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Santa Sightings

Posted on: November 28th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Santa’s sleigh is touching down in locations throughout Washington County during the 2012 holiday season. Mrs. Claus will be at select events as well. Plot out your Santa sighting with this handy list:

There are ample opportunities to see Santa nearby this season!

Storytime with Mrs. Claus
Al’s Garden Center – Sherwood

Mrs. Claus will read Christmas stories to kids of all ages. This event is free, and is at 1o:30 a.m. on the following days: Saturday, Dec. 1; Saturday, Dec. 8; and Saturday, Dec. 15.

Santa Helicopter Fly-in
Sherwood Plaza

Santa arrives in style via helicopter on Saturday, Dec. 1 at noon and will visit until 4 p.m.–when he’ll participate in the parade with Mrs. Claus. There will also be a limited number of free Santa surprise bags for kids.

Breakfast with Santa
Loch Lolly Christmas Forest – North Plains

Enjoy breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 9 a.m. alongside Santa. Cost is $8 per person, and reservations are recommended.

Santa will also be in his antique sleigh on select weekends (Dec. 1-2, 8-9 and 15) to greet children and pose for photos (no cost; bring your own camera). His (live!) reindeer will also be on hand through Dec. 9.

2012 Holiday in the Grove

Enjoy breakfast and so much more on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Santa will also be at Barnes & Noble Pacific University in Forest Grove, offering photos and holiday story readings in the afternoon. Santa’s schedule continues in the parade at 5 p.m. through downtown Forest Grove.

McMenamins Grand Lodge

All ages are welcome to enjoy this extensive buffet and take a photo with Santa. Seatings available Saturday, Dec. 8 and Sunday, Dec. 9 at 9 or 11 a.m.

California Pizza Kitchen at Bridgeport Village

Meet the special guest at this breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Tickets are $10.

McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse

All ages are welcome to enjoy this extensive buffet and take a photo with Santa. Remaining seatings available are Saturday, Dec. 15 and Sunday, Dec. 16 at 8 a.m. Call for reservations.

Santa Visits
Hagg’s Tree Farm – Hillsboro

Santa visits the farm on Saturday, Dec.1; Sunday, Dec. 2; Saturday, Dec. 8; and Sunday, Dec. 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sleighbells of Sherwood

Santa is at Sleighbells on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as well as on Monday, Dec. 24 the same hours.

Santa at Local Shopping Centers

Washington Square – All day, every day through December 24 at 5 p.m. New this year: Text or call to see how long the wait is to see Santa.

Cedar Hills Crossing – Santa has hours every day in his festive cottage, through December 24.

Bridgeport Village – Santa is housed in a new tiny cottage, and is there daily through December 23 at 6 p.m.

Santa at Community Tree Lighting Celebrations
Saturday, Dec. 1:
-Santa at “Holly Days” Hillsboro Market, 2 p.m. – Bring your own camera

-Santa at the Sherwood Winter Festival (arriving via helicopter, as noted above)
Thursday, Dec. 6:
-Santa at the North Plains Jingle, begins at 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 7:
-Santa & Mrs. Claus at Beaverton Tree Lighting, 5 p.m.

 

Evenings at Oregon’s Washington County Vineyards and Wineries

Posted on: July 27th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Summer’s not over yet, and evenings in Oregon’s Washington County wine country are even more special as we near the end of the season.  While many area wineries are closing for the day, these wineries are just getting started. Set out to Oregon wine country and enjoy an evening of great wine, summer fun and friendly folks.

WEEKLY EVENTS

Movie Night at Garden Vineyards

If it’s Thursday, it’s movie night!  Sit back and relax while watching and outdoor movie, sip wines and take in the spectacular views at Garden Vineyards (8-10 p.m. through August 30). Can’t make it on Thursday nights?  Don’t miss live music Friday evenings  (6-9 p.m. through September 7).

Neighbors Night at Cooper Mountain Vineyards

Each Friday (through Sept. 7), from 5-8 p.m., Cooper Mountain Vineyards invites the public to enjoy live music on the lawn, tasting flights or wines by the glass or bottle and views of spectacular sunsets.

Summer Sundays at Ponzi Vineyards

Sundays became a lot more sweeter this summer with Ponzi Vineyards Summer Sundays (through August 26). Savor an evening of wine, live music and bocce ball at Ponzi’s Estate Vineyard each Sunday from 5:30 to 8 p.m. (no event on August 19). Admission is $15 and tickets must be purchased in advance.

