Portland is many things. It is beautiful in summer and it is rainy when not. It is one of America’s – if not the world’s – microbrew capitals. It has made an art form of political correctness in all its glory and much of that which is not glorious. It is … [Read more...]
CITYBEAT: New Year’s Eve Guide
The way 2016 played out, 2017 surely has to be better, right? Right. We won't judge readers if they just want to stay home, play Prince records and cry, but why not kick 2017 off in style? We've scoured the web for the best local events, and whether readers are in the mood for a … [Read more...]
RESTAURANT REVIEW (Portland): Pok Pok
Pok Pok is an anomaly. It is one of the “most important” restaurants in its city (indeed, according to Bon Appetit magazine, in America)…but it is an unabashedly ethnic restaurant. It is one of Portland’s highest profile restaurants…yet its food is served in little more than a … [Read more...]
CENTRAL COAST RESTAURANT REVIEW (Morro Bay): Shawn’s on Main
Shawn's on Main in Morro Bay, California is the type of restaurant that ought to be the pride of every neighborhood or town. The food is excellent without giving in to overweening pretension. The atmosphere is intimate with just the right level of cross between formality and … [Read more...]
CENTRAL COAST (SLO) RESTAURANT REVIEW: Koberl at Blue
Once upon a time – and not so long ago -- I loved Koberl at Blue in San Luis Obispo. It was my favorite restaurant in one of my favorite towns. The herb crusted rack of lamb was the perfect cross between old school fine dining and wine country cuisine. Their version of duck two … [Read more...]