredient, including bacon.

Yes, you read that right. There is no bacon in the bacon shake. 

Let’s take a look at this little guy’s stats. FoodSmart.com dug up all the dirt, and led me to the Jack in the Box website: He’s a muscular 24 ounces of power-packed calories – 1,081 to be exact. It’s time to think about a lifestyle change, as he’s a bulky 54 grams of fat, 37 grams of which are the saturated variety. This bad boy has plenty of energy, weighing in at 108 grams of pure sugar! [The USDA recommended daily sugar intake for children is 12 grams. A full-grown man: 36 grams.]

I had 40+ Matchbox Cars/Trucks

This is a bit concerning to any of us over 18 17 16, but let’s pretend we are just happy tykes playing with our Matchbox cars¹, and mom brings home a shake! What are we getting?

First, the “Ice Cream Shake Mix” – Cream, Sucrose, Corn Syrup, Sodium Caseinate, Cellulose Gum, Mono-and Di-glycerides, Disodium Phosphate, Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Sodium Citrate, Polysorbate 65, and Dextrose.

Next, the “Bacon Syrup” – Pure Cane Sugar, Water, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Salt, Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate

From Grist.org, “The “natural flavors” are probably chemical compounds derived from taking bacon apart and analyzing its components. Meaty!”

Whipped topping? Mostly partially hydrogenated palm kernel oil and sugar. Less than 1% of a long list of chemicals. [No, that's not a healthy oil]. I do have to give them some credit here; the topping contains less than 1% dairy.

We can’t have a shake without a cherry. This one isn’t 100% natural either: Cherries, Water, Corn Syrup, Sugar, Citric Acid, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, FD&C Red #40, Sulfur Dioxide.

On the Jack in the Box site, they recommend the perfect meal – a BLT Cheeseburger, 20oz drink, and small fries. Just for fun, I substituted one of these wondrous shakes and added everything up:

2016 Calories, 951 from fat. 105 grams of fat. 53 grams saturated fat. 2728mg sodium. 113g sugar. 

Stay with me. If you’ve read this far, you are probably wondering how they can possibly market this thing. I went back to the site, and found myself thoroughly confused.

“Love Bacon? Marry It!”

Thank goodness they have a video to explain things:

Curiously this is followed by a “Make a Bacon Baby!” section on the web. I’m a fool, so clicked on the button, and uploaded my picture. Here’s what my baby would look like:

It’s a girl!

INT. LIVING ROOM. NEXT NIGHT.

Two teenagers slouching once more on a sofa in a smoky living room staring at the television. Their eyes are glazed. An empty pizza meatball box is between them. They are passing a joint back and forth.

Teenager 1 looks left, greasy hair falling over his eyes.

TEENAGER 1

                              (In a stoner voice)

Dude, you know what would be really good now?

A Shake!

                              (passes blunt)

TEENAGER 2

Dude, that would be awesome!

You know what else?

Bacon!

<long inhale>

TEENAGER 1

                                (quickly sits up)

Dude! Get the car keys!

^{1. Anyone who reads this far will find a shiny penny within a week. When I was a kid in the 50′s, we all collected tiny little toy cars that came in a tiny box – Matchbox cars. I loved them, especially the tractors}

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

PDX showed up in our state, rolling three or four rows of spectators deeps, with the hashtag #TacomaByStorm already set for all their Tweeting. Seattleites drifted in and out, applauding politely, half awake. Occasionally cheering in earnest. But seriously? The Portlanders had t-shirts, and signs, and obnoxious levels of noise any time one of their own took the stage. There was jumping, and hugging, and high-fiving, and altogether entirely too much Bro-fection for a non-sporting event. I don’t necessarily support it. Or promote it. But really, Seattle, where were you? There is simply no excuse for a home court advantage to get so stepped on.

Then they throw down-

But here’s the thing. This year, the US National Barista Competition is in Portland, OR. We have the chance to pay back. We have the chance to show up in Portland, and represent Seattle. A little less Bro and a little more class may be in order, I’m sure, but come on Seattle! Start rehearsing your best levels of enthusiasm. You’ve got until April… let’s show up and show Portland how it’s done.

It seems to me that you should have to win something to get to the national’s. Just saying.

Adam Berger, the owner of Tabla, is opening an all-meatball restaurant.

I love meatballs. Next to mac & cheese, they are my favorite comfort food. But a meatball restaurant? I could see going once or twice a year, but not on a regular basis. Remember last fall when the trend was all about hamburgers, and then winter was about pizza? So cliché! (Remember when food trends would last a year?)

Their website says “Meatballs and Milkshakes – Portland’s Tastiest Balls Coming Soon!”

There was a show last year…  America’s Next Great Restaurant, where contestants with restaurant ideas competed against each other, and the winner got their own chain. Anyway, one of the contestants had the same basic concept, though on a grander scale, minus milkshakes. He didn’t win. [The things I saw while Googling those words]

From the Oregonian, “For dessert, a simple list: frozen custards, milkshakes and concretes”.

I looked it up for you. “Concretes – A custard blended with any of dozens of ingredients, and served in a large cup with a spoon and a straw. Concretes are blended so thick that they and their spoon do not fall out when their cup is turned upside-down; servers often demonstrate this before handing customers their order. The Concrete is the inspiration for Dairy Queen’s Blizzard shake.”

Doesn’t this whole idea sound like a screenplay?

INT. LIVING ROOM. NIGHT

Two teenagers slouching on a sofa in a smoky living room staring at the television. Their eyes are glazed. An empty pizza box is between them. They are passing a joint back and forth.

Teenager 1 looks left, hair falling over his eyes.

TEENAGER 1

                              (In a stoner voice)

Dude, you know what would be really good now?

Meatballs!

                              (passes blunt)

TEENAGER 2

Dude, that would be awesome!

You know what else?

Milkshakes!

<long inhale>

TEENAGER 1

Dude!

Or a Blizzard!¹

 Dude, I’m so baked from that doobie!

According to the Oregonian, “24th & Meatballs” will be going into the corner of Northeast 24th and Glisan.

Yes, I’m an ass… but I’m saying what everyone else is thinking.

^{1. i worked days on this screenplay}

John Taboada is expanding Navarre. According to Eat Beat, it is “harebrained idea”.

Actually, I took that so out of context, I feel I should quote them directly; I just couldn’t help myself.

“Chef John Taboada always has harebrained ideas going, and most of them work. Taboada was ahead of the curve in 2001 when he helped pioneer Portland’s do-it-yourself Eastside food scene at Navarre, an icon of farm-to-city eating.” He’s expanding the restaurant into the space next door, last occupied by a bad Chinese restaurant. More from PM, “The plan, so far: a menu of appetizers and desserts only, to pair with drinks meant to be sipped before and after meals. A “secret dining room” is in the works, to house small groups and spontaneous parties. Meanwhile, a large prep kitchen means Navarre can expand beyond the nano-batch limits of its closet-sized kitchen. More charcuterie is on the table, and no one makes a pate like John Taboada. ETA is three to six months.”

Emphasis mine. No one dammit!