MONTHLY EVENTS

Date Night at Plum Hill Vineyards

Bring that special someone to Plum Hill Vineyard’s “Date Night,” August 10, 5-8 p.m., which features snacks music and complimentary wine tasting. Optional catered dinner is $17 (reservations required).

Movie Night at Ardiri Winery and Vineyards

The next featured movie (August 11, 7-10:30 p.m.)  is “Under the Tuscan Sun,” and Ardiri Winery and Vineyards is the perfect setting to watch a film about that other famous wine country, Tuscany.

Third Thursday at Raptor Ridge Winery

Don’t miss the next Third Thursday, August 16, from 5-8 p.m.  Taste Raptor Ridge’s variety of wines, paired with bites created by a guest chef, and take home  the recipe, complete with a bit of wine-pairing wisdom.

SPECIAL EVENTS & CONCERTS

David Hill Vineyards and Winery Summer Concert Series

Rob Stroup and the Blame take the stage August 4 at 6 p.m. at David Hill Winery for an evening of live music, food from the James Gang BBQ Company and delicious wines.  Tickets are $10 and are available in advance or at the door.

Toast to the Tunes at Oak Knoll Winery

Oak Knoll’s popular summer music series returns.  Relax while noshing on grub prepared by the James Gang BBQ Company, sipping Oak Knoll wines and enjoying the tunes. Upcoming performances include Rock Residue (August 9) and The Rust (August 23). Gates open at 5 p.m., entertainment starts at 6 p.m.

Patio Grill Night at Apolloni Vineyards

Enjoy an al fresco dinner featuring a seasonal summer menu paired with Apolloni wines, August 10 at 6 p.m. Reservations are required, $40 per person (all inclusive).

Shakespeare in the Vineyard at Montinore Estate

Would you like a little Shakespeare with your Pinot? If so, head over to Montinore Estate August 10-12 (7-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 6-9 p.m. Sunday)  for Willamette Shakespeare Company’s presentation of  “Much Ado About Nothing.” Enjoy wine by the glass or bottle.

Interested in visiting Oregon’s Washington County’s wineries during regular tasting room hours? Visit our website for a list of area wineries.

 

While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided therein and to include all wineries in Oregon’s Washington County, events are subject to change and we may miss an event or two. 

Wine Event Wonderland for 2012

Posted on: March 26th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Wine and weekends: These are the choice words for tastings in Oregon’s Washington County this year. Spring, summer and fall feature events that I, for one, am marking on my calendar now! What better way to spend a Saturday than touring wineries closest to Portland, where the vintners are typically on hand to offer tastes and talk terroir. And then doing it all over again on Sunday. And in some instances, Monday or Friday.

Here are the events planned so far for this year:

Tasting events abound in spring, summer and fall in Washington County. Photo by Melissa Hay.

The North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend

This event returns for a fourth year, on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The unique Wine Trail Weekend pairs Washington County wines and culinary delights with education and fun. This year, approximately 24 neighboring wineries are participating–each with special food pairing offerings such as cheese flights, tapas and truffles, as well as special events, including behind-the-scenes tours and demonstrations, art shows and select live music. Tickets are $45 for the weekend or $30 for Sunday only, and are available now.

Memorial Weekend in Wine Country

Rain or shine, the Memorial Weekend in Wine Country event has continued for more than 20 years, and the 2012 dates are Saturday, May 26 through Monday, May 28. Many of Washington County’s wineries, as well as hundreds of others throughout the Northwest, open for visitors during these three days to offer an array of wines, as well as activities and food that have included vineyard tours, salmon feeds and live music. Tasting fees range from $5 to $2, with a portion of proceeds going to a designated local nonprofit; this year’s being Ecotrust.

Red, White and Celebrate

Celebrate Independence Day with a class of red, white and rosé wine. Various wineries throughout Oregon’s Washington County will be participating in special tastings and pairings during this annual July 4th wine-tasting event. More information coming soon, and will be available on the North Willamette Vintners’ website.

Explore, Tour & Taste

Labor Day weekend is typically pleasant in Oregon, and heading out for wine tasting is the perfect activity to enjoy. During “Explore, Tour & Taste,” the Chehalem Mountains American viticulture area (a.k.a. “AVA”) highlights its rich winemaking tradition. Eight of Washington County’s wineries, located in the rich AVA, are included on the tour, which features pre-harvest vineyard presentations, vineyard walks, grape samples and wine tasting. Enjoy it this year Saturday, Sept. 1 through Monday, Sept. 3; more information available from Chehalem Mountains Winegrowers.

