tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4018956916363961922024-02-20T17:57:45.037-08:00Mangia"The best food in life is free . . . or close to it"Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-90039661258616044332014-04-25T07:48:00.001-07:002014-04-25T07:48:04.156-07:00Taste of The Nation-Portland<div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">It's not too late to buy tickets to the ultimate foodie event, Taste of The Nation! It takes place next Tuesday at the Crystal Ballroom. </span></div><div><br></div><div>Taste your way through Portland's culinary scene, while sipping fresh cocktails from local distilleries, wine from Oregon and Washington and even craft brews! Each restaurant has a stand with adorable mini-meals for you to try. This is by far my favorite event of the year! </div><div><br></div><div>The best part about it, all your money goes to support children living in Poverty, going hungry in your own state. </div><div><br></div><div>Hope to see you there! <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYasjw3YMmeBEXoyBdJjsGb34elAlKrGt2FgeBa_MEm0OzYrl-cplFA7u9zz0GSdm6Y4KDhORxELPxwYXRxwR-ZKv3tbOrQDPHJg7Ew4AonSN4nsKFuTJFKknbWwDS3Yr40G4KAGuEWrWX/s640/blogger-image-1475343887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYasjw3YMmeBEXoyBdJjsGb34elAlKrGt2FgeBa_MEm0OzYrl-cplFA7u9zz0GSdm6Y4KDhORxELPxwYXRxwR-ZKv3tbOrQDPHJg7Ew4AonSN4nsKFuTJFKknbWwDS3Yr40G4KAGuEWrWX/s640/blogger-image-1475343887.jpg"></a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-58742047981004654372012-09-11T22:17:00.002-07:002012-09-11T22:23:02.557-07:00I'm Baaaack! With Coconut Cream Cheese Brownies!My short hiatus turned into a year and a half long absence. In that time I started a graduate program in School Counseling which has taken up all of my extra time and writing energy. I also spent the last year and a half learning how to follow, improvise and create recipes. Much more of my free time has been spent cooking oppose to eating out as it did in the past and the better cook I became, the more I realized the joy and calm being in the kitchen brings to me. My goal in the last year of my program is to continue writing this blog as a creative outlet, cook to both feed my passion and stomach and check out new restaurants even though I don't have a dime of income coming my way ;) As this blog has been from the start and continues to be, a journal of sorts for me to document both my eating and cooking ventures.<br />
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This past week I played with a brownie recipe I adapted from <a href="http://www.the-baker-chick.com/2011/07/coconut-cream-cheese-brownies.html">The Baker Chic</a>, to make both gluten free and much easier.<br />
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Coconut Cream Cheese Brownies </h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*The Baker Chic</td></tr>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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1 (8oz) package cream cheese, softened</div>
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1/4 cup Sugar</div>
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1 Egg Yolk</div>
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3/4 tsp Vanilla Extract</div>
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1/2 cup Shredded Coconut (optional but VERY recommended)</div>
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1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)</div>
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1 package brownie mix (Gluten free or regular--Trader Joe's just came out with a new GF Brownie Mix that I used)</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees</div>
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Grease an 8×8 baking pan</div>
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<b>Instructions:</b></div>
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In a medium sized bowl combine the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, egg yolk, vanilla and coconut. Mix together using an electric mixer until well combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Set aside and make the brownie batter as directed on the box.</div>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.383333206176758px;"> Pour half of the brownie batter into a prepared baking pan. Add the coconut filling in even </span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.366666793823242px;">spoonfuls</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.383333206176758px;"> and gently spread across the batter, and top with the rest of the brownie batter. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 22.383333206176758px;">*I had to use my hand to spread the batters across evenly. The GF mixture was much thicker then a typical brownie batter. </span></h4>
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<span style="line-height: 22.383333206176758px;">Bake for the directed time on the brownie mix. Let cool at least 30 minutes before cutting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.383333206176758px;">I </span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.366666793823242px;">refrigerated</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.383333206176758px;"> the brownies after they cooled. The texture was incredible--gooey brownies, thick and crunchy filling with chunks of chocolate chips. If you've ever had Black Bottom Cupcakes, these taste very </span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.366666793823242px;">similar</span><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.383333206176758px;">! The Trader Joe GF mix called for only 30 minutes of bake time and I would up that to about 35-40 next time around as they were a little too gooey (if that is even possible ). As if these weren't delicious enough by themselves, I put them atop vanilla frozen yogurt to make an even sweeter treat!</span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-16813838537746201902011-06-21T10:17:00.000-07:002011-06-21T10:20:07.684-07:00Mangia has moved to tumblr<span style="font-size: x-large;">My hiatus has turned into a major blog lapse, but I recently became inspired to start a tumblr. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Follow me over to tumblr . . . </span><br />
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<a href="http://mangiaportland.tumblr.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">MangiaPortland.tumblr</span></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-59559324227869417072011-04-07T18:01:00.000-07:002011-04-07T18:02:22.120-07:00Friday, April 1st, 2011: Clyde Commons<b></b>To say I needed a drink tonight would be an understatement. I've spent the past 8 days with teenagers and came back to the hell of planning a school wide assembly. Clyde Commons was exactly what I needed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndtGkctHbIEfqX5GJ1pMQe32AAki-HlczNDGTwYSfr2flzJ2MCVwQ1ziNJLOtKYVASSqaH3xmoWoHBbiKaQaWoeZhXwTLTOpPRP9ATRIQGmKMHIh4xIamXDCVniVbpWnD6Eaygnf_eUWE/s1600/Clyde_Common_Drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhndtGkctHbIEfqX5GJ1pMQe32AAki-HlczNDGTwYSfr2flzJ2MCVwQ1ziNJLOtKYVASSqaH3xmoWoHBbiKaQaWoeZhXwTLTOpPRP9ATRIQGmKMHIh4xIamXDCVniVbpWnD6Eaygnf_eUWE/s320/Clyde_Common_Drink.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MXi6KcyrmNhFR_4wd6lWvq78_gxGCZkgT5NAoawQWnF6C69uAPjaYfaArR0R6FBOoeO4FsZrZozgRAMOuRfv4XSIYlA42WG7_kp3dE7UmGw-LXoovuKZOwF-0M40PG2LLwdtWRnaJAfl/s1600/Clyde+Bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MXi6KcyrmNhFR_4wd6lWvq78_gxGCZkgT5NAoawQWnF6C69uAPjaYfaArR0R6FBOoeO4FsZrZozgRAMOuRfv4XSIYlA42WG7_kp3dE7UmGw-LXoovuKZOwF-0M40PG2LLwdtWRnaJAfl/s320/Clyde+Bar.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Via Unknown Source</td></tr>
</tbody></table> One greyhound in and the worries of my world were washed down, as did the fact I'm gluten intolerant. But on this Friday night, the rules went out the window. I will get drunk the night before wine tasting, I will eat gluten after a week of southern buffet bouncing and I will order dessert even though I gave it up for lent :) God understands that tonight is the exception. And whoever says food and alcohol can't solve your problems couldn't be more wrong. Let me tell you, I feel 95% better now.<br />
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We had the most delightful waiter who suggested blue cheese on my burger. Oh the burger . . . but why, when I told him it was incredible, did he have to tell me they hand grind the meat themselves daily, adding pork fat to it? Adding fat to fat isn't usually appetizing, but tonight I just smiled, loving the extra fat and feeling my face blow up two sizes. The burger was obviously perfectly cooked medium rare, because this is Clyde Commons and they know what they are doing--smoothly melted blue cheese, a perfect hint of pungent, without overshadowing the beef.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuEJC5JY4026MdB5vrmPEi4BQiHLL1lHFZpzv9fNYGHbBlzZg3I0uXTLV9jERXnrCFEX3LwmXzO7aQuucKZdUOkJrapcMrUQOmHatwq78sFRaRrYd6IXL3fhPuBZBd2Xgv9WQ9EhVu9ws/s1600/Clyde+Common+Burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuEJC5JY4026MdB5vrmPEi4BQiHLL1lHFZpzv9fNYGHbBlzZg3I0uXTLV9jERXnrCFEX3LwmXzO7aQuucKZdUOkJrapcMrUQOmHatwq78sFRaRrYd6IXL3fhPuBZBd2Xgv9WQ9EhVu9ws/s320/Clyde+Common+Burger.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Via unknown source</td></tr>
</tbody></table> I also ordered their $3 happy hour salad of mixed greens with a berry vinaigrette. And they brought us a small plate of their salted foccacio bread, with olive oil and crushed pepper. Melted. In. Our. Mouths. The simplest of things at Clyde are extraordinary for some reason; I can't put my tongue on why.<br />
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I think our waiter was amused by our chatter--ranging from law school, how to pronounce the menu, dating men 20 years older, how many fun size candy bars make up a real bar and things of that nature--and so when I asked for the dessert menu and the girls all said no and I exclaimed, I've had the most stressful week of my life, I'm getting dessert, he promptly brought me over a class of champagne to go with my Baked Alaska. God bless his heart.<br />
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The champagne-buzz-dessert combination is what really erased the past 24 hours of my life, leaving me worry free and knowing that life's OK. The Baked Alaska: chocolate mouse, along side a chocolate cookie, topped with bruleed merengie. Here's the kicker, which makes Clyde Commons just so spectaculare, inside the merenge is bourbon ice cream!!!! And to the side, in an adorable miniture pot, are toffee crumbles. Ahhh its all too much; I love it so.<br />
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So my advice friends and enemies a like: know that life will never be so difficult that you can't eat and drink your way to a better understanding of your challenges.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-58207401651787974282011-03-21T19:10:00.000-07:002011-03-22T10:41:58.766-07:00Salad Rollin'I have a sick obsession with Thai salad rolls. I think about them more then I probably should. Recently I discovered that, what used to be Sweet Basil Thai--now Oasisba, has delicious salad rolls for $2.25 during happy hour!!! This steal is beyond spectacular. Now from 5:00-6:30 daily I'm haunted by my salad rolls.<br />
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Oasisba is a little "different" then your average Thai joint. Not only because they offer Thai infusion, but because their servers are men dressed as women doing stand-up karoke throughout the evening. Yes, its exactly what you are picturing: drag queens taking your order, but before placing it, jumping up on tiny 5x6 foot stage to sing some show tunes, Celine Diane and even some Florence in the Machine. <br />
