del INTI, (Grade A)

Date of last visit: November 2010

Address:  2315 NE Alberta, Portland, Oregon

Phone:  503-288-8191

Hours: Closed M & T -- Dinner Wed to Sunday 5PM to 10PM, Happy Hour 4 to 7

Link: 

General Impressions of the place itself: Simple decor, nicely done. Some outdoor seating and a fire pit to keep the waiting area on the sidewalk warm.  Inside, cork floors, open kitchen, comfortable seating, Peruvian tapestry on the wall and some nice, original art featuring jazz musicians. Well done decor

What we ordered: SANGRIA; Porter on Tap;  To Start--PLATO del Inti (sampler) with Potato Croquette, Beef Heart with Salsa, and Causa with crab and Avocado; main course --> SALTADO, stir fried hanger steak with scallions, red onions, tomato, cilantro, fried potatoes with soy sauce glaze with a side of rice; and, PRAWNS --don't remember the name. DESERT: CHOCOLATE CUSTARD

Things we liked and disliked:  The food was all exceptional in this Peruvian-North West inspired Resturant --we could have lived without the CAUSA on the sampler plate, not because it was bad, but becasue it was not to our taste.  Everything else, to a dish was excellent. We will try one of the Ceviche Dishes next trip

Number in our party: 2

Total Bill:   $61 includes drinks but not tip add $10.  Considering the quality of the food this was a real bargain

Recommended -- absolutely yes

With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 4++

Dick's Kitchen (Grade C-)

Date of last visit: November 2010
Address: 3312 SE Belmont, Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503- 235-0146
Hours: Mon to Sat 11AM to 10PM -- Sunday 11AM to 9PM
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: We went in when this was still a pretty new place and it was crowded..we had to wait about a half hour for a table for 4. There are two rooms. The one you enter has the kitchen and a few bar style seats in the front window. There is a whole wall / whiteboard with information about what is being served  / sort of a menu.  But there are paper menu's too. The second room has lots of tables, many of which are set up for community style eating--ie tables for 15+  seats various groups at the same table.  The decor is minimal--pictures of guys named Dick (Nixon, Van Dyke, etc) and floor to ceiling drapery covering electrical outlets, etc. Perfectly nice, super casual.
What we ordered:  2 people ordered French Onion ZIZOU Burgers with 'not fries'; One person got a Portobello Burger; the last person got a Vegie Bowl that was listed on the Wall but not in the menu..and we all had beer.
Things we liked and disliked:  First Off--the staff was vry nice.. no problem there. And DK is advertising itself as a healthy food joint with  grass fed beef, 'not fries/french fries', etc. -- so we were looking forward to trying this place out.  Maybe we were expecting too much. Or maybe they were too busy and had not yet got the kinks out of what to do when so many people show up. But we waited for half and hour for our table, ordered immediately (we had plenty of time to study the menu while waiting) and then we waited for another 30 + minutes for our food, whcih arrived luke warm. The burgers were nothing exceptional, the fries--cold--were unappetizing.  The Vegi Bowl got a thumbs up.   We will probably try them again, when they are not so busy--but this was an inauspicious start
Number in our party: 4
Total Bill:   Around $50 prices are reasonable
Recommended?  Not yet
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 2 maybe

Mandrian Cove (Grade C to C+)

Date of last visit: October 2010
Address: 111 SW Columbia Street, #1, Portland Oregon
Phone: 503 - 222-0066
Hours: M-F 10:45 to 9:00  Sat Noon to 9:45;  Sunday 4PM to 9PM
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself::  I have driven past this place 100s of times and never thought to go it, But the other night we were headed to the Variable Quandary--and it was not open yet..so we walked down the street to the Mandarin Cove, a restaurant located at the base of a large office building. It appears to be a glassed in porch -- and when you enter the inside-outside feel of the glass wall and ceiling is maintained with lots of plants--sort of an old fashion fern bar feel with standard old fashion Chinese Restaurant chairs and tables.  This is a functional place that is a little run down at the heels (entry carpet needs replacing, etc) But we were seated right away and given an extensive menu.  
What we ordered:  Szechwan Beef and Double Cooked Pork + rice.
Things we liked and disliked: The food came very fast..and it was as good as any other Chinese Restaurant we have found in Portland. But then we have lived here for nearly 10 years and so far we have not found 'a favorite' Chinese Restaurant. We HAVE looked for one. But so far we've not found oen that stands aboive the crowd.  Mandrian Cove is just fine--but it is not special
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: approx $20 -- good value
Recommended? With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 2+

BELLY (Grade B)

Date of last visit: October 2010
Address: 3500 MLK Blve, Portland Oregon
Phone:  503-249-9764
Hours: Tues to Sat 5pm to closing; Sunday 10 to 2
 Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: Open space, clean lines, slightly aging but comfortable. Open kitchen so you can watch them cook.  One long bar-motif seating (good for happy hour) Lots of tables but not crowded.  A bit on the hip side, but family friendly too,
What we ordered: I had an order of "Spiced beet salad, pear bourbon vinaigrette, chevre" -- It was tasty but it certainly was NOT spicy (spiced v spicy..humm.. a little communication problem here) and it was way too much for one person, so it would be a good dish to share. And we both had the "Pan-roasted scallops, crispy chanterelle risotto, warm savoy cabbage slaw, apple cider beurre blanc" Beautiful presentation and double delicious. Also I had, from the bar a "Pancho Villa’s Revenge.. a house infused orange tequila, papaya puree, lime juice, jalapeno salted rim, rocks."  It was ok and it had a little jalapeno kick. 
Things we liked and disliked: Overall a vey nice place but the 'fresh baked bread" seemed to be overcooked. We like crusty bread but this was very, very crusty--almost all crust. Alsom, three silver dollar pices of this bread were thrown (litterally) on a place and dropped off at our talbe after a pretty long wait.  Kinda tacky. Then the beets realy didn have any spicy to them...but the Scallops made up for it all. They were perfection.

Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: about $75
Recommended? yes..but it is a just a little spend
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3 to 3+

Super Dog, Grade C-

Date of last visit: August 2010
 Address: 1438 SW Park Ave, Portland, Oregon
Phone: (503) 243-5045
Hours: not sure -- better call to check
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself:  fast food joint on the park row--small, a few tables inside, a few tables out front --order at the counter. People eating there seemed to know the place (& each other) and that gave it a nice community feeling.

