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Jessica Berger

Dining Solo

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We recently have found ourselves dining solo in recent months. We have found that it is a really nice way to treat yourself. Now, if you’re looking for the best restaurants in Portland to dine alone, you’re in luck! Here are some great options:

  1. Davenport – A combination of nostalgic favorites, Basque-region standards, and excellent seafood, all delivered with Davenport’s characteristic casual yet attentive service.
  2. Coquine – A charming French-inspired bistro with a cozy atmosphere and delicious, seasonal fare. The bar seating and counter overlooking the kitchen are great options for solo diners.
  3. Han Oak – A Korean-inspired restaurant featuring communal seating and an open kitchen. The bar seating is a great spot for solo diners to enjoy the action while savoring the delicious food.
  4. Tusk – A stylish Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant with a gorgeous interior and a menu of vibrant, seasonal dishes. The bar seating and communal table are perfect for solo diners.
  5. Afuri – A Japanese restaurant specializing in ramen and yuzu-flavored cocktails. The counter seating is a great spot for solo diners to watch the chefs at work.
  6. Kachka – A modern Russian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and a menu of delicious, shareable dishes. The bar seating is perfect for solo diners to enjoy a meal while sipping on a creative cocktail.
  7. Normandie – Normandie combines modern French inspiration with the bounties of the Pacific Coast. The menu focuses on small plates with big flavor. Expect a seafood heavy, flavor-forward food menu as well as an inventive cocktail program.
  8. Arden – Is an opportunity to escape, indulge and restore. Highlighting seasonal local ingredients and wines, Arden seeks to re-connect you to your community and your peace of mind.

We focused on higher end restaurants this time around so dining solo can truly feel like a treat, but if you’d like us to do a list of more causal restaurants, be sure to let us know!! If you are looking for some of our other lists, you can find them all HERE

Sweedeedee

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Looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some homemade comfort food in Portland? Look no further than Sweedeedee, a charming cafe located in the North Portland neighborhood. This little gem has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and for good reason.

First and foremost, the food at Sweedeedee is simply delicious. Everything on the menu is made from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You know you’re getting the best of the best. Some standout dishes include the buttermilk biscuits (a must-try!), the fried chicken sandwich, and the seasonal pies (trust us, you won’t be able to resist).

We wanted to try something new this time around so we opted for their sandwiches. They were absolutely delicious and I was glad to have branched out!!

But it’s not just the food that makes Sweedeedee so special – it’s the atmosphere too. The cafe has a cozy, vintage-inspired vibe that’s both welcoming and eclectic. From the quirky knick-knacks to the mismatched chairs and tables, every detail feels thoughtfully curated. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a lazy afternoon catching up with friends or getting lost in a good book.

And let’s not forget about the service – the staff at Sweedeedee are some of the friendliest you’ll find in the city. They’re always happy to chat, offer recommendations, or just make sure you’re having a good time. It’s the kind of warm, welcoming service that keeps people coming back again and again.

So next time you’re in Portland and looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some delicious comfort food, head to Sweedeedee. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

Why should you move to Oregon?

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Are you thinking of moving to the Beautiful state of Oregon? We put together this quick video which highlights just a couple reasons why we think you will love it here.

Oregon, known as the “Beaver State”, is one of the most beautiful places in the United States. It’s located in the Pacific Northwest and is filled with stunning scenery, a rich culture, and diverse communities. If you’re thinking about moving, here are some reasons why Oregon should be at the top of your list.

First of all, Oregon has a vibrant urban scene. Portland, the largest city in the state, is known for its lively downtown, trendy neighborhoods, and quirky culture. From craft beer to farm-to-table cuisine, Portland is a foodie’s paradise. And if you’re into biking or walking, Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, with over 350 miles of bike lanes.

outside the city

But Oregon isn’t just about the city life. The state also boasts over 360 miles of beautiful coastline, with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque lighthouses. Whether you’re into surfing, kayaking, or just lounging on the beach, Oregon has something for everyone.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love in Oregon. The state is home to Crater Lake National Park, one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. The lake, which was formed by a collapsed volcano, is the deepest in the United States and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains.

If you’re a wine lover, you’ll be happy to know that Oregon has a thriving wine industry. The state is known for its Pinot Noir, and the Willamette Valley is home to over 500 wineries. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of wine, you’ll find something to love in the Oregon wine country.

Finally, if you’re a fan of the arts, Oregon has plenty to offer. The state is home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, one of the most prestigious theater festivals in the country. And if you’re more into music, the state is known for its thriving indie music scene, with countless venues and festivals throughout the year.

in conclusion

From the bustling city life to the peaceful wilderness, we truly have it all. With its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, there’s never been a better time to make the move to the Beaver State.

Do we have you convinced? You can search for homes HERE. Or learn more about Jessica HERE. We look forward to connecting soon.

Counter Service Restaurants

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Portland, Oregon is a city with a diverse and thriving food scene. From farm-to-table fine dining to food carts and street food, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, counter service restaurants are a great option. Here are some of the best counter service restaurants in Portland that you need to check out:

Bluto’s

Bluto’s is a wood fired, greek inspired restaurant where you can find some of the best hummus in the city. You can also find unique cocktails many inlcuding ouzo.

