Category: Food

Welcome to The PDX Blogger Food Section. Learn all about places of interest for great food in the Pacific Northwest and from all over the world.

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An Unforgettable Dining Experience Awaits you at OX Argentinian Steakhouse

OX Argentinian Steakhouse Restaurant
OX Argentinian Steakhouse Restaurant

Overview

OX Argentinian Steakhouse in Portland is a must-visit for any steak lover. The restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with its delicious steaks, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service.

If you’re looking for an amazing dining experience, OX Argentinian Steakhouse is the perfect spot for an unforgettable meal. You’ll be transported to another world when you step through the door. The warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for a date night or a night with family and friends. And the food is incredible!

Trust me when I say, “you will not be disappointed.”

Atmosphere / Ambiance

The atmosphere of OX Argentinian Steakhouse is one of warmth and refinement. The decor at OX is rustic and inviting, with brick walls and an open fire pit grill, giving the restaurant an inviting feeling. At the same time, the sophisticated menu and attentive service provide a refined dining experience. The combination of these elements makes OX Argentinian Steakhouse one of our favorite dining destinations in Portland.

The Food

The steaks at OX are some of the best in Portland, cooked to perfection, and the char from Argentine-style cooking is sure to please any steak lover’s palate. They are served with a side of tangy chimichurri sauce that is out of this world! Whether you’re looking for a hearty steak dinner or something lighter, you’ll find it all at OX Argentinian Steakhouse.

In addition to the steaks OX is known for, the menu features other traditional Argentinian dishes such as Empanadas, Smoked Beef Tongue, Braised Beef Tripe with Coal-Roasted Spanish Octopus, and freshly baked bread.

OX also has an extensive wine list featuring wines from Argentina and Chile.

A must-try is Ox’s spin on Clam Chowder. Their take on clam chowder incorporates bone marrow into a buttery broth, dressed in green onions, freshly sliced jalapenos, and garlic breadcrumbs. Absolutely delicious!

OX Restaurant - Fresh Clam Chowder with Smoked Bone Marrow
Fresh Clam Chowder with Smoked Bone Marrow at OX Restaurant

For our meal, we ordered the following:

  • My dad ordered the 18oz Maple-Brined LanRoc Farms Pork Chop. The pork chop was cooked to perfection and had great flavor. Unfortunately, the cut my dad got was fatty. After waiting for some time for our meal, we learned that the pork chop takes forty-five to sixty minutes to prepare. A fact we were not advised of when we ordered.
  • My mom, wife, and I ordered the Grass-Fed Filet Mignon cooked medium-rare. Each of them was perfectly cooked. They were tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The smokiness and char flavor of the steak was incredible, and we all loved it. This was one of the best steaks I have had in a long time.
  • For our side dishes, we had:
    • Sauteed Mushrooms & Foie Gras with three types of mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, and king trumpet), alliums, and wilted spinach.
    • Fried Russet Potatoes, horseradish aioli (amazing!), and dill.
Dinner Entrée's at OX Restaurant - October 14, 2022
Dinner Entrée’s at OX Restaurant – October 14, 2022
  • For dessert, we had:
    • Warm Hazelnut Torte served with honey-chamomile ice cream and honeycomb candy.
    • House-made Peach Sorbet served with coconut tapioca, lime zest, and dulce de leche alfajor cookies.
    • Chocolate Olive Oil Cake served with rum mascarpone mousse, fudge sauce, and amarena cherries.
Desserts at OX Restaurant - October 14, 2022
Desserts at OX Restaurant – October 14, 2022

The Service

When you step into OX Argentinian Steakhouse, the friendly staff greets you with a smile. The service and staff at OX Argentinian Steakhouse are top-notch. They are attentive and accommodating, without being intrusive. The servers know the menu and wine list and are happy to make recommendations. The staff at OX genuinely care about their guests, which shows in their attention to detail and service level.

Our server, Devin, was extremely attentive and ensured we were well taken care of. She also took the time to explain the menu and make recommendations based on our preferences. Our drinks were always full as the staff worked together to deliver a memorable experience.

The Location

OX Restaurant
2225 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Portland, OR 97212

Hours:
Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday & Sunday: 5:00pm-10:00pm

Contact:
(503) 284-3366
hello@oxpdx.com

Website: https://oxpdx.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oxpdx/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oxpdx/

For more reviews, check out all our Blog content at https://thepdxblogger.com/blog/.

