New+Noteworthy {Nel Centro, TD Tacos+Tequilas, and The Feisty Lamb}

In Portland the East-side gets a lot of hype and praise for the quirky neighborhoods, amazing restaurants and overall charm. It is the happenin' side. That's not to say the west side doesn't have a pretty cool story. See what I did there?? Okay, Natalie Wood, tell us about the food!

Nel Centro
1408 SW 6th Avenue
6:30am-11pm

When I first moved to Portland Nel Centro was my spot. It has an excellent outdoor space, a tasty menu and some excellent people watching. While not new, the Downtown staple in 7 years old! In a city where restaurants shutter daily, it is a reliable staple.

Must try: Meatballs in marinara, Roasted beet salad, the game room!
Things to know: Based in Hotel Modera, many of the dapper men are travelers and guests of the hotel. Be an informed flirter.

TD Tacos+Tequilas
Three Degrees Restaurant
1510 SW Harbor Way
Waterfront Walkway
Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-Close

Sunshine, Check. Chips and guac. Check, check. Watching boat reaches. Indeed! TD + Tequilas has what no other taco joint has. Location!! The unassuming pop-up is bringing a selection of grilled tacos and delicious cocktails to the Portland Waterfront. The location is right on the walkway and would be perfect after crossing Tilikum Bridge or boating on the river.

Must try: Chips and Guac, Mezcal Cocktail
Things to know: The seating is limited.

The Feisty Lamb
2174 W Burnside
Wednesday-Saturday 5-9pm
Friday-Sunday 9am-2pm

I checked out Feisty Lamb a few weeks ago for brunch and was blown away by the unique menu. With a South African base, there seems to be a strong influence from SE Asia. Think hearty British food with Indian and Thai pops. It is good. Really good. The space, right by Zupan's and World Market, has a quirky decor and lends itself to leisurely meals. The table next to us brought cards to play throughout the meal.

Must try: Crispy Jasmine Rice Skillet Fry with Pork Belly, Creamy espresso drink
Things to know: The service is SLOW!! We weren't hungover, hangry or in a rush. If you do have any of those symptoms, this is not the spot for you.

New+Noteworthy {Marukin, Portland Dining Month, and 180}

March in Portland is always fun and exciting. As we - hopefully - transition out of rainy season the blossoms begin to bloom, the days get longer and it is always a great excuse to retire the sofa career for evening walks and dinners out. This is the month to fill-up on ramen, walk-it off, refill with xurros, then discover a new-to-you Portland restaurant!

Marukin
609 SE Ankeny, Suite A

SE Portland is the place for ramen. Really, really great ramen. And the newest member of the family is Marukin - a Tokyo darling that's selected Portland to begin its American journey. I checked out Marukin at the media preview and it was hoppin! I was really impressed by how quick and excellent the service was.  The entire staff was so attentive, kind and gracious.

What to get: the tonkatsu ramen & karaage with wasabi dipping sauce!
Things to know: this is by far the most affordable ramen in Portland ($10 with all the bells and whistles) and the most popular. Lines should be expected.

Portland Dining Month
The whole month of March!

March means Portland Dining Month! In 2016 112 restaurants are offering up 3 course meals for $29!! I've already been to Cafe Castagna and will be visiting Little Bird later this week. Willow, Ataula and Muselet are also on my list.

 

What to get: Muselet!!! My new favorite spot has removed the 'or' and are offering 6 dishes for $29!!! Get that, add the porridge and have Ron pick your wines.  Even better, Every Saturday from 5-6:30 Muselet is hosting a complimentary wine tasting! Best night you'll have all month!!
Things to know: I recommend checking out Pech's guide for even more ideas!

180
2218 NE Broadway

This is a big fat duh! 180 is the hottest spot in Portland. The xurro spot is frying up the Spanish dessert to the joy of adults and kids alike. You have the option of getting traditional sugar-dusted xurros, a room-temperature chocolate-covered option, or mini-bites stuffed with a sweet filling.