Rumor has it, that a small downtown restaurant appears to be circling the drain. Cash-only from vendors? Employee paychecks frequently bouncing? This place is so small, I wouldn’t normally mention it, but it is also high-profile. Think burgers and a public space. The Portland city leaders will be annoyed. Enough said.

Ken Gordon of Kenny and Zuke's Deli

I’ve heard Ken Gordon of Kenny and Zukes Deli doesn’t like me. I don’t blame him – I haven’t always been the paragon of sweetness and love that I am now. But I’ve always respected Ken. He comes across as a no BS, straight-shooter kind of guy. Now he’s Portland’s version of Paula Dean, except he’s intelligent.

In early January, Ken was diagnosed with high-cholesterol, high-triglycerides, high-blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes. Understandably, it shook him up -

After a half-hour of self-pity and a couple of “what’ll I do’s,” I took account of my life and made some crucial decisions. First, I was going to beat this thing. This was not born out of false heroics or gratuitous boasts, but out of pure necessity and self-interest: I intended to go on living. Second, I realized that I’m perfectly suited to tackle this problem. I’m determined, almost to a fault. I’m optimistic. (Being in the restaurant business for 34 years is pretty much the definition of optimism.) And, I’m a project-oriented person by nature, having opened or helped open 11 restaurants to date, and thrive on challenges.

Except now, I was the project!

Within an hour of my diagnosis I devised a plan: I would embark on the first diet of my 57 years on this planet. Now, as a somewhat accomplished chef, I figured that if anyone could make a diet taste good and be satisfying, it would be me. And though I had quit my three-fourths-pack-a-day cigarette habit seven years ago, I was recently backsliding with a few smokes here and there. That stopped immediately. As for exercise, I’d always done it sporadically until I got bored by the routine, hurt myself or got too busy. Not anymore. Now, it would be a 2-mile brisk walk daily, to start with. Every day. Plus some vitamins and fish oil and various anti-oxidants.

Ken has set a goal of loosing 40+ pounds, returning to health, and reversing the diabetes in a year or less. Along the way, he’ll be chronicling his progress in a regular column on OregonLive.com. True to his image, he’s a non-nonsense, writer; someone  many of us can identify with. I wish him the best of luck, and look forward to his column.

I used to walk to fast miles every morning too… but I couldn’t find a way to keep my beignets warm. Badum tish.

Paley's Place Dessert by Lauren Fortgang. Photo John Valls

Tasting Table is one of those online magazines, whose sole goal seems to be to get readers to click on as many pages as possible. Three clicks to get to the list of articles? Really?! Once you slog your way to them, you realize the writing is so insipid, you might has well have been clicking on porn. However, that isn’t to impugn their mention of Portlander Lauren Fortgang, as one of their picks for “Best Pastry Chefs 2012″. Tasting Table says her tarte Tatin is the best they have ever had. You can taste her desserts nightly at Little Bird and Le Pigeon (no pun intended).

I may not like the “magazine”, but Lauren’s photograph by Leah Harb is great , and Lauren looks like a nice person. That makes it worth your while.

Here is how you can see the article yourself. Go to http://www.tastingtable.com/entry_by_section/national/monthly-editions/monthly-editions-02-2012. Just for fun, let’s pretend I haven’t told you that the bit about her is in section 17. Just click on the little right arrow next to the picture. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. Again. It’s that easy!

Idiots. Anyway, it’s worth the effort to see her smiling face.

More tomorrow, unless my shrink ups my meds.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

Photo - Alicia Rose

In response to a query about rumors I’ve heard, Naomi Pomeroy confirmed today that she does not plan to renew her lease at her current location on NE 30th Ave. “I haven’t signed on a space but am looking and not planning to renew at Beast 1.0“. Her current lease expires in August, and she’s looking for a new, larger place in or near the downtown core.

According to a statement to Eat Beat, “The signature communal dinners will stay, but Beast will unleash a bar with a playful menu and seasonal cocktails that break with Portland’s manly bourbon and bitter-centric drinks”.

A big part of the experience at Beast is the intimate space, communal seating and almost family-like meals. Naomi has received many accolades from press throughout the nation for the restaurant, and garnered further attention after appearances in several television shows. It will be interesting to see if she can continue the magic at a larger location.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

The OLCC transfer doesn’t give much information, though it does show a name change from “The Free House Bar” to “The Free House”:

TEAM ME LLC
Premises #: 45709 License #: 164764 License Revenue #: 0 Date Entered: 01/24/2012
Tradename: THE FREE HOUSE BAR
Address: 1325 NE FREMONT ST, PORTLAND
License Type/Act: F-COM / C/O
Premises #: 45709 License #: 164764 License Revenue #: 0 Date Entered: 01/24/2012
Tradename: FREE HOUSE
Address: 1325 NE FREMONT ST, PORTLAND

License Type/Act: F-COM / C/TN

Prior Tradename: THE FREE HOUSE BAR

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

In an interview with Wall Street Journal’s Marketwatch, Owner Bo Kline said, “As many in the community are aware, I lost my husband, my business and life partner, Steve, last year. Without his energy, support and commitment, operating Typhoon! has required much more attention than I am able to give and has begun to take a toll on my health.”

Typhoon, which employed about 200 people, has suffered from bad publicity after multiple lawsuits from landlords, tax agencies and employees.

In September 2010, the restaurant was the subject of a state civil rights complaint, accusing them of “discriminating against Thai cooks by paying them less, denying them raises, providing them less vacation time and requiring them to work longer hours than U.S.-born workers.  …He also accused Typhoon of forcing chefs to sign labor agreements that negated their civil rights — and then retaliating and harassing two chefs when they refused to sign the pacts.”

January 2011, a lien was placed against the chain for $1.5 million for unpaid state and Federal taxes.

February of 2011, their NW Everett street location was seized by the landlord for $27,217.00 in unpaid rent, though they were able to reopen within 24 hours.

March 2011, Typhoon! vendors filed a series of lawsuits in Multnomah County Circuit Court for alleged unpaid produce bills.

July 2011, A federal arbitration panel this week awarded a former Typhoon chef $268,000, ruling the Tigard-based restaurant chain discriminated based on the chef’s Thai origin and workers compensation claim and owed her unpaid overtime.

The three-person panel in Portland also suggested the restaurant chain was abusing a U.S. State Department treaty program which the chain has used for more than a decade to recruit dozens of chefs from Thailand.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

Photo: Tim Roth

Sterling Coffee, the little walk-up next to Trader Joe’s on Glisan, has lost their lease. The shop, owned by Adam McGovern of Coffeehouse Northwest, is a popular destination because of their commitment to micro-roasting, and the passion of their employees. Apparently, Trader Joes will be expanding into the Sterling space. The move to a new location should take place between April 1st and July 1st.

According to McGovern, they do not have a new location yet, but are weighing several options. In the meantime, their retail coffee will still be available at Sterling Coffee Roasters at 2120 NW Glisan, Coffeehouse Northwest, on 1951 W Burnside and online at sterlingcoffeeroasters.com.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

This is it! The biggest roundup of Portland restaurant Valentine’s Day events! So big it gave me a backache! It will be updated daily, so check back if you are still looking for an event.

Additions? Corrections? Use the form and I will add/correct your event asap. Thanks to everyone who sent in photos, but I am unable to sit any longer to work on this, and wanted to get it posted. Perhaps tomorrow.

