Cabezon calls themselves a neighborhood bistro in NE Portland, but they are so much more than that! The menu changes almost daily, depending on what is fresh and in season. They focus on locally sourced seafood and wood fired meats. Every item on the menu looked so good, we wanted to try everything! Each item blew me away, and somehow was better than the last. Cabezon clearly knows how to satisfy anyone’s appetite because they have been going strong since 2009.
We started our meal with basil and phyllo wrapped shrimp. The shrimp were plump and juicy inside and the phyllo was perfectly crisp. They were served with a creamy cashew sambal sauce and glass noodles which paired amazingly. Shrimp hasn’t always been my favorite because it’s so often overcooked, however, my opinion on shrimp has been forever changed.
Our final course consisted of cioppino and pancetta wrapped monkfish. I have had my fair share of cioppino as I often make it for myself at home. There were pretty high hopes for this one. I was served dungeness crab, muscles, clams, and white fish, in a silky tomato broth. There was a very slight spice and lots of aromatics coming off the broth. This was truly one of the best I’ve had. Lets talk about the monkfish. Wow! What a well thought out dish. Black trumpet leek ravioli, Kale, Brussels sprouts, and leek fondue all under a piece of monkfish. The broth was earthy, rich, smokey, and slightly sweet.
Do you have a craving for seafood yet? If you want to see what is on the menu tonight at Cabezon check out their current menu Here. If you’re looking for other great options take a look at our other featured businesses Here.