2838 SE Belmont

Bollywood Theatre

Bollywood Theatre is an Indian street food restaurant with two locations in Portland. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes, including samosas, chaat, and curries. The vibrant and colorful decor adds to the fun and lively atmosphere.

  • 3010 SE Division
  • 2039 NE Alberta

Danwei Canting

Danwei Canting is a Chinese restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including dumplings, noodles, and bao buns. The menu is inspired by the street food of Chengdu, China, and features bold and spicy flavors.

803 SE Stark

Grassa

Grassa is a pasta restaurant that specializes in handmade noodles and sauces. The menu features a variety of classic pasta dishes, such as spaghetti and meatballs, as well as more unique options, such as bacon carbonara.

  • 1375 SE Hawthorne
  • 1205 SW Washington
  • 1506 NW 23rd

Guero

Güero is a Mexican taqueria that serves delicious tacos, burritos, and bowls. The menu features traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist. The fresh ingredients and homemade salsas make these tacos some of the best in Portland.

200 NE 28th

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a southern Thai restaurant that specializes in fried chicken and roti. The chicken is marinated in a special blend of spices and served with a variety of sauces. The roti is flaky and buttery and perfect for dipping into the curry dishes.

  • 605 SE Belmont
  • 1605 NE Killingsworth

Nong’s Khao Man Gai

Nong’s Khao Man Gai is a Thai restaurant that specializes in a popular street food dish in Thailand. The dish consists of poached chicken, rice cooked in chicken broth, and a side of sauce made from fermented soybeans, ginger, garlic, and Thai chilies.

  • 609 SE Ankeny st C
  • 417 SW 13th

XLB

XLB is a Chinese dumpling restaurant that serves xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings. The dumplings are filled with a variety of meats and vegetables and served with a side of black vinegar and ginger.

4090 N Williams

Portland has no shortage of amazing counter service restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for Indian street food, Thai fried chicken, handmade pasta, or gourmet donuts, you’ll find something delicious in this foodie city.

Bluto’s

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This past week we revisited Bluto’s Greek Restaurant. It was opened by the same great minds as Lardo. Seeing as we love Lardo as much as we do (best sandwich in portland) we knew to expect good things from Bluto’s.

Bluto’s is a wood fired greek inspired restaurant, so don’t expect authentic, but do expect char. The restaurant is casual but elevated. The chef calls it “fast casual plus”. He sees it as the way portland is headed, Fine dining food in a casual atmosphere. Time will tell if he is correct.

The have a small but creative cocktail menu. I had the ‘Greek it to me’ which was tequila and cucumber and very refreshing. There are lots of other fun cocktails that I am excited to go back and try. If cocktails aren’t your thing, they also have greek wine and local beers to choose from.

The food

As for the food, it was truly delicious. We tried many of the things on the menu and there was only one thing that we didn’t love. The cauliflower with lentils just didn’t work for me. The dish had lots of potential, but it was too much char for me.

The rest of the things we loved. The biggest standout was absolutely the hummus. It’s silky smooth, super flavorful, and is divine with the house made flatbread. We also loved the beet salad with quinoa, it came with a black tahini sauce that was heavenly. We also tried the chicken, shrimp, and lamb skewers. The chicken was the best for me, tender, flavorful, juicy, I could go on. The lamb was a close second, especially considering lamb is a hard protein to find in Portland.

For dessert we had chocolate soft serve, which takes just like the nostalgic soft serve you are thinking of now, and baklava, which should not be skipped!

I can definitely say that I will be coming back to Bluto’s. Its expensive for counter service, but maybe the chef is onto something with his upscale fast casual theme. Have you been? Let us know what you think!

Pink Rabbit: A Hidden Gem in Portland

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If you’re looking for a unique and stylish bar experience in Portland, look no further than Pink Rabbit Cocktail Bar. This hidden gem is tucked away in a corner of the city and is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a date night with your significant other.

The bar is known for its playful and colorful interior, which is inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. The walls are adorned with vintage-style posters, and the lighting is soft and romantic, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Drinks

But what really sets Pink Rabbit apart is their incredible drinks menu. The bar is dedicated to creating the perfect cocktail, using only the freshest ingredients and expert mixology techniques. Their menu features classic cocktails with a twist, as well as unique creations that are sure to surprise and delight.

One of the most popular drinks is the “Rabbit Hole”, a gin-based cocktail with fresh berries and a hint of rosewater. It’s light and refreshing, with just the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Another standout is the “Caterpillar’s Elixir”, a delicious blend of whiskey, honey, and lemon, topped with a colorful butterfly pea flower.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, Pink Rabbit has you covered too. They offer a variety of mocktails, including the “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party”, a blend of hibiscus tea, lemon, and honey.