Fall: North Willamette Harvest Trail and Grand Tasting

North Willamette Harvest Trail and Grand Tasting offers a guided bus tour to three local wineries for complimentary tastings, hors d’oeuvres and harvest preparation activities at each. It’s typically held on the first Saturday in October. Walk the the vineyard, visit the crush pad and tour the winery to discover each step of the wine making process with the professionals. Learn more about the region from your experienced tour guide on the bus and enjoy lunch along the way, all included in your ticket. The day will conclude with a Grand Tasting event including tastings, appetizers, a complimentary wine glass and specials on wine from an assortment of wineries. Also, a limited number of Grand Tasting only tickets are available; check with North Willamette Vintners.

Thanksgiving Wine Weekend

Take part in this long-standing tradition of wine tasting day(s) following the holiday. This year’s event–Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 25–features the majority of Washington County’s wineries open for public tasting, including many of which do not usually  These special tastings of new releases and barrel tastings are paired with entertainment and light food fare. Tasting fees vary. For details, visit Willamette Valley Wineries.

There will be other, smaller wine events in the County in 2012; be in the know by following us on Facebook or Twitter (@WCVA), or check our event calendar. There’s always the option to venture out and create your wine trail by using our list of wineries or our suggested wine itinerary. Tech-savvy touring can be accessed via the Willamette Valley Mobile Wine Tour. Cheers!

Kids’ Spring Break: Ideas

Posted on: March 7th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

It’s coming soon: An entire week off from school. All this free time provides the perfect opportunity to explore Oregon’s Washington County and all the kid-friendly amenities. There are enough fun spring things to line up that kids of all ages will be free from boredom. Here are a few ideas for spots throughout the County to include in your itinerary:

John’s Incredible Pizza Company – Beaverton

Kids of all ages can enjoy what John’s calls its “Incredible Fun World,” featuring bumper cars, twister and more than 100 of the latest video games, with some offering tickets to redeem for prizes. Food is buffet-style; learn more in our blog post. The variety of games, food and entertainment at John’s can be fun for both big and little kids for hours; and they’re open for lunch and dinner–weekdays 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with plenty of parking.

Bullwinkle’s/Family Fun Center - Wilsonville

It's almost Disneyland--it's the Family Fun Center and Bullwinkle's Restaurant in Wilsonville. Flickr photo courtesy of the Fun Center.

Aside from its six acres of amusement, the Family Fun Center and Bullwinkle’s Restaurant is open year-round, rain or shine, which means that even in inclement March weather, you can challenge kids to a game of outdoor miniature golf! But wait, there’s more;–enjoy all of the following during your trip: go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, a 28-foot rock wall, batting cages, a bungee sling shot, more than 150 arcade games, a cyber coaster, Kidopolis Playland, the Frog Hopper, and a full-service restaurant and snack bar.  More.

Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge – Sherwood

Enjoy the outdoors with a family-oriented event offered each afternoon March 27-30. Kids and parents are invited to learn more about the natural wonders of wildlife with these hands-on nature activities for kids. This event is free and does not require registration. Guests are welcome to join the fun rain or shine. Also, the monthly “Puddle Stompers” little kids event is offered the morning of March 21. More.

Washington Square – Tigard

The Easter Bunny arrives at Washington Square March 15 and will be in residence daily until April 7. Also, the new Build-a-Bear Workshop will be in full swing. Hop on over to meet the bunny before March 28 and use this discount on photo packages: More.

Malibu Raceway – Beaverton

Most kids would agree: zooming around a racetrack makes for a fun afternoon. They can do just that at Malibu Raceway–and even choose their own racecar. The raceway is also home to a batting cage, video games, air hockey and billiards–as well as a snack bar. Start your engines! More.

For more kid-focused fun in the area, read our comprehensive article, “Washington County is THE Place to Play.”

March/April Events Calendar

Posted on: February 23rd, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Now is the time to select which coming events fit your viewing bill. Numerous live musical performances and theater productions are some of the highlights in Oregon’s Washington County slated for March and April.


PERFORMANCE

Pendulum Aerial Arts, known for its stunning visuals and technical aerial ability, offers the performance “Up, Up and Away!” at the French American School that will include a piece inspired by the musical Chicago (8500 NW Johnson St., Portland; April 20-22, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; $15).

EXHIBITIONS

The Washington County Museum (17677 NW Springville Rd., Portland, on the Portland Community College Rock Creek campus) presents “Snapshots!” (through April 21; $3), a retrospective of Washington County’s history told through photographs ranging from the late 19th century to the Roaring Twenties.

