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Portland’s Best Take-out

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As summer winds to a close and the impending rains are looming, most of us Portlanders start steering away from the patios and into our cozy homes with some great take-out. Whether you are feeling like tacos or Thai, pizza or poke, we’ve got you covered here in our list of Portland’s Best Take-Out!

Arawan Thai

Delicious Thai take-out with locations in Vancouver and Happy Valley. Tons of menu choices, tender meats, and the perfect spice level make this spot stand out. Check that menu Here.

Vancouver, WA and Happy Valley locations. Open 11 am-8:30 pm 7 days a week.

Assembly Brewing

Detroit-style pizza at its finest! Options vary from meat lovers to veggie friendly, but just don’t forget the beer on your way out. Menu Here

6112 SE Foster Rd, Portland, OR 97206. Open 11 am-10 pm 7 days a week.

Ate-Oh-Ate

When you are craving some delicious Hawaiian food on the go, Ate-Oh-Ate is a fantastic choice. The Kal-Bi Ribs are my personal go to, but there is something on the menu to make everyone smile. Check them out Here.

Locations on E Burnside and SE Woodstock. Open 11-9 Daily

Dough Zone

Delicious Chinese comfort food has made it’s appearance on the South Waterfront and we will say do NOT sleep on those dumplings! Full menu can be found Here.

1910 S River Dr, Portland, OR 97201. Open 11 am-10 pm 7 days a week.

Ki’ikibáa

Incredible Yucatecan cuisine can be found in this cute lil spot on 82nd. Salbutes, Panuchos, Cochinita Pibil- bring your appetite! No official website, but you can check out their specials on Insta.

3244 NE 82nd Ave Portland, OR 97220. Open 11 am-9 pm Tues-Sun.

Nicholas Restaurant

Wonderfully fresh and super shareable Lebanese and Mediterranean food can be found at any of the 3 locations of Nicholas’ Restaurant. Check out the deliciousness Here.

Locations at SE Madison, NE Broadway, and Gresham. Open Daily- 11 or 12 to 8 or 9.

Hat Yai

Styled after the street chicken and roti shops of Southern Thailand, this is a great spot to grab a combo set of curry, roti, and their famous fried chicken. Menu can be found Here.

Locations on NE Killingsworth and SE Belmont. Open Daily- 11:30-3 and 4-9.

My Brothers Crawfish

If you’re looking for Creole cooking then look no further. They specialize in seafood boils, but also have a full menu of southern classics such as gumbo and hush puppies. Check out their full menu Here

8230 Se Harrison St, Portland Oregon 97236. Open 7 days a week from 3pm- 10pm.

Seasweets Poke

Looking for something fresh and filling? Seasweets Poke does the trick! Customizable bowls of rice or kale salad topped with fresh raw fish and your choice of assorted toppings. Menu can be found Here.

Locations on SE 31st, in Clackamas, and in Beaverton. Open Daily- 11 am 9pm.

Miss Delta

How about some BBQ? There are plenty of options to satisfy your smoked meat craving. Some of your options include brisket, baby back ribs, and pulled pork. The options don’t stop there however, They offer an entire brunch menu as well! Take a closer look at the menu Here

3950 N Mississippi Ave, Portland OR 97227 Open 12-9 Daily. 

Swagat Indian Cuisine

Wonderful flavors and spices abound at Swagat, and they are hands-down my personal top pick for Indian take-out in the Portland Metro area. Check out the deliciousness Here.

Locations in NW Portland, Beaverton, and Hillsboro. Open Daily- 11:30-2:30 and 5-9.

Pollo Bravo

pollo bravo take-out

Rotisserie Chicken is pretty hard to beat when it’s done perfectly! You’ll never be disappointed here. Options include 1/4, 1/2, or 1 whole bird with some pretty awesome side dishes like Radicchio Salad and 5 different sauces to pick form as well. Take a look at their full menu Here

1225 N Killingsworth, Portland, OR 97217. Open 11:30-9 Tues-Sun, 4-9 Mon.

We hope you enjoy this list of our favorite spots for take-out in Portland! If we missed your favorite, please let us know in the comments, we LOVE trying new places!

Or if you want to see what else we have been loving, you can see our other “best-of” lists HERE. Let us know what you are loving in the comments.

The Houston Blacklight

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Clinton street just got some funky new flavor and it’s name is the The Houston Blacklight. We got to check out this rad new hangout during their opening week and let me tell you, we are obsessed! The entire place is a multisensory experience like no other, and we are very confident that it will be a Clinton street mainstay for many years to come.