 

What to get: The chocolate-covered xurro and the creme filled xurro.
Things to know: The space is small. This is not a spot to bring your laptop, a book or to catch-up with a good friend for an hour. Plan on getting in, eating up your xurros, licking your fingers and heading out.

New + Noteworthy {Seastar Bakery/Handsome Pizza, B&T Late Night Happy Hour, Beaujolais Nouveau at The Heathman}

Cooler temps and falling leaves aren't causing the Portland food and events scene to hibernate. In fact, it seems like the 4th quarter of the year is going to end on an extremely high note.

Seastar Bakery + Handsome Pizza
1603 NE Killingsworth
SB: M,T, Th. Fri. 7am-12pm Sat. + Sun. 8am-1pm
HP: M, T, Th, Fri. 12pm-9pm Sat. + Sun. 1pm - 9pm

My heart is absolutely bursting over the new Seastar Bakery and Handsome Pizza collaboration. In the morning the space fronts as a breakfast and pastry stop, come afternoon the copper-clad wood fired stove starts slinging out some seriously delicious pizza. I'm in love for all kinds of reasons, first being the people. The staff here is SO NICE. Yes, all-caps! They were welcoming and accommodating. They helped me find an outlet and were totally fine with us taking up a table from breakfast through lunch. When businesses rush me out I become extremely agitated and my nostrils start to flare. They were also so passionate and excited to talk our reactions and impressions of the food. To me, that is the sign of a great chef: one who truly listens. Yes, they are confident in the product they produce, but they wanted to know how we were experiencing the dishes. Were we picking up the coconut texture or sweetness in the bread?

At lunch the ovens shut down and the pizza happens. And boy does it happen! The crust is pretty darn perfect. Not too thin, but not thick. I nice fluff and bubble on the crust, but letting the toppings shine. I am also quite smitten with their salads and roasted veggies. Know what makes it taste even better? Throughout the morning the staff chops wood and wheels it in to load up the furnace. Talk about wood to table!!! It truly feels like an established, family-restaurant that has been the pillar of a small-town for decades. I can't wait to see how this develops.

What to get: The haloumi 'advanced toast' is on the best bread and the cheese is perfectly grilled. As for pizza, The Steve Lieber is creamy and bright - with rich mushrooms, tomatoes and cheese.
Things to know: The space is quirky and fun. Entertaining enough for families, but spread out enough to catch up on emails in peace.

B&T Late Night Happy Hour
3113 SE Division St.
Tuesday-Thursday 9pm-Close
Friday & Saturday 10pm-Close

My name is Meredith, and I am oyster-addict. I own two shucking knives and get new friends based on how many oysters they can put away in one sitting. Oh, and when I get invited to oyster events I lose my mind.

So when I found out B&T had a brand-new, super-affordable late night happy hour I was all-kinds of dancing girl emoji. First off, there were freshly shucked oysters. So many! From Kumamoto to Shigoku, they range in price from $1.38 to $1.75 a piece. And a Chef's Dozen is only $19.50. So that is a screaming deal! Then there are the small bites,  tempura rock shrimp in spicy sauces for $9, a surprisingly delightful squid salad for $8, and oyster shooters for $1.50!! Not to mention the discounted drink menu: $2 off drafts and high ball cocktails, and $2 Rainer Tall Boy.

And if you decide to grab something that isn't on the happy hour menu, get the MISO CREAMED KALE WITH MUSHROOMS!!!

What to get: The crab roll!!! This hand roll is filled with phenomenal king and red crab, glass noodles, tobiko, and nuoc cham mayonnaise. I've had dreams about that roll. I have no idea what nuoc cham is, but I am a big fan! Oh, and during the late night happy hour it is $6!! Yes, six dollars! American paper currency. Or Visa. That's your business.
Things to know: The late night hours include Friday and Saturday!!! The new menu also includes a collection of high balls that are potent and complex!

