Livin' in the Blurbs

Remember way back in September (ah, the good old days!) when ¿Por Que No? was featured in Gourmet magazine's list of the top Latin restaurants in the country? Well, now another Portland restaurant is having its moment in the Gourmet magazine spotlight. In the October issue, Vindalho was named one of the 100 best restaurants in America for its "seasonal, farm fresh approach to the classic dishes of India" with "a unique melding of Northwest produce and Spice Route flavors executed with a sure hand."

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Speaking of the good old days, Kruger's Farm on Sauvie Island is having a Harvest Hoe Down Square Dance this Saturday (Oct. 20) as part of their fall concert series. Caller Caroline Oakley will be calling the dances and no experience is necessary. Or next Saturday you can take in a bluegrass concert with Lisa and her Kin stomping the house. So get on over and swing your partner from 7 to 10 pm. Only $5 per car, and beer, wine and food are for sale there.

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A couple of weeks ago after a particularly strenuous workout, I found consolation in the form of a big breakfast at newly-opened Toast on SE 52nd near Steele. Now comes word that their dinners may be one of the best deals in town, with dishes like hanger steak, mashed potatoes and side of veggies for just $15. Chef/owner Donald Kotler has a serious dedication to the pig in all its wondrous forms, so look for some large chunks to be featured on the menu, which is available Wed. through Sat. from 5:30 to 9:30.