One of my favorite things about the space is that the decor is not just decor, it is an immersive experience. From beaded curtains to run your hands along to a whole tasseled wall at the entrance to the color-shifting artwork in the bathrooms, there is always something incredible to look at or touch in The Houston Blacklight. As the name for the bar is taken from the company that produced the psychedelic blacklight posters of the 70’s, it is only appropriate that they would fully live up to that experience.

The cocktails at The Houston Blacklight are imaginative and delightful, with creative combinations that sound like they shouldn’t really work and then they really, really do. A great example of this is the Many Things Cannot Fly- a combo of blackberry gin, coconut rum, Jager and black sesame orgeat. I thought this would NOT be my thing and then I loved it! My personal favorite of the evening though was the Silence is Silly- an incredibly refreshing mix of gin, lime aperitif, Bitter Bianco, cucumber, and salted plum. I would drink these all day and all night if my liver would allow.

The Houston Blacklight shines in the food department as well. They take bar classics and comfort food staples and then put their signature Malaysian-ish twist (with a dabble of French) on them. The Grilled Roti stuffed with cheese is dipped into a spicy tomato curry for an outstanding twist on the classic. French onion ramen hits such a perfect note, it makes you wonder why it hasn’t been done before. My biggest regret of the night was that we shared the Bone Marrow Burger, rather than me just stuffing the entire juicy, rich, indulgent thing into my face alone.

Long story short, you are going to want to go this place. Eat all of the things. Drink all of the things. Play like you are a kid again or a slightly mind-altered adult. We certainly cannot wait to go back and do it all again.

Have you been to the Houston Blacklight yet? What did you think? Let us know in the comments or check them out Here.

Dirty Pretty

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Nestled in the heart of Portland’s East Burnside Street, Dirty Pretty stands as a captivating cocktail bar and kitchen that promises an enchanting escape from the ordinary. With a blend of whimsical charm and alluring mystery, this new addition to the city’s nightlife has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Dirty Pretty cabana
Dirty Pretty Patio
Dirty Pretty
A Taste of Imagination

Dirty Pretty boasts a cocktail list that pushes the boundaries of traditional mixology, thanks to the artistry of some of the finest bartenders in town. Among the signature cocktails, “Plume” takes center stage with a tantalizing fusion of gin, campari, strawberry, and pink peppercorn. The result is a playful yet sophisticated drink that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.

Another must-try is the “Spirited Away” cocktail – a delightful concoction of gin, sake, lichi, lemongrass, and ginger. The well-balanced blend of flavors offers a refreshing twist, making it a delightful choice for cocktail enthusiasts seeking something new.

Beyond the spirited drinks, Dirty Pretty offers a variety of non-alcoholic options, including the “Dawn Patrol” – a delightful mix of blueberry-malt, coconut, kumquat, and black tea. Even non-drinkers can enjoy a taste of adventure at this charming establishment.

A Culinary Voyage

Executive Chef Alex Wong leads the culinary journey at Dirty Pretty, drawing inspiration from Hawaiian culinary subcultures that have delighted patrons at the bar’s sister establishments, Fools and Horses, and Pink Rabbit. The food menu complements the adventurous cocktails, offering a range of tantalizing delights.

Rabbit Spring Rolls are an intriguing twist on a classic favorite. These savory spring rolls offer a blend of flavors that captivate the taste buds, leaving diners eager for more. The dish showcases the chef’s commitment to innovation and creativity.

For those seeking a more substantial treat, the Pork Stuffed Scallion Cake is a must-order. Combining tender pork with the delightful freshness of scallions, this dish offers a delightful burst of flavors that perfectly complements the cocktail selection.

The Captivating Atmosphere

Stepping into Dirty Pretty is like entering a world of magical ambiance. The bar’s decor effortlessly blends whimsical elements with a touch of moody sophistication. Vintage accents, combined with thoughtfully curated furniture, create an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and mysterious. Whether you’re catching up with friends or indulging in some personal time, Dirty Pretty offers the perfect setting for a captivating evening.

Conclusion

Dirty Pretty, nestled in Portland’s East Burnside Street, is a must-visit for anyone looking to embark on a captivating journey through innovative mixology and adventurous cuisine. The whimsical charm of the bar, combined with the moody ambiance, sets the stage for a night to remember. Whether you’re savoring the imaginative cocktails or indulging in the delectable dishes, Dirty Pretty is a sanctuary for those seeking an escape from everyday life.

