Portland

I was fortunate enough to visit the city of Portland during the birth of spring. What a cool city in such a beautiful state – complete with miles of coastline, lush green steep hills, snow peaked mountains, and saturated vegetation. Everything was in bloom, and between the rains the clouds would allow the sun to sparkle thru, just enough to keep everything spring-green.

In addition to the beautiful landscape, there’s plenty to do in this lovely state. Since I was visiting Portland for work, I didn’t have much free time to do it. With days beginning and ending in darkness, I didn’t get to see many sights or go hiking, but I did get to drink some local wine and enjoy some good food.

My first meal in this hipster city was amongst the Portland food trucks, or as they are lovingly referred to as the “pods.” They dock in certain areas of the city and stay put, which is great for those of us who are too lazy to chase them around town. I have been unfortunate in some of my recent travels to other cities to hear tales about these delicious food trucks only to find that they are on the other side of town when I’m squeezing lunch in between two meetings. Lucky for me, in Portland this was not the case.

At Portland Soup Company, I enjoyed a spicy arugula salad that came with fresh mozzarella, chickpeas, roasted red peppers, and fried pita chips. This was accompanied by their equally delicious Mac’n’cheese which proved to be creamy, cheesy and just the right amount.

Next up? Jake’s Grill. Had to have my fill of seafood, so I went for the fish’n’chips. Very tasty. And consistently one of my favorite dishes anytime of year. I got a side Caesar as well, which was full of crunchy romaine, served with a delicious dressing and topped with anchovies (yum!!).

I couldn’t help myself but stay in one evening. When at a decent hotel, I have a tendency to enjoy room service. Nothing better than some dinner in pjs along with a glass of wine and a book or some HGTV. On the menu? Dungeness crab dip! Nothing makes me happier than seafood baked with cheese and cream. Hello comfort food! Accompanying my dinner? A nice, tall, satisfying glass of Erath Pinot Noir 2010.

Don’t think all the eating happens at dinner, although with these trips there is a pattern of only having time to eat at night. One afternoon I was able to sneak away to enjoy a Voodoo Donut: and I’m incredibly happy that I did!! What a treat! I love the jelly donut when made well, I mean with tasty jelly. And lots and lots of it.

Last, but not least, was my splurge-evening at the bar of Park Kitchen. A lovely little hip spot on the edge of the city. I was more than happy with my meal and my wine!

Beets, yogurt, pistachios, wild mushrooms and wild rice. Wowza! Haven’t had a varied beet salad like this in years. What a refreshing combination.

My main course: a small plate of pickled leek and sour cream homemade perogi with trumpet mushrooms and salmon roe. Melt in your mouth heaven — warm, creamy potatoes with the burst of salty flavor from the roe and a light tangy bite from the pickled leeks. A gentle complement to the simple, reliably good flavor of homemade perogie. Lets just say I hope to duplicate these sometime soon.

Tags: pods, Portland, travel