Beajolais Nouveau at The Heathman
November 20th

Image via Heather Jones Consulting

Ready for your French language and culture lesson? Beajolais is a region in France that produces Gamay grapes. Nouveau means "new." Beajoulais Nouveau is a young red wine that is released in France on the 3rd Thursday of November. It is a tradition. A big one! The wine is released at exactly 12:01am and the celebration begins. In 2012 I was in Paris just two days after this ended. Obviously, I was tremendously sad to have missed the festivities. Lucky for me (and you!) the Alliance Francaise of Portland coordinates one heck of a celebration. This is the 14th celebration, meaning you know all of the kinks have been worked out, and it is well worth the $70 (if you are a young professional there are a handful of $60 tickets as well) for a snazzy night of wine and tasty eats at The Heathman.

Image via Heather Jones Consulting

This fancy event usually draws 400-500 attendants, and always sells out. I imagine it will sell-out especially fast this year, as rumor has it that this will be one of the best wines ever? Well, remember that hot, hot summer we had? Some may call it global warming, others may call it the sweatiest 4-months of their life. Tomatoe, Tomato. Yup, didn't just happen in Portland, France was sweaty as well!

Image via Heather Jones Consulting

While this event hasn't happened yet I really hope I will see you there!

What to get: Your ticket!!! And a fancy outfit. This is a rare occassion for true cocktail attire. You know I have been planning my outfit for weeks!
Things to know: This isn't just about wine. I've taken a peak at the menu and it is pretty darn impressive! Not to mention there will be wines from WillaKenzie Estates, Eola, and Ruby Vineyard, to name a few. Oh, and there will be cognac and French spirits.

New + Noteworthy {Marmo, Shift, and Levant's Brunch}

This installment of New + Noteworthy could also be considered a love letter to gluten.With two tasty bruschettas, croissants, pastries and crouton loaded salads Marmo, Shift and Levant's Brunch Service are all offering up some of my favorite glutenista treats.

New+Noteworthy {Cup+Bar, Hamlet, and Okamura}

Cookies. Prosciutto. Beauty products.
Yes, these are things that interest me!
No, I do not have a boyfriend.
Life is a mysterious thing.

Cup+Bar
118 NE MLK
Monday-Friday 6am-6pm
Weekends 7am-6pm

Cup+Bar is the latest Instagram darling in Portland. So when I had a chance to co-work with a few lovely ladies I was excited to check it out. The brain child of Trailhead Coffee Roasters and Ranger Chocolate Company, this space is super hip!. They have dubbed it "Portland's first coffee and chocolate tasting room."  With a rustic design, plenty of exposed wood, and bike racks on the wall - this place is PURE Pacific North West.

What to get: The Ranger cookie! Loaded with toasted coconut, rice krispies, ranger chocolate, nuts, and full of buttery goodness.  So good, I had a hard time sharing.

Things to know: The space is on the small side and doesn't have many outlets. Either come with a fully charged laptop or bring a good book. Also, they take their coffee making seriously - prepare to be mesmerized by the process.

Hamlet
232 NW 12th Ave
Sunday-Thursday 4pm-Midnight
Friday + Saturday 4pm-1am

This spot is only 2-weeks old, but already garnering a lot of buzz. I went last week before 'The Lion' and already seeing it becoming the go-to late night date spot in The Pearl. The thoughtfully designed spot serves up craft cocktails, bubbles, and a small menu centered around ham.

What to get: The ham plate!! They make the prosciutto in-house, which is perfectly seasoned and
Things to know: This spot isn't cheap. I ordered a non-alcoholic ginger ale and it was $7. Correct, a non-alcoholic soda cost seven-dollars in American paper currency.

Okamura Facial Tonic Oil
Online or at Urbaca

Since January I have been using the Okamura Facial Tonic Oil, and it has done wonders for my skin and beauty routine. This oil isn't greasy nor is it hard to wash off. It has become my favorite eye makeup remover - without irritating my eyes or taking multiple wipes to get everything off, this quickly takes care of everything! I also like to put it on like a face mask for 10 minutes before my shower. It leaves my skin so soft and radiant.