23 Hoyt - 

Special three-course chef’s menu. Your choice at every course, $45 per person, and add $15 for our sommelier’s wine pairings. You can see the menu here.

529 NW 23rd Ave, Portland 97210. Map (503) 445-7400

Acadia New Orleans Bistro - 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Acadia. Joint us for a special night of Chef Adam Higgs’ soulfully comforting Louisiana-style cuisine. $65 per person, Gratuity not included. Prix fixe only. See the complete menu here. Seating is limited! Call for reservations.

1303 NE Fremont St., Portland. Map (503) 249-5001

Accanto -

Accanto will be offering their normal menu along with several drink and food specials for Valentine’s day, including Beef Wellington as an entree for two.

2838 SE Belmont St. Portland, OR 97214 Map (503) 235-4900

Allium - 

A Romantic Valentine’s Evening at Allium. Indulge in your favorites from the daily menu or spoil yourselves with our special 5-course tasting menu. Tasting Menu for Two, $43 per person, (excluding gratuity) More information and menu here.

1914 Wilamette Falls Dr, West Linn, OR. Map (503) 387-5604

Andina - 

Romance is always in the air at Andina during their Valentine’s Day celebration. Table 25, a cozy table for two by the window, has a long history of sealing the deal when it comes to romance and has become known as the spot for many marriage proposals. This magical table is sure to be in high demand this Valentine’s Day, but owner Doris Rodriguez de Platt promises all her guests that this Valentine’s Day “every table at Andina will have the same good omen as Table 25”. Andina offers a three-course prix fixe menu on Tuesday, February 14where guests can choose their tapas, entrée and dessert from a large selection of the regular menu. The dinner includes a half bottle of premium Champagne or sparkling wine (with red wine options) per person. Prices begin at $75 and depend on choice of wine. Seatings are available from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Pete Krebs Trio will perform live from 6 until 10 p.m. in the bar and restaurant and Danny Romero will perform upstairs in the Tupai event space from 7 until 10 p.m.

Platos de Fondo – Peruvian entrées to choose from include the popular pescado al rocoto y kión, fresh fish over a shiitake mushroom and bok choy in a smoked bacon broth, served with asparagus-quinoa fried rice. Another popular entrée is corderito de los andes, a succulent double rack of grass-fed lamb, grilled to order, and served with a Peruvian yellow potato and two cheese timbale with a roasted pepper demi-glace. As always, Andina will offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dinner menus as well. You can read more information here.

1314 NW Glisan, Portland OR. 97209 Map (503) 228-9535 

Autentica - 

Spend Valentine ’s Day at either of Chef Bibiano’s soulful Mexican restaurants. Autentica’s intimate atmosphere will offer: crispy wild mushroom stuffed empanadas, a tasty cream of almond soup, and a hearty veal tenderloin with a house cranberry mole sauce.

For those of you feeling less formal, Bibiano’s newest adventure Mextiza: will feature pan fried bay scallop sopes, slow cooked lamb barbacoa, and grilled wild boar pork chops. Fancy this and many other special dishes that both of these establishments have to offer. Make your reservations as soon as you can.

5507 NE 30th Ave. Portland OR. 97211 Map (503) 287-7555

Aviary - 

Aviary will serve a Valentine’s Day four-course menu with optional wine pairings

Portland, Ore. (January 30, 2012) – For a memorable and romantic dinner this February 14th, join Aviary for a four-course Valentine’s Day dinner for $55 per person. For an extra special experience, order your meal with precisely chosen wine pairings for an additional $25. All prix fixe menu dishes will also be available to order a la carte, in addition to Aviary’s full regular menu. You can see the menu here.

1733 NE Alberta St, Portland 97211 Map (503) 287-2400

Bad Habit Room - 

“The Love Of Beer” is a documentary, by local film maker Alison Grayson, featuring northwest women in craft beer.

Bad Habit room serves two special brews on tap as well as a selection of beers in cans and bottles. The Saraveza menu will be available during the show as well as popcorn and other movie treats. Doors: 7:30pm. FREE – But bring cash to enter a raffle to support Alison and her film!

5433 N. Michigan Ave., Portland 97217. Map

Bar Avignon - 

Bar Avignon Valentine’s Day specials will be available from Friday, February 10th through Tuesday, February 14th. Enjoy an aphrodisiacal Valentine’s Oyster Flight ($18) and choose a Sexy Cocktail like “Secret Crush”, “Hanky Panky”, and “Honeymoon”, ($7-$9). Finish your romantic meal with a Molten Chocolate Cake with espresso creme anglaise, bourbon chocolate truffles ($8).

2138 SE Division Street, Portland, Oregon 97202. Map (503) 517-0808

Basta Trattoria - 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at NW neighborhood Italian eatery, Basta Trattoria. Chef Marco Frattaroli will be gifting stem roses to couples, and serving up a special boccone dolce dessert for the holiday. Frattaroli’s baccone dolce cake is layered with heart shaped meringues and filled with marinated strawberries, whipped cream, and drizzles of bittersweet chocolate. Reservations recommended.

410 NW 21st Street, Portland, Oregon 97209. Map (503) 274-1572

Beast -

8:45, 5 courses with wine pairings. $145 per person.

5425 NE 30th Ave, Portland OR 97211. Map (503) 841-6968

Bella Faccia Pizzeria -

Heart Shaped Pizzas on Valentine’s Night!. Call to order any pie and we’ll make it romantic.

2934 NE Alberta St. Portland, Oregon 97211. Map (717)476-3813

Benson Hotel - 

London Grill offers gourmet prix fixe Valentine’s Day menu throughout the month of February. The London Grill, a AAA four-diamond restaurant located in the historic Benson Hotel is featuring a gourmet three course prix fixe Valentine’s Day menu available the entire month of February. Executive Chef Serge Selbe has crafted an enticing menu replete with Seafood Platter appetizer, Strawberry Champagne Intermezzo, duet of Butter Poached Lobster Tail and Prime Rib, and Chocolate Baked Alaska for two – all for $69 per person.

The London Grill, consistently voted one of Portland’s most romantic restaurants showcases fresh, Northwest, locally-sourced food and classic, tableside preparations. Tableside options include Caesar Salad, Steak Diane, Chateaubriand and the ever popular Bananas Foster.

309 SW Broadway, Portland OR. 97205 Map (503) 228-2000

Besaws - 

Besaw’s is serving a special set menu on V-Day, starting with an Oyster Plate of 3 fried and 3 fresh oysters served with a citrus mustard. For an entrée, choose between Peppered Beef Tenderloin with beef demi-glace, celery root puree, and charred greens or Grilled Ahi Tuna on a vegetable cake with avocado chutney. Of course this menu will also feature a special Valentine’s dessert and cocktail.

2301 NW Savier St. Portland, Oregon 97210. Map (503) 228-2619

Boke Bowl - 

Valentines Day for Friends, Families & Foodies. Boke Bowl opens their doors Tuesday Night 2/14 for the romantically disinclined.

