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Jessica Berger and Tekela Fisher

Bistecca: From Portland’s Top Chef Winner

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Tucked into Northwest Portland, Bistecca is a wood-fired steakhouse that blends Pacific Northwest flavors with Italian elegance. With its warm design, glowing grill, and cocktail-forward menu, it’s the kind of place that works equally well for a celebratory dinner, date night, or a night out with friends.

Bistecca is helmed by Chef Gabriel Pascuzzi, winner of Top Chef Portland, who brings his Italian-American roots and Pacific Northwest sensibilities to every dish. The result is a menu that feels both refined and approachable, with a distinct personality you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Jessica Berger, That Portland Life
What We Ordered

Bistecca’s menu is all about bold flavors and thoughtful details, from creative cocktails to refined small plates and indulgent entrées. On our visit, we tried a little of everything—drinks, appetizers, mains, and sides—and left seriously impressed.

Cocktails
The cocktails were easily a highlight of the evening—among the best I’ve had in Portland.

cocktails from Bistecca
Cosmo from Bistecca
  • Fragola Festa – their take on a spicy margarita, layered with strawberry and heat for the perfect balance.
  • Cosmo – made with their own house-made limoncello, adding a bright, citrusy punch to a classic.
  • Aperol Spritz – part of a spritz menu with multiple options, leaning into the Italian aperitivo spirit.
  • Spring Sunset (zero-proof) – crafted with no-proof gin, strawberry, and an egg foam. Light, refreshing, and every bit as thoughtful as the boozy options.

Appetizers
We kicked things off with a trio of starters:

  • Crab Cakes – golden and flavorful, with a crisp exterior.
  • Lobster Rolls – buttery, decadent, and indulgent.
  • Hamachi Crudo with Watermelon – the standout of the bunch, offering a perfect balance of delicate fish and juicy sweetness.
crab cakes from Bistecca
lobster roles from Bistecca
Crudo from Bistecca

Entrées & Sides
The main courses showcased both refinement and creativity.

  • Filet – beautifully seasoned and perfectly cooked.
  • Scallops – plated elegantly, with a sear that made them as striking visually as they were delicious.
  • Burger – unlike any other in Portland, stuffed with oxtail and foie gras for a rich, indulgent twist.
  • Gnocchi with Shaved Truffles – silky, decadent, and luxurious.

For sides, we ordered:

  • Wood-Fired Mushrooms – smoky and savory.
  • Mashed Potatoes – creamy comfort food at its best.
  • Italian Elotes – a fun, flavorful spin on a classic.

Ambiance

Bistecca’s design walks the line between sophisticated and welcoming. The wood-fire grill sets a cozy tone, while the polished space feels elevated without being stuffy. Service was warm and attentive, and the overall vibe made the evening feel like something special without crossing into pretentious.

Bistecca Kitchen

Final Thoughts on Bistecca

For those looking for more than just a steakhouse, Bistecca is a standout addition to Portland’s dining scene. With a Top Chef winner at the helm, the cocktails are exceptional, the menu offers a mix of indulgence and finesse, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

Whether you’re drawn in by the wood-fired steaks, inventive cocktails, or simply the chance to try a burger stuffed with foie gras, Bistecca is well worth a visit. We’ll definitely be back to explore more of the menu and relive some of these standout dishes.

Libre

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Tucked away in Portland’s SE Clinton neighborhood, Libre is a moody, stylish bar that blurs the line between Japanese and Mexican influences. With dim lighting, a hip soundtrack, and a cocktail-forward menu, this is the perfect spot for a date night or a relaxed evening indulging in creative drinks and decadent desserts.

That Portland Life at Libre
What We Ordered

Libre specializes in expertly crafted cocktails and desserts, with a small selection of snacks for those wanting a bite to eat. On this visit, we leaned into the sweets and spirits, trying two inventive desserts and a standout cocktail.

The Oishii was a chocolate lover’s dream. A combination of dark and milk chocolate mousse provided deep richness, while blackberry sorbet cut through with its tartness. The dish also featured black sesame, plum gel, fresh plums, and blackberries, adding layers of flavor and texture. The one element that felt unnecessary? The ramen crunch—while it added a surprising crispy element, it didn’t quite feel like it belonged. Still, the dessert as a whole was indulgent and well-balanced.