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This makes for a tiny bit of awkwardness when I have to get my salad roll fix by my lonesome, as I'm doing now. Those passing by doing a double take and for the life of me I can't figure out if it's because I'm sitting alone in a drag queen restaurant or if they are thinking what I am thinking, which is damn he's really hot for a girl??!<br />
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So now I'm sitting here jealous that his legs are much nicer then mine and that I'm a loner eating salad rolls in a drag restaurant as people judge me. Let me reassure you though. . . I'm perfectly content: salad rolls, Willamette Weekly in hand and watching you stare at me, as we both wonder if "you're thinking what I'm thinking." <br />
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Oh and if you're wondering about anything else besides the salad rolls . . . I'm not too impressed. Its average Thai food, but the major perk is their entertainment. My roommates love their House Special Curry, which is a yummy peanut sauce curry. Their happy hour menu is large, but practically everything else is fried. My advice is to go for a pre-dinner/gym/yoga /after Oprah snack. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1561678/restaurant/Northwest/Oasisba-Portland"><img alt="Oasisba on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1561678/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-8539170090075382082011-03-12T15:31:00.000-08:002011-03-12T15:31:17.747-08:00Hiatus . . .I'm sorry I've been away from you lately. It's not that I haven't been eating either--its just that I haven't been eating like I was. On these dark and rainy days I cook because putting on boots and running from car to restaurant gets oh so old. For that, I am sorry. Don't fret though, as soon as we get to spring, I'll be that full force restaurant goer you've grown to know. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/">Joy The Baker </a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>And the only thing I want is this sweet sweet cinnamon pull apart bread from Joy The Baker. I took away dessert for lent. Jesus-please poke my eyes out. I wonder if its possible to make it sans gluten and sugar??!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-33826253439742012922011-02-08T21:37:00.000-08:002011-02-09T09:33:15.730-08:00Dick's Portlandia KitchenI wondered over to SE Belmont tonight to try Dick's Kitchen and their gluten free burger . . . feeling much in need of some red meat.<br />
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I knew I was pretty close to Hawthorne, but really, Portlandia in full force at this joint. We were sat at a long community table, filled literally with 7 kiddlets. Feeling a bit like I had just entered child's happy hour, we ordered a few cokes and our wide eyed vegan waitress asked us if we'd like it sweetened with cane sugar, agave or honey . . . in which Bridget responded, "can you sweeten it with my ass?" Hmmm, "No, sorry." apparently they hadn't figured that one out yet.<br />
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Sustainable, local, grass fed, naturally sweetened, baked not fried; any other health conscience buzz words you can think of insert "here." Dick does it the healthy way. Which often isn't the case when you think of burgers, fries and milkshakes.<br />
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Chocolate Coconut Bliss Milkshake. Devine. There is NO dairy diarrhea happening from this shake! And guess what, it tastes identical, let me repeat that, <i>identical </i>to your everyday milkshake and yet, there is no dairy. If you don't like coconut, stay away though. For those who aren't familiar, Coconut Bliss is a dairy free ice cream created from coconut; its really amazing. <br />
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Their "Not Fries" are air baked (get it, not fried, hence the name). These also taste <i>just </i>like fries and yet are not fried. Wow, healthy can be fun and tasty! The one complaint here, as much as I appreciate house made sauces, I need some Heinz Ketchup when I'm eating a burger and fries--even if they're called "Not Fries." I'll bring some in my purse next time . . . the one sweetened with cane sugar, not high fructose corn syrup, of course.<br />
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The burger was lean and tasty. Make sure to slap on their housemade pickles and some whole grain mustard and the spicy garlic sauce. <br />
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If you're in the mood for a burger and don't want to feel guilty, head to Dick's. If you've already eaten 2-3 burgers in the span of a week, but need one more, head to Dick's. If you care about your health, head to Dick's. If you still believe in "au natural" head to Dick's.<br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1541595/restaurant/Sunnyside/Dicks-Kitchen-Portland"><img alt="Dick's Kitchen on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1541595/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-18107755465106568852011-01-31T17:52:00.000-08:002011-02-08T18:29:12.999-08:00Nacho SundayGrowing up my mom used to make giant Nachos. We would have Nacho Sunday's. I didn't appreciate these as a kid. Shame on me. As a grown up and now one that avoids gluten, I'm pretty into Nachos, especially ones that cost a mere $4.00 and fill four people up.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Casa Del Matador</span> is their name. <span style="font-size: x-large;">Nachos are their game</span>. Oh and tequila. I don't drink tequila, but I do eat nachos. Daily from 4:00-6:00 and again from 10:00-1:00, you can order up their piping hot nachos for four buckeroo's. You can also add steak, chicken or chorizo for an additional $2.00. I prefer the chicken. This reminds me . . . the Superbowl is this Sunday and although I don't remember who's playing, I do know that nachos must be present. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmULS26ufVf0VWmbjWnqtq9oBzNxfIIGnm_sQFRx6VOB3LQYRSsuXlj5lpzu2aoTrvj7nyvGkkQ4-26FXvSKVg3aBz0-hPa_2ZuWjRfgpJg-TYcJWjHQQuD2wpDKioDHZ-svqe0H0uhxc/s1600/Soup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmULS26ufVf0VWmbjWnqtq9oBzNxfIIGnm_sQFRx6VOB3LQYRSsuXlj5lpzu2aoTrvj7nyvGkkQ4-26FXvSKVg3aBz0-hPa_2ZuWjRfgpJg-TYcJWjHQQuD2wpDKioDHZ-svqe0H0uhxc/s640/Soup.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
These Nachos as an appetizer and a bowl of their <span style="font-size: large;">Roasted Tomato Chicken Soup</span>, made with a house-made chicken stock and flavored with lime, garlic, cumin, cilantro, onion, tomatoes, polenta and avocado, was overly filling and appetizing beyond belief.<br />
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I'll be back very soon to try their <span style="font-size: large;">Goat Cheese Overstuffed Jalapenos</span> . . . which are stuffed with ummm . . . bacon. Yes, it's true. <br />
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**Matador has an online Gluten Free Menu for those in need. Lots of choices and many substitutions can be made. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/335355/restaurant/Nob-Hill-Uptown/Casa-Del-Matador-Portland"><img alt="Casa Del Matador on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/335355/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/335355/restaurant/Nob-Hill-Uptown/Casa-Del-Matador-Portland"><img alt="Casa Del Matador on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/335355/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-45418947934044132652011-01-19T19:20:00.000-08:002011-01-20T12:12:14.606-08:00Bravo Toro!Since I recently hit up Tasty N' Sons I decided it was about time I finally try the much talked about Toro Bravo. What took me so long? So on Sunday night I ventured over to the east side, in tow with an adorable date. <br />
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The wait was 45 minutes . . . this I knew to expect, but decided not to share with my Toro Bravo accomplice, in fear he may suggest going elsewhere. We went upstairs to Secret Society for a drink and appetizer. What I won't recommend is Secret Societies pickled deviled eggs (they taste like pickles dipped in mayonnaise--who pickles an egg anyways??). <br />
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Before we knew it the phone was ringing and I was running down the stairs for Toro! <br />
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They sat us, in what I think is always the best seat in the house, at the bar overlooking the open kitchen. There is something intimate and wondrous about sitting where you can see the chefs and sous chefs busy at work. It must be the smell of the dishes and heat from the ovens and stove tops. It's almost like you are a part of the cooking experience. <br />
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Toro Bravo's menu is extensive and as a first timer I have to say I was quite overwhelmed, even though I had looked up their menu countless times before arrival. How does anyone make a decision when everything sounds so intriguing?<br />
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We decided on the . . .<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Orange Salad</span>; blood oranges drizzled with olive oil and topped with an olive tapenade.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Potatoes Bravos</span>; diced potatoes fried and smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with a creamy aioli.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chicken and Clam Cataplana</span>; baked chicken in a tomato sauce with steamed clams and chunks of jamon. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ham Cocito</span>; thick slices of ham, house made hotlinks, with a chickpea, onion and carrot stew.<br />
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Over all I was very pleased with Toro Bravo. Our order was a tad on the rich side, so next time I would mix it up, getting more greens involved and definitely add the polenta and dessert . . .<br />
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**Pardon the pictures, I was working with candlelight and one photography lesson on aperture. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/283877/restaurant/Boise-Eliot/Toro-Bravo-Portland"><img alt="Toro Bravo on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/283877/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-10496106822753510722011-01-06T14:55:00.000-08:002011-01-06T14:55:35.619-08:00So Tasty: Tasty N' SonsFair well 2010. Hello 2011. Many of my friends this year were ready for 2010 to be over. It was a year many lessons learned--some harder than others. It was a year of a lot change, some good, but some difficult to accept. As I wrapped up my page and half of new resolutions and looked back on those from last year, I realize I came out on top and am more ready then ever to take on this new year.<br />
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#11 on my NY resolutions 2011 list: Stop procrastinating and eat at restaurants that have been on your "To Do" list.<br />
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Perfect, Tasty N' Sons had been on my list since opening day. I braved the wait and loved every second of it.<br />
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Went with a good friend who's been out of town, which accomplished #5 on my NY resolutions 2011 list: Make quality time for your friends.<br />
