PDX: Anniversary dinner downtown

[mamamia]

Hi Portlanders,

We'll be in town on Nov 1 for a long weekend away from the kids, which just happens to fall on our wedding anniversary. I'm looking for a great local spot to treat the hubby to dinner (or maybe he'll treat me). We are staying downtown without a car. Although I can cab it with the best of them, I would prefer something in the immediate area.

Thanks!
A Grateful Phoenecian

[mamamia]

Thanks for the recs everyone!

We're coming to a city near you next week, so I'll take notes and report my findings when we return.

[jonnorthwood]

If you're staying downtown, I can highly recommend the Heathman Restaurant. I have always received exquisite service, and the food has never been less than incredible.

[MichaelG]

Can't disagree with this post -- the Healthman especially shines during the fall months.

[mamamia]

Thank you for the recs! decisions, decisions.

I found out we're staying at the Marriott, and after some quick web investigating, see that we're near the Yamkill MAX station.

Thanks for the link extramsg - that's a great little thing you've got there. We need one for the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, as we're constantly getting the "I'm coming to Phoenix, where should I eat?" question.

[Leonardo]

Best places really near you are Carafe, Murata, and Quandary (open late), not much else worthwhile or special. But downtown is eminently walkable. MAX is more to serve suburban commuters, and won't take you anywhere to eat that you couldn't just walk to just as fast. Also don't miss the farmers' mkt Sat 8:30 am - 2, a six minute walk! http://www.portlandfarmersmarket.org/

[NancyNeverDrew]

Yes, oh, yes. Veritable Quandary - by far some of the BEST food in the city. The menu varies by season but always includes the freshest local ingredients braised, roasted, grilled, and seared into a variety of dishes. I've never had anything here that I didn't like. Nor has anyone else that I've brought here.

For those folks that said Higgins - who are you kidding? If she wanted to wait forever for bad service and mediocre food, she'd go to The Olive Garden.

[bards4]

I like Higgins, but I almost always eat in the bar. Maybe the servers there are better.

[oregontruffles]

if it's nice walk along the river and end up at the VQ for breakfast! yum

[MichaelG]

Heathman, Higgins and Southpark are all downtown. Carlyle and Park Kitchen are a little more of a stroll, depending on where you're staying. All have been regularly recommended on this board.

[cheeseygoodness]

Hurley's is pretty good. A little pricey, but a nice place for an anniversary dinner.

[bards4]

Higgin's is a nice place, too. It's not far from the Oregon Historical Society building and the Park Blocks, so it's an easy downtown locale.

[ms_darling]

We had a delicious, friendly and romantic dinner at 94 Stewart, near Pike Place Market. Good wine selection, quiet, and very good service (though it was slow the night we were there). They also have: very. good. cheese. If you're into that.

[Leonardo]

Great idea, except they are coming to Portland.

I'd suggest Paley's, an easy streetcar ride away.