LIVE MUSIC

Bottom Line Duo will perform in Hillsboro on April 20.

It’s “21st Century Parlor Music” performed by the Bottom Line Duo (bass and cello) at the Glenn & Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center (527 E. Main St., Hillsboro; April 20, 7:30 p.m.; $20).

Enjoy a daylong celebration of the 90th birthday of McMenamins Grand Lodge (3505 Pacific Ave., Forest Grove; March 3). There will be live music beginning at 4 p.m., as well as coffee samples, a free showing of the movie “The Princess Bride,” kids’ activities and special distillery, wine and beer tastings, along with food specials.

It’s “Dance, Dance, Dance!” by the Hillsboro Symphony Orchestra with tango music and more (21945 NW Wagon Way, Hillsboro; March 2; 8 p.m.; $5-8)

The Beaverton Symphony Orchestra presents its spring concert, featuring pieces by Schumann (3300 SW Murray Blvd., Beaverton; March 9-11; $10).

LIVE THEATER

Enjoy a comedy of errors about a six-foot invisible rabbit with Beaverton Civic Theatre’s “Harvey” (12375 SW 5th St., Beaverton; February 24-March 11, $5-$15).

Theatre in the Grove is presenting the family comedy “Over the Tavern” (February 24-March 11; $12-14), which takes place in 1950s New York in the religious household of a six-person family.

Enjoy a performance of “Robin Hood – The Musical” (multiple locations, Feb. 24-March 18, $12), which is a family-oriented, unique retelling of the classic by local group Mask and Mirror.

Professional Theater company Bag&Baggage presents “Romeo and Juliet” at the Venetian Theatre (253 E. Main St., Hillsboro; March 2-18, 7:30 p.m.; $25). This version, known as “R&J” is text-based Shakespeare with a twist, and described as a “play within a play.”

Watch the popular comedy performance “Rumors” by Hillsboro Artists’ Repertory Theatre (HART), a Neil Simon play that had a long Broadway run (185 E. Washington St., Hillsboro; March 16-April 1, 2 and 7:30 p.m. shows; $10-14).

The award-winning Broadway Rose Theatre Company (12850 SW Grant Ave., Tigard) presents “The Andrews Brothers,” (April 19-May 13, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; $40), a musical comedy set in 1943 in the South Pacific when an Andrews Sisters scheduled performance goes sideways.

For a complete list of art and culture events and performances in Oregon’s Washington County, including community performing arts groups, visit the Event Calendar.

St. Patrick’s Day Fun

Posted on: February 17th, 2012 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

It’s the luck of the Irish shining in Washington County this year! There’s ample opportunity to eat, drink and be merry while celebrating:

Irish Vocalist & Guitar Group Performance at Pacific University
Saturday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m.

This is technically not on the holiday, but Pacific University Performing Arts Series presents Grammy-winning Irish vocalist Karan Casey and guitar virtuoso John Doyle, who are known for creating acclaimed, contemporary Irish folk music.

McMenamin’s St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Celebrations
Saturday, March 17
The Grand Lodge, Forest Grove
In addition to handcrafted McMenamins Irish stout on tap, there will be food specials such as corned beef & cabbage and Irish stew. Enjoy a free show for all ages; the Angry Monks go on at noon in the Lodge’s Ironwork Grill.

Cornelius Pass Roadhouse – Imbrie Hall, Hillsboro
Enjoy the sounds of Celtic Curve–a free, all-ages show at 8 p.m.

Sunday, March 18
Rock Creek Tavern, Hillsboro
Two of the Northwest’s finest purveyors of Irish music, Hanz Araki and Kathryn Claire, perform a free show at 6 p.m.

Thirsty Lion Washington Square’s St. Paddy’s Festival
Friday, March 16 through Sunday, March 18
Thirsty Lion is bringing Saint Patrick’s Weekend Festival back this year, which includes 52 beers on tap, 3 days of live music, Irish menu specials, bagpipers and Irish dancers.

"Kiss me, I'm Irish!" - A sure win in the last "Pooches on the Green" costume competition.

Pooches on the Green: A St. Pawtrick’s Celebration for Dogs
Saturday, March 17 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Beaverton City Park (5th Street & Hall Blvd. by Beaverton City Library)
Beaverton’s fourth annual Pooches on the Green is an event catered to canines. Owners are invited, too! Contests and competitions, such as best kisser, are for the dogs. Pooches are encouraged to dress up in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hillsboro
Saturday, March 17 – parade begins at 11 a.m.
Hillsboro’s 34th annual St. Patrick’s parade begins and ends at Hare Field and winds down to Main Street before finishing at back at Hare Field.
Kids activities, including games and entertainment, will be at the Hillsboro Civic Center Plaza (also on Main Street).