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And so in one morning, I knocked off two resolutions and was off to a fabulous start.<br />
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Now for the meal . . . Tasty N' Sons carries its name because it is just that: TASTY.<br />
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Everything is delicious. The presentation, the maple glazed sweet potatoes, the use of spices, the variety, the cherry red bloody Mary's with a hunk of beef jerky on top.<br />
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It was hard to decide what to order though. Everything looked incredible. After a very promising recommendation I opted for the Polenta with Sausage Ragu, mozzarella and a fried egg, $8. I was in heaven. 2011 heaven.<br />
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The polenta was creamy and the sausage ragu rich and flavorful and the yolk from the egg saturated the entire dish, not allowing me to put my fork down for even a moment.<br />
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I'm someone who wants a bite of everything, so the 'shared meals' concept worked very well for me. My friend ordered their seasonal Vegetable Frittata with squash, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, rapini & feta ,$7. Can't wait to go back. My recommendation is to try for a weekday to avoid some of the rush. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1516974/restaurant/Boise-Eliot/Tasty-and-Sons-Portland"><img alt="Tasty and Sons on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1516974/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-60917170320019785612010-12-13T20:27:00.000-08:002010-12-13T20:27:17.555-08:00Tis' the Season for SugarMy absolute favorite part about Christmas are the Christmas cookies that come out of the woodwork during this time of year. I love Russian Tea Cakes, the peanut butter ones with the Hersey kiss in the middle, but my absolute favorite . . . sugar cookies!<br />
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I was overwhelmed by gluten free cookie recipes that included up to five different types of flours and a little thing called xanthan gum (what is this stuff??). <br />
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So when I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.visionsofsugarplum.com/2010/02/gluten-free-sugar-cookies.html">Sugar Plum's </a>Gluten Free Sugar Cookie, that didn't have a page list of ingredients, I jumped for joy! The secret . . . cream cheese. I know, it threw me too. I used Bob's Red Mill White Rice Flour, but any white or brown rice flour will work. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzysDhJC5p-EQRrIbZb_43HdSheTSamuewAk-3fPdWLCV0X0vxTdSIOSgcXXYuzJ7g8hy_tYZ55SEnaZAA3dxjVLPoiaKFzzPaXmhBJ8ASG9m5AXBFN2q0x8rexWtnF8J_zsucpd4VE5O/s1600/Xmas+Cookie.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzysDhJC5p-EQRrIbZb_43HdSheTSamuewAk-3fPdWLCV0X0vxTdSIOSgcXXYuzJ7g8hy_tYZ55SEnaZAA3dxjVLPoiaKFzzPaXmhBJ8ASG9m5AXBFN2q0x8rexWtnF8J_zsucpd4VE5O/s640/Xmas+Cookie.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Be warned, the dough will be stickier then your typical sugar cookie dough. Use a hearty amount of flour when rolling them out. They will also be whiter and more fluffy than other recipes. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yG0VmlIrhRRga_fH0UaUtlou9hrpofybNk4782R5y9WYsdlWqKyfiuPqu9S9JyASxtzfRX4iPexVPTyAlvLYOco9j8YDSWTI4zWooZVTnquUaAe2L0hyc68_x7KBd31rqeBs7S0637Id/s1600/Xmas+Cookie+6.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yG0VmlIrhRRga_fH0UaUtlou9hrpofybNk4782R5y9WYsdlWqKyfiuPqu9S9JyASxtzfRX4iPexVPTyAlvLYOco9j8YDSWTI4zWooZVTnquUaAe2L0hyc68_x7KBd31rqeBs7S0637Id/s640/Xmas+Cookie+6.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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I was literally in shock when I compared these cookies to our flour filled ones. I liked them 10x better and I know you will too!!! I took a giant plate to work today, mixed the GF with the regular and the teachers were totally tricked! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYIkRmD_bYny9BqiBHr6OUuIN6siFc1JzZznefAsHZgsLPu1tqzynNbFeIzWEhPFaprvmKiI0jFMTVMp3oHq4zQNa-SftSSME1BOhVni63Sn49JnPWjsanCK4KtKM06Jy2jBiRYn_40j9/s1600/Xmas+Cookie+7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYIkRmD_bYny9BqiBHr6OUuIN6siFc1JzZznefAsHZgsLPu1tqzynNbFeIzWEhPFaprvmKiI0jFMTVMp3oHq4zQNa-SftSSME1BOhVni63Sn49JnPWjsanCK4KtKM06Jy2jBiRYn_40j9/s640/Xmas+Cookie+7.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><i>Gluten Free Sugar Cookies </i></b><br />
<b><i>By Emily, <a href="http://www.visionsofsugarplum.com/">Sugar Plum Blog</a></i></b><br />
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1 1/2 cups white rice flour<br />
2 teaspoons meringue powder<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon salt<br />
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened<br />
4 ounces cream cheese<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 large egg<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
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<i>Frosting</i><br />
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Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat cookie sheets with cooking spray.<br />
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To make the cookies, in a medium mixing bowl, stir together white rice flour, meringue powder, baking powder and salt. In a large mixing bowl, using a mixer on medium speed, beat together butter, cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy - about 1-2 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla until combined. Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually beat in flour mixture until combined. Chill dough for 30-45 minutes in the refrigerator, or until firm.<br />
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Sprinkle additional rice flour on a work surface, and roll out in batches, to a 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out heart shapes and place on cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes or until light golden and set. Cool 2 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-86169217648899440202010-11-30T12:07:00.000-08:002010-11-30T12:07:43.817-08:00I'll Take the Whole Sea: Masu SushiObsessed. Obsessed like the movie Obsessed. In order to cleanse from the Thanksgiving extravaganza, I was courted to Masu Sushi. This however was not a cleanse. I ate a sea worth of sushi. I died and went to sushi heaven. It was a nice place made of wasabi clouds. It rained sake. <br />
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This is shi shi sushi. This is tres chic sushi. Not cheap . . . keep that in mind. <br />
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We ordered the menu. I know my pictures don't prove this, because this asshole I was with was "embarressed" of my photography skills, complaining that the flash was bothering other patrons. I was able to snap a few pictures before the camera was snatched from my death grip. It was OK though, I needed my full attention on the sushi.<br />
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Their specialty rolls are ridiculous.<br />
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…..<span style="font-size: large;">death by sushi</span> . . . salmon, unagi, crab, avocado and cream cheese rolled and fried then topped with masago, green onion, fantasy and eel sauce 6 pieces $12.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDXr67wZInO_Gp0xry20KiNDz-26NQftNhJyjsvv3WAtUBxXiVxnHXvvG9IFJwd5xaOk1QmI2gwwQviMdn0OQzMyE_XiYZjlWy2dq-6ax424H0x91XV43LGiOIqL0SIgQxg4lTryhCHBI/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoDXr67wZInO_Gp0xry20KiNDz-26NQftNhJyjsvv3WAtUBxXiVxnHXvvG9IFJwd5xaOk1QmI2gwwQviMdn0OQzMyE_XiYZjlWy2dq-6ax424H0x91XV43LGiOIqL0SIgQxg4lTryhCHBI/s640/006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEVmJS-r2tt_h3h-WT_cMOqwXZGfvECgdTJdWRpHn1L86rnbncoIVuWI7l0z89yBFxqnghrGzh3nqNSZnx39wrBbBX6r3raZ7V7OTv3MKTDZcRZq4S_G2LEtKWw3LcvmeLB-hhYwTPdaEg/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEVmJS-r2tt_h3h-WT_cMOqwXZGfvECgdTJdWRpHn1L86rnbncoIVuWI7l0z89yBFxqnghrGzh3nqNSZnx39wrBbBX6r3raZ7V7OTv3MKTDZcRZq4S_G2LEtKWw3LcvmeLB-hhYwTPdaEg/s640/011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
…..<span style="font-size: large;">st. helen’s volcano</span> . . .whitefish, crab, scallops, shrimp and avocado baked with our volcano cream sauce, eel sauce and smoked bonito. 6 pieces $12.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitad2xkxKl6MJYJUWucoKp86HJPk3pdtfmOmUHto5p4w9wlUb38xfKpYqCLuoxvlkGPnRBgFbkf12tyNZ7wBmnZGvAIP_4fg_ZVC7_Quo0YrtDk3-ODN7UP5PVlpetf4hjYn6r_JFZZorg/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitad2xkxKl6MJYJUWucoKp86HJPk3pdtfmOmUHto5p4w9wlUb38xfKpYqCLuoxvlkGPnRBgFbkf12tyNZ7wBmnZGvAIP_4fg_ZVC7_Quo0YrtDk3-ODN7UP5PVlpetf4hjYn6r_JFZZorg/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
. . .<span style="font-size: large;"> . ragin’ cajun</span> . . . dungeness and softshell crab and cucumber inside topped with cajun seared tuna and avocado finished with fantasy sauce, green onion and togarashi. 8 pieces $17.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2g43ZgqOsgo-qISYc6CPGE720WlRlN1w6QMF0qHpYpB1wOancb9BVCctnugMUSFHKQ8o3eV4tulHsG73JqBA8zfSd4zcdtDO-tTOwTFMr2FnlKhhGqC9Q_ObVfs0ebK6piDCAkiwUyLR/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2g43ZgqOsgo-qISYc6CPGE720WlRlN1w6QMF0qHpYpB1wOancb9BVCctnugMUSFHKQ8o3eV4tulHsG73JqBA8zfSd4zcdtDO-tTOwTFMr2FnlKhhGqC9Q_ObVfs0ebK6piDCAkiwUyLR/s640/010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
. . . <span style="font-size: large;">japanista . . . </span>spicy crab, spicy tuna and kawaire with seared hamachi, cilantro and red jalapeno on top served with our hana and sweet chili sauce. 8 pieces $15.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6_BtM_FZtOz2tKkyTuv1HwBQx6ITzK-XoW3069EyIBmyAHtDIB9BhaCYLfep7xZ4X2hZdsLzaSaSQH40xxBxyICgPUMA2T1hDiKthQ-kFy2tQF6hpCH5lxo8kFn65GSm8Dez5bgnWd4_/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6_BtM_FZtOz2tKkyTuv1HwBQx6ITzK-XoW3069EyIBmyAHtDIB9BhaCYLfep7xZ4X2hZdsLzaSaSQH40xxBxyICgPUMA2T1hDiKthQ-kFy2tQF6hpCH5lxo8kFn65GSm8Dez5bgnWd4_/s640/018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
.<span style="font-size: large;"> . . .on the cheap</span> . . . The Caterpillar role is probably the best value. Large and only $9. Their happy hour is practically half off of sushi (minus the specialty rolls). Rolls are between $3.50-$5.00. They also offer some non-traditional Japanese for your less cultured friends--like a kobe beef burger with house tonkatsu for $8.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESE1GkiojfmlUYG7tinUpkk6mLkmfkIjLAJ1N9XgOoIcGn3iM-gt7oAw4L_tkGgTCPPOF9C07mgvIB2Z34ZoKujnDICzwgQAoKlI8zzhD3BZg5iEZ9-HDufDL5G3BfPaL4NnLnPLuYHPx/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESE1GkiojfmlUYG7tinUpkk6mLkmfkIjLAJ1N9XgOoIcGn3iM-gt7oAw4L_tkGgTCPPOF9C07mgvIB2Z34ZoKujnDICzwgQAoKlI8zzhD3BZg5iEZ9-HDufDL5G3BfPaL4NnLnPLuYHPx/s640/012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Park in the Indigo Garage for 2hrs of parking validation.<br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/282261/restaurant/Downtown/Masu-Portland"><img alt="Masu on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/282261/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-88881208839416683902010-11-27T17:57:00.000-08:002010-11-27T18:30:14.104-08:00Foodbuzz 24x24: An Italian Thanksgiving Goes Gluten FreeThanksgiving is a time of . . . well in my family, being very gluttonous. It means eating for 8 hours straight. It means having antipasti plates to feed 40 when we’re only serving 20. It means wine, wine and more wine and of course, a multitude of desserts. <br />
