Drink of the Week: Pitch Black IPA

October 11, 2010

With summer quickly slipping out of my grasp, my choice of beers is also starting to change along with the weather.  In the summertime I want a good Hefeweizen or Pale Ale to cool me off, but during the colder season I crave dark beers like a Porter or Stout to fill me up and keep me warm.  Henry’s 12th St Tavern in The Pearl District has over 100 different beers on tap, so I made this restaurant my first stop in my quest to find a good dark beer to kick off the beginning of Fall.

My choice of drink at Henry’s was the Widmer W’10 Pitch Black IPA.  With a name like that, I had to try it.  The beer was almost black in color, and I was excited to see what flavors erupted from this ominous concoction.  The Pitch Black has a taste of pepper, a hint of coffee, and a malty bitterness that warms your tummy and shocks your taste buds.  It was the 2009 Gold Medal winner at the Great American Beer Festival, and was made right here in Portland.  It is a powerful beer, so you probably shouldn’t drink too many at one time, but it was a great way to start off my reintroduction to dark beer.

If you are interested in making your own beer, check out my blog from last week here.  Also, this site has some great beer recipes, and if you plan on visiting Henry’s 12th St. Tavern take your phone with you because they have some great deals on food on the Forkfly app!

Ben & Jerry’s Participates in Fair Trade Month

October 7, 2010

There are not many things better than ice cream. A nice cold cone is the perfect way to celebrate the few hot summer days we get every year here in Portland, and I won’t turn one down on our chilly, rainy afternoons either. Perhaps even better than ice cream is an international corporation with a social conscious. And at the intersection of Yum, Ice Cream and Wow, A Corporation Actually Interested In Making The World A Better Place, you can find Ben & Jerry’s!

October is Fair Trade Month, and Ben & Jerry’s is getting in on the action with a website explaining some of their Fair Trade connections and products. Check it out here. Vanilla, chocolate, coffee and sugar are just a few of the agricultural products often grown in developing countries where big corporations can take advantage of small farmers. Fair Trade is an ethical answer to the question of allowing those developing economies to flourish and those individual farmers and workers to earn what they deserve.

Fair trade offers more than just a fair price for the services and products. It also ensures safe and clean working conditions. My favorite aspect is that fair trade incorporates direct trade as often as possible. Direct trade involves economic transactions between grower and buyer, instead of allowing middlemen to earn a profit by buying dirt cheap and selling at marked up prices to the packager. Community development and sustainability also compose goals of the fair trade movement.

Ben & Jerry’s has affiliated itself with many small-scale farmers and cooperatives to purchase the sustainable and delicious ingredients for their ice creams. Their dedication to Fair Trade has an impact that goes beyond the farm to whole communities and economies while also empowering individuals.

Ben & Jerry’s models the capitalist AmeriCone Dream the way it should be done. With one trip you can treat yourself and support this forward-thinking company. Pull up Forkfly on your phone for 3 scoops for $3 on Fridays or $1.00 off all frozen beverages at the Ben & Jerry’s in the Pearl at 301 NW 10th St. Find the Pearl District’s Ben & Jerry’s site here and the Fair Trade USA site here.

Written by Forkfly intern Eleanor Brown

Trendy Tuesday: The Brazilian Blowout

October 5, 2010

A few days ago my boyfriend asked me if I knew what a Brazilian Blowout was.  He was truly puzzled by the name and had heard mentions of the procedure in ads around town several times.  Knowing where his mind was going, I quickly assured him that a Brazilian Blowout has nothing to do with waxing, and that they are two completely different things.  I first learned about the blowout treatment a few months ago while visiting the salon SmashCut Studio in The Pearl District, and so I was able to give an accurate description of this hair procedure to my boyfriend.  But this got me to thinking, there is probably a lot of people out there like my boyfriend who think the blowout is some powerful new hair remover, and so I thought it would be nice to set the record straight.

