We recently received a query from a media friend in Chicago asking for our “off-the beaten path” suggestions for a wonderful Portland culinary weekend. 

While there are many ways to serve up an interesting mosaic of culinary destinations in our fair city, here’s our current short list for his specific line-up of requests.  

Friday Dinner – Ten 01

Saturday Breakfast – Simpatica, Podnah’s Pit

Saturday Lunch – Chef Naoko, Sugar Cube (for dessert)

Saturday Dinner – Nostrana

Late-night (cocktails or entertainment) – Davis Street Tavern

Sunday Brunch – Broder, Junior Ambassadors

A market for a picnic/food for the plane ride home - Steve’s Cheese, Saturday Market

Thanks to Amelia Hard for her tip on this kick*** new hole-in-the-wall near our office (1237 S.W. Jefferson Avenue).  Chef Naoka is a charming joint with outstanding organic Japanese options, open only for lunch, we found the food highly fresh with great clean flavors. We loved the salmon bentos — both the ginger and the herb.  

Lovely grilled zucchini and roasted tomato accompany the fish

The bento box is $ 10.00 and we also had the interesting rice cake sides stuffed with things like cheese (?!!) and seaweed (our favorite) and the seasonal salad ($5.50) which was dressed in a sweet Asian vinaigrette.

Delicious salad with beans, seaweed and other cool stuff

 Please check it out and let us know what you think!