Kyoto Lemonade - Libre Portland
Oishii - Libre portland

The Kyoto Lemonade took a completely different approach, leaning into bright, citrusy flavors. The Kyoto lemonade sorbet was incredibly tart on its own, while the green tea panna cotta had a bold, earthy depth. When combined, they created a surprisingly harmonious bite. The dish was topped with Madeira wine, honey smacks crunch, strawberry whipped cream, and flower sugar, adding both sweetness and crunch. For those who enjoy a balance of sharp citrus and creamy textures, this one is a must-try.

To pair with the desserts, we tried the Fantasia—a cocktail featuring blanco tequila, passionfruit, lime, and firewater bitters, finished with a spicy sugar rim. The passionfruit and lime gave it a juicy, tropical punch, while the firewater bitters and spicy rim added just the right amount of heat. It was refreshing, bold, and dangerously easy to drink.

For those looking for a zero-proof option, we also had The Geisha—a non-alcoholic twist on the classic Negroni. This drink features Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo (a locally made aperitif), Root Divino Aperitif Rosso, Seedlip Grove 42, and agave. The result? A balanced, herbaceous, and complex sip that holds its own alongside the boozy cocktails. If you love a bitter-forward drink but want to skip the alcohol, The Geisha is a solid choice.

Ambiance

Libre’s low lighting and intimate vibe make it an excellent setting for a night out, whether you’re on a date or just looking to sip cocktails in a stylish space. The music was upbeat yet unobtrusive, setting the mood without overpowering conversation. The staff was friendly and welcoming, adding to the laid-back yet refined atmosphere.

Final Thoughts on Libre

For those seeking an upscale yet approachable cocktail and dessert experience in Portland, Libre is a standout choice. The creative menu and inviting ambiance make it a perfect place to unwind with a drink in hand and a beautifully plated dessert in front of you. Whether you’re craving something indulgent like the Oishii or prefer the zesty contrast of the Kyoto Lemonade, Libre delivers on both taste and presentation. We will definitely be going back to be trying more of their delectable desserts!

Next time you’re in SE Clinton and in the mood for an elevated night out, Libre is well worth the visit.

Bar Loon

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Bar Loon shines as a sophisticated gem in Portland’s culinary scene, nestled on SE Belmont St. This stylish bar and restaurant redefines neighborhood dining with its fresh approach. The interior blends warm woods and industrial touches, with floral arrangements and sleek brasserie-style globe lights adding to its inviting, upscale ambiance. It’s the perfect spot for an intimate dinner, casual drinks, or a lively evening with friends.

bar loon bar
What We Ordered

Bar Loon’s menu features creative cocktails and elevated small plates, each crafted with precision and care. The bar staff, known for their mixology expertise and warm service, ensures every drink and dish is served to perfection.

To begin our evening, we started with a trio of cocktails that delighted our palates:

  • Pomegranate Spritz: A refreshing and festive drink, this cocktail combines pomegranate’s sweet-tart flavor with the effervescence of sparkling wine.
  • Blackberry Collins: A beautifully balanced vodka-based drink topped with house-made blackberry ginger soda for a hint of spice and sweetness.
  • Little Dirty Martini: A classic done right, this martini was perfectly chilled and had just the right touch of olive brine.
bar loon cocktails
bar loon artichokes

For the food, we sampled an array of dishes that showcased Bar Loon’s inventive approach to flavor:

  • Fried Artichokes with Calabrian Chile Mayo: Crispy, golden-brown artichokes paired with a spicy, creamy mayo made for a perfect starter.
  • Roasted Carrots with Tahini Verde and Za’atar: The standout dish of the night. The carrots were roasted to caramelized perfection and topped with a vibrant tahini verde and aromatic za’atar.
  • Burrata Panzanella Salad with Delicata Squash and Pomegranate: This dish was a symphony of textures. Featuring creamy burrata, sweet delicata squash, crunchy toasted bread, and bursts of pomegranate.
  • Grilled Prawns with Sauce Verte: Juicy prawns, grilled just right, were elevated by a bright and herbaceous sauce verte.
Ambiance

Bar Loon’s ambiance is part of its charm. The intimate, yet lively space feels polished but approachable. Music fills the air, and while the space has a vibrant energy and can get a bit loud, it’s still easy to comfortably converse with friends at your table. The glowing globe lights and thoughtfully arranged décor create an atmosphere that invites you to linger and enjoy. Whether you’re seated at the cozy bar or a candlelit table, every corner feels curated for comfort and style.