 What we ordered:  two dog special -came with a drink and chips + coleslaw side --we ordered spicy dogs (chicken with jalapeños --and a Spicy Italian)
Things we liked and disliked:  We ordered two different kinds of dogs -BUT they both tasted and looked EXACTLY the same...did they mess up our order?--or is the selection a scam and they don't really have as wide a selection as they say?  To like is the nice list of dogs to choose from --but, then they ought to taste different don't you think?  The bread-bun is super fresh--love that--but it is also a bit too big for the dog.  They have lots of different kinds of mustard.  But they have no mayo, no catsup, no BB-Q sauce, etc. The onions were chopped too big so they fell off the dog.  Slaw is homemade, and is ok--but nothing wonderful. There was a very nice guy behind the counter.
 Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: $9.99 (for the 2 dog special) $3.50 for the slaw
Recommended? not quite--but then, maybe. If we were in the area and wanted something quick and not too expensive we might give them another try. But our first time (courtesy of GROUPON)  was not really very impressive--and with out the GROUPON COUPON we wouldn't have ever gone there.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 2 stars

The City State Diner - 3 Stars

Date of last visit:  July 2010
 Address: 128 NE 28th Street, Portland Oregon
Phone:
Hours: 8 AM to 10PM Daily
Link:  City State Diner
General Impressions of the place itself: nice clean, open setting, booths and tables

What we ordered: Meatloaf and Mac& Cheese & A Turkey Sandwich with a Beet Salad
Things we liked and disliked: The service was friendly; All the food was very good, the sauce of the meatloaf was great, the Mac and Cheese would have been better to have split for two people as a side with a split sandwich-- it was a just a bit too much carbs in one dish as a stand alone meal.  The Turkey Sandwich people said it was outstanding.
Number in our party: 6
Total Bill: we got 3 bills (each for 2 people -- ours was not bad $28.00 for meatloaf and Mac & Cheese)
Recommended?  yes.. very nice, everyday sort of drop in place
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3 Stars

Ten 01 (Grade B-)

Date of last visit:  JULY 2010
Address: 1001 NW Couch (corner of Couch & 10th), Portland Oregon
Phone: (503) 226-3463
Hours:  Mon-Wed 4pm-10:30pm; Thu-Sat 4pm-11pm; Sun 4pm-9pm
Link:  Ten 01

General Impressions of the place itself:  Glitz -- two floors--downstairs bar /with a bar menu for less expensive meals and upstairs with an expensive menu. Nicely designed restaurant --but don't be fooled: there is no grand view of Portland from upstairs (like some of their ads say). They have valet parking--the sign said $4 --which could be valuable in the Pearl. But we found street parking a block away at 6:30 on a Thursday night.
What we ordered:  We ate upstairs and ordered: 
DRINKS: A Nice Draft Beer (forgot the name) & "A PALOMA" a house specialty tequila and grapefruit juice drink that had no punch and was ok but not special
SALAD: Butter Leaf Salad was shared-- nice presentation and nice dressing--but again, nothing to write home about.
DINNER --Salmon and Halibut. Both fish dishes were well prepared but we have both had better at less cost.  Not that it was bad--it was good-- but it was not exceptional
Things we liked and disliked: The place is too spendy for what you get.  The staff was pleasant. We are glad we tried it out but we won't go back to the upstairs area; we might try the downstairs.
Number in our party:  2
Total Bill: $82 PLUS TIP
Recommended? nope
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place 3+ stars for the food/ but drop that to 3 when you factor in the price.

Veritable Quandry (Grade B+)

Date of last visit: July 2010
Address: 1220 SW 1st Ave, Portland Oregon
Phone: 503-227-7342
Hours: Lunch M-F 11:30 to 3:00;
Dinner Mon - Sun 5:00 to 10:00;
Brunch Sat-Sun 9:30 to 3:00
Bar Open to 2:30 AM

Link:
General Impressions of the place itself:  Nicely done long ago-addition/renovation/expansion of an old building in downtown area. Patio is lovely on a nice day.  Inside has big windows and a warren of rooms --nice brick wall

What we ordered: 

Appetizer Grilled Pizza: Black Mission Figs, Brie, Toasted Hazelnuts & Arugula--which was a nice size for a table of four and it was delicious.
SALADS:  1) Warm Chevre Crostini, Fresh Oregon Strawberries, Raspberries & Toasted Hazelnuts with Mizuna Garden Greens & Honey Pepper Vinaigrette and  2) Roasted Wild Mushroom & Baby Spinach Salad with Buttermilk Blue Cheese & Pancetta Vinaigrette . Both were outstanding --not overlarge--but each was shared by 2 people and was sufficient.
MAIN DISH:  1) Osso Bucco (VEAL) Served with Parmesan & Basil Risotto (we were told the Veal they serve is is humanely raised locally)  -- wonderful dish--hope they are telling the truth about the Veal. 2) Alaskan Halibut with Wild Rice Risotto --Morel & Porcini Mushrooms with a Truffle & Mushroom Jus was outstanding--the Halibut was perfectly prepared and there was no skimping on the  mushrooms.
DESERT:  CHOCOLATE NOCELLO SOUFFLÉ--ahhhh perfection -- It looks bigger thatn it really is -- it was shared by 4 --and we each enjoyed a few bites.
Things we liked and disliked:  Well there is lot to like here--but ONE THING was VERY BAD.  We had reservations--and we were place at a table with air conditioner vents under two of the chairs.  They were blowing rather vigorously making the seating uncomfortable.  There were many OPEN tables around us. And we asked to be moved but were told the tables were all taken?? !! -- The host said she would turn off the air--which she did--but it came back on in about 10 minutes.  She also gave me a small flat item to put over the vent--but it did very little to solve the problem.  So the seating was terribly uncomfortable and the wait staff seemed to know --and not give a hoot--that it was a problem.  Indeed, because I had arrived before our friends, the host suggested I take another seat at the table and let our friends have the bad seat.   
Number in our party: FOUR
Total Bill: $123.00 Plus tip
Recommended? Yes..the food was exceptionally good but watch out for the table in the corner next to the window if the air conditioner is on. Refuse to sit there would be my recommendation.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 4 STARS --and the rating might well have been higher if the seating problem had not been so poorly handled