 

 

Planning a Luxury Day on Lucky Leap Day

Posted on: February 15th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

2012 is a leap year, which means it has 366 days instead of the usual 365 days with the addition of February 29th. This is perfect for planning to explore during those additional 24 hours in your year!
If I were to have an “extra” day to spend here in Oregon’s Washington County, I’m thinking the theme would be “new”– new to me, that is.

I’d start by heading to Washington Square to check out ForLove 21, a new concept store by Forever 21, that carries a full line of accessories for women. Then I’d dig out my cache of gift cards, all of which are for stores also located at Washington Square, and score something new at Macy’s or lucy.

Hopefully the view from Cooper Mountain will look like this on Leap Day!

Nearby is one of my restaurants of choice for comfort food, and assuming the weather will be gray and I’ll need something warm and tasty, I’ll head to Gustav’s. I’d opt for the “Gustav’s Grilled Reuben” lunch special with their housemade corned beef, paired with either the Bavarian-style hefeweizen beer on tap (a.k.a. König Ludwig Weiss) or a “winter special” seasonal dessert, such as English Sticky Toffee Pudding.

After such a decadent meal, a good walk is in order. I’d grab some binoculars and head to nearby Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton to hoof it along the 3 1/2 miles of trails, both hoping and fearing for wildlife spottings. At times, hikers have seen bobcats in the area. I’d gaze through the binoculars in search of Peregrine Falcons and Downy Woodpeckers (or other birds in the area), and take in a (clear?) view of the Chehalem Mountains–which will remind me of the Chehalem AVA and the talented winegrowers in the region.

So next up would be a visit to nearby Cooper Mountain Vineyards, where the tasting room is open weekdays from noon to 5 p.m., to taste test some certified organic wine.

The day would be topped off with a light, tasty happy hour dinner in Beaverton at Café Murrayhill, which is served from 3 to 6 p.m. My toughest choice of this relaxing day might be: Should I have the hummus plate or the club panini?

Dining Series: Burgers

Posted on: February 1st, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

If you have a hankering for a big, juicy hamburger, Washington County has a lineup of mouth-watering menu items at local restaurants to satisfy the craving:

Sink your teeth into this one at Gogo Burgers.

Coleman’s 9N Shady Rest – Gales Creek
Choose from more than 20 hamburgers at this classic diner spot along the Wilson River Highway. We recommend their unique offerings: the “Landslide Burger,” which has grilled ham, cheddar and a fried egg; or the “Tillamook Burn,” which is a cajun-spiced patty with jalapenos, hot sauce, chipotle ketchup, grilled onions and pepper jack cheese. All this and tater tots, fries or mashed potatoes, too.

Cruise In Country Diner – Hillsboro
This diner with a ’50s and ’60s theme is not only known for its decor, but for delectable burgers as well as fries, shakes and local beer and wine. In addition, the beef, bacon, eggs and more are organic–and choose from burgers that are either beef, buffalo, chicken or veggie.

decarli Restaurant – Beaverton
Enjoy this burger crafted with beef from Oregon’s Painted Hills, oven-roasted tomatoes, grilled onions, lettuce, aioli and aged cheddar on a brioche bun–and it comes with fries. Best of all, it’s on the happy hour menu!

Five Guys Burgers & Fries – Beaverton
Now with two locations in Beaverton, the burgers at this chain are unique in that they’re made fresh, as are the fries. The menu is simple: hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and fries. Customize your burger with free toppings, which include out-of-the-ordinary options such as grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, green peppers and hot sauce, among the standard lettuce, relish and tomato.

Joe’s Burgers – Tigard
This burger joint had its humble beginnings in a kiosk at Bridgeport Village, and has since expanded to two more (full-size) restaurants in Portland. We love the kiosk for its simple goodness; Oregon all-natural beef and a menu consisting of burgers, hot dogs, fries, shakes and drinks. The dilemma is whether to order the chili cheese burger or the chili cheese fries.

Gogo Burgers – Beaverton
Enjoy your burger how you like it; you’re provided a fresh, open-faced patty and directed to use the condiment bar, which includes pickles and nearly a dozen sauces. For a supercharged burger, order the one with bacon and eggs!

