On a cool evening a few months ago, I sat with friends on the patio at Nel Centro. Three fire pits allowed heat to drift across our table. The flames, reflected in window after window of the hotel, were sometimes three layers deep. Sheltered from the transit mall, it was a little oasis. Vines climbed nearby walls, the background music was perfect, and the chairs were … [Read more...] about Review: Nel Centro
Archives for October 2009
Nancynall on Mystery Meat
Sometimes I get pointed to an article on another blog that is so good I can't pass it up. This story from the terrific Nancynall.com, takes a look at the New York Times piece earlier this month, on flaws in the government beef Inspection process. If you haven't read the -long- Times piece, this is a great synopsis. Here’s the problem: Into every modern American life, some … [Read more...] about Nancynall on Mystery Meat
Northern European Food Fills Vacancy in PDX Cuisine
A few months ago, the rumors of Chris Israel opening a Northern European restaurant were validated, with the announcement of Grüner, which means "greener" in German. Now comes the first official news.The restaurant will be located at 537 SW 12th Ave, downtown. From the Grüner press-release: "Grüner is an adventure through the Alps and along the Danube River which begins in … [Read more...] about Northern European Food Fills Vacancy in PDX Cuisine
Gourmet Magazine Folds
Gourmet Magazine sunsets multiple publications Just received an email from a friend who works at a Conde Nast publication, saying, "I had to read this three times to make sure I was still employed," referring to the memo, released this morning, saying the company is ceasing three of its publications, including Gourmet.I will wager everyone over a certain age who cooks has … [Read more...] about Gourmet Magazine Folds
Review: 23Hoyt
A review of 23Hoyt Restaurant in Portland Since it was first built by Bruce Carey Restaurants, the 23Hoyt space has gone through multiple incarnations. The first was a short-lived Italian restaurant named Balvo, the second, 23Hoyt, managed by the well-known chef Chris Israel. Chris has now moved on to open his own restaurant. Now, a third version has emerged, billed as a "New … [Read more...] about Review: 23Hoyt