Monday, October 25, 2010

Portland Sights

Today's focus is on the best sights of Portland... including two of our favorite restaurants. But first, can I just say how much I love the architecture of the craftsman homes that constitute a large part of the city? Take the one below, for example, which is on the market in fact!
Or how about this beauty, smack dab in the middle of the Portland Saturday Farmer's Market?

Doesn't it blow your mind how well-made things were back in the day? Built to last, in style! If you like historic mansions or would like to check out the best view of the city, you must visit Pittock Mansion (below).

Set a top a mountain itself, the view from the beautifully manicured grounds of the mansion is exquisite, especially at this time of year.



Of course, the view indoors ain't too shabby neither! This was the family home of the original owner of the Oregonian newspaper, built around the early 1900's. It was intended to be practical rather than overly showy, but still - check out the music room.

Looking for peace and time to meditate? Try the Grotto, a Catholic sanctuary that offers all a quiet place to worship. The gardens were beautiful and contemplative...


And an elevator takes you to an upper level with a look out room featuring a replica of Michelangelo's Pieta sculpture...
And again, sweeping views of the city!

All this traveling to beautiful destinations had us pretty hungry when meal times came around. My best recommendation for lunch in Portland is an intimate little cafe called Petisco, where you will find delicious pan-European cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere.
Hello. I would like to introduce you to the best paninis I have ever met. One is prosciutto with fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic and olive oil. The other is smoked pork with homemade mayonnaise, diced red onion and Manchego cheese. Both served with mixed greens and split because my husband and I wanted to enjoy both varieties. A wholly satisfying way to spend an afternoon.
And for dinner, please don't leave Portland without a trip to Screen Door, widely known as the best Southern food in the city. Excellent for brunch (where Praline Bacon Waffles and Bananas Foster French toast prompt most diners to toss their diets out the door) or dinner, you had better arrive early if you want to be seated promptly. By early, I mean before opening time. We arrived 15 minutes prior to dinner opening at 5:15pm and still were met with the following line of hungry locals:
But the wait was worth it. My husband ate the best burger he's ever had (his words, and the man has eaten a lot of burgers in his time!) and I enjoyed a traditional gumbo soup and Carolina pulled pork sandwich.
Mmm Mmm! That is some tasty eatin' there folks! Speaking of delicious food, tomorrow I will chronicle our exploration of Portland's amazing markets and their diverse, unique offerings!

2 comments:

  1. HAPPY 1ST ANNIVERSARY! You and Paul are so sweet together! I hope that your first year of marriage together was everything you hoped it would be!

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  2. Thanks so much Laurel! Miss you!

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