Thursday Tours: Mash Up

Thank you for all the support on Meredith‘s and my new blogger collaboration series #ThursdayToursPDX. It has been such a blast pulling together lists of favorite places from some of our favorite people around town. We have lots more on the calendar including brunch, kid friendly spots and more, so get excited!

And because Meredith and I want to also share our favorites with all of you (as if we don’t do that enough all ready on our blogs and Instagram accounts!), every so often, we’ll be doing “mash up” posts where we give our recommendations of the recent topics.

Here are Meredith’s favorites for Happy Hour and Date Night Dinner Out. {All photos below are courtesy of Meredith Davison.} Head on over to Martha Chartreuse Blog for my recommendations!

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Date Night

Bar Mingo

Bar Mingo is hands down my go-to date spot! The intimate space on NW 21st offers up craveable Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list. While they have a multi-course menu it is absolutely okay to order a glass of wine or add on a cheese platter or the lamb meatballs.  Actually, always get the lamb meatball! The staff is also very friendly and has an uncanny way of reading what your needs are. As an extra-bonus, on Mondays bottles of wine are 40%.

Cooper’s Wine Hall

Located in SE Portland, Cooper’s Hall has all of the key elements for a dreamy date. The market lights, beautiful design and flights of wine are perfect for a 3rd or 30th date. As a frequent dater I often like places that have conversation starters or activities. The wine flights are always a fun wine to try different varieties and have something to chat about. Also, hearing how a guy describes his glass of Pinot can be really entertaining or a giant red flag. Either way, good to know. I am also a big fan of the food. The bread with schmaltz and chicharonnes are my favorite small bites.

Levant

Levant is shaping up to be one of my favorite restaurants in Portland. The Mediterranean spot consistently turns out delicious cuisine that is shareable and elegant. The meals there always feel special! And the space is pure romance – lighting, an open fire and a dreamy patio. Not to mention the staff. They get swooning.  If you are in need of some swooning, Levant is for you!

Happy Hour

Aviary

Monday – Friday 5-7pm

Favorites: Brussel Sprout Nachos $5, Tempura Green Beans $6, Bread and Bagna Cauda $2, Well Drinks $5

This NE spot offers up some truly amazing happy hour deals! With major discounts and daily cocktails it is a great way to get together with friends or colleagues. I also really appreciate that it runs until 7pm.

Oven + Shaker

Monday-Friday 3:30-5:30 PM

Nightly 10pm-Close

Favorites: Salami Pizza: $10 Nostrana Salad: $6 Wine $5

Bonus: Seasonal Outdoor Seating

Luc Lac

Happy Hour Daily 4-7pm

Favorites: Crispy Rolls, Cream Cheese Wontons, Garlic String Beans, Chicken Wings $2

Bo Tai Chanh $3

Without a doubt, Luc Lac offers the best happy hour deal in town! A majority of their menu is $2!! That is a screamin’ deal!

This may be one of the most under-the-radar happy hours in the Pearl. While it ends relatively early, great deals and an outdoor pineapple trainwreck is reason enough to duck out early.

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#ThursdayToursPDX is a collaborative series between Portland, OR bloggers {Erin} Bakery Bingo + {Meredith} Martha Chartreuse. In a city filled with amazing restaurants, artisan experiences, and fantastic tastemakers the inside scoop is a must. We will be asking our friends and fellow bloggers for their recommendations and tips for all the City of Roses has to offer.