What's up with Clarklewis in PDX?

[rskubic]

I'm an LA 'hound that'll be in Portland for two nights next week. Previously I've heard all sorts of good stuff about Family Supper and then Clarklewis. But word on the street seems to have cooled significantly. What's the latest? If Clarklewis has lost it's luster are there are other great options for a similar dining experience in Portland?

Thanks!

[drdawn]

was there a couple weeks ago. Consensus was "good food, wouldn't want to have to pay for it ourselves." I don't mind spending money on food, but this just doesn't meet that magical price/quality ratio that makes me feel okay about parting with my cash.

I'm a huge fan of Paley's Place on NW 21st and Northrup.

[irishkevbo]

I here Sauce Box and Higgins is great. I went to Thaifoon on SW Broadway when I was there one night 2 weeks ago. I also here Kens Artisan Pizza is unbelievable.

[charlotterusse]

I don't believe it is the same chef at darklewis, last I heard he was taking time off to paint.
There's so many better places now, Le Pigeon, Alberta Street Oyster (NOT!),
Simpatica Dining Hall (check out their website and see if you can get a seat at their
ripe-like family style weekend meals), Park Kitchen, Fife...so many! Hope you find
something good.

[landguy]

Michael the co-founder is in Seattle now and Morgan the genius chef left and will hopefully be moving here too. Fingers crossed. I can't imagine it being the same without them.

[audio]

I haven't eaten there in years but my experience was equal with that of Audreyskitchen. I remember it being overpriced for the portions and the quality of the food. I felt it was way overhyped and have never been interested in going back.

[audreyskitchen.com]

We were there last week and were sadly disappointed. Overly salty food, outrageous prices($8/loaf of bread), and uncomfortable atmosphere. Save your money and your blood pressure level, and go somewhere else.

[myplateoryours]

We ate at clarklewis on a trip to Portland a couple of weeks ago and it was very good. I hadn't eaten there before so can't compare, but we were happy.

[rskubic]

Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated.

[extramsg]

The primary owners were husband and wife and split up. Two of the three of their restaurants closed. Only clarklewis remains. They've limited their hours somewhat since and gotten some new investors. They still have the same chef, though, and say they're trying to be more responsive to customers. I assume it's still as good or better than it was. I haven't been there since the change.

If you're worried about it, try a place like Park Kitchen or Alberta Street Oyster Bar, both of which are in the same price range, not too fancy inside, and make interesting and enjoyable food.

[heatherkiok]

Actually, Naomi (of clarklewis) has revived family supper--it's been booked solid since January 07. Right now it's happening only on Sundays at clarklewis.

On 1.7.07 she served beet salad with mandarins and fried caper hazelnut salsa verde, shortribs with prunes and balsamic, whipped potatoes with crème fraiche and horseradish, and broccoli raab with garlic-anchovy vinaigrette. For dessert, there were caramel pots de creme.

I'm a huge fan of Naomi and of "supper" --and wherever she is, that's where I want to eat. Nevermind about all the gossip, divorce, drama, etc. I like her food--best shortribs I have ever eaten--recently had her stewed guinea hen which is also amazing--, and she's a great magnet for the artistic community here in Portland. Check it out if you get a chance.