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The word glutton reminds me of the word gluten. A thing until very recently I relied on for practically every meal. Gluten intolerance has left me <strike>dumbfounded</strike> curious with the many GF alternatives. An Italian goes gluten free; the predicament of this very statement. Rice pasta, quinoa flour, flourless anything! And so I explore . . .<br />
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My sponsor, <a href="http://foodbuzz.com/">Foodbuzz</a>, does a monthly challenge called 24x24. 24 Featured Publishers across the world are chosen to blog about a unique meal and all within 24 hours. Mangia was chosen. November’s challenge: Get creative on a Thanksgiving meal.<br />
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The task at hand: turning the most gluten-ous Italian Thanksgiving into GF deliciousness. Oh, and no one can know . . . Italians are very proud of their gluten.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thanksgiving Menu</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Caprese salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">Antipasti plate </div><div style="text-align: center;">GF French Bread</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fruit and Vegetable platters</div><div style="text-align: center;">Malone y Prosciutto</div><div style="text-align: center;">Turkey</div><div style="text-align: center;">Penne Rice Pasta with Chicken Sausage Marinara </div><div style="text-align: center;">Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce </div><div style="text-align: center;">Grandma’s Sausage Stuffing with Dessert Lab Gluten Free Bread</div><div style="text-align: center;">Garlic Mashed Potatoes </div><div style="text-align: center;">Quinoa Flour Gravy</div><div style="text-align: center;">Brown Sugar Yams</div><div style="text-align: center;">Green Beans with Pancetta</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake </div><div style="text-align: center;">Dessert Labs Apple Pie</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fresh Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylynXEk-EB41WbNxphlqm9GAsT-rXO5hOGFOE43imripnSsbi7YNgCtE2JCuWK6L7jiaxerrJBJUJvra9oEQALOY51lG0WJckXXz8H-lb6nOF0K1qPA10d1TFZ29f3pcOo4N2e10jpFRI/s1600/TG+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FIJBvzKjiNaBzJpSH2aPmxnWw8aHXczzHm2w4tpH3bT58NzsVDoBAPE3VpyZS7MpNdGp74IHPzzFxGAmWbq_e5UnVqa5a5mIDfG6z-uGR9NBz6iv6GAO246At_Qoo56g_RQXAGq49D-h/s1600/TH+meat.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FIJBvzKjiNaBzJpSH2aPmxnWw8aHXczzHm2w4tpH3bT58NzsVDoBAPE3VpyZS7MpNdGp74IHPzzFxGAmWbq_e5UnVqa5a5mIDfG6z-uGR9NBz6iv6GAO246At_Qoo56g_RQXAGq49D-h/s640/TH+meat.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCHS5psJ1zlnz_kpLrHgnNadyLL3-uYgszZ2oRwxRRTh0CiR2giPqc8ZcUH9UqzPcMWlFoTEhOeDst0I2qT0HRJLGvCDQsSui8BoOp6D2z5e0phJtzxshQ3L15K2tjljTy5FlUEQwdIe_/s1600/TH+Bread.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCHS5psJ1zlnz_kpLrHgnNadyLL3-uYgszZ2oRwxRRTh0CiR2giPqc8ZcUH9UqzPcMWlFoTEhOeDst0I2qT0HRJLGvCDQsSui8BoOp6D2z5e0phJtzxshQ3L15K2tjljTy5FlUEQwdIe_/s640/TH+Bread.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
<br />
The De Marco stuffing if I may say so myself, is not only our signature dish, but the best stuffing in all of the world. It’s not your typical dried out mush. Its full of flavor and texture. We decided to have a little test –which stuffing was better? GF or G filled? Let me just say the table was passing around both stuffings and not a word was mentioned. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHLQsN31udPrdyCmeKDDcrbRFcBI6fhlds9XDipnsQ64UmsRRaeDtRGhmNYC_97B6v8lld_G-ByOQoDDyZ0bGbs1VxKO4umTSY92lN_M-ZGkc75ePidUH3FVhE-v4GIKmwsXLbZQ3K-ws/s1600/076.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHLQsN31udPrdyCmeKDDcrbRFcBI6fhlds9XDipnsQ64UmsRRaeDtRGhmNYC_97B6v8lld_G-ByOQoDDyZ0bGbs1VxKO4umTSY92lN_M-ZGkc75ePidUH3FVhE-v4GIKmwsXLbZQ3K-ws/s640/076.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ebonnNe304aSNQ7MWM11ypu3TttxiGSUlhZQt6N5HDz3oOZYhI946dMm2lxpmbBf3zbpYuFd7J2T8TJOoSQbmF8ZzQjgje5i8uKxElk9noBccF7fOJN7IsNanz06g2CO7EeXaIm3-kbP/s1600/TH+STuffing.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ebonnNe304aSNQ7MWM11ypu3TttxiGSUlhZQt6N5HDz3oOZYhI946dMm2lxpmbBf3zbpYuFd7J2T8TJOoSQbmF8ZzQjgje5i8uKxElk9noBccF7fOJN7IsNanz06g2CO7EeXaIm3-kbP/s640/TH+STuffing.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNx7BeYYdyC-8UohJpLRMn0ySpMgfjJ6OHo46zKw8Gt3paN4635EDyNfc1m70gSDML0Uq_uf2KlG1Lqy8cwGJvuncz6Jz4hLJpTi_7CZCjGmPJ-y3ypC-Z8qawxDqx0fLSF2F1avaQicC/s1600/TH+Stuffing+2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNx7BeYYdyC-8UohJpLRMn0ySpMgfjJ6OHo46zKw8Gt3paN4635EDyNfc1m70gSDML0Uq_uf2KlG1Lqy8cwGJvuncz6Jz4hLJpTi_7CZCjGmPJ-y3ypC-Z8qawxDqx0fLSF2F1avaQicC/s640/TH+Stuffing+2.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sides, sides and more sides . . . </div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XStcZyRqtnOz1k4mOPYWhqWdzwU4LmtY-g9Bu72MHnRC9Y6VP0ifNNLsDK0VjxeL1sY_e9SEcKh3QhksS64vscczx8r1gkY5qopMzasWGE816Ppk0Gl60ZKuyF_D1mx8ykrh-iZ8rB8U/s1600/TH+Cran.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XStcZyRqtnOz1k4mOPYWhqWdzwU4LmtY-g9Bu72MHnRC9Y6VP0ifNNLsDK0VjxeL1sY_e9SEcKh3QhksS64vscczx8r1gkY5qopMzasWGE816Ppk0Gl60ZKuyF_D1mx8ykrh-iZ8rB8U/s640/TH+Cran.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-XlolqIIWBvYwevkBdK3XOIpZPI1AFZRHW-oOJgQ1qyF_RD69BmO7GZSTfuOLAKr-tRx-Goaw2FbC0WS9LHvV0hwbZ8EUAvXh5UCdceIsBomDtz6LROjlX2oAm3BD3xE6es6hV-YyNMk/s1600/TH12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-XlolqIIWBvYwevkBdK3XOIpZPI1AFZRHW-oOJgQ1qyF_RD69BmO7GZSTfuOLAKr-tRx-Goaw2FbC0WS9LHvV0hwbZ8EUAvXh5UCdceIsBomDtz6LROjlX2oAm3BD3xE6es6hV-YyNMk/s640/TH12.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneohZYnk38R8x8OtbR7iKMp08a-yqnTa_b3OIf0P-ZMAkDhBgIM_g8ETykOy49PQVccGNVZnHi_B0ApriAMgQdNFyNF4K-59n_74xQn568H_wVRmgh5f0wdOs_-cp3YMb3BDu_a0gb4Gm/s1600/TH+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhneohZYnk38R8x8OtbR7iKMp08a-yqnTa_b3OIf0P-ZMAkDhBgIM_g8ETykOy49PQVccGNVZnHi_B0ApriAMgQdNFyNF4K-59n_74xQn568H_wVRmgh5f0wdOs_-cp3YMb3BDu_a0gb4Gm/s640/TH+7.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancetta Green Beans--to die for. Nothing more then beans, olive oil and pancetta. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66Vlv_dW8vZpjvd07_qCRwh32ZJRrHLbnvTfPRQShSxHGaifPFbs5tYH99eau_Jgj1USy8syh50e1-hLjNnj-H7qqfc1SiAWl7KNEdwh_Y0N59Kllz329FrRvsj3dUGf8NI4z_RBn9TNM/s1600/TH+Rigatoni.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66Vlv_dW8vZpjvd07_qCRwh32ZJRrHLbnvTfPRQShSxHGaifPFbs5tYH99eau_Jgj1USy8syh50e1-hLjNnj-H7qqfc1SiAWl7KNEdwh_Y0N59Kllz329FrRvsj3dUGf8NI4z_RBn9TNM/s640/TH+Rigatoni.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
Our 26 lb turkey. Perfectly roasted. Cheers to dad for not drying it out. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4edEHTIxq1cxvdGt6GlNwz67Zdjr3buc947ceWArSojVUj5rXxLGkFQ_puYg_5CuTFzZNJcQs8eBMEdnp-f2CyD-kMYZYcGAQz4rYc6nVoqb4LenniFlBhn2h85Hng-5pKS5bgdSgeEg/s1600/TG+6.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4edEHTIxq1cxvdGt6GlNwz67Zdjr3buc947ceWArSojVUj5rXxLGkFQ_puYg_5CuTFzZNJcQs8eBMEdnp-f2CyD-kMYZYcGAQz4rYc6nVoqb4LenniFlBhn2h85Hng-5pKS5bgdSgeEg/s640/TG+6.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On to dessert . . . Pumpkin Pie, GF Apple Pie from Dessert Lab and homemade Chocolate Cheesecake with a gluten free hazelnut crust. Brilliant and delicious. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxaBmgDtRGnHq_IZ5XD9ib9_UreFK2DTqX7wNynmW8u5yG0_LjJ2DMyXMYTc3Im5E9Eu5faDPZ0VjjY8Q9nQjqgSkmdKKfREZjCKu57ELu7QoiOhuERtRleV1tOWy3ky9CjNtexK87T5V/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxaBmgDtRGnHq_IZ5XD9ib9_UreFK2DTqX7wNynmW8u5yG0_LjJ2DMyXMYTc3Im5E9Eu5faDPZ0VjjY8Q9nQjqgSkmdKKfREZjCKu57ELu7QoiOhuERtRleV1tOWy3ky9CjNtexK87T5V/s640/012.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFCaen3nhwq2iG-gqIh95CU1PEHhz33Z-_Zdydrz8mq8ax4D8mrnS76F5v30R1ndKxucm-94QYfMruGJy02HsDkkrehqERP616soop3aqhMpZ4mfHIRPYpXVxv4ShLOxsDNreLNXPfg6C/s1600/TH+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCHS5psJ1zlnz_kpLrHgnNadyLL3-uYgszZ2oRwxRRTh0CiR2giPqc8ZcUH9UqzPcMWlFoTEhOeDst0I2qT0HRJLGvCDQsSui8BoOp6D2z5e0phJtzxshQ3L15K2tjljTy5FlUEQwdIe_/s1600/TH+Bread.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCL9uaKsqxpq7zYtXhyVxmylG7GajH6Gic643ReSj-KDcpJGP32tUUvesEx6wGCA_thKDMcymyCbyMk7icIXbPULXVbFM1OHZaV6BdIm_e5HV-NazNEvWTe9WyU-vIfjzyjP8ZHVoTnBo/s1600/TH+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCL9uaKsqxpq7zYtXhyVxmylG7GajH6Gic643ReSj-KDcpJGP32tUUvesEx6wGCA_thKDMcymyCbyMk7icIXbPULXVbFM1OHZaV6BdIm_e5HV-NazNEvWTe9WyU-vIfjzyjP8ZHVoTnBo/s640/TH+10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Mi Familia . . .<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Grandma’s Sausage Stuffing</b></div><br />
1lb Italian Sausage (ground)<br />
1 lb pancetta or bacon<br />
1 cup sliced mushrooms<br />
2-3 cloves garlic<br />
2 cups white onion<br />
2 cups chopped celery<br />
3 bags of spinach<br />
1 cup red wine<br />
1 cup chicken broth<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 0-16 oz dried bread crumbs (depending on how bready you like your stuffing)<br />
*We bought gluten free breadcrumbs from a local bakery<br />
1 teas sage<br />
1 teas marjoram<br />
1 teas rosemary<br />
<br />
Cook Italian sausage and bacon and put aside. Sauté mushrooms, garlic, onions and celery in ½ cube butter. Once cooked add spices and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Steam or boil spinach and drain. Don’t cook longer than 60 seconds. Transfer cooked vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add sausage and chopped bacon, bread crumbs, spinach, eggs, red wine and chicken broth. Mix the stuffing together until its well coated. Stuff the bird and enjoy!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-68597757919552969572010-11-16T20:37:00.000-08:002010-11-16T20:37:25.614-08:00Hola Esparza's!<b> Tostada Guacamole; $9.95</b><br />
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Close your eyes and imagine you have to pick one region of food to eat for the rest of your life . . . what would it be? When I ask this of people, they more times then not tell me Mexican food (in which I usually feel offended that they wouldn't choose Italian food). <br />
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But I do like Mexican food. I like Mexican food with huge portions. I like it with refried beans, guacamole, sour cream and salsa with kick!<br />
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Esparza's on SE 28th is best known for their smoked meats. Smoked chicken. Smoked pork. Smoked beef brisket. Smoked wild boar. Smoked lamb. Yes, they have lamb. <br />
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Their menu is unique and expansive. <br />
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The Trailblazer: Smoked salmon enchilada with chipotle marinated shrimp and topped with jack, cheddar and jalapeno cheese. <br />
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Dale Evans: Smoked lamb flour tacos covered in mole sauce. <br />
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Of course we went more traditional . . . which was just as good.<br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/281229/restaurant/Kerns/Esparzas-Tex-Mex-Cafe-Portland"><img alt="Esparza's Tex Mex Cafe on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/281229/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-34927197391666870302010-11-07T15:22:00.000-08:002010-11-07T15:22:27.819-08:00Belly Dance Your way to Morocco: MarrakeshSometimes its a Thursday, but it feels like a Friday. Sometimes there's nothing you want more then to just leave, get out of town, skidaddle. But then you realize you have 4 weeks accrued vacation, but no money to go anywhere. And that's when you decide its time to go to Marracco.<br />