The Brazilian Blowout isn’t  new in the celebrity/modeling world, they have been using the procedure for years, but it is still relatively new for the majority of us who don’t have personal hairstylists :)  The blowout is a hair smoothing treatment that is supposed to leave your hair frizzless, shiny, strong and a lot healthier.  It is a professional treatment, and so it can only be performed by a licensed beautician in a salon.  The entire treatment takes 90 minutes or less depending on your hair type, and is recommended for anyone with colored, dry, frizzy, curly, poofy, or unmanageable hair.  I know that years of dyeing my hair crazy colors has left my hair in a weak, brittle state, so I would be a perfect candidate for this procedure.  I also read that this treatment is safe on and beneficial for those with hair extensions, like me.

You will be able to see results from the treatment for up to 12 weeks, and after that period your hair will return to normal but still be slightly healthier than before.  The more you get the treatment the healthier your hair will permanently become.  Check out these before and after photos.  They are pretty impressive!

Visit The Brazilian Blowout website for answers to any of your questions on this procedure and to locate a salon near you.  If you live in the Portland area, Forkfly merchants SmashCut Studio and Amore Salon Spa are both certified to perform this treatment, and SmashCut is offering a free consultation to Forkfly users!

Discover Vegetarian Fare in Portland: Wilfs Resturant at Union Station

September 30, 2010

On this beautiful sunny day in Portland, the Union Station clock tower on SW 6th stands out against a bright blue sky. Below it resides Wilfs Restaurant, a sustainability-minded, jazz-spotlighting establishment.

Wilfs is definitely a fine dining dinner destination, with upscale decorations, chandeliers and jazz music featured Wednesdays through Saturdays. Even the exposed brick walls look undeniably classy in this restaurant. I went for lunch, and the place was uncrowded but not empty. The restaurant focuses on sustainable foods and provides organic, seasonal and local menu items. Not only does this emphasis make it easy to want to support such a forward-thinking restaurant, it also makes for high-quality, delicious food.

While it’s not a vegetarian restaurant, they had enough meatless options for lunch that it took me a minute to decide. You won’t have to settle for salad if you choose to forgo meat here. The Portabello sandwich with spinach, pesto, mozzarella and sweet peppers looked great. They also offer a veggie burger, and as soon as I saw it was house-made I was sold. It’s one thing for a restaurant to throw a Morningstar Farms frozen veggie burger on their menu to appease vegetarian guests, but a house-made burger shows a real awareness and appreciation for all their customers.

My burger came with some beautiful tomatoes and avocados. The patty was flavorful and perfectly textured — and it didn’t fall apart, skillfully avoiding the downfall of many a house-made veggie patty.  The service was very attentive and friendly, and I don’t know how they make their iced tea so delicious, but it was perfect, no sugar needed.

As great as my lunch was, I expect Wilfs really shines at dinnertime. Take a look at their website and jazz lineup here, and check Forkfly for great deals at Wilfs Resturant.

Written by Forkfly intern Eleanor Brown

Trendy Tuesday: Barre3 Sparks a New Fitness Trend

September 28, 2010

After shunning exercise for most of my life, in the last year or two I have come to see myself as an athletic person. My routine is pretty limited to circuit training DVDs at home, but after reading recently that a person is more likely to find success with a exercise schedule if they work out outside of the house and with other people, I’m rethinking my technique and considering attending some classes. The most innovative and talked-about workout these days comes from Barre3, a ballet, yoga and pilates hybrid class with a high level of intensity and a focus on balance and flexibility.

You may have read that Madonna swears by Barre3. Celebrity endorsements are great, but after browsing the website I don’t need anyone else’s opinion to get excited about this Portland-based phenomenon. Sadie Lincoln, of Eugene, Oregon, worked for 24 Hour Fitness for ten years before founding her unique exercise studio. Sadie focuses on balance in her workouts and in her business, and she successfully maintains a balance between staying true to her local roots and seizing the opportunity to expand and share her methods internationally. She leads classes at her original Portland studio and personally trains franchise owners and class instructors, and the company has studios in Oregon, Washington, Oklahoma and the Philippines.