So why not let yourself be carried away by the allure of Dirty Pretty? Gather your friends, embrace the sense of wonder, and enjoy a night of enchantment and delight at this captivating cocktail bar and kitchen.

Want to see some homes in the area?

Portland Distilleries

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Here in Portland we love our alcohol, distilleries are no different! Most people know Portland for our IPA’s or for our pinot noir, but we also make some incredible liquor! Sorted by location, here are some of the places we think you should visit! As a bonus, these distilleries are all a part of Portland’s distillery row, you can buy a passport and have many of the tasting fees waived, or get other fun perks! You can see all the details over on the website.

Freeland Spirits

  • 12-6 pm daily
  • 2671 NW Vaughn St
  • Women owned and operated
  • Gins and Bourbon

New Deal Distillery

  • 12-6 pm daily
  • 900 SE Salmon St

Vodka, whiskey, gin, rum, liqueurs, pre-made cocktails.

Westward Whiskey

  • 12-7 pm Thursday – Monday
  • 65 SE Washington St

A variety of whiskeys

Straightaway Cocktails

  • Hours vary, visit website for details
  • 901 SE Hawthorne Blvd

premixed cocktails made with various liquors

Stone Barn Brandyworks

  • 11-5 pm Monday – Friday, 12-5 Saturday and Sunday.
  • 3315 SE 19th Ave B

Brandy, Whiskey, Liqueurs

503 Distilling

  • 3-9 pm Thursday – Sunday
  • 4784 SE 17th Ave

Cocktails in a can!

Shine Distilling

  • 4-10 pm Wednesday – Sunday
  • 4232 N Williams Ave
  • LGBTQ owned and operated
  • Vodka, Gin, Whiskey

Wild Roots Spirits

  • 12-6 pm daily
  • 77 NE Grand Ave

Vodka, Gin, Vodka sodas

Aimsir Distilling

  • 4-10 pm Wednesday – Sunday
  • 2117 NE Oregon St

Gin, Whiskey, Bourbon

Aria Portland Dry Gin

  • 12-6 pm Daily
  • 2304 NW Savier St

Gin

Bull Run Distilling

  • 12 – 6 pm Wednesday – Sunday
  • 2259 NW Quimby St

Whiskey and Vodka

Did we miss anywhere that you love? Let us know in the comments!

Bellwether

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Hot Spot of the Week this week is the fantastic new Southeast spot Bellwether! We finally got a chance to check out this much-talked-about watering hole. I would say we were quite delighted with what we found!

As soon as I walked in the door, I felt transported. The dark wood, coffered ceilings, deep booths, and low light reminded me of a time and place of the past. The tasteful decor and sultry jazz added to the whole picture. It’s cozy, classic, and definitely a place you will want to bring someone special for a date night soon.

The cocktail list takes a more modern bent, combining interesting amaros and liqueurs with classic drink profiles for a fun twist. I started my evening with the No. 5, a smoky and strong blend of tequila, mezcal, Carpano Antica, and Cynar. This drink has the vibe of a Manhattan, but with the complex interplay of smoky agave and herbal notes it hits a whole other level. I followed that up with the No. 10. Gin, Camparo Bianco, Absinthe, Chartreuse, and Soda combined to make a bright and refreshing sipper. Again, the addition of the anise and herbals adds those extra layers that take it beyond the classic gin and soda.

Another aspect I appreciated greatly about Bellwether is the lovely simplicity of the wine list. It is short but well-curated, with simple labels telling you what to expect. You can feel safe in your choices of ‘Good Bubbles’ or ‘Bold Red’. Or you can get a little experimental with ‘Orange Wine for the Brave’. Either way, it removes the guesswork of whether to order this or that wine based on what you are looking for.

The visit wouldn’t have been complete without ordering a few snacks. The food menu at Bellwether is minimal but also will fulfill most needs. I grabbed a starter of the meat plate, which had salami, spicy coppa, and pork rilletes, with a variety of pickled veg and crackers on the side. The meats were Olympia Provisions (so you know they are spot on) and I really loved the pickled kohlrabi addition. For my main I went with the pan seared chicken thighs which were served with an Israeli couscous and wild mushrooms. The chicken was super juicy and tender and the couscous was bright and lemony with perfect earthiness from the mushrooms. 10/10 would eat again!

Bellwether certainly lives up to the hype they have been getting and I’m excited to head back and try all of the rest of their offerings! Check out their menu and plan your visit Here.