What to get: Obviously, the Okamura Facial Tonic Oil! If you have a chance to head into Urbaca, get a facial by Sherry!
Things to know: This bottle will last you a long time. Just 2-3 pumps a day takes care of my makeup removal, cleaning my face, and leaving me moisturized.

New+Noteworthy {tryCaviar, The Box Social, Postmates}

The most current installment of New+Noteworthy is very telling of life lately. I've been extremely busy and things have been on the heavy side. Pretty much a "work, sick, sick, work, work, woah!, que?, work" sandwich with a side of "overextended social calendar." So, pretty much the same life issues everyone else has. Blog-plainer, party of Mere.

I have needed convenient solutions and good conversation over cocktails. This post also comes with some promo codes - you know, to balance out the 'plaining above. And, because I always love a bargain.

tryCaviar

Get $15 off your first tryCaviar order by clicking this link!! You don't even have to be in Portland.

One of my only complaints about Portland is the lack of food delivery services. Really, the only options have been pizza, Ling Garden, or a $40 minimum plus a $10 delivery fee. So either eat greasy carbs or fork over lots of lettuce. 

Khao Soi from PaaDee

Enter, tryCaviar. Caviar is a high-end food delivery service that brings some of Portland's best restaurants to your doorstep. The list includes Roman Candle Pizza, Little Bird and Blue Star Donuts. The service also allows for you to pre-order meals and dishes. Imagine having house guests in town and knowing that Portland's best donuts will be delivered to your doorstop at 8am. No lines. No hoping you can get the bacon delights. Just convenient.

And the delivery of these dishes is on point. Everything comes properly packaged, generous portions and in really stylish containers. 

Best eggplant ever from Aviary

What to get: Paadee or Aviary. Both of these Portland restaurants are HOT right now. Nominated. Listed. Sought after. Which means: Impossible to get a table!!!

Things to know: Not all options are available every day or on short notice. You may need to order in advance or anticipate a wait. The delivery fee is always $4.99 and gratuity is factored in when ordering.

The Box Social

3971 North Williams

No promo codes here, but a great deal! A few weeks ago Erin and I had a co-working day in North Portland followed by dinner at Ned Ludd for Portland Dining Month. We had some time between the end of the work day and the start of dinner. We decided to go on a walk and pop into all of the fun shops in the area. We came across The Box Social and obviously needed to try out the Happy Hour! 

Vodka + Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit for $4

The space reminded me of an old-timey speakeasy, with a giant peacock, dark woods, and the floor to ceiling bar. The waiter was really nice, offered a lot of insight and didn't rush us in anyway. I really dislike when I am being rushed to order another drink or vacate a table. 

Healthy Happy Hour Hommous!

What to get: The Hommous Spread was very generous and had the tastiest almonds. It also comes with my favorite olives!

Things to know: Happy Hour or not, this place is a screaming deal! Only two of the cocktails cost get into the double digits. They don't appear to have an outdoor space, which does sadden me as summer is nigh!

Postmates

Use code YAZ4M to get a $10 delivery credit for new users. Again, just needs to be in a city with Postmates.

Two delivery services in one month?!?! Someone has been reading my tweets! I had actually heard really positive things about Postmates from Annie while co-working a few weeks ago. See how everything comes together. ;) On a late night of working I decided to try it out. I was able to have a healthy dinner delivered in under an hour. And the whole thing cost $12. Baby, I like it!

This service delivers Apizza Scholls, Stumptown Coffee, Bunk Bar, and Bamboo Sushi!!! The list of restaurants and options seems to be growing every hour. Even cooler?? They have a pantry service. Need cold medicine? Yup! Lady items?? Delivered! Don't want a baby? Yes, even those.

Yes, I know. Your mind has been blown.