Barre3 classes are set to upbeat music and incorporate “the grace of the ballet barre with the wisdom of yoga and the strength of Pilates” to tone and lengthen lean muscles. Classes have a cap on the number of participants to ensure each person receives the attention they need to perfect their form and receive the most from their workout. Childcare is available, which I love to see, because busy moms deserve a chance to give stuff like this a try, too.

Much to my excitement, Barre3 just came out with a workout DVD, but I don’t think I should allow myself to buy it until I’ve worked up the courage to attend a class and receive Sadie’s expert instruction and attention. Take a look at the Barre3 website for locations and class schedules, and look for Forkfly deals for Barre3 to give yourself a good reason to check out this hot fitness trend!

Written by Forkfly intern Eleanor Brown

Discover Vegetarian Fare in Portland, Starting with Daily Cafe

September 15, 2010

NW 13th Avenue, with its raised sidewalks, light concrete pavement and alleyway feel, is lined with clean, modern buildings housing restaurants, coffee shops, fitness centers, clothing stores and the Pacific Northwest College of Art. Across the street from PNCA is the Daily Cafe, a perfect spot to stop for lunch during a day in the Pearl.

The Daily Cafe is an order-at-the-counter restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and brunch on Sundays. The colorful chairs and exposed concrete ceiling reflect an aesthetic sensibility appropriate for the cafe’s proximity to one of Portland’s excellent art schools and its placement on NW 13th Avenue. I love the big windows in the airy dining room but I love sitting outside even more, so after I got my food I headed for the sidewalk seating.

Smoked salmon is a favorite of mine and I was tempted by the salmon plate with a Kettleman bagel, cream cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, capers and red onion. But I’m also sandwich-obsessed, which can be a tough trait for a vegetarian in a world of lunch meat. So I went with the caprese panini, a crusty, melty pleasure with roasted plumb tomatoes, mozzarella, spinach and herb pesto on ciabatta bread.

My sandwich came with vegan potato salad, but green salad or soup are also available with most lunch items. The service was timely and friendly, and I got my iced latte promptly to sip on while my sandwich was grilled to perfection.

Take a look at the Daily Cafe website to see their hours and check on their ever-changing breakfast menu. And look for Daily Cafe deals on Forkfly the next time you’re headed to lunch on NW 13th Ave.

Portland’s Outdoor Eating Guide: On Deck Sports Bar

August 25, 2010

Inside On Deck Sports Bar & Grill you’ll find over 25 TVs showing all of the current sports action, but if you aren’t a sports enthusiast there are still many reasons to stop by On Deck.  On Deck’s outdoor seating is just as alluring as their inside action, and you’ll find a spacious patio with covered seating and a very pretty view.  Their outdoor seating is actually the largest outdoor deck in Portland’s The Pearl District!

With all this room outside, On Deck is a fantastic spot to host a party or event.   They have a covered tent with an outside grill and complete beverage station, and the entire deck is surrounded by lavender and flowers.  It would actually make a great spot for a bachelorette party or wedding reception or rehearsal!

I personally enjoyed the fact that the building is located upstairs, so instead of the standard street view and loud car sounds that you would normally get sitting outside, you get a great view of the city and a nice peaceful dining experience.  I also really like the fact that dogs are welcome, and so it is fine to stop by and get a bite to eat or a beer while walking the pooch.  On Deck Sports Bar & Grill is located at 910 NW 14th Ave.  Find their fantastic deals on Forkfly, like $3 off any menu item!

Forkfly’s Gluten-Free Friendly Merchants

August 23, 2010

Want to take advantage of Forkfly’s great offers but aren’t sure which restaurants or bars offer gluten free options?  Well here you go!  I have listed all of the Forkfly g-f friendly merchants for you to take advantage of.  Check them all out on Forkfly!  And if you are a Forkfly merchant who has g-f options but you don’t see your name listed, don’t fret just send me a quick note at duutela@forkfly.com and I will make sure to add you.