Are you still looking to score a reservation at that candle-lit bistro to impress your honey? Well, good luck with that! For those or you that would rather spend this Valentines Evening enjoying the fellowship of friends & family over an addicting bowl of hand made ramen, then your search is over. Boke Bowl will be open this Tuesday night from 5-9pm to satisfy your Nocturnal Noodle Cravings. No Reservations. Walk In and Fill Up.

1028 SE Water Ave. Portland OR. 97214. Map (503) 719-5698

Branch Whiskey Bar -

Valentines Day Lover’s Dinner! This year the ladies treat the men to dinner.

Menu:

Grilled Little Gems, Creamy Garlic Dressing, white anchovies, poached farm egg

20oz. Dry Aged NY Strip, smoked foie gras, potato aligot, jus natural

Rose Pudding, passion fruit pound cake

2926 NE Alberta St. Portland, Oregon 97211. Map (503) 206-6266

Brasserie Montmartre - 

Le Diner des Amoureux Valentine’s Evening. Indulge in your favorites from the daily menu or spoil yourself with our special sharing menu with five courses to tantalize. Add a little bubbly, and while away a romantic evening at the Brasserie. Off the Daily Menu ~ OR ~ 5 dishes + wine + romance | $40 per person | $60 with wine pairing. View the menu here.

626 SW Park Ave, Portland OR. 97205 Map (503) 236-3036

Carafe Bistro - 

What’s more romantic than a little French Bistro with red banquettes, lace curtains, a stellar wine list and a menu to entice? Celebrate Valentine’s Evening with us. Pre-theatre seatings 5-5:45 pm. Or come and relax when all the theatre bustle is over. Evening Seatings at 7:45, 8:15, & 9:00. Along with our regular dinner menu we are serving a 4 course prix fixe menu for $65. Bon Appétit!

200 SW Market St, Portland, Oregon 97201. Map (503) 248-0004

Clarklewis -

Valentines 2012, 65.00 per person, Prix fixe. You can view the menu here.

1001 SE Water Ave., Portland 97214 Map (503) 235-2294

Clarke’s Restaurant -

Three course dinner featuring Rack of Pork, NY Strip Steak, or Petrale Sole $46-52 in our intimate setting. Reservations start at 5:00 pm. Here is the complete menu.

455 2nd St. Lake Oswego, Oregon 97034. Map (503)-636-2667

Clyde Common - 

This Valentine’s Day, Clyde Common will feature some delicious sparkling wines by the glass as well as a few luxe dishes for the holiday. Specials include foie gras, caviar and oysters. Chef Chris DiMinno will also be carving a whole suckling pig to order. Reservations recommended for parties of 2 or more.

1014 SW Stark Street, Portland, Oregon 97205. Map (503) 228-3333

Coppia - 

Special 3-course Valentine’s Menu! Grab your favorite date, and please join us for a fantastic dinner, prepared by Chef Aren Steinbrecher. Optional wine pairings will be created by our Sommeliers Wil Stasney and Timothy Nishimoto. We will offer a limited menu at the bar and at the cocktail tables that night, as well. And, in case you would like to celebrate the weekend before Valentine’s Day, we are taking reservations then, and every night, too! Request your spots now! Here is a link to the menu.

417 N.W. 10th Ave.Portland, OR 97209 Map (503) 295-9536

The Country Cat - 

The Country Cat is taking reservations for all sized parties for Valentine’s dinner. Chef and in-house butcher, Adam Sappington, is preparing Steak for Two with scampi butter and lacy potato cake. Other additions to the night’s menu include Oysters on the half shell with green apple mignonette; Shrimp Cocktail in a Glass; and an intriguing dessert simply called Milk Chocolate Goodness for 2.

7937 SE Stark, Portland, Oregon 97215. Map (503) 408-1414

Daily Grill - 

he Daily Grill Portland is offering a delicious three course menus in honor of Valentine’s Day. Start with either a house soup or mixed green salad and savor Filet Oscar or Mahi Mahi Amandine as the main course. Guests can end the meal with a delectable cherry cobbler topped with cinnamon walnut crumble served with vanilla ice cream. Reservations are highly recommended. Sample menu here.

750 SW Alder St. Portland 97205. Map (503) 294-7701

Departure Restaurant and Lounge - 

Departure’s set menu is available February 10th though February 14th (closed on Sunday the 12th) at $50 per person, featuring roasted grapes, apples and pears, Chili Noodles with Crab and Beef Cheeks in Coconut, and a dark chocolate dessert. Chef de Cuisine Gregory Gourdet says it’s “a romantic dinner for 2 that’s a little naughty, a little nice. What happens after dinner is up to you.”

525 SW Morrison Street, Portland, Oregon 97204. Map (503) 802-5370

Din Din - 

This year marks the fourth annual sexy Valentine’s din dins! In addition to an evening on Valentine’s Day proper in Portland, we will also be hosting a weekend Valentine’s dinner in Hood River with Sakura Ridge Farm & Lodge and neighboring Phelps Creek Vineyard. The Portland sexy Valentine’s (February 14th) will be held at 7pm at the Little Church (NE 23rd and just north of Alberta), the dear venue where we held the rabbit din dins last April. $85 + gratuity for five courses & Italian wine pairings. More information here.

5138 NE 23rd Avenue, Portland 97211.  Map (971) 544-1350

East India Co. -

East India Co. Grill & Bar offers a Valentine’s weekend menu perfect for two whether they are vegans, vegetarians, carnivores or a combination. It will be available Saturday, February 11, Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14th for $65 per couple and offered during three seating’s, 5 to 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. You can see the menu here.

821 SW 11th Ave. Portland, OR 97205. Map (503) 227-8815

Equinox -

Want romance on Valentine’s Day? Bring your sweetie to Equinox for “Pillow Talk” and other romantic dishes. Space is limited so call now for reservations 503 460-3333.

Lover’s Menu

3 Course Dinner – $89/couple or $46/person ($34/person without drinks) Includes; 1st base or 2nd base, 3rd base, home run and two drinks courses

4 Course Dinner – $96/couple or $49/person ($41/person without drinks) Includes; 1st base, 2nd base, 3rd base, home run and two drinks courses

-Ask about non alcoholic substitutions

830 N Shaver, Portland OR, 97227. Map (503) 460-3333

Evoe - 

Evoe, Pastaworks’ eating in spot on Hawthorne, will be open Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2012, with a special, limited menu. Look for oysters, oysters, bubbles and more bubbles and many of Evoe’s regular dishes. 12noon – 7pm.

3735 SE Hawthorne, Portland, Oregon 97214. Map 

Experience Tequila -

Warm your heart, fill your belly and impress your sweetie with a great dinner and paired tequila cocktails. Chef Kenny Hill invites you to a specially prepared three-course meal featuring Trebol’s acclaimed Northwest-influenced Mexican cuisine paired with Tony Pepés Tequila Coraz—n (heart) cocktails, hosted by Tequila Ambassador Clayton Szczech of Experience Tequila. The dinner will be available all night for $35, with paired Coraz—n cocktails $6 each or a tasting flight of the blanco, reposado and a–ejo for $10. Trebol’s Tequila Ambassador Clayton Szczech, certified by the Tequila Regulatory Council and Mexican Tequila Academy, will host from 6-10pm. Clayton can walk you through the basics of tequila tasting and appreciation, and answer your questions about tequila, its production, culture and history. Reservations are recommended.

