You may find this surprising, but I find lunch dates to be a very important milestone in any friendship or romantic relationship. Making time for a lunch date is saying "I want to see you so much I will carve out 45-60 minutes in the middle of the day to get together." It is willing to show someone your frazzled work face or cut short your Saturday morning routine to get together. A lunch date is prioritizing time with someone else.
It is for this very reason that Erin and I reached out to Chloe and Natalie for their #ThursdayToursPDX Lunch recommendations!
Natalie co-blogs at Twelfth Avenue and is such a sweetheart! She writes about recipes, fashion and genuinely enjoying life. We both live in NW Portland. She is always so engaged and encouraging - the perfect lunch date!
Thanks for having me, Meredith! Excited to share some of my favorite lunch spots from around our westside neighborhood.
{The garden mama enchilada and bar set-up at Cha! Cha! Cha!}
If you’re looking for traditional Mexican dishes made with healthy, locally-sourced ingredients...
Where: Cha! Cha! Cha!, NW 12th & Glisan
Why: An impromptu day date with your main squeeze.
What to order: Everything is good, but the garden mama enchilada and organic quinoa salad with house meat are personal favorites. The house margaritas are also delicious, although I usually go for a Corona Light.
If you’re looking for a popular cafe with outdoor seating in the heart of the Pearl...
Where: Lovejoy Bakers, NW 10th & Lovejoy
Why: A casual lunch with mom.
What to order: Roasted turkey sandwich on ciabatta (the green goddess dressing really makes it), an iced coffee, & something from the pastry case.
If you’re looking for sushi al fresco...
Where: Yama Sushi, NW 10th & Lovejoy
Why: A leisurely lunch with excellent people watching.
What to order: The crunchy spicy tuna roll, assorted nigiri & a Sapporo.
If you’re looking for big-ass sandwiches…
Where: Lardo, SW 12th & Washington
Why: Indulging with someone who shares your appetite.
What to order: The pork meatball banh mi. Skip the fries - you don’t need them.
If you’re looking for a hip, healthy spot in the Pearl…
Where: Isabel, NW 10th & Flanders
Why: A post-hike lunch with friends.
What to order: The chicken burrito or one of the brown rice bowls.
Photos courtesy of Natalie Howes
Love these recommendations, especially as I am a frequenter of most of these spots. I love Natalie's Where/Why/What to Order format. Thanks Natalie for sharing your favorites!!
ReplyDeleteThese are some of my favorite spots, I love this!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the recs! I don't eat out much, but when I do I'm usually at a loss. I'll keep some of these places in mind!
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