City Thai, (Grade C)

Date of last visit: July 2010
Address: 341 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97239-1937
Phone: (503) 293-7335 
Hours: You'll need to call to check

Link:

General Impressions of the place itself:  Sitting toward the back of a little strip mall on Capitol Highway. Unless you are looking for it, it is very easy to miss.  I am not even sure you can see it from the street. Nicely done inside for the space they have to work with--not fancy but comfortable and with a little style.
What we ordered: Pad Thai, Yellow Curry; Thai Ice Tea, Sizzling Spinach --all ok--nothing noteworthy either direction.  -We have been here before and ordered various things..and it is always the same, fine, but not great
Things we liked and disliked:  Food is entirely acceptable--but it doesn't reach great. People who work here are always pleasant.
Number in our party:  3
Total Bill: $32.00
Recommended? Yes it is reliable
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Standard Average Place 2 1/2 stars

Agave Grill, ( Grade D)

Date of last visit: June 2010
Address: 7361 SW Bridgeport Road, Tigard, Oregon (in the Bridgeport Shopping Center across from the theaters)
Phone: 503 - 372-9152
Hours: opens at 11Am week days opens at 9 on weekends, closes between 9 to 11
LINK:  Agave Grill
General Impressions of the place itself:  New, well appointed 'nice chain' sort of look (don't know if it is a chain or not but the decor looks like one). Has both booths and tables, an open kitchen, and very friendly and helpful wait staff.
What we ordered:  We wre there for lunch--and ordered off the lunch plate. We had a Guacamole Especiale;   A child's plate quesadilla (we had an 18 month old with us);  and we split a Vegetarian Enchilada plate.
Things we liked and disliked:  The service was really friendly and helpful (us having a baby we appreciated being brought orange slices for our little guy --and other diversions for him--while we waited). But the food was only so so. They use a corn meal-crepe --rather than a tortilla--and it just didn't work for me. I spoke with another person who had one and she liked it a lot.. but I sure wouldn't get another one. The guacamole was large in quantity but weak in taste. I am guessing they are using the wrong kind of avocados. 
Number in our party: 2 adults and 1 child
Total Bill: Recommended? $23.00 (not cheap) this was lunch after all and the adults split their meal and we didn't get drinks.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Sorry but it only gets 1 Star / Grade D -- I say sorry becasue the staff was so nice and we had really a limited exposure to the menu.  They have a happy hour that has great discounts on the foods and we were told the Margaritas are worth a try.

Branch Whiskey Bar, (Grade A)

Date of last visit: June 2010
Address: 2926 NE Alberta St Portland OR
Phone| (503)206-6266
Hours:
Link: Branch Whiskey Bar

General Impressions of the place itself:  Big wrap around bar where you can eat &/or drink, tables lining the wall and a few tall tables in the front,  nice comfortable place with mod art on the walls, not fancy, not sloppy, busy --and a little noisy, but comfortable.

What we ordered: 

1) Spring Vegetables and Orecchiette Pasta tossed with a shallot and lemon cream sauce. With a Dark and Stormy – Goslings black seal rum, ginger, beer, and fresh lime
2) Pork Loin chop roasted fingerling potatoes, broccoli rabe, golden beet chutney.  With a Sazerac – Rye, peychaud’s bitters, angostura bitters, simple syrup, a bit of lemon.
3) Branch Beef Burger with arugula, shaved fennel salad, with Glenlivet 12yr on the rocks
4) Grilled Romaine Salad fried capers, croutons with a Ceasar style dressing with a Portland 75 – Aviation gin, lemon juice, simple syrup,sparkling wine
5) Two servings of Bread Pudding with a bourbon caramel sauce

The food was all around outstanding as were the drinks --we all really especially liked the Dark and Stormy --the only minor flaw was the bread pudding was a little dry--but the sauce on the bread pudding was super.  And it needs to be said the salad was, hands down, the best we've had in the city.

Things we liked and disliked:  oh my the food and the drinks are all to like and will call us back -- only down side was it was just a little noisy--but not terribly so. And great news--the prices are reasonable --and you can get a happy hour discount on the food between 5 &7.
Number in our party:  4
Total Bill: $83 + tip
Recommended?  you bet your life --this is a great place
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place?  they get 5

PARADOX, 3 Stars

Date of last visit: June 2010 (but we wander in here about once a month)
Address: 3439 SE Belmont St., Portland Oregon 97214
Phone: (503) 232-7508Hours: Open Mon 9am-9pm; Tue-Wed,Sun 8am-9pm; Thu-Fri 9am-10pm; Sat 8am-10pm
Link: http://paradoxorganiccafe.com/

General Impressions of the place itself:  Funky Portland -- there is a counter --and tables, nothing fancy here.

What we ordered: We almost always get the Spinach Solstice Salad and an Order of what they call "Corn Tamales"  the salad is always fresh and the tamales are really corn meal pancakes with chilies fried into them with a heaping bit of guacamole, sour cram and salsa. It is delicious and mostly vegetarian and not terribly expensive.

Things we liked and disliked: It takes a while to get your food--but that is because it is prepared AFTER you order it (ie it is fresh made) but it is not a place to get a quick meal.  The servers are always casual-friendly and it is not far from having breakfast in a friend's kitchen. This is a reliable place and we go here often

Number in our party: 4

Total Bill: Recommended? $24

With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Solid 3 Stars

Cafe Du Berry , 3 Stars

  Date of last visit: June 2010

Address: 439 SW Macadam Ave, Portland Oregon 97239 Phone: 503-244-5551 Hours: Mon-Fri 7:00am- 3:00pm Wed-Fri 5:30pm- 9:00pm Sat 8:00am- 3:00pm Sat 5:30pm- 9:00pm Sun 8:00am- 3:00pm

 Link:

 General Impressions of the place itself:   Small place, not very inviting, on a busy street. Has a patio..but you are just a thin hedge away from rather fast moving and constant traffic. The building needs to be painted. You enter and there is a glass case with food and a counter. There is a small space inside with about a half dozen, closely spaced tables. There are colorful cushions on the chair--which do aid your comfort--but they have ties on them that are not being used..so the cushions move around.  It rather speaks for the sense of the place--it is a little sloppy and untended --not dirty--but not cared for well.  There may also be an upstairs?  We didn't go up there but there are stairs ...