Final Thoughts on Bar Loon

Bar Loon is more than just a place to grab a bite or a drink—it’s an experience that combines exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for dinner or a full evening out, Bar Loon promises a memorable time. The thoughtful menu, standout dishes like the roasted carrots, and expertly crafted cocktails make it a must-visit destination in Portland.

Visit Bar Loon on SE Belmont Street and immerse yourself in an evening of exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that won’t disappoint!

What is Radon?

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January is National Radon Action Month! I frequently get asked by my clients which tests they should do during an inspection.  I always recommend a general inspection, a sewer scope, and a radon test. This is almost always followed by “what is radon?” Well, radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is slightly radioactive. Because of this radioactivity, it is dangerous to the human body in high doses. In fact, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the united states. Sounds a little scary right? Lucky for us, we can test for it!

It’s important to know there will be some level of radon present in all homes. The gas enters the home through the soil at the lowest level of the house. This is why the best place to test the radon is in the basement or near the crawl space entrance. You can buy simple tests at places like Home Depot or Lowe’s, or you can pay a professional to conduct a 3 day test. The professional tests are much more accurate, but if you are just curious about your home, the do-it-yourself test will suffice.

In the real estate world, an average of 4 Bq/m3 or becquerel per cubic meter is considered a safe level. Throughout the test the radon levels will fluctuate greatly, sometimes reading around 1 Bq/m3 sometimes it can go up to 90 Bq/m3  As long as the 3 day average is under 4 Bq/m3, the radioactivity in the Radon gas is not high enough to be greatly concerned about. If your average is higher than 4 Bq/m3  don’t worry, you don’t have to abandon the house! You simply have to have a mitigation system installed.

There are multiple different systems that can be installed but the most recommended system keeps the radon from entering your home at all. For example, the system shown has a fan that blows the gas from under the house to the exterior of the house so it can simply be diluted into the air. Currently radon systems average between 1500-2000 to install depending on the difficulty. These are commonly negotiated as part of a real estate transaction before closing. 

 

If you have other questions about radon gas, the EPA has a great site you can find here or leave them in the comments. As always, If I can help you or anyone else that you know with the purchase or sale of a home, I am never too busy to help!

10 Creative Ways to Revamp Your Home

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Winter is the perfect season to cozy up at home and breathe new life into your space. Whether you’re looking for small changes or a bold refresh, here are some fun and creative ways to revamp your home and make it a space you’ll love spending time in during the colder months.

1. Create a Cozy Reading Nook

Turn an unused corner into a cozy reading nook. Add a plush chair or oversized bean bag, layer in textured throws and cushions, and install a small shelf or side table to hold your favorite books and a warm mug of cocoa. Don’t forget soft lighting like a floor lamp or fairy lights to set the mood.

2. Refresh Your Walls with Color

Winter can feel a bit dreary, so why not brighten things up with a fresh coat of paint? Opt for a bold accent wall or try trending colors like rich greens, warm terracottas, or calming blues. If painting feels like too much of a commitment, experiment with removable wallpaper for an easy and temporary transformation.

3. Revamp Your Fireplace

Make your fireplace the star of the season. Update the mantle with winter-themed décor, like garlands, candles, or a vintage mirror. If you’re feeling ambitious, paint the fireplace surround or add a tile overlay for a completely new look.

4. Upgrade Your Lighting

The right lighting can transform your home during the darker winter months. Swap outdated fixtures for something modern and eye-catching, or add dimmable lights to create a warm, inviting ambiance. Don’t forget to layer your lighting—combine overhead lights with table lamps and string lights for a cozy vibe.

5. Add Luxurious Textiles

Winter is all about comfort, so bring in luxurious fabrics like velvet, faux fur, or chunky knits. Swap out lighter summer linens for heavier curtains, add a statement rug to a room, or refresh your bedding with warm, layered textures that make it hard to leave your bed in the morning. Here are our favorites* -> https://amzn.to/3Pn1bsw

6. Rearrange Your Furniture

Sometimes a fresh perspective is all you need. Rearranging your furniture can completely change the flow of a room. Try angling your couch toward the fireplace or creating a more intimate seating arrangement to encourage conversation during winter gatherings.