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Riccardo’s Ristorante is Great Italian Food and Wine

Overview

Riccardo’s Ristorante Great Italian Food and Wine – September 23, 2022

Riccardo’s Ristorante is my family’s local go-to place for Italian. Riccardo’s Ristorante, family-owned and operated since 1980 by Riccardo and Georgette Spaccarelli, is an authentic Italian restaurant in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Using only the freshest ingredients, each dish is prepared with precision and, when paired with a wine from their eclectic wine selection, ensures you are in for a great dining experience.

Atmosphere / Ambiance

Riccardo’s Ristorante is quaint and inviting on the inside, but truth be told, their outside patio is the place to be. There is no better setting during the summer than enjoying a great Italian dinner on the patio at Riccardo’s.

The Food

The food at Riccardo’s is always fantastic, and I don’t think I have ever had a dish that just didn’t hit my taste buds. Our meal this evening was one of those meals that you are like, okay, I will be talking about this one for a long time. It was amazing!

My Dad had his usual, Ragu Al Mancini – Le Marche meat sauce with beef, chicken, pork sausage, Mortadella, Pistachios, mushrooms, red wine, vegetables, herbs, and spices, tossed with Parmigiano, Reggiano, and Pecorino Romano cheeses. This dish is a family favorite and one of the dishes Riccardo’s is known for.

My mom got the Risotto Con Aragosta – Arborio rice risotto made with lobster and saffron stock, topped with butter-poached lobster. This was a delicious bowl of richness that was bursting with flavor.

I had the Penne All’ Agricola – Pancetta sauteed with grilled corn, garlic, and Chantrelle mushrooms, deglazed with white wine, reduced with cream, and finished with fresh parsley and Parmigiano cheese, and I added a grilled chicken breast. This dish was amazing! A sort of Italian Beef (but with chicken) Stroganoff! Hearty and full of flavor. And Chantrelle’s, oh my. I love Chantrelle’s, and these really made this dish.

We shared a 2018 Renzo Marinai Chianti Classico wine from Toscana, Central Italy, Italy for dinner. This is our go-to wine, as we love the black cherry and floral notes that allow it to pair well with everything.

For dessert, we had Torte di Amore – Double Chocolate frosted layer cake, and Torte di Limone e Frutta del Bosco – Lemon Mascarpone layer cake with mixed berries. Both were delicious! The Torte di Amore is chocolatey and super-rich. I am not a lemon fan, but the Torte de Lemone e Frutta del Bosco was out of this world and crazy good!

My Dad had a chocolate espresso martini. His new favorite after-dinner drink!

Riccardo's Ristorante in Lake Oswego features authentic Italian cuisine and great wines in a great setting.
Riccardo’s Ristorante in Lake Oswego features authentic Italian cuisine and great wines in a great setting.

The Service

Ryan waited on us tonight and always ensures our dining experience is top-notch. When we sat down, he informed us that they had several large parties ahead of us but not to worry; he was going to make sure we were not impacted in any way. The food came out on time, and everything was piping hot and delicious, as usual.

Ryan always takes time to not only make sure our experience is excellent, but he genuinely cares about what he does. He wants you to feel at ease and know that you are well cared for and will be taken care of. He is excellent with kids and knows what my daughter will order and how she likes her dishes prepared. Long story but anything green in the way of garnishment nullifies a dish in my daughter’s eyes.

Location

16035 SW Boones Ferry Rd.
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Lunch
Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 4:00pm

Dinner
Monday – Thursday: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Friday – Saturday: 5:00pm – 9:30pm

Contact: (503) 636-4104

Website: Riccardo’s Ristorante
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Riccardos-Ristorante-175837890998/

For more reviews, check out all our Blog content at https://thepdxblogger.com/blog/

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Riccardo’s Ristorante is Great Italian Food, Wine, and Ambiance

Overview

Riccardo’s Ristorante is Great Italian Food, Wine, and Ambiance – May 13, 2022

Riccardo’s Ristorante is my family’s local go-to place for Italian. Riccardo’s Ristorante, family-owned and operated since 1980 by Riccardo and Georgette Spaccarelli, is an authentic Italian restaurant in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Using only the freshest ingredients, each dish is prepared with precise detail and, when paired with a wine from their eclectic wine selection, ensures you are in for a great dining experience.