Where should we check out for our next Hot Spot? Let us know in the comments!

Arden

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We had the pleasure of dining at Arden last week, and it was phenomenal. I’m a true portlander when it comes to food. I LOVE farm to table NW Cuisine. After following Arden on instagram and participating in some of the weekly wine talks, I was beyond excited to try this pearl district gem.

Arden Patio

They have a great wine list with multiple options in all styles, including sparkling (yay!). A temporary patio if you are not yet comfortable dining indoors, and a waitstaff that is both friendly and helpful when its time to make a decision.

We wanted to try basically everything on the menu, but luckily our waiter helped us narrow things down to items that would pair well with each other and our sparkling wine. We ended up choosing a burrata salad, smoked trout toast, and foie gras to start with.

The vegetables were all fresh, crisp and absolutely shined in these dishes. The trout toast was my favorite of the three. It featured toast with a smoked trout aioli, smoked trout slices, peas, radishes, lemon zest and a bit of dill. I highly recommend you trying this one!

To finish out the meal we shared the goat cheese gnocchi and a side of blistered radishes. The gnocchi was light and fluffy and complimented by a fabulous pea puree, parmesan cheese and prosciutto. The radishes were simple, but delicious! And to finish the meal we just had to try a dessert. They had a basque style cheesecake served with rhubarb that was absolutely divine.

The menu changes frequently and I know I will be back to try some things again soon. If you want to check out the menu before you head in, you can find that here. If you do go check them out, let us know what you think!

Tropicale

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Springtime is here with summer just around the corner, and this week’s Hot Spot -Tropicale – is the perfect place to celebrate that fact! We headed here recently to test out their famous pina coladas, margaritas, and snacks, and were positively delighted!

First, let me say – Tropicale has their patio situation dialed in. There is plenty of space, a festive atmosphere, and different styles of outdoor heaters dotted about to make sure you stay warm enough while you imbibe. We actually ended up between a stand-up heater and a long, low fireplace style, and had to take off a couple of layers! A smart move on their part, as it certainly added to the tropical feel of the place!

Tropicale patio.

We started, of course, with the famous pina colada in a whole pineapple. While everything is better when served in a pineapple, I can say that the beverage itself held it’s own. Delicious! Next, I tested out the spicy mango margarita, which was so tasty I had finished it before I knew what had happened. Based on those two, I want to try everything they have!

tropicale Pina colada in a whole pineapple

Next, it was time for some food to balance the bevvies. We tried a lot of the menu and were quite happy. As is tradition, chips and guacamole to start, which here you can add on dueling salsas (do it) to complement. The shrimp tacos were lovely, bright, and well-made. The tostada ahumada (topped with smoked skirt steak, greens, and caper aioli) had an excellent balance of flavors and textures and was quite filling. We ended up adding on the pulpo at the end, because, how can you not? As many know octopus can be diffficult to cook properly, but Tropicale did it right! It was super tender with wonderful flavors.

Tostada

We cannot wait to come back and spend many summer evenings on the patio here. With their tasty food and fresh, fun cocktails, I think this is going to be a spot we re-visit frequently! Check out Tropicale here.

Where should we visit next? Let us know in the comments! If you want to see our other Hot Spots head HERE

Güero

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We have loved this place for quite awhile and it is high time we share it with everyone! Hopefully you have already been to try this awesome restaurant, but if not, here is why we love it! Güero started as a food cart and after their massively popularity, moved into its brick and mortar location. They landed on Ne 28th which has become a more and more popular destination for food and snacks. They have been making fabulous tortas and margaritas since they opened in 2017.

Guero

All of the food is phenomenal, but they are of course best known for the tortas. My personal favorite is the Ahogada, a carnitas torta with jalapeño slaw covered in achiote tomato sauce. I always gravitate towards saucy things on the menu and this one really wowed. If you aren’t in the mood for a sandwich, you can also try one of their fabulous bowls. No matter what you order, I can guarantee you will enjoy it.

Güero also has a fabulous margarita, you can order one with Mezcal or tequila, and have them on the heated patio, or to go! They are simple yet perfectly tart and dangerously drinkable. If you want something lower in alcohol, they make a great horchata and aqua de jamaica.

Güero has done a great job of making things cozy for people wanting to dine in, the patio area is well covered and has several heaters going to keep you warm. We went out on a brisk 40* degree and were quite comfortable with our food. If you have tried this restaurant we would love to hear your thoughts! If not, be sure to go check it out soon! You can head over to their website to see the full menu and hours HERE.