inPDX {Portland Dining Month 2015}

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Can you believe it is the last week of February?? This month has absolutely flown by. Maybe it was all of the sunshine or my new favorite blog series - but one of my least favorite months disappeared within the blink of an eye. With March comes Irish Christmas, the Ides and Portland Dining Month! Last year I had the opportunity to check out Songbird and {RIP} Genoa. This year my must try list is a bit long.

Image Courtesy Travel Portland

With more than 100 restaurants participating, you can experience a 3-course meal at nationally recognized restaurants for just $29. 

Unless you have four-stomachs and completely devote your budget and schedule to the cause, you won't be making it to every restaurant.

{Portland Dining Month 2014}

Step 1: Review the list

First, read through the list of participating restaurants and write down all of the options that speak to you. This may be restaurants you love, have always wanted to try or never heard of. Right now I am guessing  your list has 20+ selections

Step 2: Read the menus

Now, look at all of the options and read the menus. Note which dishes really jump out to you. Maybe your all-time favorite spot is offering a really unique pasta dish. Perhaps an option on the short list is serving items straight-off the menu. Maybe all of the options have peanuts in them and you have a deadly peanut allergy.

If needed, compare the Restaurant Month menu with the website menu. This will give you a good idea of their pricing and regular fare.

Your list has probably been cut in half. 

Step 3: Know your priorities

Knowing your priorities will help you figure out which restaurants are a must to fit in during the month of March.

Is a dining experience with unique dishes a priority? Maybe you've always wanted to try a Portland favorite, but it isn't in your neighborhood. Is 'bang for your buck' a must? 

For me, a high-value option with at least two options for each course is a must.

Step 4: Finalize the List

At this point, your list has been narrowed down. I am guessing you have whittled it down to 4-to-5 options. 

My list includes Levant, Hokusei, Departure, Nedd Ludd and Old Salt Marketplace. 

Step 5: Make Reservations

For the restaurants that are accepting reservations, I highly recommend you commit and get the dinner on your calendar. I have a feeling this year's Portland Dining Month will be the best yet!

Where do you plan on going this year? Are you a fan of dining months? Have you ever gone to one in another city?

Today Erin, Annie and Pech are also sharing their PDM guides!