Atmosphere / Ambiance

Riccardo’s Ristorante is quaint and inviting on the inside, but truth be told, their outside patio is the place to be. There is no better setting during the summer than enjoying a great Italian dinner on the patio at Riccardo’s.

The Food

The food at Riccardo’s is always fantastic, and I don’t think I have ever had a dish that just didn’t hit my taste buds. Our meal this evening was one of those meals that you are like, okay, I will be talking about this one for a long time. It was absolutely amazing!

My Dad had his usual, Ragu Al Mancini – Le Marche meat sauce with beef, chicken, pork sausage, Mortadella, Pistachios, mushrooms, red wine, vegetables, herbs and spices, tossed with Parmigiano, Reggiano, and Pecorino Romano cheeses. This dish is a family favorite and one of the dishes Riccardo’s is known for.

My wife got the Arrabbiata Al Mancini – Pasta from Mancini Pastificio Agricolo tossed in a traditional spicy sauce of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and Pecorino, Romano, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses. Great dish with just the right amount of heat.

I had the Maiale con Spungoli – Pork tenderloin seasoned and seared, finished with a sauce of spring Morel mushrooms, shallots, white wine, and butter. I am a huge mushroom fan, and the Morel’s make this one of my all-time favorite dishes.

We shared a 2018 Renzo Marinai Chianti Classico wine from Toscana, Central Italy, Italy for dinner. This is our go-to wine as we love the black cherry and floral notes that allow it to pair well with everything.

For dessert, we had Torte di Amore – Double Chocolate frosted layer cake and Torte di Limone e Frutta del Bosco – Lemon Mascarpone layer cake with mixed berries. Both were delicious! The Torte di Amore is chocolatey and super-rich. I am not a lemon fan, but the Torte de Lemone e Frutta del Bosco was out of this world and crazy good!

Riccardo's Ristorante in Lake Oswego features authentic Italian cuisine and great wines in a great setting.
Riccardo’s Ristorante in Lake Oswego features authentic Italian cuisine and great wines in a great setting.

The Service

Ryan waited on us tonight and always ensures our dining experience is top-notch. When we sat down, he informed us that they had several large parties ahead of us but not to worry; he was going to make sure we were not impacted in any way. The food came out on time, and everything was piping hot and delicious as usual.

Ryan always takes time to not only make sure our experience is excellent, but he genuinely cares about what he does. He wants you to feel at ease and know that you are well cared for and will be taken care of. He is excellent with kids and knows what my daughter will order and how she likes her dishes prepared. Long story but anything green in the way of garnishment nullifies a dish in my daughter’s eyes.

Location

16035 SW Boones Ferry Rd.
Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Hours
Lunch
Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 4:00pm

Dinner
Monday – Thursday: 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Friday – Saturday: 5:00pm – 9:30pm

Contact: (503) 636-4104

Website: Riccardo’s Ristorante
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Riccardos-Ristorante-175837890998/

For more reviews, check out all our Blog content at https://thepdxblogger.com/blog/

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el Herradero Mexican Grill Amazing Mexican Food in Cabo

Overview

el Herradero Mexican Grill – March 18, 2022

In March of 2022, my family and I went to San Jose del Cabo for a last-minute getaway. We booked last-minute flights and stayed at the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa. When we got there for dinner, we were craving some authentic Mexican food and immediately knew we had to go back to el Herradero Mexican Grill in San Jose del Cabo.

*** One thing to note, if you are staying at the JW Marriott, you can’t take Lyft or Uber from the hotel into town. You can only take a taxi. You can, however, take a Lyft or Uber back on your return. ***

Atmosphere / Ambiance

If you want a delicious, authentic Mexican meal in the heart of San Jose del Cabo, you must head to el Herradero Mexican Grill. The atmosphere at el Herradero is warm and inviting, and the staff is always happy to help with any questions you may have about the menu. The restaurant is decorated with colorful traditional Mexican art, and the lively music creates a fun and festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, el Herradero Mexican Grill is the perfect place to enjoy some delicious Mexican food.

After a fifteen-minute taxi ride into downtown San Jose del Cabo, we arrived at el Herradero Mexican Grill. As on our previous visit to el Herradero Mexican Grill, we were greeted by the extremely friendly staff and an inviting open-air dining area. They sat us at our table and handed us menus that featured all kinds of delicious options.