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"I've been to Morocco" -Margot <br />
"Oh no, this is way better, this is like 'real' Marracan food." -Jerry<br />
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We lack restaurants in Portland that transfer you with the restaurants ambiances to the region of the cuisine. This is Marrakesh's speciality. Everything from sitting on plush pillows on the floor, to the waitresses washing your hands in a basin, to the voluptuous belly dancers. <br />
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But this isn't the only reason Marrakesh is wonderful--this is simply just the first reason--their food is incredible and if you've never experienced the flavors and textures of Moroccan food, well it will blow you away.<br />
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The Marrakesh experience includes a 5 course meal for $18.95. You will leave fuller then you thought was possible. If you are dining with 4 or more people, you can get their Royal Feast, which includes 5 entrees, including a special. I've done this, but nothing and I mean nothing, beats their Honey Plum Chicken. The chicken is coated with a honey plum and almond sauce and falls from the bone. You won't be able to get enough.<br />
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I told you this blog wouldn't become all about my new gluten free lifestyle, but for those of you in my same hellish boat, you'll appreciate this info. They were incredibly accommodating about my GF needs. The only thing you can't have is the bread (obviously) and the B'Stilla Royal, which is an egg and chicken in phyllo dough. They switched out the soup, which has a bit of flour, for a vegetable soup, which I thought was better then their lentil soup anyways. Also, they brought me a large salad of my own, since you typically dip bread in the large ones to share. <br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/282238/restaurant/Nob-Hill-Uptown/Marrakesh-Portland"><img alt="Marrakesh on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/282238/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-78731764581790288312010-10-31T21:42:00.000-07:002010-10-31T21:44:10.777-07:00Pinot; An American BrasserieWelcome Pinot; the most accommodating and gracious $$$ restaurant I've been to in ages. Ruth Reichl (acclaimed food critic) wrote about the concept of spending money on a meal and paying not only for superb food, but for the experience and service. Nothing is worst then putting down a hefty dollar on a dinner and having the service be mediocre or worst.<br />
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Pinot may be new, but the chef and restaurant staff know how to make every costumer feel at home in their French kitchen. We were placed at the "chef's table," where we were able to see and feel all the hustle and bustle of the kitchen and see every exquisite meal being prepared. <br />
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Miss. Sarah's birthday dinner at Pinot was complete with a complimentary bottle of champagne (and when asked for strawberries, they implemented with raspberry sorbetto, in which they dolloped into each glass). <br />
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While I was obnoxiously taking pictures of cheese their platters, my nose practically touching the place, they simply offered me the plate; "That's an extra, would you like this one for your table? Otherwise I'll just have to give it to the staff."<br />
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Would I like a cheese platter?! Do you know who I am?<br />
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The dinner was spectacular. I had a "young hen." I wonder how young it was. I hope at least a teenager.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnH7pBHvGrFGl2MKqpaktkuuPdNSn154N-i11ZrLn7EdY4jYzTYWjfGgv6nRTCZ2OtZef8SMdRQ2Ci9KmCvYDvE8GOUluYBBRHuYssEbLyaK-mXr-7M_RtVrrjZrZC9Igvubr9kz12evu5/s640/Pinto+4.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">whole roast young hen roasted potatoes, carrot, onion and tomato</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">baby tins filled with fresh bread</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7tXxjVnIcwlqShhZnQIhhb7v_hGw-7WFzUBPrpaJptLGWWkfSXMWdL4occFy7U_MYph7M8qVNuOcIGYnsy_rQtXdekKZnG6W3EJTwMVpaGOCxZUQo91tZt_hamOYjEDNkni693_esO2c/s640/Pinot+6.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add captionskate wing potato gnocchi, brussels sprouts, preserved lemon, brown butter</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7tXxjVnIcwlqShhZnQIhhb7v_hGw-7WFzUBPrpaJptLGWWkfSXMWdL4occFy7U_MYph7M8qVNuOcIGYnsy_rQtXdekKZnG6W3EJTwMVpaGOCxZUQo91tZt_hamOYjEDNkni693_esO2c/s1600/Pinot+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7tmvDlDY2G-wSy7joYBDtUypvFUsBX9aDGwX8QMaUczWQWQ28pxWZMGigqviQnjODCRtfXMmwSsJMPVTBwpuqlEw19NcGw6LsGt_jlC3PhWA9PjsV-OE4V6iT1rcnFfJRtwTT2bVNkLA/s640/Pinot+7.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">alaskan salmon cauliflower and red potato gratin, horseradish</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7tmvDlDY2G-wSy7joYBDtUypvFUsBX9aDGwX8QMaUczWQWQ28pxWZMGigqviQnjODCRtfXMmwSsJMPVTBwpuqlEw19NcGw6LsGt_jlC3PhWA9PjsV-OE4V6iT1rcnFfJRtwTT2bVNkLA/s1600/Pinot+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwYYQJBmL4X6NELYHchPhyyIdsRKBotwhV8RM-ZFZ1ilzZFhtNXjwxAiuXl_PjpgCBOdWl3oJqGd-S06d_-HkZ9PVyPsRmGjNNZu_rRx8Y4WReD7nym7HBnZyvWD8TIOm_OGrrYLCHt8C/s640/PInot+8.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">tagliatelle carbonara pork belly, shaved parmesan, duck egg</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwYYQJBmL4X6NELYHchPhyyIdsRKBotwhV8RM-ZFZ1ilzZFhtNXjwxAiuXl_PjpgCBOdWl3oJqGd-S06d_-HkZ9PVyPsRmGjNNZu_rRx8Y4WReD7nym7HBnZyvWD8TIOm_OGrrYLCHt8C/s1600/PInot+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GTBpyFPt5DmyNg75c3-Awt_EUIXdeXGA0dBHE49eb1UnM5p4V4lBP52Ghx31b0KHuNfQyoMfavplbcpYKcXjKLqkqAZe5qMnxVI0t_0rKVS79h_I5JKLGQovP-NnhrXjvcLlG_nRwTcd/s1600/Pinot+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GTBpyFPt5DmyNg75c3-Awt_EUIXdeXGA0dBHE49eb1UnM5p4V4lBP52Ghx31b0KHuNfQyoMfavplbcpYKcXjKLqkqAZe5qMnxVI0t_0rKVS79h_I5JKLGQovP-NnhrXjvcLlG_nRwTcd/s640/Pinot+5.JPG" style="cursor: move; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Birthday girl and Elizabeth </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DrG0Pm5HM8UF7YiTaQVjpR4v4SdroHu38dU4ctZncFcyf6dWTp-G5ZlD2sx_sYcNzCahXVqbB4EgraMpvrxksyiqsSC7EjtIrV-ucMKIn2lwlN2bzQ0FcflNPBjFheW39uU7bg00P55F/s400/Pinot+10.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">chocolate mouse</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DrG0Pm5HM8UF7YiTaQVjpR4v4SdroHu38dU4ctZncFcyf6dWTp-G5ZlD2sx_sYcNzCahXVqbB4EgraMpvrxksyiqsSC7EjtIrV-ucMKIn2lwlN2bzQ0FcflNPBjFheW39uU7bg00P55F/s1600/Pinot+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnH7pBHvGrFGl2MKqpaktkuuPdNSn154N-i11ZrLn7EdY4jYzTYWjfGgv6nRTCZ2OtZef8SMdRQ2Ci9KmCvYDvE8GOUluYBBRHuYssEbLyaK-mXr-7M_RtVrrjZrZC9Igvubr9kz12evu5/s1600/Pinto+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1543451/restaurant/Downtown/Pinot-America-Brasserie-Portland"><img alt="Pinot America Brasserie on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1543451/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-50350124845534198912010-10-24T21:12:00.000-07:002010-10-24T21:23:06.510-07:00A New Beginning: Prasad<b>Oatmeal, $6.50 </b><br />
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Another month of cleansing. No sugar. No dairy. No gluten. No caffeine or alcohol. No fun. This detox is sucking the fun out of life. I'm that annoying patron asking, "is this vegan and gluten free; oh and is there sugar added?--ok, I'll just have water" Ugh. I hate the word gluten-free. <br />
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In order to prove to me that my life wasn't over a friend recently took me to this peaceful place in the Pearl, called Prasad. Suddenly I was at a home I never thought would be my home. Health and yoga nuts come from all over to chow down on their all gluten-free/vegan menu . . . oh and I should mention, its delicious!!! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlJKCgdOUjPv6JtD5YP1VhLr69L7Ey2vP6aeI6ZRFFz5QVw3IDtsFQdVuG7tKl42WfjCdhuxvvStW00SK0FwpJphat4kZxVNsF7hY5bHgedljlQ0qSRfC2gtL2IIR9bdh0k3viE3DsyWP/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlJKCgdOUjPv6JtD5YP1VhLr69L7Ey2vP6aeI6ZRFFz5QVw3IDtsFQdVuG7tKl42WfjCdhuxvvStW00SK0FwpJphat4kZxVNsF7hY5bHgedljlQ0qSRfC2gtL2IIR9bdh0k3viE3DsyWP/s320/025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I put on my <strike>lululemon</strike> generic brand yoga pants, ordered some healthy breakfast and fit right in. There's something tranquil about Prasad. I'm not sure if its the connecting yoga studios energy or the fact that the people eating here are probably well-balanced, healthy individuals who read magazines like Yoga Journal and books on 'mindfulness.' I kinda want to be like them. Oooommmmmmmm.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HgzUph7ZzTaiAg4dBz0bpVM2vzeRdhfCgf0sce1KpdANf5MooL0x35Cy0wjujfQH1Orp2wXhyphenhyphen9qqNg1xWtNodXzvgxi4s98Le-NJvrO0y1oFSPwRklww2FcTbzBJ4gKtt9OSejn_SKtq/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HgzUph7ZzTaiAg4dBz0bpVM2vzeRdhfCgf0sce1KpdANf5MooL0x35Cy0wjujfQH1Orp2wXhyphenhyphen9qqNg1xWtNodXzvgxi4s98Le-NJvrO0y1oFSPwRklww2FcTbzBJ4gKtt9OSejn_SKtq/s640/033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0qWB6MArjIwTcL6-rdI98nVc146QBCK-nR071kF4KLFX5PZcaIJyi0xjard4jcedHnkKUHYVHXZDHAmac5vfa-wOvOgza1moEe-Zu9PbbntZVJ7PxtHaI43Mxr_SxHkEAyiZLTz1wh2_H/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Their made to order gluten-free oatmeal is a perfect start to any morning with dried figs & currants, Brazil nuts, fresh fruit, vanilla and cinnamon with a side of coconut or almond milk and maple syrup. Its hearty and filled with the combining textures of the apples, bananas, peaches and nuts. Their fruits change from day to day. Lately I wake up thinking about this oatmeal. <br />
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<img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8Tt4NV_h7MMHUALCqBoO21fM5J5zNl0elitzhEOuK4y5n-rVF94CAgTqCk-4qmQ7MnqLNYg-TGJoMHWUKeACqMepSMYSwO_Em0g8hc9-KRpl7gKaSb5Wt1CRduFhAaYa_hm3nFUiQuJI/s640/035.JPG" width="640" /><br />