4835 N Albina Ave., Portland 97217 Map (503) 517-9347

Gilt Club - 

Four Courses with choices throughout for only $40.

306 NW Broadway, Portland, Oregon 97209. Map (503) 222-4458

Gracies - 

Fal in love in the most romantic dining room in Portland. Creations by Executive Chef Mark Hosack. A casually elegant escape to a quieter time. Prix Fix $65 per person. More information and menu here.

729 SW 15th Avenue Portland, OR 97205 Map (503) 222-2171

H50 Bistro and Bar -

Celebrate love, kindle romance and enjoy an evening of exquisite cuisine this Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner along the Willamette River at H5O bistro & bar.

The gourmet five-course dinner includes northwest favorites and aphrodisiac ingredients, including pumpkin, oysters, hazelnuts and chocolate. Reservations can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.

50 SW Morrison, Portland 97204. Map (503) 484-1415

Hall Street Grill - 

Enjoy Chef Travis Dickinson’s passion-inducing, four-course menu featuring your choice of entree – bubbles included. $55/per person + gratuity, with supplemental wine pairing at $20/per person. Regular menu available. Reserve your table today!

3775 SW Hall Blvd., Oregon Beaverton 97005. Map (503)641-6161

The Heathman Restaurant & Bar -

The Heathman Restaurant & Bar is celebrating Valentine’s Day with the proverbial “dinner and a movie” but don’t be fooled- this is not your average date night! Bring your sweetie to the Heathman on Tuesday, February 14th and enjoy a five-course dinner menu prepared by Heathman’s Culinary Director Philippe Boulot and Executive Chef Michael Stanton that includes romantic indulgences such as foie gras, duck pate with black truffle frisée salad and a roasted saddle of lamb. As dinner takes place, “Babette’s Feast,” one of the great food films, will be featured on the big screen. Described as a “heartwarming feast of a film,” this movie is a perfect pairing with the Heathman’s Valentine’s Day menu. The festivities start in the upstairs dining room at 6:30pm and cost $75 per person (not including gratuity).

The Heathman will also be serving dinner in the downstairs dining room with a special a la carte Valentine’s Day menu. Valentine’s Day specials include a selection of Oysters, Chef’s Charcuterie Plate with foie gras terrine, goose pate, and rustic pâté maison, Seared Hudson Valley Foie Gras, Roasted Saddle of Lamb, Truffle Roasted Chicken, and Northwest Beef Tenderloin Rossini in addition to the full menu. More information here.

1001 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205. Map (503) 790-7752

Henry’s 12th Street Tavern -

With only a few days remaining to make reservations to dine with your sweetheart for Valentine’s, we’re making it easy for you. Henry’s 12th Street Tavern invites you to join us, and celebrate Valentine’s Day all weekend long! Whether it’s for a romantic weekend dinner or a sweetheart Sunday luncheon, we’re giving you plenty of ways to celebrate this holiday! From Friday, February 10th through Tuesday, February 14th, enjoy romantic menu specials, sample some premium wine and beer pairings, or indulge in desserts made specially for the occasion!

Call us for Reservations at 503-227-5320, or Make a Reservation Online Today. Seats will fill up, so be sure to claim yours today.

10 NW 12th Ave, Portland OR. 97209 Map (503) 227-5320

Lapellah - 

Lapellah is offering four Valentine’s Day specials in addition to our everyday menu. The Colombian has named us as one of Vancouver’s best date spots two years in a row. Come find out why this Valentine’s. Salad: Shaved “Jet Fresh” Hearts of Palm with Parmigiano-Reggiano, Lemon and Olive Oil. Appetizer: Seared Sea Scallops with Asparagus Over White Truffle Risotto. Main: Tea Glazed Duck with Wild Mushroom Bread Pudding and Lemon Glazed Brussels Sprouts. Dessert: Valrhona Chocolate Ménage à Trois. Call for reservations!

2520 Columbia House Blvd #108, Vancouver WA. 98661 Map (360) 828-7911

Limo -

3-course Prix fixe dinner is $79 for two people. Music by guitarist Jason Okamoto. Complimentary Champagne.

2304 NW Westover Rd, Portland OR. 97210. Map (503) 477-8348

Lincoln - 

Lincoln is for lovers! Please join us in celebrating Valentine’s day at Lincoln Restaurant. We are featuring a three-course menu for $50 per person, exclusive of beverages and gratuity. This year’s theme: Choice! In that you have lots of choices in each category. We still have some availability.  You can see the Valentine’s Day menu here.

3808 N Williams No. 127, Portland 97227. Map (503) 288-6200

Mama Mia -

Treat your valentine to a special romantic night. In addition to our regular menu, we will be offering a special Valentine’s menu from Friday through Tuesday.

439 SW 2nd Ave, Portland OR, 97204 Map (503) 295-6464

Mextiza - 

Spend Valentine ’s Day at either of Chef Bibiano’s soulful Mexican restaurants. Autentica’s intimate atmosphere will offer: crispy wild mushroom stuffed empanadas, a tasty cream of almond soup, and a hearty veal tenderloin with a house cranberry mole sauce.

For those of you feeling less formal, Bibiano’s newest adventure Mextiza: will feature pan fried bay scallop sopes, slow cooked lamb barbacoa, and grilled wild boar pork chops. Fancy this and many other special dishes that both of these establishments have to offer. Make your reservations as soon as you can.

2103 N Killingsworth, Portland OR, 97217. Map (503) 289 3709 

Montinore Estate - 

Do something a little different this Valentine’s Day – make your own Pinot Noir blend with your favorite lover!

With samples of Montinore’s three best vineyard blocks, you and your sweetheart will work together to create the perfect Pinot Noir. Once you’ve settled on a blend Montinore will take your recipe and blend up a bottle to take home. The experience is $45 and includes blending samples, a bottle of Pinot and two wine flights.

3663 SW Dilley Rd, Forest Grove, OR. Map (503) 359-5012 ext 3.

Mucca Osteria - 

Come spend the most romantic evening of the year in the most romantic restaurant in Portland! Mucca Osteria will guarantee that we will make this night a very memorable Valentine’s Day. We will be offering our a la carte menu along with some delicious Italian specials.

1022 SW Morrison St. Portland, OR 97205. Map (503)227-5521

Ned Ludd - 

Lovers are people too! Ned Ludd will be open on February 14 to celebrate Valentines Day. A special menu for lovers, 4 courses for $45 with an option of wine pairings for and additional $20, will be offered instead of our regular menu. Reservations are recommended.

3925 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. Portland, OR 97212. Map (503) 288-6900

Noble Rot - 

3-course Valentine’s Day menu. Pre fixe $55 per person. You can see the menu here. Our glass walled patio seats 30 comfortably and 40 for a mingling cocktail party. The panoramic view of the twinkling lights of downtown Portland is a unique and festive backdrop. Choose from a selection of menus at various price points or work with Leather and Joseph to engineer a personalized experience. The Atrium can be rented for luncheons, cocktails, brunches or dinners seven days a week.