What we ordered:  Chicken Dijon and Medallions of Pork .. both were EXCELLENT. Perfectly cooked--with rather heavy sauces (this is not the new French Cuisine) that were scrumptious. We both had a glass of wine --the  "Renewable White" -- was just barely OK, the Pino Noir was satisfactory.  We also shared a Cesar Salad which was crisp and fresh but not special

Things we liked and disliked: The place itself is a little off-putting. The service is acceptable but not friendly. The food was much better than average making the negatives have little weight. 

Number in our party: Two

Total Bill: With Tip $48

Recommended? Yes if old style French Country Cooking is What you are looking for.

With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3

Lavender Bleu Tea Room, West Linn (Grade 4 Stars)

Date of last visit: May 2010
Address: 1877 Willamette Falls Dr., West Linn, Oregon
Phone: 503-657-2844
Hours:  Open Wed to Sat 11:00 to 4:00 (reservations suggested)
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself:  -- you walk into the gift shop -- and out the back door -- cross a partially decorated patio to enter the shabby-chic style tea room.  It is comfortable and girlie-sweet.  There are specials each day and a regular menu.   
What we ordered:  Tea For Two -- bit sized bits of a number of very tasty treats. Especially outstanding were the quiche and the scones
Things we liked and disliked:  The scones were the best I have ever had --hands down, the best.  Everything was tasty and the presentation was well done. Only complaints are: would be nice if there was a way to take some of these goodies home (bakery style) --and the hours are pretty limited.
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: $35
Recommended? For sure
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? It is a strong 4 stars--and could go higher, but I'd need to visit more than once before giving that strong of an endorsement

PING, (3 stars)

Date of last visit: May 2010

Address: 102 NW 4th, Portland, Oregon 97209
Phone: (503) 229-7464 Hours:  open m-f 11am-10pm -- open sat 5pm-10pm  -- closed sun
 Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: --it's on a corner in China town --easy to miss if you are not looking for it, a long thin space with semi-ultra-cool design --a half-wall of wonderful old radios,  a lovely bit of white cloth drapes from the celiling in big loops, walls are painted black. On the down side, there is a wall of windows where the sun hits hard in the late afternoon and the shades are only partially adequate to blocking the glare.  It is a little noisy. But it all hangs together. And it must be good because it is crowded with an eclectic mix of people

What we ordered: a number of skewers(Chicken Butt; Octopus; Beef Sata) The Deep Fried Whole Pork Kuckle, The Yam Yai Salad,  and Laksa Nonya Noodle dish.
Things we liked and disliked:  Forget those chicken butt things --we all tried one and then abandoned the dish. The other skewers were ok, but sort'a disappointing--not really much to say other than they are ok.  On the other hand the Salad and Noodles were exceptionally good. I'd be happy to have more right now. The Pork Kunckle was interesting-it was tender and delicious but was more than half fat.  So if you are a fan of pork fat you'll like it alot.  If you are looking for a lot of delicious lean meat you will be disappointed by the portion--but if you just want a couple servings of delicous pork--bingo, here it is
Number in our party: Four
Total Bill:  $130 (with drinks and desert and we did order more than we really needed to)
Recommended? Yep-- we will go back.. but we will be more discriminating about what we order next time
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3 stars

Ying Bun Restaurant‎, West Linn (3+ Stars)

Date of last visit:  May 2010
Address: 19094 Willamette Drive, West Linn, OR 97068Phone: 503-635-4706
Hours: pretty sure it is open 7 day a week from lunch to dinner --call to confimnr hours
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: This is pristine-clean, friendly,  hole-in-the wall--nothing fancy but real good food place.  We've eaten in the restaurant, which is just a step or two up from a fast food restaurant (but unlike fast food joints they do have table service) --but mostly we order take-out.
What we ordered: We have ordered a variety of things --and we never been disappointed. It isn't that the food here is super-duper outstanding--but it is absolutely reliably better than average.  We keep ordering pot stickers, which tend toward being a little doughy but they are flavorful -- so we often get vegetable dishes which are always made with really fresh veggies.
Things we liked and disliked: The people here are so very nice that it isn't easy to think of any complaints. It would be nice if they were not so out of the way.
Number in our party: We have been here as a twosome and we've been here getting for a crowd. It is reasonably priced.
Total Bill: Recommended? For 2 $18.00 last time we were there.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place -- 3+
‎

DALO'S Kitchen (Grade C)

Date of last visit: : April 2010 --we've been here about a half dozen times
Address: 4134 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, Oregon
Phone:  503-808-9604
Hours: call to check
Link:  Dalo's Kitchen

General Impressions of the place itself: From the outside you would not know this is a restaurant..or that it was a public place. It just says DALOS on the awning over the door..nothing else.  It is an ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT. It is family owned and operated. The people are very friendly. There is nothing the least bit fancy here.  It is entirely unassuming with nothing but plain and simple table and chairs.  I am not even sure if there are any pictures on the walls.  There are two rooms separated by a partial wall.  The second room has a TV on the wall.  We always just sit down in the first room, so we don't know what all is in the second room--more tables and chairs we assume.
What we ordered:  We have ordered most everything they have on the menu. It is not a big menu. The food has always been reliably good, except for the time we got the buffet--that was not so good. We wouldn't do that again..and wouldn't recommend it to anyone else. Order from the menu, you'll be happy.
Things we liked and disliked: The buffet at $10 a person for all you can eat looked better than it tasted, The food was not consistently hot and some of it was a little bit dried out. The menu items have always been good. It takes a while to get the food--because they fix it after you order it--but it is worth the wait

Number in our party: 4

Total Bill: $60 with tip and drinks
Recommended? sure, we like it and will go back
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3

El Palenque, (Grade 4+)

Date of last visit: April 2010 but we go every other month or so
Address: 8324 SE 17th Street, Portland, Oregon
Phone: (503) 231-5140
‎Hours: open for lunch daily to 9:30
Link:  El Palenque

General Impressions of the place itself: typical Latin American themes--lost of bright color , simple tables. nothing exceptional, but you are not going there for the decor --not just Mexican but Salvadorian too!
What we ordered: We love their Chili Relleno --they are the best in town. The Papusas are also outstanding..as are their Margaritas..  Plus they have a half dozen different kinds of Guacamole!
Things we liked and disliked: We love this place, there is nothing not to like  The service is always pleasant and attentive. These are real nice folk, serving up excellent food.
Number in our party: 3
Total Bill: $ 35.00 (with drinks and tip)
Recommended? Absolutely yes
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 4+ It may not be perfect, but it is close.

