In spite of the shaky economy, it seems that more restaurants have opened in Portland this year than in the last 2-3 years combined. The list  contains new takes on many interesting cuisines: Argentinian, French, Mexican, Asian, vegetarian* and even one which is dabbling in molecular gastronomy. I'm encouraged by our embrace of these more exploratory restaurants, and am excited … [Read more...] about Reader Survey 2012: Best New Restaurants in Portland Oregon

I thought I'd throw in this question for 2012: now that I have dining room listings, I get lots of emails about which place I think is best. 1. Andina - Four private dining rooms. 1314 Northwest Glisan Street Portland, OR 97209  Map  (503) 228-9535  My review2. Portland City Grill - Several rooms that can be combined for large groups. 111 Southwest 5th Avenue  Portland, OR … [Read more...] about Reader Survey 2012: Best Restaurant for a Business Group Dinner

For me, first dates are a tricky thing. I don't want to go overboard and spend a bunch of money unless I'm pretty sure we are going to hit it off. I don't want somewhere that is so loud and distracting that we can't get to know each other. Then there's the food. A sense of adventure, especially in all things food, is important to me, but I don't want to scare my date away. … [Read more...] about Reader Survey 2012: Where to Eat on a First Date

This question comes up for me now and then, so I thought it would be good for the survey. I'm not talking about a business meeting, just a big group of friends. I can see why any of these got the vote, but Toro Bravo received mine.One evening I made a reservation for a large group. The people who were already at the table took forever - an hour past when they should have … [Read more...] about Reader Survey 2012: Best Restaurant to Dine at With a Large Group

Ah romance. Candlelight, quiet conversation, flirting. That is my definition, but, judging from the list, many people have other criteria. I looked all the way back to our list from 2006, which was Alba Osteria, Alberta Oyster, Andina, Fenouil, Carlyle, Paley's, Giorgio's, Beast, Aquariva and Metrovino. Interesting that three of the restaurants have gone out of business. Based … [Read more...] about Reader Survey 2012: The Most Romantic Restaurant In Portland