The app also has a fun tracking feature. You will be notified when the food is ready, that it has been packed up and you can even watch the GPS car or bike {again, Portland} as it is in transport. I was far too enthralled watching one delivery person circling the block in search of parking.

Pho for life!

What to get: Luc Lac! The best pho in Portland can now be delivered for lunch or at 11pm!!!

Things to know: The delivery fee seems to change based on different variables, but I've never had it cost more than $3. A service fee is also worked into the price, but gratuity is not included. The option to give a cash tip or leave it with the tip after delivery is in your hands.

New + Noteworthy {Muscadine, Maurice, Instacart}

As a transplant to the City of Roses, people often ask me why I have picked Portland as my home. While I can - and do - list off numerous reasons, I always compare it to Montana. The beautiful scenery, relaxed mentality and friendly people. For this installment of New + Noteworthy all of the featured brands and businesses employee the sweetest people with excellent customer service!

Muscadine
1465 NE Prescott
Wednesday-Monday 8am-2pm

A few weeks ago Mary Ellen and I ventured to NE Portland to try out relatively new Southern-brunch spot Muscadine. Located on NE Prescott, the building is tucked into a complex along with Pok Pok Noi and Grain + Gristle. We were instantly greeted by a super friendly staff and seated right away. I won't lie, the non-existent waiting line had me worried that I had made a bad recommendation. With superb service and delicious food, my concerns quickly dissipated. I actually asked our waiter which Southern city he hails from. He is from Michigan - but with caboodles of charm!!!

ME and I are very strategic orderers and always want to maximize menu opportunities. Very rarely do we order items and not share. We decided to order the Meat + Three and Oxtail Ragu over grits with poached eggs. While we both enjoyed the ragu, we really loved the salmon croquettes with collard greens, red eye peas and fried okra. Actually, we loved the fried okra so much we ordered more. #noshame

What to Get The fried okra is amazing!  Crispy and perfectly seasoned - we were compelled to order seconds. I also recommend sprinkling the house-made pepper infused vinegar on the okra.

Things To Know Be prepared to spend between $15-20 per person before drinks. If you want to keep costs down I would recommend ordering the Meat + Three to share, and add on additional side or small dish.


Maurice
921 SW Oak
Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm

I actually reviewed this critic's darling almost one-year ago to the day. While this pastry-luncheonette is on everyone's radar, it hasn't become inflated or altered due to the popularity. This luncheonette does not wear pink on Wednesdays.

I was in the shop for a previously scheduled meeting the day after it was announced owner and pastry magician Kristen Murray is a semi-finalist for a James Beard Award. Honestly, I wasn't even sure if she would be in. Had I just been added to the short list for the most prestigious award in my industry I would be obnoxiously celebrating. She was there. Working hard and finishing up the brioche. She was focused and precise. When I congratulated her, she sweetly smiled and graciously accepted the praise. She was not boastful. Her focus was on the food and experience - and trust me, it is evident in every bite!

What to Get The signature black pepper cheesecake. This slightly savory confection
Things To Know Maurice is not opened on Sunday. With delicious pastries and luxurious treats this place is made for leisurely weekend brunches with a close girlfriend, or a romantic breakfast with your new love. Except, only on Saturdays.


Instacart
Costco, Whole Foods, Uwajimaya, Natural Grocers, Green Zebra
Instacart

When life gets busy,  finding the opportunity to contract out tasks becomes extremely appealing. It can also get a bit expensive and laborious. For me, Instacart has been an excellent resource for grocery shopping. Specifically, I take advantage of the Costco runs. It does not require a membership to the super store. It also prevents me from driving almost 45-minutes to the giant store and dealing with the crowds.

I'm also a huge fan of the customer service component. I always opt to have the shopper text me if needed. If the right avocados aren't in stock, they will kindly reach out to find out what is needed. And when they deliver giant packages of paper towel and olive oil, they are always very kind as I fumble with the dog and make dorky jokes. I recently had a few mistakes with my order and they resolved the issue - and then some - in less than 12-hours. I emailed them at 4pm and by 11pm an email was in my box and credits were in my account.