We can’t fail to mention two Northwest restaurant establishments that serve up many burgers: Burgerville, which has four locations in the County and boasts Oregon Country Beef and seasonal offerings such as summer fruit milkshakes, and McMenamins, which has 10 locations in the County–all of which offer an assortment of fresh burgers, including the standard “Captain Neon” with blue cheese and bacon.
For more American food options, go here. Wherever you choose your next burger in the area, enjoy every bite!

Here Comes the Bridal Show

Posted on: January 27th, 2012 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

Making its debut in February, the Washington County Bridal Show is a resource for anyone looking to get married amid breathtaking scenery. Picturesque vineyards, pristine golf courses, lush outdoors, cultural art centers, historic churches and rustic venues located here are ideal for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and more. Learn, too, about why weddings are increasingly popular in the area: abundant parking and affordable lodging and catering options.

Washington County settings such as Rood Bridge Park are picture-perfect for weddings.

This free event offers resources for planning dream weddings with varying budgets and ideas. Learn more about options such as weddings at Hagg Lake or Rock Creek Country Club. Also, enter to win free wedding gifts and services, and special pricing for select products and services will be offered for attendees. Enjoy the convenience of talking to numerous exhibitors all under one roof–on topics ranging from chocolate fountains to chair covers–including:

  • Wedding planners
  • Wedding and Reception venues
  • Caterers
  • Photographers and videographers
  • Bakeries and dessert companies
  • Music services and DJs
  • Florists
  • Rental companies

This event is Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Meriwether Golf Club in Hillsboro. Both admission and parking in front of the Clubhouse are free.

To learn more about wedding space options in Washington County, read our Wedding Wonderland article.

Comfort Food in the Comfort of a Restaurant

Posted on: January 25th, 2012 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

Lately there’s lots of talk about a favorite winter pastime here: eating. Specifically, eating comfort food. Lucky for visitors, these are items found on menus throughout the area. Here are the top picks that we here at the Washington County Visitors Association have sampled–and thought we’d share:

Raiza Dottin, Administrative Assistant:
My favorite go-to dish is the Teriyaki Beef at Roxy’s Island Grill in Beaverton. There was a line out the door to order last time I was there, which is a good indicator of their yummy food. The service is quick, too. I always get this dish because the barbecue sauce is the perfect mixture of sweet and salty.

As a close runner-up, I like the Mushroom Soup at The South Store Café in Hillsboro; it’s just the right thickness and pairs well with sandwich of the day, which, last time I was there, was turkey with brie and apples. The apples made the sandwich unique. The soups are house-made daily and served with focaccia bread.

Marie Prins, Visitor Information Specialist:
I could make a meal of just the Polenta Fries with Gorgonzola Butter at decarli restaurant in downtown Beaverton. Also, I’ve enjoyed the Braised Beef Shortribs served with spaetzle–yum!
Allison George, Stakeholder Development Manager:
The decarli Burger at decarli restaurant is juicy and gourmet. You won’t look pretty eating it, but you won’t care what anybody thinks after your first bite.

Taco plate at La Superior Restaurant. Photo by Gary S.

Angie Marsh, Communications Associate:
The Fondue at Gustav’s in Tigard is the perfect recipe of melted swiss, served with cute skewers and two kinds of bread for easy dipping.
Another comfort-in-a-bowl I like is the Phở at Pho Van Beaverton. The lean brisket is perfectly cooked, and works well with the rice noodles in broth, and I add the sides; a few bean sprouts, all the jalapenos and a few sprigs of the Asian basil.

Melissa Hay, Online & Interactive Coordinator:
I like the Fish Taco at La Superior in Beaverton–it’s fresh, not “fishy.”

Another favorite is at McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse in Hillsboro: the Communication Breakdown Burger, which has cheddar, mushrooms, onion and bell peppers–the perfect combo. It comes with a choice of fries, tots, soup or salad, so I mix up by choosing a different side each time.

Christopher Glawe, Graphic Designer:
If you’re looking to eat homestyle Mexican food, Pepper’s Mexican Grill in Hillsboro is the place–especially the Carne Asada. The steak is grilled to perfection and the homemade tortillas are delicious. Try the sample plates to see how everything has a good, fresh taste. Pepper’s also has the best Chile Relleno I’ve ever tasted. Try to leave room for dessert; they have tasty flan.

A close second is the BBQ Pork Tamale at The Tamale House in Tigard. I had never really cared for tamales; I found them to be dry and often bland. Then I discovered this place, where the tamales are homemade by the family. I also tried the tacos with homemade corn tortillas–Delicious!