The Food

El Herradero Mexican Grill’s menu is extensive, and you’ll find everything from hot stone dishes, to fajitas (with hand-made tortillas made from scratch daily), and seafood. Everything is fresh and flavorful!

The waiter brought our Cadillac Margaritas, and we kicked things off with a toast and prepared to order our entrees. el Herredero Mexican Grill is known for their Margaritas and Molcajete bowls, and I am a massive fan of both! They are amazing! My wife and I each had a margarita and bowl (details on what we each ordered below), and they were just as good as I remember from our previous visit. The presentation was beautiful when our dinner came out, and the portions were substantial.

For an appetizer, we had the Queso Dip with Chorizo and Tequila. Served with tortilla chips, it came out piping hot and was a hot stone bowl full of ooey-gooey goodness!

For dinner, we had the following:

  • My Dad had the Molcajete Hot Stone Dish with Chicken. Piping hot and loaded with chicken, avocado, and freshly grated cotija cheese.
  • My Mom had the Chicken Quesadillas. They were loaded with grilled chicken, a blend of cheeses, and a side of the best-refried beans I have ever eaten.
  • My wife had the Molcajete Hot Stone Dish with Chicken and Shrimp. You guessed it, piping hot and absolutely loaded with shrimp and chicken.
  • My dish was the Molcajete Hot Stone Dish with Fish, Shrimp, Scallops & Octopus
el Herradero Mexican Grill
el Herradero Mexican Grill – February 5, 2020

The Service

If you want a truly authentic Mexican dining experience, you must go to El Herradero Mexican Grill in San Jose del Cabo. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, ensuring you have everything you need throughout your meal. The service is prompt and efficient, so you never have to wait long for your food or drinks. And, of course, the food is amazing. You’ll find all your favorite Mexican dishes here, made with only the freshest ingredients.

All in all, it’s a great place to eat, drink, and be merry!

Location
Miguel Hidalgo s/n, Centro, 23406
San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico

Hours
Monday – Sunday: 1:00pm-9:00pm

Contact: +52 624 142 6350

Website:   https://www.elherraderoloscabos.com/en/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/E21Q6uN9Zdo

For more reviews, check out all our Blog content at https://thepdxblogger.com/blog/

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Chamuyo Argentinian Steakhouse, Absolutely A Cut Above

Overview

Chamuyo Argentinian Steakhouse, Absolutely A Cut Above – February 8, 2020

Chamuyo Argentinian Steakhouse in the Art District is one of the best restaurants in San Jose del Cabo. If you are a beef lover, you must make sure Chamuyo is on your to-do list.

Atmosphere / Ambiance

As you walk down the street, you can smell the smoky greatness that is Chamuyo. Once you arrive at Chamuyo and walk into the entrance, you are greeted with the smell of beef being grilled to perfection and pure deliciousness. The aromatic smoke immediately speaks to your soul. You can tell the folks at Chamuyo know what they are doing and that you are in for a fantastic experience!

The Food

We had the following for dinner:

  • Appetizer – Zucchini – Grilled zucchini with ham, goat cheese & balsamic vinegar reduction
  • Grilled Focaccia bread
  • Empanadas – Ham & Cheese
  • Poppy / MCK – Wood-fired cheese pizza
  • Wine – 2015 Casa Madero Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Me – Chamuyo Beef Ribs
  • Mel / Mom – Beef Tenderloin
  • Grilled shrimp with Criolla salad
Chamuyo Argentinian Steakhouse in San Jose del Cabo
Chamuyo Argentinian Steakhouse in San Jose del Cabo

The Service

The staff at Chamuyo strives to make your dining experience memorable. They don’t miss anything and pay great attention to detail. For example, making sure your wine and water glasses are never empty to the finer details of having you cut into your steak as they serve it to ensure it is cooked to your preferred temperature.

Location

Jose Maria Morelos, Ignacio Comonfort &, Centro
San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico

Hours
Monday – Sunday: 4:00pm-10:30pm

Contact: +52 624 1232288

Website:  https://www.chamuyorestaurant.com/en/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/chamuyoSanJose
Instagram: instagram.com/chamuyosjd
YouTube: youtube.com/chamuyosjd

For more reviews, check out all our Blog content at https://thepdxblogger.com/blog/