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I like my oatmeal sweeter then most. I've been known to order the oatmeal brulee from Gravy--encrusted in sugar. Surprisingly the maple syrup and coconut milk add just enough sweetness to this oh so much healthier version. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8Tt4NV_h7MMHUALCqBoO21fM5J5zNl0elitzhEOuK4y5n-rVF94CAgTqCk-4qmQ7MnqLNYg-TGJoMHWUKeACqMepSMYSwO_Em0g8hc9-KRpl7gKaSb5Wt1CRduFhAaYa_hm3nFUiQuJI/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivleQv02cGqPAkbDMcQvBd0oVhazfLzqETqHueiqRlIfMkEtGrXsNfloxto6mv-awqei7kxB5rJxY7sZTOjKb4FlJFHujsFgy3hBRPi4vwRBwp-ji1AkhTTaeABEP9HPJWkltOYuoxivr_/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivleQv02cGqPAkbDMcQvBd0oVhazfLzqETqHueiqRlIfMkEtGrXsNfloxto6mv-awqei7kxB5rJxY7sZTOjKb4FlJFHujsFgy3hBRPi4vwRBwp-ji1AkhTTaeABEP9HPJWkltOYuoxivr_/s640/031.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They juice their own juices and have a wild combination of smoothies. I like the Lucy Blue; blueberries and bananas. I'm dying to try the Stumblebee; peanut butter, cacao nibs, coco powder, Stumptown coffee, banana and the Popeye; spinach, marionberry, blueberry, banana. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChODnwDm7jmjeoqN58zLRyZ4U_FZEhIlWwfd8Nf-kAxE-F4kZCAHKvZwnLUZWI250YQL52M0GlLwwFOYRTUcaE1cW3ZRwsez82r_tBFLAakQhg0yOZPLpIFPRmHX1Dx1rE3EhFsz5FSOD/s640/045.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Cascadia gluten free teff bread with butter and homemade jam. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's hard to explain this to you, but I left perfectly full and happy and healthy. Thanks Prasad. Gluten-free can be good. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChODnwDm7jmjeoqN58zLRyZ4U_FZEhIlWwfd8Nf-kAxE-F4kZCAHKvZwnLUZWI250YQL52M0GlLwwFOYRTUcaE1cW3ZRwsez82r_tBFLAakQhg0yOZPLpIFPRmHX1Dx1rE3EhFsz5FSOD/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I promise not to turn this into a Gluten-Free blog</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChODnwDm7jmjeoqN58zLRyZ4U_FZEhIlWwfd8Nf-kAxE-F4kZCAHKvZwnLUZWI250YQL52M0GlLwwFOYRTUcaE1cW3ZRwsez82r_tBFLAakQhg0yOZPLpIFPRmHX1Dx1rE3EhFsz5FSOD/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChODnwDm7jmjeoqN58zLRyZ4U_FZEhIlWwfd8Nf-kAxE-F4kZCAHKvZwnLUZWI250YQL52M0GlLwwFOYRTUcaE1cW3ZRwsez82r_tBFLAakQhg0yOZPLpIFPRmHX1Dx1rE3EhFsz5FSOD/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhChODnwDm7jmjeoqN58zLRyZ4U_FZEhIlWwfd8Nf-kAxE-F4kZCAHKvZwnLUZWI250YQL52M0GlLwwFOYRTUcaE1cW3ZRwsez82r_tBFLAakQhg0yOZPLpIFPRmHX1Dx1rE3EhFsz5FSOD/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1514286/restaurant/Pearl-District/Prasad-Portland"><img alt="Prasad on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1514286/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-77574498818317532102010-10-17T19:25:00.000-07:002010-11-05T08:35:39.118-07:00The Last Supper. . . Little Big BurgerI have some very, very bad news. Some news that might change my world as I know it, change my blog and on the flip side, change my stomach. <br />
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I found out . . . I'm gluten intolerant. I know I about died when I heard this news too. How could I, a foodie and anti-gluten hater be intolerant to the very thing that makes me, well me? No pasta, no bread, no cheesy burgers? How could this be true?<br />
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I can't tell you what this will mean for us. I hope you understand. I'll do whatever it takes to keep lots of gluten on this blog. And for those in the G-Free pact, get ready for some blogs dedicated to you ;) <br />
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Thank God I stopped by Little Big Burger in the Pearl before I heard the bad news. <br />
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A gourmet burger for $3.75, done, I'll take it. Fries coated in white truffle oil? Yes! Over 20 types of canned beer and root beer floats; not to mention their homemade ketchup!!! I love it all. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nwZKufrFcaggGhZDjxtqakTNfSWqLdm41ZIZo4a2hAHn3czMtUNwMgOSRDN4kqn06uZPKu_iaEJ3T9TQ4vIiT-kje_X2-oXLLRCCYA4BKAtUpTG_Pi7cp6H2JEqprn3gC3Cs2YqG1JSX/s640/047.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catsup or Ketchup?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_nwZKufrFcaggGhZDjxtqakTNfSWqLdm41ZIZo4a2hAHn3czMtUNwMgOSRDN4kqn06uZPKu_iaEJ3T9TQ4vIiT-kje_X2-oXLLRCCYA4BKAtUpTG_Pi7cp6H2JEqprn3gC3Cs2YqG1JSX/s1600/047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCIt8DSkF2tyQiCYKCUn7PH2Ff3QCYXyRGRmVSBsQ_FNE98cgwKzlSkYrt9-oPXnPFrUtZOPgANa72dzl5A6UeV0JPOeE4rwhdmoJOvTxVHmhOf88fp77IU0_YNuVdRuvmMa9BLbY0PDP/s400/054.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="266" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Root beer float with Tillamook vanilla ice cream. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCIt8DSkF2tyQiCYKCUn7PH2Ff3QCYXyRGRmVSBsQ_FNE98cgwKzlSkYrt9-oPXnPFrUtZOPgANa72dzl5A6UeV0JPOeE4rwhdmoJOvTxVHmhOf88fp77IU0_YNuVdRuvmMa9BLbY0PDP/s1600/054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqNI8XNLUj2QrnoOg_ZI32HGhuia4bHL5huAtPtWqNYZibZmpYUWzojB-5AAw7OhjjOQgO2U6V-aXelcgoZ5f8l9maMiwzJ_9n1ykmSGrhym6U4TaR8jujbzhgW74-sh3dv6q8iBfJywO/s640/063.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your choice: chevre, Tillamook Cheddar or blue cheese</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1546119/restaurant/Pearl-District/Little-Big-Burger-Portland"><img alt="Little Big Burger on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1546119/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-31741052339925911742010-09-26T21:40:00.000-07:002010-11-29T20:12:55.912-08:00Men and Meat: Stepping Stone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<b>Bacon-Spinach-Cream Cheese-Tomato Scramble, w/ a homemade biscuit, $8.25</b><br />
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Last week I had a student ask me if I'd ever tried "The Farm" at McDonald's. "Well no, I don't think I have," I responded, "what is that?" "Its when you order a Double Pounder and a McChicken, put the chicken on the Double Pounder and add bacon. Want me to get you one?"<br />
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This must be a high school thing I thought . . . until I went to Stepping Stone and realized this a man and meat thing.<br />
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I have these three completely obnoxious friends that I think someday I'll make my bridesmen. They are hilarious, inappropriate, honest to a fault and coincidentally single . . . most likely more protective then my actual brothers, but non the less family. When they are wed, I will cry. Not out of happiness, but rather because sometimes I feel like I'm in a polygamist relationship with them. <br />
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We like food. We all like to stuff ourselves silly.<br />
<br />
Saturday morning was no exception when we showed up to Stepping Stone (Lucio not surprisingly drunk from the night prior) ready to eat. I had been sick the week before, so found it the perfect excuse to consume my weeks calories in one meal before 11:00 am.<br />
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This is how you have to do Stepping Stone: drunk, hungover, diet-free, depressed and/or starved.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1TwC-HEbDFvFWxt_qr0Y6XSADdq7-DCmAT3Y500qdpmkh8zcbuTmIo2oYdNMlgvS7Hdto86k4vSjJZaz3IgD_MnucE5GaD5Scy2d0ZCD3_r6mwgO63U2oUgdrRso9s673hsgAW4KBx6h/s1600/058.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1TwC-HEbDFvFWxt_qr0Y6XSADdq7-DCmAT3Y500qdpmkh8zcbuTmIo2oYdNMlgvS7Hdto86k4vSjJZaz3IgD_MnucE5GaD5Scy2d0ZCD3_r6mwgO63U2oUgdrRso9s673hsgAW4KBx6h/s640/058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Order the scramble. Always ask for cream cheese in it. Substitute the toast for their homemade biscuit. Their biscuits are massive and so buttery. A biscuit a day . . . keeps the doctor astray. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_TJeG4dp6rbFhSmMXGHo3us4FBXJYoCGumy-Z4nWWRLcVD4nKyD2qHOe5Zt-17b2Y97008IL7OOZ4Yzly_LzV9joiHPN0msHRcKdUyEoPGATa-mYJjo65g9sShDfauB_oECU7IPHa4A6/s1600/052.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8_TJeG4dp6rbFhSmMXGHo3us4FBXJYoCGumy-Z4nWWRLcVD4nKyD2qHOe5Zt-17b2Y97008IL7OOZ4Yzly_LzV9joiHPN0msHRcKdUyEoPGATa-mYJjo65g9sShDfauB_oECU7IPHa4A6/s640/052.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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If you are man and want to develope heart disease when you're older or if you're already old and you want to speed up this process, order what the boys got: Smothered B.A.- a slab of chicken fried steak, hash browns, onions, jalapenos, Tillamook cheddar all wrapped into an omelet and wait for it . . . smothered in sausage gravy. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hzNSEr6gyavQuo3sJL3T_yeifugXhcIgfcBqLi-OorPsJcWJ-1X-vVeCr02B6Y_xePme8IIxbudXQrdYaAA6Pzq6iE5rw84olq8K5yUtsALvkcaxWL59dcYM6aA8wI5ybGkNnRYh4Zdv/s1600/047.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hzNSEr6gyavQuo3sJL3T_yeifugXhcIgfcBqLi-OorPsJcWJ-1X-vVeCr02B6Y_xePme8IIxbudXQrdYaAA6Pzq6iE5rw84olq8K5yUtsALvkcaxWL59dcYM6aA8wI5ybGkNnRYh4Zdv/s640/047.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Don't order the Eggs Benedict. This is not the place nor the time. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXGGZqBsy4mC1R5pmLBPmSMIhHkpvAg4Vxuet2uBKvQ8epvR_Z8F1AvqCG21VM9KFurGNzyLiIiB4dBjLIbiUHFeGM9F_3bYu3CFiA9YrXRZNKzqGhRKj4bMSoLwLKSYVlU4p55pEOGJp/s1600/069.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXGGZqBsy4mC1R5pmLBPmSMIhHkpvAg4Vxuet2uBKvQ8epvR_Z8F1AvqCG21VM9KFurGNzyLiIiB4dBjLIbiUHFeGM9F_3bYu3CFiA9YrXRZNKzqGhRKj4bMSoLwLKSYVlU4p55pEOGJp/s640/069.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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Order a Mancake, $3.50 to share with the table.<br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/283482/restaurant/Nob-Hill-Uptown/Stepping-Stone-Cafe-Portland"><img alt="Stepping Stone Cafe on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/283482/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-77642712341890202732010-09-19T22:13:00.000-07:002010-09-19T22:19:34.565-07:00Fancy Mac N' CheezeVelvety Mac 'N' Cheese, $5.00<br />
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How did I miss this one? It was staring me straight in the face too. I had no clue. I was clueless. Davis Street Tavern's happy hour is now on my hit list. By hit list I mean spots to hit up . . . not shoot up (in case you were confused).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn8fKpsy42XGg4kNy_zoljgM7izuxY5Dy7OBRCXo5-MqrS931H3au8rrmHy21buiaXoxdvQwyKZKpfdYHosaKKn2knGmX9j93ik45Ud0aMbtK7ldjnLzKLviZ-9ZLdtHvu7lEoPfoMba8/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKn8fKpsy42XGg4kNy_zoljgM7izuxY5Dy7OBRCXo5-MqrS931H3au8rrmHy21buiaXoxdvQwyKZKpfdYHosaKKn2knGmX9j93ik45Ud0aMbtK7ldjnLzKLviZ-9ZLdtHvu7lEoPfoMba8/s640/003.JPG" width="427" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbPv_iQWBrHH4kbYX1SLtFBE6cM737Pf0XeVlTYgmpHoVsXf2tXtx4Xt8fMxyvlpFvR31x0V7mZAZqYEHDdCsMicuDXDE4YlD3Vty3z2KlUsFMGTF70UGTXQmLGIZ62RlddLaw_oIz_MfK/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
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I have one complaint, but I'll wait until after I tell you about this Mac N' Cheese to share it. Davis Street Tavern has incredible, superb, to-die-for, mouthwatering, ooey gooey, cheesy macaroni and cheese. Three cheese <b><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 10pt;">bechamel</span></span><b><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Orator Std'; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></span></b>they say. I'm guessing . . . an aged white cheddar, cream cheese and a blue or gorgonzola which hits just at the end.<br />
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The waiter literally had to pry the plate from my hands.<br />
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Ok, so you're lactose intolerant. Not to worry. They have a Bar B Que Pulled Pork Sandwich with Apple Fennel Slaw and Blue Cheese Potato Salad ($5.00). <br />
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Succulent pork. Brightly flavored. Smokey. Ohhh soo good.<br />