1111 E. Burnside, 4th floor, Portland 97124 Map (503) 233-1999

The Original Dinerant - 

The Original Dinerant has you covered this Valentine’s Day, with aphrodisiac essentials and shareable specials. Specials for the evening include oysters on the half shell, steak oscar, whole Maine lobster, and chocolate covered bananas.

300 SW 6th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97204. Map (503) 546-2666

The Painted Lady - 

Celebrate this Valentine’s Day with The Painted Lady in Newberg. Chef Allen Routt will be offering a special 7-course chef’s menu for the holiday, with recommended wine pairings available. The special menu includes a trio of canapés, roasted artichoke bisque, and seared diver scallop over Oregon truffle risotto. Dinner is $85/person, and wine pairings are an additional $65. Reservations required.

201 S. College Street, Newberg, Oregon 97132. Map (503) 538-3850.

Paley’s Place - 

Paley’s Place will be celebrating Valentine’s Day by offering romantic fare for everybody to enjoy. Recently listed in Saveur’s 100 as a shrine to the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, Chef Vitaly Paley will be putting his unique spin on traditional Valentine’s cuisine by using some of Oregon’s most decadent and luxurious local ingredients like black truffles, oysters and Dungeness crab. Starting at 5 pm on Valentine’s Day, Paley’s Place will be offering specials like Baked Oysters Rock’a'fella made ‘Paley’s Way’ with House Bacon, Foie Gras & Black Truffles and an Oregon Black Truffle, Apple & Leek Tart with Spicy Greens and Truffle Vinaigrette and Spit Roasted & Glazed Duck Breast & Confit of Leg with Glazed Winter Vegetables with Shaved Torchon of Foie Gras and Cascade Natural New York Strip Steak with Creamed Greens & Dungeness Crab & Bacon Hollandaise. In addition to these specials, Paley’s Place will also have several varieties of oysters available as well as their full nightly menu available for Valentine’s Day.

The dessert menu includes Chocolate Cherry “Bomb” Crepe Purses with Pop Rock Chocolate Tiles and Pomegranate Meringue Kisses with Espresso Sabayon and “Contigo” Meyer Lemon & Coconut Cake with Butterscotch Ice Cream and Passionfruit Crème Caramel with Vanilla Sugared Churros.

1204 NW 21st Ave, Portland. Map (503) 243-2403

Papa Haydn - 

Luxurious creations from chef MattDuBois featuring foie gras, Dungeness crab and whatever’s fabulous in the market next week. Follow it up with a sumptuous Pistachio Genoise from pastry chef Nichole Hayden-Cady – just one of our 30-plus desserts.

701 NW 23rd Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97210. Map (503) 417-1773

Paragon Restaurant & Bar - 

A menu for Aphrodite, and a drink for Dionysus! You can get all the information and a menu here.

1309 NW Hoyt at 13th, Portland Oregon 97209. Map (503) 833-5060

Pazzo Ristorante -

Join Pazzo for our Valentine’s Day Menu: Kumomoto oysters, black pepper, shallot agrodolce,  Kona Kampachi tartare, finger lime, 2011 Laudemio olive oil,  Potato- fennel raviolo, Spanish langoustines, cardoon,  Grilled Bream, controne beans, parsley,  Gianduja Bonet.  Available 2/13- 2/16 during dinner hours. Dining Room only. $60 per person

627 SW Washington, Portland, Oregon 97205. Map (503) 228-1515

Penner-Ash Wine Cellars - 

A Night of Tapas & Tango! Join us for an unforgettable Valentine’s celebration of wine, food, dance, and live music at Penner-Ash Wine Cellars on Friday, February 10, 2012.

This unique event will bring together the culinary skills of acclaimed Portland Chef John Gorham, owner of Toro Bravo, and world renowned tango dancer and instructor, Alex Krebs, here at Penner-Ash for an evening you won’t soon forget.

The evening will begin with a reception in the Fireside Room with wine and passed appetizers. From there, we will move onto the Fermentation Deck for a Tapas style dinner specially created by Chef Gorham for this event. 

Following dinner, Alex Krebs and his dance partner, backed by the four piece live band, The Alex Krebs Tango Quartet, will
 perform a Tango demonstration; emphasizing the improvisational 
side of the dance that focuses on the communication between
 musicality and the relationship between the partners.

 We will finish the evening by opening up the dance floor to all
 who are moved to express themselves through Tango!

Seating is limited. We expect these spots to fill quickly so we encourage you to RSVP as soon as possible. Cellar Club Members: $85.00 per person, only 24 seats available. General Admission: $100.00 per person, only 22 seats available. *a credit card will be required to secure your reservation. More details here.

15771 NE Ribbon Ridge Road, Newberg, OR. 97132 Map (503) 554-5545

Pix Patisserie - 

Gind the Hidden Diamond! This Valentine’s Day a single chocolate gift box at EACH of our locations will not only have a delicious assortment of Pix chocolates, but a pair of diamond stud earrings as well! Shop early!

Special Valentine’s Tea - Heart shaped macarons, oysters on the half shell, plenty of chocolate and a bottle Stéphane Tissot, La Reine Jeanne Rosé sparkling wine are all part of this special Valentine’s tea for two. Enjoy a total of 15 sweet and savory bite sized treats per person and 2 pots of tea from Townshend’s Tea House. $90 per couple including Champagne ($60 without) Sunday, February 12th 11AM – 4PM, North Pix Only. Reservations are limited and required.

3901 North Williams Avenue # D Portland, OR 97227. Map (503) 282-6539

Porcelli’s Ristoranté & Bar -

Porcelli’s Ristorante & Bar invites you to “Be Our Valentine” on Sunday February 12, 2012 from 6 – 9 PM. No Door, Full Menu & Bar Selections Available, Complimentary On Street Parking. Celebrate an early Valentine Evening out as you dine at “little Italy” which includes white table linens, candlelight & entertainment by Vocalist Malea – Accompanied by Kit Taylor on keys/vocals. Malea and Kit have been receiving rave reviews as a duo and with the band “Malea & The Tourist’s”. Tonight they will be sharing great duets and harmonies covering selections from the American Songbook including favorite Jazz standards as well as popular Swing, Pop & R & B selections. (reservations for parties of 5 or more recommended)

6500 SW Virginia Ave. Portland, Oregon 97219. Map (503) 245.2260

Portland City Grill -

Portland City Grill Presents A Valentine’s Day Serenade. Romantic Dinner & Concert featuring Violinist Aaron Meyer & Guitarist Tim Ellis. February 11 & 14, 2012, 7pm. Prix fixe $125 per person. Includes full course dinner with Northwest wines. Concert with Violinist Aaron Meyer. 2.5 hour parking validation. The best view in Portland. Gratuity.

111 SW 5th Ave. 30th Floor, Portland, OR 97204. Map (503) 450-0030

Portland Prime - 

We will be offering our full dinner menu as well as Chef Samples’ “Sweetheart Feature” including a rib filet, lobster tail, our Prime Chopped Salad and dessert for two for $65 a person. We will feature our dinner menu from 4pm to midnight, with live jazz.

