The Last Meal

The last meal of 2007, that is.

This past year there have been some great ones, like February's trek to Masu, and a visit to perennial fave 3 Doors Down in June to benefit Basic Rights Oregon. Then there was the opening of media darling (and darn good spot) Cava in October.

But to finish off the year in appropriate style, it looks like there are several choices available. Castagna is featuring a five-course blowout dinner that's sure to be a highlight of the year with a choice of three entrees and three desserts for $80, $125 with wine pairings.

Then David Machado is doing the do at both Vindalho and Lauro with special menus for your NYE celebration. At Vindalho, chef David Anderson has variations on crab, venison and sablefish with mussels on his mind, and Lauro will have oysters, crab risotto, strip steak and ahi to take you into '08 with a very happy tummy.

What better way to top off the year than with a great meal and, of course, great friends?

Details: Castagna, 1752 SE Hawthorne Blvd. Reservations only for New Year's dinner. Phone 503-231-7373.

Vindalho, 2038 SE Clinton St. Call for reservations. Phone 503-467-4550.

Lauro Mediterranean Kitchen, 3377 SE Division #103. No reservations. Phone 503-239-7000.