Image Source

What to Get  Costco items! Large, bulky and heavy items delivered to your front door is extremely convenient. Especially if you don't have a parking spot or are battling the rain.
Things To Know Orders under $35 have a $7.99 delivery fee. Orders over $35 cost $3.99

New + Noteworthy {Tea Bar, Milk Glass Mrkt, Hush}

Hello and Happy Friday! For anyone that lives in Portland, or follows the local food scene, you know how crazy things can get. With new restaurants opening on a weekly basis, pop-up dinners happening on the regular and city favorites with 2-hour long waits, it can be challenging to navigate this really amazing city.

It is actually quite normal to have an extensive and detailed Google Doc of restaurants categorized by neighborhood, cuisine, price-point and signature dish. If we made regular conversation a drinking game, the line "Oh, I've been meaning to try that place" would equate to one shot. Equally, "Did you see so-and-so's Instagram?? I realllllly need to try hot-hip-haute-couture-cheese-bar-with-unique-artsy-twist" would equate to slamming your drink. If life were a drinking game we would all be passed out by 10am. Granted, we could thank a gourmet, locally-sourced, home-brewed craft cocktail for the mid-morning siesta.

The same goes for experiences. With beautifully curated stores, super-luxe gyms, and week-long waiting lists, nourishing ones health can also be overwhelming. Trust me, these are all great problems to have.

Since none of us have more than 24-hours in one day, bottomless budgets and unstoppable metabolisms, it is time to break down the hottest new and noteworthy spots in Portland.

Tea Bar
1615 NE Killingsworth
8am-8pm Daily

If you have an Instagram account and live in Portland then you have heard about Tea Bar! This ultra-hip space could star in just about any lifestyle blog or magazine. With clean lines and simple colors, this space sets the stage for deep conversations, scribing a memoir or reading the great-American novel. The shop only serves tea and brings in baked goods. The tea can be served steeped or in a latte.

Must Try: Honey Assam Latte, Dark Forest Latte
Things-to-Know: Outlets do not seem to be available at every table. If you are coming to work,bring a charged computer or be prepared to scout out the oh-so-valuable outlets.



milk glass mrkt
2150 N. Killingsworth
9am-7pm Tuesday-Sunday

I first heard about milk glass mrket in an Eater article and was instantly enchanted by the design and intrigued by the menu. Nothing on the menu feels traditional and seems to have an old-timey twist. The shop also houses and offers a unique collection of seasonings, champagne and food products. I will say, we were not impressed with any of the sweet baked goods. We tried a cherry muffin and apricot oatmeal cookie. Both had an excellent consistency and texture. They both seemed to need a little spice. Cinnamon and nutmeg would have made them must-haves for me.

I was a big fan of the savory dishes. I had the smoked trout salad and we had the castelveltrano focaccia to share. The focaccia was light and airy with a generous salt flake on top. I will most definitely be ordering this again.

Must Try: The eggs & greens, with fresh veggies, smoked trout and a fried egg, this salad is filling and healthy. It is the perfect fuel for a busy weekend.
Things to Know: The space is small! If you have a group of 4 or more, this may not be the spot for you. The space is small and busy. The chances or snagging 2-3 tables next to one another is unlikely.

Hush Meditation 
19th and Lovejoy

Mere Mere, you aren't in Anaconda anymore. That is exactly how I felt when scheduling a class at Hush Meditation. Hush meditation is a small boutique 'mental health gym' located next to one of my favorite coffee shops. The discreet space offers guided meditation classes on a daily basis. Each class has a different theme from Mind to Love. I

Must Try: A class led by Jessica Peterson! She has such a warm and welcoming spirit. I instantly felt safe in her hands and was open to communicating with her.
Things to Know: The space can be a bit chilly, I would recommend bringing a blanket if you tend to run cold.