The Chart House (5 for View, 3+ for food)

Date of last visit: April 2010
Address: 5700 Terwilleger Portland, Oregon
Phone: (503) 246-6963
Hours: 11:30 till closing M-F & 5 till closing on Sat & Sunday
Link:  Chart House

General Impressions of the place itself: what a view.  It is a place to go for a grand view of Portland --south east--with Mt Hood to the right. It is nicely done and the view seems to be availabe from every table.
What we ordered:  Chart House Mixed Grill, which included a jumbo lump crab cake, fresh grilled salmon and grilled shrimp accompanied by broccoli and red peppers and ginger rice pilaf --plus fried asparagus and cesar salad. One Mirror Pond (on draft) and a glass of their least expensive Merlot 
Things we liked and disliked:The food was better than average for a chain: the veggies were fresh and so was the fish.  The salad was large but not noteworthy, the cheap wine was ok for cheap wine but I would try the next rung up if I went there again. More than enough food. We should have shared one meal and not left so stuffed.
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: $97 with tip (plus mandatory valet parking)
Recommended? yes--if you want a view restaurant it is the best we have seen --and the food, while not of the groundbreaking-creative stuff we are used to in Portland's finest -- it was perfectly good, and it was well prepared.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place?  Grade View 5 --Food  3+

Huber's (grade drop from C to D+)

Date of last visit:  March 2010

Address:  411 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503-228-5686
Hours: open for lunch & dinner Mon-Sat, Open for Dinner on Sunday / Happy hour specials 4 to 5:30 daily and 9:30 till close
Link:  Huber's

SECOND VISIT, took friends --  dinner was not so good -- Turkey Pot Pie weak and Crab Cakes only passable.  Dinner Salad had NO umph  -- only saving grace was Bread Pudding Dessert, which was super. Bill for 4 with beer and wine and a shared desert was $112.  Really could've done better elsewhere.  Grade Drop to a 1+ --and the Plus is there just because of the first visit during Happy Hour. (see below)

PS Our dinner mates say this place has a fabulous SPANISH COFFEE --which we have not had but which they have --many times, stopped after a late movie to enjoy.

General Impressions of the place:  -- lots of dark wood paneling, low light, arched ceiling, a very nice vintage feel --and that is what it should have, because it is the oldest restaurant in Portland -- established in 1879.  There are lots of photos and other memorabilia tastefully framed and hung in various places around the restaurant. Ther is a front room (that you walk into off 3rd Ave)--and a back room--down the hall.  The back room has a set of wonderful stain glass windows in the ceiling. The original cash register is still behind the bar.

What we ordered: We ordered from the VERY REASONABLY PRICED happy hour menu, and got a full meal for 4, made-up of lots of smaller dishes.  Two turkey sandwiches, two salads,  calamari, spinach dip, seared Ahi tuna, turkey burrito... all were tasty -- not out of the world delicious --but tasty.

Things we liked and disliked:  prices on the happy hour can't be beat. But the place was super crowded at 5:30 because of the happy hour crowd.  While they have a full dinner menu they are famous for their TURKEY dishes--we will try one of them next time.  They are also famous for their coffee-drinks (with alcohol) which are prepared at the table --with lots of flames and hoop-da-la. We didn't try one but we were tempted
Number in our party: 4
Total Bill: $28 !!
Recommended?  for sure
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? SOLID 3

Laurelhurst Market Restaurant Butcher

Date of last visit: Feb 2010
Address: 3155 E Burnside, Portland Oregon
Phone: 503-207-3097
Hours: 5PM to 10PM for dinner--sandwiches at the counter during the day
Link:  Laurelhurst Market

General Impressions of the place itself:  --well done rehab of an old corner market --stylish, spacious, but a bit loud. Lots of tables so you are packed in pretty tightly--and the bench seats are open in the back --so your hand bag--or sweater--can slip back and under the seating. In such tight quarters it make for a task to retrieve your stuff.
What we ordered: Halibut, Flank Steak, Wedge Salads, Mushroom based bread pudding with leeks, Grilled Brussel Sprouts --
Things we liked and disliked:  The food was outstanding--every single dish was a delight--even the unassuming Wedge Salad, with freshly made onion rings and bacon was right-on good. The bread pudding stood out as exceptional..but each and every bite held a happy anticipation that was met again and again.  It is a little bit expensive--but when food is this good you don't feel cheated.  The servings were somewhat small.  And who wouldn't want more when the food is this special!
Number in our party: 4
Total Bill: $110 (with a bottle of wine)
Recommended?  absolutely and unequivocally
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Our first outing here says it is a 5--we will see if it hold up because we will certainly be going back.

The Fish & Chip Shop

Date of last visit  Feb 2010
Address: 1218 N Killingsworth Street, Portland Oregon
Phone: 503-232-3344
Hours: Opens 11:30AM on week days and at Noon on weekends. It closes at 7PM on Sunday, at 8PM on M-Thurs and at 9pm on Fri and Sat
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: -- a little hole in the wall sort of place-taking up two small store fronts --with simple decor to no decor. There is a take out window on one side  and a few tables scattered around, plus one long table with a couch on one side and chairs along the other side. Flat screen TV on the wall tuned into a British football channel. Not fancy but nice and clean.
What we ordered:  We were there for the happy hour menu and got some of the reasonably priced fare from that menu. That included fish and chips and Clam Chowder --then we got Bubble and Squeak off the regular menu
Things we liked and disliked: The menu says the Clam Chowder is "made from scratch using a recipe dating back to 1872" You can believe that--it is super-soup. It is worth a stop by just to get a cup of this wonderful soup. The Bubble and Squeak was also tasty--and it is not something you find every day (In case you are not familiar with Bubble and Squeak, it is a dish made from a creamy garlic and herb flavored mash potatoes that are laced with cabbage and then grilled.)  The fish and chips were tasty too--the fish was fresh--the chips were not at all greasy.  What's not to like?  Well it takes a while to get your food....so if you are in a hurry this is not a place to stop. But the wait is worth it.  Also, note, there is a .50 cent charge for take out--not a big deal..but there was a woman then when we were who was not happy about it.
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill:  $12.00--as happy
Recommended?  Yep -- It is way off the beaten path for us--but we liked it enough that we might drive across town to try it again.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Nice spot 3+

Foti's Greek Deli

Date of last visit:  Feb 2010 (we've been going here for years)

Address: 1740 E Burnside. Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503-232-0274
Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm / closed on Sunday
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself:  It would easy to miss this wonderful place as you go racing up and down Burnside -- but if you go in once you will go back. There is a counter, a few tables in the front and a small market toward the back. It is not at all fancy and while it it often busy it is never crowded. There is a friendly demeanor about the place,  the service is always efficient, and guess what, the folks who run the place are Greek.