7. Start a Mini Indoor Garden

Bring life and color into your home with indoor plants. Low-maintenance options like pothos, snake plants, or succulents thrive indoors during winter. Add a plant stand or hang planters to create a lush, green vibe that counters the gray skies outside. Here is one of our favorite places for plants https://symbiop.com

8. Update Your Kitchen Décor

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so don’t neglect it this winter. Replace outdated cabinet hardware, add a chic backsplash, or display colorful, seasonal items like a bowl of winter citrus or festive mugs for an instant mood booster.

9. Makeover Your Entryway

Your entryway sets the tone for your home, so give it a refresh. Add a durable winter rug, a stylish bench with storage, and hooks for coats and scarves. If you have space, a console table with a mirror and a few decorative accents can make your entryway functional and inviting.

10. Create a DIY Art Wall

Use the extra time indoors to unleash your creativity. Gather your favorite prints, photos, or art pieces and create a gallery wall. Mix and match frames, or try a cohesive color scheme to tie the look together. It’s a fun way to personalize your home and showcase your style.

Winter doesn’t have to feel like hibernation—use the season as an opportunity to fall in love with your home all over again. Whether you tackle a big project or just make a few small tweaks, these ideas will keep your space feeling fresh, warm, and uniquely yours all winter long.

Which of these ideas will you try first? Let us know in the comments! Want to search for homes instead of sprucing up yours?

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January Events

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Happy New Year!! We hope that you are starting out the new year with a fresh look and excitement for what is to come, and what is more exciting than fun things to do around your city? Here are some of our favorite things that are coming up in January!

Studio Ghibli Fest at Omsi

Join OMSI for our annual Studio Ghibli Film Festival on the largest movie screen in Portland! Watch all your favorites, from My Neighbor Totoro to Kiki’s Delivery Service, to kick off 2025.

  • 1945 SE Water Ave – Omsi
  • pricing varies TICKETS
  • January 10th – February 6th

O-Shogatsu, Japanese New Year

O-Shogatsu is a time of celebration for the start of a new year and hopes for happiness and prosperity to come. The Garden will celebrate the beginning of 2025, the Year of the Snake, or hebi in Japanese.

  • 611 SW Kingston Ave – Portland Japanese Garden
  • $15.95+ TICKETS
  • January 12th – 10am – 2:30pm

Rose City Classic Dog Show

The Rose City Classic Series of Dog Shows is one of the largest and most popular dog events in the United States. Many of the best dogs in America and dogs from foreign countries travel to Portland each January to compete.

  • 2060 N Marine Dr – Portland Expo Center
  • $15+ – TICKETS
  • January 15th -19th

Portland Folk Festival

Portland’s Folk Festival began in 2018 at McMenamin’s White Eagle as a way for Portland musicians to come together to celebrate the burgeoning local scene and enjoy each other’s craft.

  • 1332 W Burnside St – Crystal Ballroom
  • $55+ TICKETS
  • January 17th -18th, 5pm-11:30pm

Winter Beer Fest

There are 2 festivals, one at each location, each on a different weekend. The fest is divided into three sessions. An entry pass will provide a branded festival glass, eight tasting tickets, a StormBreaker sticker, 20% off merchandise, and a coupon for a future StormBreaker Pint on your next visit.

  • Stormbreaker Brewing
  • $25 TICKETS
  • January 17th-18th @ St. Johns Brewery
  • January 25th -26th @ Mississippi Brewery

FAN EXPO Portland

Formerly Wizard World Portland, this is the ultimate place to celebrate fandom. Join tens of thousands of fans just like you and experience the ultimate playground for comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming

  • 777 NE MLK Jr – Oregon Convention Center
  • $28+ TICKETS
  • January 24th – 26th

Fathom Immersive Art Experience

FATHOM is a new immersive art experience produced by Portland-based creative collective Roboto Octopodo. Featuring oodles of otherworldly undersea-themed creations in the heart of downtown Portland, FATHOM will delight and inspire visitors of all ages!

  • 520 SW 4th Avenue
  • $22 TICKETS
  • November 15th and 16th, 5pm-10pm

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

2024 Comprehensive Report

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Download Report

Welcome to our 2024 Comprehensive Market Report, tailored to provide an insightful overview of real estate trends across Portland and its major suburbs. This year has been unique—some areas experienced a decline in home values for the first time in over a decade. While the Portland Metro appreciated just over 2% overall, a closer look at specific areas reveals a more nuanced story. High interest rates, market uncertainty, and buyer anticipation of future rate drops have significantly impacted trends.