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One of their specials was Fish Tacos with Guacamole. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BUldorpRnCfiazNwyX7r1RZnxPDNSKBsin-QTfJWpD7c-g9iJuhtZmngOKt5-h2XbFwm8shvNvhWSv-qsaHvuAB8serXZqs3tx5vSHJ8MR7dzpVHC8HrYTXUQda-f5g-wh-n9wnWoDJe/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BUldorpRnCfiazNwyX7r1RZnxPDNSKBsin-QTfJWpD7c-g9iJuhtZmngOKt5-h2XbFwm8shvNvhWSv-qsaHvuAB8serXZqs3tx5vSHJ8MR7dzpVHC8HrYTXUQda-f5g-wh-n9wnWoDJe/s640/022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Going back very, very soon for the Strip Loin Burger, Crab Bisque and Seared Albacore Carpaccio. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5k0TVdLHcwWOBBGpRKRs0-gVqpnvDrHV9oLC3uYgE59u_9DfS-MTbgLV4ok0EBfjtnvQ5XQIi59Ffe_7XnzYYTTVytbwAWDn24SYnxrZVO35GxqzCWhKJbH79bZLjZT7YkeET4WHeqiT_/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5k0TVdLHcwWOBBGpRKRs0-gVqpnvDrHV9oLC3uYgE59u_9DfS-MTbgLV4ok0EBfjtnvQ5XQIi59Ffe_7XnzYYTTVytbwAWDn24SYnxrZVO35GxqzCWhKJbH79bZLjZT7YkeET4WHeqiT_/s400/008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8IJ5E3TOeJSZ95lcZW7BLEdOm6Hv3aYGnYS3I4DBmxMJWhXhU7VgeYVtRdh57M3JATwi5TvygdByQppcRq1GU77oxtYYHsdvLo4CWuiz2tCszmiaJe3dmD3LjFpBgMZSfaksBykogSH9-/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8IJ5E3TOeJSZ95lcZW7BLEdOm6Hv3aYGnYS3I4DBmxMJWhXhU7VgeYVtRdh57M3JATwi5TvygdByQppcRq1GU77oxtYYHsdvLo4CWuiz2tCszmiaJe3dmD3LjFpBgMZSfaksBykogSH9-/s400/010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh ya my complaint . . . Old Town in the daylight . . . sometimes not so appetizing. Good thing it will start getting dark at 5:00 pm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1413751/restaurant/Chinatown-Old-Town/Davis-Street-Tavern-Portland"><img alt="Davis Street Tavern on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1413751/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-35498876460807272562010-09-16T21:43:00.000-07:002010-12-07T23:49:54.615-08:00Practice doesn't make perfect when no one will allow you to practice . . .Dear Friends and Family-<br />
<br />
You are rude.<br />
<br />
You encourage me to blog and chip in to buy me a camera that is worth more than my car. Yet, when we go eat you give me devilish looks for pulling out my camera.<br />
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Click. You're embarrassing us. Click. The flash is bothering those people. Click. Just let me eat. Click. Those pictures don't look very good. Click. That click sound is annoying. Click. Can we eat yet, can we eat yet??<br />
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No you can't eat yet--I'm trying to capture this meal before you destroy it with your man hands. <br />
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Until you can handle my new found art and start posing without posing for pictures, the $2.00 a month that I earn from Foodbuzz will not be shared. And next time you call me frantically searching for a restaurant, I'll tell you nothing. Oh and I'm not afraid to put those really hideous pictures of you stuffing your face on the internet. <br />
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So here are the only decent pictures that turned out from our Lorenzo meal . . .<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoTlY7erdrDUpjLusJ4XXXNhh6U3ZoVhl6qaZ-DgX0FngW5Kw8Lm7DMXAO8HjF2NXHsxIl5uXe5w7ii8yy2OXmXv4SIEcWKcaS3GY1pqKp7Ru057Y64XMRK77OANvYkwDHpNUTgOn5UsG/s1600/Lorenzos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifoTlY7erdrDUpjLusJ4XXXNhh6U3ZoVhl6qaZ-DgX0FngW5Kw8Lm7DMXAO8HjF2NXHsxIl5uXe5w7ii8yy2OXmXv4SIEcWKcaS3GY1pqKp7Ru057Y64XMRK77OANvYkwDHpNUTgOn5UsG/s640/Lorenzos.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO33GEy3i1DDdBQTrmVMWXij_VyFBjRaQ6-cVER9L7jFTNvCdQHITDLuyuiucemLOb3tzSoRTLEqxxX9N0NYgBabEi3RgmZaLlHoG01OG0ttxjh8__nTutMfzt-kPEUeRd8aFiDslJjOIQ/s1600/Lorenzos+fet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO33GEy3i1DDdBQTrmVMWXij_VyFBjRaQ6-cVER9L7jFTNvCdQHITDLuyuiucemLOb3tzSoRTLEqxxX9N0NYgBabEi3RgmZaLlHoG01OG0ttxjh8__nTutMfzt-kPEUeRd8aFiDslJjOIQ/s640/Lorenzos+fet.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtLLhAnLEBIfxIoMBI8oR-m9bMuk0VL51_u-LkP7LCV2-pn4osJ-fOQ2ajD6buTdURURKt_k4gzkZmfVvaQeRYGkd4ZYqcA13zHfvqjKBKDvvlQyHLAoZ1RHT7sWb62DFKtUTpfGuwI4M/s1600/Lorenzos+Wine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtLLhAnLEBIfxIoMBI8oR-m9bMuk0VL51_u-LkP7LCV2-pn4osJ-fOQ2ajD6buTdURURKt_k4gzkZmfVvaQeRYGkd4ZYqcA13zHfvqjKBKDvvlQyHLAoZ1RHT7sWb62DFKtUTpfGuwI4M/s640/Lorenzos+Wine.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bC6uIO5N7YXg6bLZiNGsePOL4rJOfP2hQSqpf7fnggLvqu2l1bBb6AkW9aR29JFdqlICR60fryQFu5kz2RYt1Gp-oInOrnV_KGW8AUsL2u3pbGNahzCWJxhzmixO804lfHSfRsKCFGYr/s1600/Lorenzos%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bC6uIO5N7YXg6bLZiNGsePOL4rJOfP2hQSqpf7fnggLvqu2l1bBb6AkW9aR29JFdqlICR60fryQFu5kz2RYt1Gp-oInOrnV_KGW8AUsL2u3pbGNahzCWJxhzmixO804lfHSfRsKCFGYr/s640/Lorenzos%5D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/282110/restaurant/Boise-Eliot/Lorenzos-Ristorante-Italiano-Portland"><img alt="Lorenzo's Ristorante Italiano on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/282110/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-58494726780739316442010-08-31T21:28:00.000-07:002010-08-31T21:31:52.227-07:00Put the BBQ Away; Summer is Over<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Its back to school. Registration is tomorrow. The kids will be walking down the halls in a matter of days. The rain has already begun and overnight the leaves have slowly started to turn. I can't help but get excited about neon post-its, new office supplies and pulling out the blankets. Scalding hot coffee. Stocking up on EmergenC and bleach. Running from my car to . . . everywhere. Hello fall. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLO6OsnrjnqbgWz3d8_TKLjhUXolGOsOV8iVrg_Tzx3LJ4Hx2bB2xMF7044zLWiSM46BkEAogXBzJpW_bddWwVJcGCN3LdfyPETpERnd44y9eW-3ETmGv10X-Qr-6VF3Ghk6fQe5xAuI4/s1600/Amnesia+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwLO6OsnrjnqbgWz3d8_TKLjhUXolGOsOV8iVrg_Tzx3LJ4Hx2bB2xMF7044zLWiSM46BkEAogXBzJpW_bddWwVJcGCN3LdfyPETpERnd44y9eW-3ETmGv10X-Qr-6VF3Ghk6fQe5xAuI4/s640/Amnesia+1.JPG" width="348" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Portland likes to kick it though. We like to pretend it doesn't rain so much; like putting carts up all over the city and having outdoor venues. Amnesia is Portland's way of saying F-it. We refuse to put away our BBQ's; we will prosper, even in the rain. We will eat burgers outside in the fall, winter and on the darkest, dreariest days of spring. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNTPXTloKK0F8N5bvS986pAnMfWT2XVu-04PnHVnIYPNqsKxrNYKbymDrrogF8L4fj4fdb-H4talkd2P0Fi375sMNJi9PdKITMr24oXhNzp9k84w-EMgpgIEYDYXpgs4CdfAy2HY378Qsb/s1600/Amnesia+%282%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="561" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNTPXTloKK0F8N5bvS986pAnMfWT2XVu-04PnHVnIYPNqsKxrNYKbymDrrogF8L4fj4fdb-H4talkd2P0Fi375sMNJi9PdKITMr24oXhNzp9k84w-EMgpgIEYDYXpgs4CdfAy2HY378Qsb/s640/Amnesia+%282%29.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We will sip on beer to keep us warm and on the sunny days we will guzzle it like its going out of style. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgxkWc3QhZGulYLnL6pE0SSRF8waRcVkQZvOdsQaoxWFi0IYvRn-wCRlDX3BvNghXRAju-pjAiVKfTG7s88MqeYXzC2kmyQL_JcwQXn9EkXa3A-fW7w6qogNoh70xeW5Y89BzweTeE7v0/s1600/Amnesia+Beer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgxkWc3QhZGulYLnL6pE0SSRF8waRcVkQZvOdsQaoxWFi0IYvRn-wCRlDX3BvNghXRAju-pjAiVKfTG7s88MqeYXzC2kmyQL_JcwQXn9EkXa3A-fW7w6qogNoh70xeW5Y89BzweTeE7v0/s640/Amnesia+Beer.JPG" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Burgers. Sausages. Beer. That's the menu. Take it or leave. I would suggest taking it . . . Spicy Kielbasa? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkOoEjNJ4uxg8qj8qcM8NjS_OSIOdLeByxlhjuRQRYyCEVKV1racao2hdvsgv3Qt1UoG_0bNmpOl-kjuQD7Me4TD6DRLESkUWXv6ob-QJQrLshb_JV65yWUQEhtH926tiM9gXjIUn9FY3/s1600/Amnesia+Brewery+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkOoEjNJ4uxg8qj8qcM8NjS_OSIOdLeByxlhjuRQRYyCEVKV1racao2hdvsgv3Qt1UoG_0bNmpOl-kjuQD7Me4TD6DRLESkUWXv6ob-QJQrLshb_JV65yWUQEhtH926tiM9gXjIUn9FY3/s640/Amnesia+Brewery+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Their burger . . . makes me feel like summer may never end. So juicy. So flavorful. Especially when reminiscence of charcoal smoke stain my clothes and flood my sense of smell. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETasltOv0gvd5IjwaxmrPJMBlSB1iNPNTBq0SrcGAnKsCrFuGP9VU42TrfMFRcATg8FiHYVVP-3DbqDTll4E4UXQ6OrQl8UlkEYYGakFhD_vshwg4Uz_RmFfeLYtD6w9uSn1TES-2Wm4u/s1600/Amnesia+Burger+FINAL.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETasltOv0gvd5IjwaxmrPJMBlSB1iNPNTBq0SrcGAnKsCrFuGP9VU42TrfMFRcATg8FiHYVVP-3DbqDTll4E4UXQ6OrQl8UlkEYYGakFhD_vshwg4Uz_RmFfeLYtD6w9uSn1TES-2Wm4u/s640/Amnesia+Burger+FINAL.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/280087/restaurant/Boise-Eliot/Amnesia-Brewing-Portland"><img alt="Amnesia Brewing on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/280087/biglink.gif" style="border: medium none; height: 146px; width: 200px;" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-82384423943790130412010-08-23T22:22:00.000-07:002010-11-29T20:22:20.567-08:00Lucca's is Not Only For Locals<span id="goog_1705264303">Family dinners can often be <strike>horrifically stressful </strike>a challenge. We are a low key group--or maybe we aren't lowkey, maybe we are more the opposite--high stress neurotics--one giant Seinfeld episode. And one thing we all have in common is food. Going out is something my family only does on special occasions, so any excuse to have my parents pay for my dinner, ends with me spending hours on restaurant websites scanning menus and trying to decide on the <i>perfect</i> meal for the occasion. </span><span id="goog_1705264303"> </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gCWf3_g6vc0Iif7baaEwbVvwytq3xZjNSDZYGDIHuoTiiWudaKUuwhc-9n_VGogB2rDenjAWahzq5hHgKO80Mb_YFrxZe9a-HOh0whuSTZVOtItRM3U_A0W-e7DHAJLkZ3Ne4GBE6e6L/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gCWf3_g6vc0Iif7baaEwbVvwytq3xZjNSDZYGDIHuoTiiWudaKUuwhc-9n_VGogB2rDenjAWahzq5hHgKO80Mb_YFrxZe9a-HOh0whuSTZVOtItRM3U_A0W-e7DHAJLkZ3Ne4GBE6e6L/s400/018.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
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<span id="goog_1705264303">But like I said, we are "casual group," so for my dad's 50th birthday ( wink) I decided to counter my families stress with a comforting restaurant, close to the place I will soon no longer call home. Lucca's is female owned and operated, by Portlanders who know exactly what NEP families need; an affordable Italian restaurant with a comforting atmosphere and true Italian food. They are your classic neighborhood restaurant, tucked away just far enough, that only those living in a small radius knows about them. Lucca's however is too good to only serve locals and suddenly people will be coming from near and far to dine here. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzH-123-dnGPR-BgjfVxrmmrH2eILM96UvgldO5ZgwxJ8I6Dni2YDHCN6j_zDIhMs0e9MIYsK-PLFRFph9BUe5WeiA9NsU4wg989O4JVUBNFgKj-O3JJST3li0DBT1ZeP5zUfXTK6X8Rk/s1600/Lucca+Peaches.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzH-123-dnGPR-BgjfVxrmmrH2eILM96UvgldO5ZgwxJ8I6Dni2YDHCN6j_zDIhMs0e9MIYsK-PLFRFph9BUe5WeiA9NsU4wg989O4JVUBNFgKj-O3JJST3li0DBT1ZeP5zUfXTK6X8Rk/s400/Lucca+Peaches.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln5TwxBmYAZFnkA_rVQpv4YZcpnL8d64PVLVpzLHxWrdFJBWlaMn4dBz1wBh2rJP9hq2Ay31SMwKUNAb4KpdUwYBYGWLCSR1IVK3UtPj1B4jUIyXVdH-Gzi6sdudQarnL-iELqkkvFzge/s1600/Lucca+Peaches+%282%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiln5TwxBmYAZFnkA_rVQpv4YZcpnL8d64PVLVpzLHxWrdFJBWlaMn4dBz1wBh2rJP9hq2Ay31SMwKUNAb4KpdUwYBYGWLCSR1IVK3UtPj1B4jUIyXVdH-Gzi6sdudQarnL-iELqkkvFzge/s400/Lucca+Peaches+%282%29.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