121 Southwest 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204 Map (503) 223-6200

Pour Wine Bar -

Dinner for 2 and a bottle of wine for only $50

Start your evening with a couple bowls of Roasted Butternut Squash soup to warm your hearts and stomachs, followed by en entrée for 2; Braised Lamb atop Truffled Polenta, Chicken and Arugula Ravioli or Local Mushroom Risotto with a bottle of either Cote du Rhone or Barbera d’Asti. Finish the meal with a Chocolate Fondue for 2.

2755 NE Broadway, Portland, Oregon 97232 Map (503) 288-7687

Random Order Coffeehouse - 

Our Random Order V-Day Date Package includes 2 cocktails and 1 slice of chocolate cream pie for only $14.

Featuring our newest cocktail, The All Night Long… Lionel Ritchie sang it, and your’e gonna do it. New Deal Distillery coffee liqueur & Caffe Vida Del Sol espresso-infused Vodka with a splash of cold-pressed coffee & hazelnut on the rocks. We’ll be open till 11pm.

Fiesta, forever!

1800 NE Alberta, Portland OR. 97211. Map (503) 

Red Ridge Farms -

Red Ridge Farms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine region brings together two Valentine’s Day favorites, wine and sweet treats on Saturday, February 11. The event will feature wine pours from the entire flight of Durant Vineyard wines as well as from winemaker Tony Rynders of Tendril Wine Cellars. Treats include puff pastries with baked brie and an assortment of marmalades, chocolate drizzled cream puffs made with The King’s Cupboard chocolate sauces, tapenades and bread served with Oregon Olive Mill’s Koroneiki olive oil. The tasting fee is $10 and wine and sweet and savory tastes are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here for more information.

 5510 NE Breyman Orchard Road, Dayton, Oregon Map (403) 864-8502

Red Star Tavern & Roast House - 

Chef Kyle has created an exclusive Valentine’s Day menu featuring a variety of a la carte items to please every palate. Additionally, the Red Star bar will be offering featured cocktails in honor of the occasion. Dishes range from Tofu “Scallops” or Kabocha Squash with Red Quinoa for the vegetarian eaters to Lamb Osso Bucco or Wood Grilled Cascade Natural Ribeye for the meat lovers, to name a few.

503 SW Adler Street, Portland, Oregon 97204. Map (503) 222-0005

Resort at the Mountain - 

Celebrate love with a romantic and intimate Valentine’s Day dinner along the western slope of Mt. Hood at Altitude restaurant, located at The Resort at The Mountain. Executive Chef Paul Bosch elegantly designed a special a la carte menu for this indulgent evening, showcasing a selection of delicate appetizers, hearty entrees and decadent deserts, including strawberries and champagne for two.

Couples can enjoy the scenic views of Mt. Hood’s lush winter landscape and Altitude’s specially designed Valentine’s Day menu for a romantic evening together. See the menu here.

68010 East Fairway Ave, Welches OR. 97067. Map (502) 622-2214

Riverview - 

Tuesday, Feb 14th: 5 course menu for $50. Choose a Starter, Appetizer, Salad, Entree and Dessert and enjoy the wonderful scenic beauty that is the Sandy River.

Ladies, treat your man to a Jameson’s Irish Whiskey Dinner on Sunday, Feb 12th – 5 courses, 4 Whiskies and an Irish Coffee, and a Representative from Ireland to answer all your questions and all for $60.

29311 SE Stark St.,Troutdale, Oregon 97060. Map (503) 661-3663.

Saint Cupcake -

Saint Cupcake is offering singing telegrams customizable from song to treats. Call/email me for details. Also offering personalized “conversation cookies” which can be customized to say just about anything! Cupcakes include festive dots, cupcakes, & availability of red velvet cupcake 2/10-2/14. Flower shop will be set up outside the store making Saint Cupcake a one-stop-shop for Valentine’s Day.

1138 SW Morrison, Oregon Portland 97205. Map (503) 473-8760

Salty’s on the Columbia - 

Be a Valentine and Make a Date with Your Favorite Fish! For Valentine’s Day take your date to Salty’s on the Columbia River in Portland. You’ll love Salty’s Valentine’s romance. The drama of our view from virtually every table. Extraordinary world-class cuisine. Flawless friendly service. Make your Romantic Dining reservation by calling us at 503.288.4444 and we’ll treat you and your date like a royal couple. What is a valentine? It’s you taking your date to Salty’s romantic restaurant! Here’s our special menu for you and your Valentine

3839 NE Marine Drive, Portland OR 97211. Map (503) 288-4444

Serratto - 

We’ve lost count of the number of marriage proposals, anniversaries and special celebrations we’ve hosted over the years. All we know is that when it comes to a romantic night out, people love Serratto for it’s inviting atmosphere, the neighborhood charm, warm service, and of course the food. February 14th is approaching! Here’s what we have in store:

A decadent menu - We’ll have plenty of delicious specials: Chef Tony is preparing an out-of-this-world Salade Lyonnaise to start your meal. Follow it with lobster ravioli, a fillet of beef, or rack of lamb. Save room for Chocolate Molten Cake with dulce de leche gelato and raspberry sauce. In the mood for your favorite standby instead? Our regular dinner menu will be available as well.

2112 NW Kearney St. at 21st, Portland OR. Map (503) 221-1195

Southpark - 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Southpark. Chef Broc Willis will be preparing a special menu for the holiday with wine pairing recommendations, from 5-10PM. Appetizer specials include foie gras torchon and giant head on gulf prawns. Entree specials include lobster ravioli, braised short ribs and a whole branzino. Reservations recommended.

901 SW Salmon Street, Portland, Oregon 97205. Map (503) 326-1300

Tasty n Sons -

We will be open as usual from 5 to 10 pm. The chef’s tasting menu will be offered at the regular price of $25 per person, in addition to the extensive daily menu offering. No reservations will be taken. We know that this can be disappointing to the “planners” among you, but hopefully it will provide a great option for the “last minute” persons who will still be able to have a great dinner with us on a walk-in basis.

3808 N Williams Ave, Portland 97212 Map (503) 621-1400

St. Honoré Boulangerie - 

There’s no better way to show that special someone, family member or friend just how much you love them this Valentine’s Day than with Frenchpastries and cookies from St. Honoré Boulangerie. Each item is handmade and features the finest ingredients. This February also marks the arrival of a new specialty item, the Kouign Amann. St. Honoré continues their tradition of bringing old world French delicacies to Portland by introducing this intricate pastry that can be traced back to the late 1800s and made of croissant dough and a touch of hand harvested sea salt to bring out the flavor of butter and sweetness. For ordering information, please call 503-445-4342.

2335 NW Thurman, Portland 97210 Map (503) 445-4342

Stoller Vineyards -

Join us at Stoller Vineyards on Saturday, February 11 from 11am to 5pm for a Valentine’s celebration. Enjoy a delicious pizza for two from Dundee’s Red Hills Market and two tastings for $25. This is a great way to share the day with your loved one or special friend.

16161 NE McDougall Road, Oregon 97114. Map (503) 864-3404

Teardrop -

St. Valentine’s day is upon us, and Teardrop is here to help you celebrate with romance, rosemary and rum. We’ve designed a three-course cocktail pairing dinner that promises to be a sumptuous and decadent journey for the senses. Embracing the season, we bring you some of the best Oregon has to offer right now, from its deeply aromatic white truffles to the seductive appeal of the blood orange. And, in keeping with the evening, we have prepared a traditional recipe for a rose petal liqueur. So review the menu below, and please come on by to indulge. Tuesday, February 14th: the menu will be available throughout the evening, until 10pm. No reservations required, $60 per person.