The Food

In addition to their drinks menu, Pink Rabbit also offers a small but carefully curated food menu, featuring small plates and snacks to complement your drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Overall, Pink Rabbit is the perfect place to unwind after a long day, or to celebrate a special occasion. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will make you feel right at home. Their inventive drinks and delicious food will leave you wanting more. So next time you’re in Portland, be sure to check out this hidden gem.

Christmas Tree Farms

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Ah the holidays, the time of year when we can all eat too much food, drink too many drinks, and decorate our houses with little twinkling lights. Regardless of how you celebrate, one of the high points of the holidays is having the smell of fresh pine take over your home. Luckily, we have tons of great tree farms right here in the Portland Metro area! Here are a list of some of our favorites!

Furrow Farms

furrow farms
  • Opens Black Friday
  • Trees $11 a foot
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 10-5
    • Saturday – Sunday 9-5
  • 25877 NW West Union Rd.
  • Hillsboro, OR. 97124

Thornton’s Treeland

thorntons treeland
  • Opens Black Friday
  • Tree pricing as marked
  • COUPON
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 10-5
    • Saturday – Sunday 9-5
  • 7617 NE 119th St
  • Vancouver, WA 9866

Helvetia Christmas Tree Farm

helvetia tree farm
  • Opens Black Friday, weekends only
  • U-Cut Trees $70 (first weekend only)
  • Pre-cut $60 (through December 4th)
  • 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

  • 12814 NW Bishop Rd
    Hillsboro, OR 97124

  • 503-334-0905
    Online: https://www.helvetia-christmas-tree-farm.com

Christmas Mountain Choose and Cut

christmas mountain choose and cut
  • Opens on Black Friday – December 11th
  • Trees $10-$18 a foot
  • Reservation required – Tickets
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 10-4:30
    • Saturday – Sunday 9-4:30
  • 25470 NW Dixie Mountain Rd.
  • Scappoose, OR 97056

503-621-3169

online: www.christmasmountaintrees.com

Lee Farms

lee farms, tree
  • Open Now – Dec 23rd
  • Trees $10-$24 a foot
  • Hours: Tuesday – Friday noon-4
    • Saturday – Sunday 9-4
  • 21975 SW 65th Ave 
  • Tualatin  OR 97062

(503) 638-1869

online: www.leefarmsoregon.com/christmas-trees

Sauvie Island Farms

  • Open Black Friday Weekend ONLY
  • Trees $50
  • Hours: 9am-5pm
  • 19818 NW Sauvie Island Rd 
  • Portland, OR 97231

503-621-3988

online: http://www.sauvieislandfarms.com/

Loch Lolly Christmas Forest

  • Opens Black Friday – December 12th
  • Tree pricing varies
  • Hours: 9-5 daily
  • 28366 NW Dorland Rd 
  • North Plains, Oregon 97133

503-647-2619

online: http://www.lochlollychristmasforest.com

Washougal River Christmas Trees

christmas tree - washougal river
  • Open Black Friday – Dec. 23rd
  • Trees $49.95
  • Hours: 9-5 Daily
  • 39336 NE Washougal River rd
  • Washougal, WA 98671

Quail Creek Ranch

  • Open Weekends
  • Trees $20+
  • Hours: Friday – Sunday 9-5
  • 9949 NW Kaiser Road
  • Portland, OR 97231

Enjoy the smell of fresh cut pine in your home this year! We certainly will, and happy holidays to you and your family!

Be Ready to Buy

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You need to be ready to buy when the market shifts. 

We still have an inventory crisis, and that will keep the market from crashing.  Pricing will continue going down as long as the interest rates continue to climb. As soon as inflation is back under control, they will drop the rates again.  When they do, you want to be ready to buy so you can enjoy the climb and build wealth.  

What do you need to do to be a ready to buy? Here are the 4 things I would focus on to best position yourself for a future purchase. 

Save your money.

You’ll need a downpayment and the more money you can put down, the better the house will be. Set aside a percentage of every paycheck, somewhere you can’t touch it, and let it build up as much as you can. If the bulk of your money is tied up in investments, I’d pull it and hold the cash so the stock market isn’t deciding how large of a downpayment you have. Of course talk with your financial advisor about this strategy, but stocks are also predicted to continue declining.  

Pay down your debts.

Your debt to income ratio is a huge part of being able to buy a house. Start with paying off your smaller debts and then wrap those payments into the larger debts. This will put yourself in as strong a position as possible.  

Work on your credit score.

This will improve naturally as you pay your debts down. You also want to make sure you stay up to date on all your payments and remove any past delinquencies that may still be showing up.  Free credit report sites can give you a quick overview, but for a better look I’d head over to one of the actual reporting agencies.  

Hone what you want to buy.

Once interest rates come back down, there will be a frenzy again because we don’t have any inventory.  Knowing exactly what you want to buy will put you in the best position to immediately jump on it when it comes on the market.  

This market is different than anything we have ever seen before, and as such we are all learning something new everyday.  If it were my money, I’d be buying homes as soon as the interest rates hit 5.5%. If you want to talk about a buying strategy, or what this could mean for you, please reach out!

Want to meet with us? You can schedule with us HERE