Beautiful views aren’t hard to find in Central Oregon, given the stunning mountains and other natural treasures that call this place home. Black Butte Ranch, however, surprised me in the best way, with views that couldn’t even properly be captured by my camera lens or by words alone. While there are multiple spots at Black Butte…
Todd Jurich's Bistro (And Why Five-Star Can Remain Laid-Back) If there is any reason to throw on one's best outfit and plan an extravagant evening, at least one restaurant in downtown Norfolk proves itself to be worth the expense. Todd Jurich's Bistro is the type of spot that would accommodate any occasion, ranging from…
Toulouse Petit - Breakfast of Champignons! Toulouse Petit brings New Orleans inspired fare to lower Queen Anne. Featuring a unique and flavorful Southern cuisine and ornate Creole decor, Toulouse offers a soulful dining experience from early morning until late evening. Brian Hutmacher, the owner of Mexican restaurant Peso’s, opened Toulouse Petit in 2010. The…
It was a bit like a dramatic Hollywood movie opening. You know, one of those director-was-overly-cheesy moments that “us” girls like. We’re at the hostess stand, and a gentleman taps me on the shoulder and says (for lack of blog-voice availability, insert deep powerful tone), “Your daughter...she’s very happy. No?” As I turn, all…
Happy hour appropriately occurs twice a day at Pintxo, a modern Spanish style tapas restaurant in Seattle's Belltown. There, diners are able to enjoy inexpensive sangria, wines, and beer accompanied by several delicious small plates during two happy hours. The first begins at five and ends at seven. Then break for siesta and come…
Opera on the Lawn Returns to Remy Wines for a 20th Anniversary Celebration Some Sunday mornings call for coffee. This one calls for live opera, a picnic on the lawn, and a glass of Oregon wine. On Sunday, August 23, 2026, Remy Wines will celebrate its 20th anniversary with the return of Opera on the Lawn. The outdoor performance features Continue Reading
Where To Play This Summer in Seattle: Events, Dining & Local Picks Seattle is heading into one of its busiest stretches of summer. Seafair returns to Lake Washington, Bite of Seattle takes over Seattle Center, and Festival Sundiata brings a free weekend of Black arts, food, music, and culture to the heart of the city. Whether you are visiting for Continue Reading
Heading to the Waterfront Blues Festival with food allergies or dietary restrictions? You are not alone. Festival food can be exciting, but it can also be tricky when you are looking for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan options. The good news is that several vendors at this year’s Waterfront Blues Festival are already thinking about guests with different dietary needs. Continue Reading
Portland’s Waterfront Blues Festival returns July 2-4, 2026 to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, bringing three days of live music, riverfront views, fireworks, and a full festival food lineup that makes this one of the tastiest summer events in the city. This year’s Blues Bites food court and vendor marketplace will feature a mix of new arrivals, returning Portland favorites, local Continue Reading
Portland’s summer soundtrack returns to the riverfront. The Waterfront Blues Festival is back July 2–4, 2026 at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Downtown Portland, bringing three days, three stages, Blues Cruises on the Willamette River, local food, craft beverages, a curated marketplace, and a Fourth of July fireworks show over the water. This year’s lineup stretches far beyond traditional blues, Continue Reading