These elevated interest rates are also keeping many sellers in their homes longer than usual. Compared to last year, listings are down by just over 1,000, but with closed sales up by over 6,000, this trend could lead to a low-inventory situation once again.

Although statistics show we currently have three months’ worth of inventory on the market, the reality feels different. Well-priced, updated homes are still selling quickly, often with multiple offers, while less-competitive listings linger and skew the data.

Inside this guide, you’ll find neighborhood-specific breakdowns of key trends, including median home prices, types of homes available, and how each area fared in 2024. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply keep up with the Portland market, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to make confident decisions.

Portland’s real estate isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the communities that make this city vibrant. From the streets of Alberta to the suburbs of Beaverton, every statistic tells a story. Explore the full report to see how your neighborhood fits into this year’s dynamic real estate landscape.

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As always, feel free to reach out with any questions, and if 2025 is the year you’re ready to make a move, let’s chat! Here’s to a happy and successful 2025!

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November Events

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The leaves are changing, the air is cooling, and the rain is starting to move in. That also means people are getting ready for the holiday season. That means there is no shortage of fun events to do in November to keep your mind off the changing weather. Enjoy and if we missed anything you love, please let us know!

Portland Book Festival

The largest celebration of literature and literacy in the Pacific Northwest includes an extensive book fair, large-scale events, smaller panels, on-stage conversations, and readings, all held at and around the Portland Art Museum

  • 1219 SW Park
  • pricing varies TICKETS
  • Saturday Nov 2nd

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

  • The Pearl District
  • Free
  • Nov. 7th; 5pm – 10pm though gallery hours vary.

Kumoricon

Kumoricon embodies the best parts of fandom and what it is to live in the Pacific Northwest. Stretching across generations, anime fans have gathered together for an amazing annual event. The Kumoricon family grows yearly, making it the largest anime convention in Oregon.

  • Oregon Convention Center
  • pricing varies – TICKETS
  • November 8-10th

Veterans Day Parade

The Portland Veterans Day Parade is an inclusive, nonpartisan, family-friendly event honoring all Veterans, past and present, living and deceased.

  • MLK and Beech – MLK and Emerson
  • Free
  • Monday, Nov. 11th. 10am – 12pm

Snack Fest

You’ll experience live entertainment, demos, educational breakout sessions and opportunities to meet the makers of your favorite food and products. You’ll also have the ability to experience special, one-off pop-up’s from chefs near and far. There are ticketed experiences inside the event, but no entrance fees.

  • Alder Block
  • Free
  • November 15-17th, times vary

Portland Holiday Market

More than 100,000 square feet of display space are filled with hundreds of exhibitors. Food items, gifts, artwork, jewelry, home décor, clothing, spirits, craft items, books, ornaments, leather goods, bath and body, and much more. This show has handcrafted, artisan and unique items you’ll never find in big box stores. 

  • Portland Expo Center
  • $12 -$27 TICKETS
  • November 15th – 17th

Brew Lights

Enjoy the twinkling magical wonderland of ZooLights—without any kids. Enjoy the sixth annual BrewLights, presented by TriMet, a ZooLights brew festival experience for the 21-and-over crowd with more than 45 Northwest breweries and cideries to sample from.

  • Oregon Zoo
  • $40-$65 TICKETS
  • November 15th and 16th, 5pm-10pm

Wine Country Thanksgiving

During Wine Country Thanksgiving more than 150 wineries open their doors to the public, offering samples of favorite labels and special vintages. The holiday weekend festivities include live music, food and wine pairings, and the opportunity to visit with winemakers at some of Oregon’s top wineries — including many not usually open to the public.

  • Various Locations
  • Pricing varies by winery
  • Nov. 22nd – 24th and Nov. 29th – Dec 1st

Meat and Cheese Festival

With the recent boom in artisan shops across the Pacific Northwest the Cheese and Meat Festival aims to showcase products that you would see on a “charcuterie board” and items that pair with the board. Think Cheeses, meats, pickles, bread’s etc.

  • Leftbank Annex
  • $75+ TICKETS
  • Nov. 23rd, 3pm start or 7pm start times available.

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Portland’s Tree Lighting will be live in person at Pioneer Courthouse Square the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 24th. Featuring a joyful sing-along with Portland’s own Thomas Lauderdale from Pink Martini, local musicians and chorale singers, this event is the highlight of the holiday season downtown.  

  • Pioneer Courthouse Square
  • Free
  • November 29th, 5:30pm

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!