What we ordered:  We've gotten a variety of things but our favorites are the GYRO & SOUVALKI SANDWICHES. The bread is the freshest of fresh--the veggies (tomatoes and lettuce) are always crisp. Ask for Feta and you get plenty of it.

Things we liked and disliked: We just like it.

Number in our party: varies

Total Bill: for two is about $11 without drinks

Recommended? Absolutely --this place is one to remember

With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Strong 4

Mee-Sen Thai Eatery

Date of last visit: Feb 2010
Address:  3924 N Mississippi Ave.,  Portland, OR 97227
Phone: (503) 445-1909 
Hours: Sun-Thurs:  11:30 am to 10 pm
           Fri -Sat:  11:30 am to 10:30 pm
Link:  Mee-Sen

General Impressions of the place itself:  Hip Portland -- low light, high ceilings and benches at tables, sit where you want. They give you sweet little tin cups for water, and a water bottle on the table to refill your own cup (interesting and different water bottles on every table). A big chalkboard has a long list of drinks.  There is an upstairs --we didn't go up there but our dinner companions told us it is very comfortable, and provides lots more seating.
What we ordered: Mojoto (a drink--and it was delicious) various soups and some noodle dishes, plus chicken wings and a spring roll.  All were super good!
Things we liked and disliked: We liked everything about this place--not a single complaint
Number in our party: 4
Total Bill: $58
Recommended? Oh YEA!  This place is a real winner--We are looking forward to going back asap
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 4

Sushi Boat

Date of last visit: Feb 2010, March 2010
Address: 21900 Willamette Drive #205, West Linn Oregon in the West Linn Central Village
Phone: 503-722-9013
Hours: closed Sunday
NOTE: There is another of these in Beaverton--this is a review of the one in West Linn
LINK: 

Repeat visit --and a new note.  We went early in the evening (about 5:00) and we were the only customers.  Not such a good time to visit--because the food on the conveyor had been there a while and not much new food was being offered. Also, they were using a minced-up faux crab to augment most of the sushi--it tasted ok but was not wonderful.  Still a good deal at $34 for 3 people--so we will leave the grade where it was--but we will not go back when there aren't other diners in the place.

General Impressions of the place itself: A sweet little community spot with a conveyor belt of food rolling along in front of an L shaped counter (two sides) and about 5 booths on one side.  A couple of chefs are in the middle preparing various rolls and a few sushi items.   In the back there is a kitchen, out of which hot food emerges from time to time. The plates are color coded for price (ranging from $2 to $3.) and they glide past  you so you can pick the ones you want.  Stack the used plates up on the side, and they are used to calculate your bill. If you want to know what something is, ask the chef.  There is also a regular menu to order from if you prefer.
What we ordered: Oh my, we got a wide variety of items -- but rolls are most of what is offered so that is most of what we got. One of our party was particularly drawn to the Rainbow Roll and all agreed it was good.
Things we liked and disliked: Not very much sushi was offered when we were there, the variety could have been better.  If there is a shortage of customers there isn't much choice--new items are not added if the ones circulating are not being taken. If there are lots of people you have to watch carefully for the items you want as they will not be coming back around.  But still the whole thing works well and is kind of fun
Number in our party: 3
Total Bill: $48 (and we had a lot of food) plus a beer
Recommended? yes, it is a comfortable place, with a community feel to it. The food is not fabulous gourmet but it is good and it is just hard not to love this place.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 2+

Bangkok Corner

Date of last visit: Feb 2010
Address: 7113 SW McAdam Ave, Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503-452-22656
Hours:11 am to 9 pm M-F and Noon to 9 pm Sat-Sun
Link:  Bangkok Corner Menu

General Impressions of the place itself:  Family Business, comfortable laid-back sort of place
What we ordered: various take out items --multiple visits
Things we liked and disliked: not consistent --some times very good, sometime well OK but not great
Number in our party: usually 2 to 4 people
Total Bill:  about $8. per head average ? take out without beverages
Recommended? well we like the guy who owns the place, and it is in our general neighborhood, so we do go here from time to time, but it would be hard to suggest anyone go out of his or her way to visit.  When the food is good it is very good--but you can't count on it.  We have no idea why it varies so much, maybe they have different cooks on different days?
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 1+ to 2

Saint Honore Boulangerie

Date of last visit:  Feb 2010
Address: 351 1st Street, Lake Oswego, Oregon
Phone: 503-455-1379
Hours: Sunday to Thurs 7AM to 7PM and Fri-Sat 7am to 8pm
Link:  Saint Honore Boulangerie

General Impressions of the place itself: large open space with glass cases full of temptations.  Smaller tables line the window walls..not much space for parties larger than 3 or 4, and space for that many is availabe only if you really crowd in.  The treat is on a nice day, then you can sit outside. But being crowded is just not a problem when the food is as good as the food you get here. Also, there is another one of these places in NW Portland --but LO is closer to us.
What we ordered:  we have tried lots of dishes here--sandwiches, soups, pies, sweets, fresh bread, salads and it is all wonderful. 
Things we liked and disliked: Humm, is there anything to dislike? Maybe the prices,  It is spendy--but then you get really good food for your money.
Number in our party: 3
Total Bill: $32 for sandwiches / no drinks
Recommended? oh yes. and then some. this place is a big favorite
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 4+

Horn of Africa, Ethiopian

Date of last visit:  December 2009: returned April 2010
Address:  5237 NE Martin Luther King Blvd
Phone: 503-331-9844

Hours:  Tu-Fri, 11-9; Sat & Sun, 5-9; closed Monday
Link:  Horn of Africa

UPDATE: April 2010 visit...oops--what happened here. the food was not nearly as good, the chicken over cooked , the vegges not spicy. The service was still very friendly and at least we didn't freeze (like on our last visit)-Something has gone wrong in the kitchen.  We won't give up--we will go back. But if we discover that this isn't a fluke, we will look elsewhere for some more substantial Ethiopian flavor. 
________________

General Impressions of the place itself:  This restaurant had recently moved to a new location further north on MLK Blvd.  The space was attractive though sparsely decorated.  But the real problem was the temperature, in mid December it was very cold. 