1015 NW Everett, Portland, OR. 97209. Map (503) 445-8019

Thirst Bistro -

Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner. Four Courses $44 per person. Add Beer / Wine Pairing $25 per person. Reservations Highly Suggested. You can see the menu here.

0315 SW Montgomery St, The Riverplace Esplanade, Portland OR. 97201 Map (503) 295-2747

Toro Bravo - 

We will be open as usual from 5 to 10 pm. The chef’s tasting menu will be offered at the regular price of $25 per person, in addition to the extensive daily menu offering. No reservations will be taken. We know that this can be disappointing to the “planners” among you, but hopefully it will provide a great option for the “last minute” persons who will still be able to have a great dinner with us on a walk-in basis.

120 NE Russell Street, Portland, OR 97212. Map (503) 281.4464

Uptown Billiards - 

Make your reservations for UBC’s Valentine’s dinner. On February 1, Nate and I will randomly select one of the reservations – and that person’s date will inspire the menu for UBC’s Valentine’s Dinner. That lucky (and soon to get luckier) winner will bring their unsuspecting V’s Day date in to join Nate and I for a glass of wine Feb 1-7 sometime, and there and then we will discuss their deepest and darkest culinary fantasies. On Februrary 14, Nate and I will deliver a 4-course dinner paired with exquisite wines that will satiate those burning, unfulfilled desires!

That’s as much as we can help. The rest is up to you. Small print stuff: dinner with wine (and therefore your date’s taste) cannot exceed $75 per person. Dinner will start at 7:00pm, but we’ll offer you a glass of champagne upon your arrival any time after 6:30. We love vegetarians and vegans, but we need all lovers at UBC on Valentines to love meat, too. We will publish the menu as soon after Feb 1 as possible and anyone who objects to their co-diner’s fantasy choices will be able to bow out of their reservation without explanation. There are only 5 tables available at this point, two are already reserved (one for yours truly). Dinner will cost $75/pp plus gratuity for couples; $65 for tables of 4 or greater – yes you can increase your table size after we set the menu. More info here.

120 NW 23rd Ave, Portland 97210. Map (503) 226-8980

Urban Farmer - 

Urban Farmer has luxurious additions to their full ala carte menu, available Friday, February 10th through Wednesday, February 14th. Romantic meals for two include Northwest Seafood Platter ($45), Butter poached Maine lobster ($55), and 21 day dry aged prime Ribeye – 32oz, carved tableside ($110). Finish with Guanaja chocolate cake, orange blossom ice cream, milk chocolate lace, pomegranate ($15).

525 SW Morrison St, Portland, Oregon 97204. Map (503) 222-4900

Valentine’s Day in Oregon Wine Country -

Three Oregon wineries are pairing up for a special Valentines weekend in wine country. Join Ardiri Winery, Alloro Vineyards, and Cooper Mountain for a weekend of fine wines, chocolates, roaring fires, and the perfect atmosphere for romance.

Date, day and time of event: February 11 and 12, 2012. 12pm – 5pm. Cost of the event: $10-25 per.

35040 SW Unger Road Cornelius, Oregon 97113. Map (503) 628-6060

Wildwood - 

Wildwood Restaurant will serve a Valentines Day Lunch and Diner menu featuring unique chicken, fish, duck, lamb, pork, vegetarian, and beef entrees ranging from $20 to $35. Starters are priced at $9 to $18. Also, Wildwood will serve a Valentines Day cocktail list. Lunch reservations available from 11:30 to 2:30 and dinner reservations available from 5:00 to 9:45. 

1221 Northwest 21st Ave. Portland, Oregon 97209. Map (503) 248-9663

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

Biwa Restaurant

A small kitchen fire forced Biwa restaurant to close tonight, February 2nd. According to the guy who answered the phone, if all goes well, they plan to reopen tomorrow.

Glad it was a small fire. Biwa’s ramen still calls to me on rainy nights.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.

Date and Venue Set for Taste of the Nation Portland 2012

JELD-WEN Field named as venue for 25th Anniversary

PORTLAND, OR, February 2, 2012– In an effort to fight childhood hunger. Portland’s best chefs, restaurants, and distilleries will contribute their talents to Share Our Strength’s 25th Annual Taste of the Nation Portland, the city’s premier culinary benefit. Taste of the Nation Portland will raise critical funds needed to support the No Kid Hungry campaign to end childhood hunger in Oregon and across the country. This year’s event will be held Tuesday, May 8th from 5:00-9:00 at JELD-WEN Field’s West Concourse and Sunset Porsche Audi Suites. Taste of the Nation will be the first of its kind event at JELD-WEN Field’s newly renovated facility in the heart of downtown Portland. “We are pleased to host Taste of the Nation Portland at JELD-WEN Field,” said Timbers Chief Operating Officer Mike Golub. “The event supports a number of terrific programs, and it is very rewarding to be a part of the 25th anniversary celebration.”

Dozens of Portland’s finest chefs from the city’s top restaurants will participate in this incredible culinary event. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy exceptional food paired with beverages from local wineries, breweries and distilleries. In addition to fabulous food and drinks, the event will feature a silent auction with lifestyle and epicurean packages.

“Portland’s Taste of the Nation is in its 25th year and we’re thrilled to be hosting it at JELD-WEN Field this year. This is a new venue for the event and it offers us the opportunity to provide attendees with more great features and amenities this year” said Sarah Medeiros, Taste of the Nation Portland Leadership Chair. “Taste of the Nation will bring Portland’s finest culinary professionals together to share their passion for culinary arts while helping the children in our community who suffer from hunger every day.”

Local charities that will benefit from this year’s event include Oregon Food Bank, Partners For A Hunger-Free Oregon, Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank and St. Vincent de Paul Food Recovery Program. One in four of America’s 17 million children are facing hunger. And children make up 33% of those eating from emergency food boxes from the Oregon Food Bank. Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation works to end childhood hunger by ensuring that children and their families have reliable access to nutritious food, and by addressing the deeper causes of these conditions.

Tickets for Taste of the Nation Portland start at just $85. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample bite sized offerings from over 50 restaurants and sample beverages from local breweries, wineries and distilleries. A portion of the ticket price is tax deductible and tickets can be purchased at www.portlandtaste.org.

About Share Our Strength

Share Our Strength®, a national nonprofit, is ending childhood hunger in America by connecting children with the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, active lives. Through its No Kid Hungry™ campaign—a national effort to end childhood hunger in America by 2015—Share Our Strength ensures children in need are enrolled in effective federal nutrition programs, invests in community organizations fighting hunger, teaches families how to cook healthy meals on a budget, and builds public-private partnerships to end hunger, both nationally and at the state level. Working closely with the culinary industry and relying on the strength of its volunteers, Share Our Strength hosts innovative culinary fundraising events and develops pioneering cause marketing campaigns that support No Kid Hungry.

This original post is by Food Dude, and it came from Portland Oregon Food and Drink.