Where is the Best First Date in Portland, Oregon?
I called in advance to see if it was o.k. to bring our own birthday cake, which it was. Our party started rolling in at 8 pm. As our group expanded the wait staff found us more chairs until other near-by tables emptied out. No one had to wait long to order drinks that were top notch. I ordered some of the house’s specialty cocktails that were excellent – there bartenders know how to pour! Though most of us had already eaten, we ordered up a number of appetizers after a few rounds of drinks. The dates wrapped in bacon were perfect ( o hard crusty skins o the dates – they were warm and soft and melted in your mouth with a silky texture next to the smoky-saltiness of the bacon) We also got an anti-pasta platter that was nearly licked clean by the time we left. The kitchen dressed up the birthday cake and served it with a beautiful light fresh fruit garnish. They also found some birthday candles, which I had forgotten, and didn’t embarrass the birthday boy by singing – his friends took
The first time we went to Oba, we had a three-course meal that was pretty good– but the service was inattentive and bordering on rude.The second time we went was amazing. We ordered appetizers (the gazpacho was so unique and refreshing on a hot summer day) and drinks. Their main room was closed for an event, so we sat in the crowded bar. We had no trouble finding a quaint window seat; when we were asked to move to accommodate a 10-top, we did so gladly. When we were asked to move a second time, our $60+ bill (for two people) was taken care of by management! Now that’s what I call good service.Pros + Very original menu, good dinner packagesCons – Lack of parking, erratic waitstaff
This was my first time going out in 5 years, and I was extremely lucky to stumble across The Fez. The people at the door were great, and very through in checking ID’s. The music was great, you couldn’t help but dance to every song, the drinks were good, and not too spendy. It was constantly being cleaned and tidied up, and the bar downstairs was nice and calm. It was definitely crowded, but everyone gave each other room to dance, and if you bumped into someone, it was no big deal. There were plenty of comfortable places to sit down and rest, or just chill out and watch the fun dancing go on. All I can say is that I had a blast and I can’t wait to go again. I also recommended the Annex down the street, a nice place to start your evening.Pros + Not a Meat Market, Fun People, Great dancingCons – ummm, mmmmm, mmmm nope!
Been to Saucebox a number of times, but always late night . Love the atmosphere, but drinks can be pricey for my usually low brow range. Finally able to catch their Happy Hour before a show, and I was so impressed.Well priced drinks ($3 Sapporo), and a fantastic food selection, $4 (!) each for a fantastic Miyako Burger and Pork Spring rolls. The Khao Soi was meh, but everything else made up for it.The service was prompt and friendly. The place was full, but the atmosphere was calm and we got our food in about 10 minutes. We came downtown for a show and I expected to be rushed. But the staff was so efficient and friendly, we had enough time to relax and enjoy a well-made Sazerac. Great experience. Will be back soon.Pros + Fantastic, reasonably priced Happy HourCons – Khao Soi not so great
