#ThursdayToursPDX {Power Couples}

Thursday, February 18, 2016

The month of love continues and we are turning to Portland's Power Couples to find out where they go for dates.

Have you been to Ataula or 180 yet? If you haven't been, I know you've at least heard about these restaurants. And come next week you will know all about Chesa. These three distinctly unique, yet cohesive restaurants are all the creations of Cristina Baez and Jose Chesa. 

The Baez-Chesa family!! 

Ataula is one of my favorite restaurants in Portland. Obviously, the food is amazing. The space is sexy - flattering lighting,cozy tables and a pretty bar. More than anything, the service is really special. After my first visit I couldn't stop talking about how personable and thoughtful Jose was. He was so excited about the food he was presenting, and made sure to stop by a few times. And every time I've encountered him, or Cristina, since they have been the sweetest, happiest people. A seasoning more precious and rare than saffron. 

It is no surprise that Jose is a James Beard Award Finalist for Best Chef: Northwest!!!

And 180: Xurros. Trust me. Get yourself there! Ms. Baez, you are my spirit animal!

Portland's 3rd Power Couple: #CharIngo

And head on over to Bakery Bingo to find out where the Sappingtons head for dates when they aren't at The Country Cat - or hanging out with Harry Connick Jr.

Photo courtesy Ava Gene's

Ava Gene's: we order the salad sampler, probably any special that night, the burrata and share 1 or 2 pastas. It is always delicious! this is what date night should feel like.

Photo by Drew Tyson

Departure: oh man, it is always a treat when we get a night off and get to go here. We always get the kampachi sashimi, sushi and garlic fried rice! the cocktails are tropical and I love that, it reminds me of home. The view is great and date night at Departure is bound to be fun and very tasty!

Photo courtesy C. Baez

Grassa (relaxed date night), simply good all the time and very relaxing atmosphere. We get the fritto misto, Jose usually orders the carbonara but will switch it up if there's any special with squid and I go for the caccio e peppe or the mac. Simplicity, great flavors and chill.

Photo courtesy Imperial

Imperial; for brunch, lunch or dinner you name it. We have celebrated anniversaries, birthdays, goodbye to friends you here. Food is spot on every time and we feel right at home. Cocktails are refreshing, that "when a radish walks into a bar..." is a home run! 

Photo courtesy C. Baez

The Big Egg, because of our schedule a lot of times we have breakfast date and this is our go to place. Yeah, you might wait 5 minutes longer than what you expect but nothing we mind for one of the best egg sandwiches.