What we ordered: we had the four person sampler (see plate pictured at right) which we shared with, of course, all four of us.  We were supplied with as much of the spongy bread (bideena) as we could eat. 
Things we liked and disliked: the owners were wonderful people, the food was great, but it was cooooold, they couldn't seem to get the thermostat to work right.  It had very high ceilings and the heat was stuck up there!
Number in our party:  4

Recommended?  definitely recommend this place, but then we love Ethiopian food, until they get the heating figured out we would stick with spring and summer.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place?  3+

BUNK SANDWICHES

Date of last visit:  January 2010
Address: 621 SE Morrison St., Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503-477-9515
Hours: 8am to 3pm
Link:  Bunk Sandwiches

General Impressions of the place itself: hole in the wall, easy to miss driving by, but you may notice a line of people waiting out front, word on the street has been that this is a place to know about. Inside is Big --to the ceiling--blackboard with the day's menu. (I am told it changes daily.)  There are a few tables for two lined up at the window -- then that there is a long counter, with old fashion counter stools, to seat about a dozen people. Finally there are some more tables-for-two along the wall. All the cooking is being done behind the counter.  They are busy. The downsides are you are not going to sit down with a group--no space for that.  And, somebody really NEEDS to clean the floor. It is filthy.  You have to wonder about the overall hygiene, and  having those kind of thoughts does not sit well as you wait for your sandwich.

What we ordered:  We got a grilled cauliflower, cheese and hot pepper sandwich-- and a tuna melt.  The first was outstanding--well worth standing in line for and reason to agree that the buzz about this place is well deserved.  But, then we tried the tuna melt--and, well, it was not so good at all.  It had a strong fishy taste, like the cheap tuna you get in cans-- it was suppose to b albacore--but it didn't taste like it. 
Things we liked and disliked:  Bad to have questions of hygiene come into a customer's mind.  The bread they use for the sandwiches is wonderful.
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill: $16.00
Recommended? Yep --and we will go back for sure.  But we won't be ordering any more tuna melts
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Right now we will say  3 But that could get revised after another visit.

Hoda's Middle Eastern Cusine

Date of last visit: January 2010

Address: 3401 SE Belmont, Portland, Oregon
Phone: 503-236-8325
Hours: open daily for lunch and dinner--closes around 9pm. call for exact times
Link:  Hoda's

General Impressions of the place itself: --on the corner--expanding into two rooms (and maybe there is an upstairs too) -- tables spaced appropriately to maximize the number of guest without having your chair bump the person behind you.  Comfortable. Part of the kitchen is in the dining area.  Very little space to wait indoors--and only a small covered area to stand in outside the door --so if it is raining (this is Portland), and it is crowded, it is a hassle.

What we ordered:  We have had many dishes here--or favorite is the grilled vegetable plate--(which they are sometimes out of) You always get a nice very fresh, smallish salad when you order a meal. Their pita bread is fresh made and delivered to the table warm--and it keeps coming as long as you want more.  One of us thinks the falafal sandwich is good--another thinks it is a bit dry, but you can always a get a little extra sauce. And their Baba Ghanouje is better than average
Things we liked and disliked:-- not so great to wait outside in the rain, service is sometimes slow but the food is reliable -- and while we can't claim it to be exceptional food we can say for certain that we have never had a bad meal here. 
Number in our party: varies every time we go
Total Bill:  really well priced
Recommended?  for sure

With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? Strong 2+ to 3

The Original, A Dinerant

  Date of last visit:  January 2010


Address: 300 West 6th Ave., (at Oak) Portland, Oregon
Phone:  503-506-2666
Hours: breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily --call for exact hours
Link:  Original Dinerant

General Impressions of the place itself:  spacious, plenty of room to get around so there is no need bumping into tables as you are coming and going,  tall ceilings, glass-window walls so you can see the street.  Sometimes places this big have bad acoustics, making it so you can't hear your dinner partner talk -- but we are happy to report that is not a problem here.  In fact despite the 'big space' there is almost a sense of intimacy in this place; you are far enough away from your neighbors that you feel like you can talk in private.

What we ordered:  Broiled fish sandwiches (wild king salmon on very fresh bread, came with an OK tomato soup--and/or an OK side salad) well worth the $10; Grilled cheese sandwich (came with french fries in a little brown-paper bag standing on the plate--reported to be good (maybe a bit spendy for $9--but good is good); Beef Stroganoff (ok--nothing to write home about); 72 Hour Bar-b-que Brisket (on no--a big D-disappointment the meat was dry and it has very little sauce--on the up side it came with a nice big side of Mac-and cheese that was delicious)  -- And  three scoops of home made ice cream to share  (on purpose we got their most unusual flavors: carrot, pistachio and coconut lime) with caramelized rice Krispies. The rice Krispies were a BIG HIT--the ice cream was ok but not especially special. Oh -- must not forget the Shake-A-Dilly -- was appreciated-- it is a froo-froo gin drink
Things we liked and disliked:  On the up side: The woman who waited on us was really sweet, she could have sat down and joined us; the space is comfortable; the menu is a compendium of comfort foods that all sound so good that it is hard to choose what you most want.  On the down side: the food ought to be better at the prices they are charging. It isn't way spendy--but it is not econo-food either 
Number in our party: FIVE
Total Bill:
Recommended? Jury is Out--we might go back and try one more time..there were so many things that looked good on the menu.  But it was not overwhelming wonderful the first time..so...go try the happy hour and sample the food that way.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? First Visit  2+

Salvador Molly's

Date of last visit: Jan 2010
Address: 1523 SW Sunset Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97239
Phone: 503-293-1790
Hours: Sunday to Tues 11:30 to 9:00; Wed and Thurs 11:30 to 10:00pm;  Friday & Sat 11:30 to 11:00pm
Link:

General Impressions of the place itself: eclectic fun--photos and postcards from around the world, and maps and masks --with all sorts of colorful diversity on display
What we ordered: We have probably tried most everything on the menu.  Our current favorite is the Bayou Crunch Catfish --entree or sandwich--both are marv-o-lous.  But, before I got stuck on Catfish  I was stuck on the Tamales--they are unlike any other Tamale I've ever had....oh soo good they are.  And then there is the Barbados Mac Pie (mac & cheese some call it) but again, not like anyone elses.  If you like food with some kick (spice) and don't worry over new and unusual flavor mixtures, you'll be loving this place as much as we do.  It is one of our perennial favorites. Our least favorite things here are their salads--not that they are bad--but they are not super special--and you'd think they should be.
Things we liked and disliked: Get a PASSPORT--I won't explain here, but just ask for one. Then when you go back show your passport and you'll get a treat
Number in our party: varies--we often take folks from out of town here. But then we also just go by ourselves too,
Total Bill:  -- generally not too much & of course lunch is less than dinner.And tehy have nicely prioced $4.95 lunch specials.  But you can get a sandwich for dinner and that won't set you back much. Excluding drinks --if  you worked hard to spend money here I image two people could get their bill up to $40..but of course add drinks and it might go anywhere--and they do have good drinks.
Recommended? For sure
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? For us..because we like spicy food..we would have to say it is a 3+ 

FAMOUS DAVE'S

Date of last visit:  December 2009
Address: 7121 SW Nyberg Street, Tualatin, Oregon
Phone:  503-486-5631
Hours: better call to find out --open daily for lunch and dinner
Link:  Famous Dave's

General Impressions of the place itself:  This place is a chain--a busy chain -- not a health food restaurant.  It has a large waiting area --they give you buzzers and tell you to wait an hour.  The decor is the standard, professionally decorated barbecue motif with old car license plates, and made-to-look-old metal signs. Yawn to all of that.
What we ordered: multiple racks of ribs--both beef and baby backs,the ribs were very tender and gave no one reason to complain. We also got multiple sides. These were less inspiring --the slaw was standard stuff, same with the french fries.  The baked beans were OK but nothing special; the green beans were overcooked and not as spicy as advertised; the corn muffins were tasty; the corn on the cob was soggy.
Things we liked:  they had a nice variety of barbecue sauces on the table.
Things we didn't like:   the long wait was a drag --and it really is not worth it.  We would have to categorize this is a place for people who only feel safe going to a known chain. 
Number in our party:  6
Total Bill: $85  (not bad for 6, including 3 hungry teenage boys).  But that price was the result of our ordering three slabs and serving it all family style.  And only two people ordered drinks--the rest of us had water.)
Recommended? not so much, not that it is bad but the wait is a drag and we prefer supporting independent restaurateurs.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 2+

CASA DEL MATADOR

Date of last visit:  Dec 2009
Address:  2424 SE Burnside
Phone: 503-719-5757
Hours: 11 to 2 M-F; 9 to 2 weekends
Link: Matador Restaurants

To Note --there are two of these restaurants/bars in Portland, this review refers to the one on SE Burnside

General Impressions of the place itself:  decor has sort'a an upscale theme -- Spanish more than Mexican, with weird decorative touches: like giant mounted metal femur bones along side the front door. There is a lot of  wrought iron and colored glass hanging lamps; a big fire pit in the center; big TV's --covering seasonal sporting events--hanging over the bar.  On the door it say "no minors"  -- so they must be thinking of themselves as a bar--but they have a big menu and good food.  Maybe the best thing is, in the summer all the big windows, on two side of the restaurant open --and it makes it so you feel like you are sitting outside.
What we ordered: We stopped one time for dinner and had their Dungness Crab Cakes--they are not cheap but they are worth the money, they were full of crab and nice sized. We also got their enchilada, which was delicious.  Since then we have been back many time for their HAPPY HOUR MENU (4pm to 6pm. and 10pm to 1am) which is a really good buy.  You get full-size orders of items from their regular menu at about half the cost (all items are $4 or $5).  We are fond of the Shrimp and Blackened Fish Tacos--but everything we have ever had from the Happy Hour menu has been great.  
Things we liked:  Love the Happy Hour Menu and the open windows in the summer. 
Things we disliked: Can't take our grandchildren there
Number in our party: varies
Total Bill:  not counting drinks, for dinner plan on $20 to $30 per person  --at happy hour $10 to $15 will provide a big meal 
Recommended? Sure thing
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place? 3+

LAUGHING PLANET

Date of last visit:  beginning late 2009 / multiple times since
Address: multiple locations in Portland, go to link for details
our local restaurant is at 4405 SW Vermont St., Portland, OR 97219
Phone: 503-244-4254
Hours: check link for details
Link: Laughing Plantet

General Impressions of the place: Healthy Food, lots of veggies and beans -- the place is spacious, and comfortable, with wooden tables and booths; plastic dinosaurs on the tables; decor somewhere between cartoons and left-ish politics (statue of Mao on the wall, food named after revolutionary heroes, etc.) -- no table service, order at the counter then they bring you your food, bus your own table after eating.

What we ordered: While lots of things look good on their menu we are really stuck on the Spanky Bowl, a real comfort food dish, with mashed potatoes, fresh local sweet corn and fresh steamed broccoli all mixed together with Tillamock cheese.   We have also had the CUBAN BOWL, which features brown rice, black beans and sweet potatoes with pico de gallo (you name the spiciness). And the Berry Berry Smoothie is a nice way to get your daily fruit intake.  
* Another Visit:  Update: We went again and today we got 1) a Southwest Green Chili Burrito and 2) a Grilled Veggie Burrito.  They really were both very similar in taste with the emphasis on nicely done black beans with pico de gallo in both.  We also got two more, different smoothies (a Jungle Juice and a Banana Colada)  and they proved to be delicious, each better than the last.
Things we liked:  Like that they have take out!  Like the look of their bakery but haven't tried it yet.
Things we disliked:  Wish they served breakfast
Number in our party: 2
Total Bill:  two Spanky Bowls $12.50
Recommended? Yes --indeed we don't seem to be able to get enough of this place -- if you are craving a tasty plate of veggies and grains this place certainly fits the bill.
With a Five Star Scale - and Five being perfect - we rate this place?  3+