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<span id="goog_1705264303">Our waiter was incredibly knowledgeable about the food and wine and automatically recognized us from our Mother's Day dinner. He convinced us to get the seasonal antipasti of peaches wrapped in prosciutto, aside crostini with creamy goat cheese. Mmmm. A sinful combination of sweet, salty and tart. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54-dbNiS3l8ziKgmhDXe7qCaf1AGo_n6q5yNc7-rgvaNe_0VKcBmZzhhsRjhPWft_-w550MVNB8IWlFBozn0E888IitQNw2BD_EhMy7L9J3hHsVL0jsL_PcNvYVEHBKuTYGuG1doomUoY/s1600/Lucca+Antipasta+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54-dbNiS3l8ziKgmhDXe7qCaf1AGo_n6q5yNc7-rgvaNe_0VKcBmZzhhsRjhPWft_-w550MVNB8IWlFBozn0E888IitQNw2BD_EhMy7L9J3hHsVL0jsL_PcNvYVEHBKuTYGuG1doomUoY/s400/Lucca+Antipasta+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPwoRTL1CaVBDCoTO0sjhDn0Tj70tcMyE9I1ug5c6paEkQKgKtBZv24tLlIVscsSUQrYuYWz5XKFytDbo8owm6DeIjUeWIUakbk6W0IdB31uEGjaNm9QG9OO-d7L64uE_N-Y19S0aH9l7/s1600/Lucca+Antipasta.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPwoRTL1CaVBDCoTO0sjhDn0Tj70tcMyE9I1ug5c6paEkQKgKtBZv24tLlIVscsSUQrYuYWz5XKFytDbo8owm6DeIjUeWIUakbk6W0IdB31uEGjaNm9QG9OO-d7L64uE_N-Y19S0aH9l7/s400/Lucca+Antipasta.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span id="goog_1705264303">The antipasti plate was filled with thinly cut meats, roasted garlic, cheese, </span>pâté<span id="goog_1705264303">, olives and Italian beans. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oWHmcqEgaUSPxJree-n8pJMtQh7Wz_mmZiCC8y14Til8QyHm0-LS8EO7TwV6qVxl6dG-s1GVml30TOCojF0v3woLM6SPuagO2PTKdY2uc06D8QYFCBIKH1yK8rtGpySSz0cles59-qIM/s1600/Lucca+Pizza.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oWHmcqEgaUSPxJree-n8pJMtQh7Wz_mmZiCC8y14Til8QyHm0-LS8EO7TwV6qVxl6dG-s1GVml30TOCojF0v3woLM6SPuagO2PTKdY2uc06D8QYFCBIKH1yK8rtGpySSz0cles59-qIM/s400/Lucca+Pizza.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnadxFVrcoc1RC44fDfF-R0uXX6oydiDOUaG2ckjwG_MPD01GZPDLeS0zKy-BDQ46lKmNwr6Flhulcs1MsWdfRNLmKhc8UVyMw6qDU55SDEl8W5AxUCn1eSylFQjhRWFut3PAs7WrtNhI/s1600/Lucca+pizza+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnadxFVrcoc1RC44fDfF-R0uXX6oydiDOUaG2ckjwG_MPD01GZPDLeS0zKy-BDQ46lKmNwr6Flhulcs1MsWdfRNLmKhc8UVyMw6qDU55SDEl8W5AxUCn1eSylFQjhRWFut3PAs7WrtNhI/s400/Lucca+pizza+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
</span><br />
<span id="goog_1705264303">We then took the waiters recommendation of the Arrbiatta Pizza, with Calabrian chilies, fresh garlic and crushed tomatoes, adding the sausage and farm fresh egg. Spicy and garlicky with a nice creamy affect when dipped in the egg yolk. Their stone oven was shipped from Italy. It knows how to make pizza. </span><br />
<span id="goog_1705264303"> </span><span id="goog_1705264303"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwavKRM3nRSNMaJbItw2Rht2CzxaLzoVRPzuz2UqN4f7n43SvX4Ff9FK1WYNhQ1PAGV6iMiTaKBE1IYDR2m2yQVWJuqIIZnYTt0ng-7wXbGjEWjpzz-H1gQL5UdLDflb8jBhCArjn-dWQ/s1600/lucca+chicken+%282%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwavKRM3nRSNMaJbItw2Rht2CzxaLzoVRPzuz2UqN4f7n43SvX4Ff9FK1WYNhQ1PAGV6iMiTaKBE1IYDR2m2yQVWJuqIIZnYTt0ng-7wXbGjEWjpzz-H1gQL5UdLDflb8jBhCArjn-dWQ/s400/lucca+chicken+%282%29.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken under a brick </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpbC_pc97xd6bHkmYeYBla0vl8rY2XQ3Na4CM1qsrirDf4mThYsdy8x-9PrvhU4Qv9Gns3CjeHX_MmLfpYOem-BGjHvdwVsNswnN3LclPE87x1eGA1fvQ9gsl-VY-tX1-M1Zzde3koyaQ/s1600/Tag.+new.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBpbC_pc97xd6bHkmYeYBla0vl8rY2XQ3Na4CM1qsrirDf4mThYsdy8x-9PrvhU4Qv9Gns3CjeHX_MmLfpYOem-BGjHvdwVsNswnN3LclPE87x1eGA1fvQ9gsl-VY-tX1-M1Zzde3koyaQ/s400/Tag.+new.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
</span><br />
<span id="goog_1705264303">The Taglitelle with a classic meat ragu was the perfect comfort food and paired nicely with our Chianti Classico. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBMvI5DpxMEBBhsJsRESXmirV_6TR-fRd78ZZuVFISX7mmYrVfEUAD4xjWXj8GW2j81PWDUXzpFXuiVCZ_C1_SZY42C6WZ9BZOKmpJcn4d4sH-EKzOVgk2HDOFhvD41bqUuD6waYu0KsW/s1600/Lucca+profiterals+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBMvI5DpxMEBBhsJsRESXmirV_6TR-fRd78ZZuVFISX7mmYrVfEUAD4xjWXj8GW2j81PWDUXzpFXuiVCZ_C1_SZY42C6WZ9BZOKmpJcn4d4sH-EKzOVgk2HDOFhvD41bqUuD6waYu0KsW/s400/Lucca+profiterals+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTI7O8sGxkXXCjoRcOW_ejbDZx3ktpGBVEM__4rre8OsT0y1aeEi82XpWwY0MeQsaNg-MVxQwwOfHD6lScs-4Htirbm5BMJ94hBib4pFx1ROgbxgFmeX-KbLiXJuxXkpur2LY2YTceRa4n/s1600/Lucca+Profiterals.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTI7O8sGxkXXCjoRcOW_ejbDZx3ktpGBVEM__4rre8OsT0y1aeEi82XpWwY0MeQsaNg-MVxQwwOfHD6lScs-4Htirbm5BMJ94hBib4pFx1ROgbxgFmeX-KbLiXJuxXkpur2LY2YTceRa4n/s400/Lucca+Profiterals.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span id="goog_1705264303"><br />
</span><br />
<span id="goog_1705264303">Lastly, we were treated with a complementary dessert of Profiteroles filled with homemade caramel gelato, chocolate sauce and salted toffee brittle. </span><br />
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</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/572420/restaurant/Northeast/Lucca-Portland"><img alt="Lucca on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/572420/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-68137280416701344902010-08-18T21:50:00.000-07:002010-11-29T20:16:05.301-08:00Operation Summer Countdown: Ruby Jewel TreatsIce Cream Sandwich, $4.00 <br />
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Was it just me or is summer dwindling before our very eyes? I feel like suddenly we are counting down the days until fall quickly approaches and sweaty nights, cut off shorts and fresh basil are only faint memories. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Perhaps this is because I wasted all of July being a sad puppy or maybe its because Portland's summers, although spectacular at their best, don't start until July 1st.<br />
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No matter what it is, they go to quickly and for the next two weeks, my goal is to live up summer like its never been lived.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69mnQa054NFnyN85qhAQS6RiqVmaVccCWKomGHR9LUynJiKqhJlZYw23axcJztZBZl9ybRpbN3ZXO6WI2FHsihq-mKnBYHzDJBXPzlRJ9PuZpK5KBn4pSXSVmwTJGAwVooJHrvI3cf4FI/s1600/060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69mnQa054NFnyN85qhAQS6RiqVmaVccCWKomGHR9LUynJiKqhJlZYw23axcJztZBZl9ybRpbN3ZXO6WI2FHsihq-mKnBYHzDJBXPzlRJ9PuZpK5KBn4pSXSVmwTJGAwVooJHrvI3cf4FI/s400/060.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I just couldn't resist myself when I stumbled across Ruby Jewel's new NE Mississippi store front, where you get to choose your cookie flavor and your ice cream. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYl5UtTK1HerhkuMKzGn4piFarxsxFS_jkXKKKIvg5cRNqQNyQdVu_jne5-ex771nwTK-KdXMTyXjBc4svyQguCsYRG8yqDV6Q2PtDxAhzrEtquJRWx3sjc8wel9j5Nas9k9YqlA09AGXA/s1600/094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYl5UtTK1HerhkuMKzGn4piFarxsxFS_jkXKKKIvg5cRNqQNyQdVu_jne5-ex771nwTK-KdXMTyXjBc4svyQguCsYRG8yqDV6Q2PtDxAhzrEtquJRWx3sjc8wel9j5Nas9k9YqlA09AGXA/s400/094.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Homemade ice cream. Fresh baked cookies. Ice cream in-between cookies = deliciousness.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNl8ZA21aR7xKEsRXk1q3hPVObUGpDhnBeLq7Y6MIr93EG6xHNNsouesd0Q-TQJXzRbZfiCAix66z0wQXJjTCzzw8Nqn043Q2opgR7gpjQPfHjoEq9rtOUr8QCA6Wp2Q4oIetp2X-P0_HI/s1600/067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNl8ZA21aR7xKEsRXk1q3hPVObUGpDhnBeLq7Y6MIr93EG6xHNNsouesd0Q-TQJXzRbZfiCAix66z0wQXJjTCzzw8Nqn043Q2opgR7gpjQPfHjoEq9rtOUr8QCA6Wp2Q4oIetp2X-P0_HI/s400/067.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSka7-L1EL4g4CnAHncevx7UFVFPhAGUe2jncwEHwRAwh9P9KYEv5cRdFmed3x9DzqtL-zrPxOFwhnbaHW09P5mwiI918WqYzjkz9Y-9aoA_ohSSwRPGvMYixZQyEwv7f2pcCl5KODesyN/s1600/077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSka7-L1EL4g4CnAHncevx7UFVFPhAGUe2jncwEHwRAwh9P9KYEv5cRdFmed3x9DzqtL-zrPxOFwhnbaHW09P5mwiI918WqYzjkz9Y-9aoA_ohSSwRPGvMYixZQyEwv7f2pcCl5KODesyN/s400/077.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Chip Cookie and Marionberry Pie Ice cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRBFtcgZEFZKjgrxN67nL5VK10YGDxzPLxRJQ85ZqPTxypkNcs97WMkPKHoJhMcZc87PB5vURDARaMzAP5OVhbQqTvjmg3JF9PEGWuebpXs9w1C-fTQvB6RE_zue2KErodroo0gwU1q0G/s1600/082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRBFtcgZEFZKjgrxN67nL5VK10YGDxzPLxRJQ85ZqPTxypkNcs97WMkPKHoJhMcZc87PB5vURDARaMzAP5OVhbQqTvjmg3JF9PEGWuebpXs9w1C-fTQvB6RE_zue2KErodroo0gwU1q0G/s400/082.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
What are you laughing at . . .?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY011m7gb0VY62ZHFMuAP_YM4XstdJqzzCUUxkSc9_Uao6aSj29GD29vBYZS5ZTuzBYhEEs7sR0dzw8B8LTpttkxKSZhoI-MKAFMWhYnzFQkT78Xzp5K5W7JZWNgReU1tVpSLvXdMG2fHA/s1600/080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY011m7gb0VY62ZHFMuAP_YM4XstdJqzzCUUxkSc9_Uao6aSj29GD29vBYZS5ZTuzBYhEEs7sR0dzw8B8LTpttkxKSZhoI-MKAFMWhYnzFQkT78Xzp5K5W7JZWNgReU1tVpSLvXdMG2fHA/s400/080.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Wait for it . . . intoxicated shirtless man imitating a baby inside. Weird.<br />
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/24/1535668/restaurant/Boise-Eliot/Ruby-Jewel-Scoops-Portland"><img alt="Ruby Jewel Scoops on Urbanspoon" src="http://www.urbanspoon.com/b/link/1535668/biglink.gif" style="border:none;width:200px;height:146px" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-401895691636396192.post-85380856957727597232010-08-07T11:53:00.000-07:002010-12-07T23:50:24.596-08:00Buon CompleannoTo everyone who wished me a happy birthday, near and far, directly and indirectly, my most gracious thoughts go out to you for making my day of birth celebration special ;)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDY5XEqhmamZ00CoXlqLjkkVKpaYYuIJv6CAG5WWAaobvHhRdy5cwX3lq6aMRABXvhr5zkgub-OSszprmWngGhiLH575u_2YXSa-PEDDcqbeUpXRMJvDpenHVUEa0lwHlUsaimyvLvM-o/s1600/174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDY5XEqhmamZ00CoXlqLjkkVKpaYYuIJv6CAG5WWAaobvHhRdy5cwX3lq6aMRABXvhr5zkgub-OSszprmWngGhiLH575u_2YXSa-PEDDcqbeUpXRMJvDpenHVUEa0lwHlUsaimyvLvM-o/s400/174.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To celebrate we threw a small get together with my closest friends and family. The party was certainly bitter sweet as my childhood home is being sold (sale pending--could already be sold). I've had over 20 birthday parties in this backyard and to think this could be the last . . .<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGr0vrQ_PN8HPrLzmJG-RAC8Qu2xvgaO7IY6rFKv5tiB1v1ANbC2FebqbYnPNHiaA5mhaTO1ehmZaz0RLspTsvg1LPl4ZQdHLm35nDt1Y7_ZdUchGXoefuBRJ43UH7IFXAGJWf6ZnvE7P/s1600/153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGr0vrQ_PN8HPrLzmJG-RAC8Qu2xvgaO7IY6rFKv5tiB1v1ANbC2FebqbYnPNHiaA5mhaTO1ehmZaz0RLspTsvg1LPl4ZQdHLm35nDt1Y7_ZdUchGXoefuBRJ43UH7IFXAGJWf6ZnvE7P/s400/153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mN4_ZXuFoFYSE4LZi1uGwpILUHeohpwH6WMLkJ8gFUQiwPLIotibBRWYwgY92ESkBtGjeN55YA-r4IpQAYB5X1IciuK-wTLH0YWa36ueDUouy2A20yBgeFGhHBBT0vMyUCCKfI5QPPUK/s1600/238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mN4_ZXuFoFYSE4LZi1uGwpILUHeohpwH6WMLkJ8gFUQiwPLIotibBRWYwgY92ESkBtGjeN55YA-r4IpQAYB5X1IciuK-wTLH0YWa36ueDUouy2A20yBgeFGhHBBT0vMyUCCKfI5QPPUK/s400/238.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
But we are moving on to bigger and better things. A kitchen that serves my mother's spectacular baking skills, an island for us all to stand around and hopefully a cozy guest room for me to sleep on Christmas Eve night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_sf8G4dpwEvBylMzasQaGa_OCdk_hfMGoglfauOB1l7Ye44ih7pv-yUKIkJscdrr2_PtoXnzphe11PCyrArfvS3LZ_mfHaEozXpw5jeMC2QyP4yoIlzZUbryCLfPxXpXRpGcu4VR5kCJ/s1600/169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_sf8G4dpwEvBylMzasQaGa_OCdk_hfMGoglfauOB1l7Ye44ih7pv-yUKIkJscdrr2_PtoXnzphe11PCyrArfvS3LZ_mfHaEozXpw5jeMC2QyP4yoIlzZUbryCLfPxXpXRpGcu4VR5kCJ/s400/169.JPG" width="400" /></a> <br />
Menu:<br />
Prociutto e Melon<br />
Caprese Skewers<br />
Cheese and Crackers<br />
Spinach Salad with goat cheese, pine nuts, red onion<br />
Fettuccine with my mother's homemade bolognese sauce<br />
Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Frosting<br />
Tiramisu <br />
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