Brunch Box

Located at  SW 5th Ave & Stark, has gluten free bread!

Echo

Located at 2225 NE MLK Blvd, has gluten free options just ask your server about them.

Henry’s 12th St Tavern:

Located at 10 NW 12th Ave, has a number of gluten free beer options.

Koi Fusion

Located at a multitude of spots around Portland (check their Twitter page for updates),  is in the process of creating gluten free marinades.

P.F. Changs

Located in The Pearl District at 1139 NW Couch St, has a very impressive gluten free menu.

Seres Restaurant

Located in The Pearl District at 1105 NW Lovejoy St, also has a very extensive list of gluten free and organic options.

Theo’s

Located at 121 NW 5th Ave, has a tasty gluten free bun and gluten free chips.

You Gotta Try This!: A weekly guide of things you must try in PDX

August 18, 2010

Burrito Bowl


A Burrito Bowl is basically a burrito minus the tortilla.  It is perfect for vegans and people that need gluten-free options, like myself. The one pictured above is from Burrito Bar Caribbean Grill, located in the Pearl District.  Burrito Bar has you first choose what kinds of rice, beans, meat, salsa, veggies and condiments you want in your burrito bowl.  These ingredients are piled on top of each other in a surprisingly  pleasant looking display and you have the option of having it  served with a side of chips.

I had the whole grain brown rice, black beans, sweet & spicy chicken, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream and their signature mango salsa.  The chicken was moist and seasoned to taste, and all of the spices and fresh ingredients melded together in perfect harmony.  I must have liked it a lot because I almost finished my entire plate!

The Burrito Bar is a local, family owned restaurant, and serves only fresh ingredients with no preservatives, no additives, and no lard or msg.  Besides the Burrito Bowl, they also have Island Burritos, Caribbean Tacos & Salads, quesadillas and nachos, and all at a very reasonable price.  Here at Forkfly We are lucky enough to have Burrito Bar’s deals available on our mobile application, so you can get an even better discount from them every day!

WeVillage Provides Child Care for OMSI After Dark

August 12, 2010

Sure as a parent you have probably been to OMSI many times with your kids, watching them run around discovering the joy and wonder of science, but have YOU really ever been to OMSI?  OMSI offers just as much fun and interesting things for adults as it does for children, and it a really great place to visit with friends or a significant other without kids in tow.

In my opinion, a perfect date night would be going to OMSI After Dark.  The After Dark events are 21 and over only, and include live demos, a planetarium show, Science on a Sphere, Samson the T. Rex, new featured exhibits, and old favorites. You get to sample tasty snacks and sweets along with beer, wine, and craft soda, and talk to regional food and beverage artisans about the science behind them.The OMSI Market Cafe will be open with a special dinner menu from local artisans featuring local, sustainable ingredients and cash bars will also be available for those who want more than just a taste!

Can’t find or don’t want to deal with the hassle of finding a babysitter?  Bring your kids along and childcare is provided at OMSI by the wonderful staff at WeVillage.  This way you get to have some much needed adult time, and your children get to spend a fun evening in the Science Playground.  It is a win-win situation!

WeVillage, located in the Pearl District, is all about encouraging parents to get out there and enjoy each other and life as an adult.   Whether you want to start a date night, go to the gym, or see a show, WeVillage is available until 10pm M-Th and midnight on the weekends! They understand that not everyone leads a 9 to 5 life and so they are available to provide flexible day care in a nontraditional atmosphere of learning and fun, and so their partnership with OMSI After Dark is a perfect match.

The next OMSI After Dark is Wednesday, August 25 from 7pm to 11pm.  The cost is FREE for OMSI members and $10 for nonmembers.  Registration is not required for this event, but it is required for child care.  Pre-register your child online here.

WeVillage supports the local community by partnering with other small businesses, like The Bar Method, Laughing Planet, Ten01, Whole Foods and now OMSI, to provide the best for you and your children.  To learn more about them and find out about their childcare services visit their website here.

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