Paris, Oregon. Have You Been?

February 04 2010
Posted in Portland - Find It - Portland

When you tell people Portland, Oregon and Paris, France are a lot alike, you’ll probably get a few raised eyebrows. Sure, Portland doesn’t have the centuries-old architecture, major fashion houses, museums or same magical charm as the City of Light—but look past the surface and you’ll quickly realize that this Northwest city and the French capital have a whole lot more in common than you initially thought.

Next time you are jonesing for that trip to old Par-ee, visit some of these terrific Portland establishments and you’ll experience a little bit of France, right in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Saint Honoré

After living in Paris, I’m a hard sell at most U.S.-based French bakeries, but Saint Honoré is flat-out the best French bakery I have been to outside of France. If you are looking for local, simple ingredients that have been transformed into mini edible masterpieces (all with a French flair), then make sure you stop by this boulangerie in Northwest Portland.

French native and bakery owner Dominique Geulin (who won a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Award for his boulangerie), keeps the menu simple—and very Parisienne.

He serves up simple French fare that’s focused on high-quality ingredients, like fresh salads (with the most perfect French vinaigrette), an amazing prosciutto, arugula and brie sandwich on a baguette, and the best chausson aux pommes this side of the Atlantic—in a great atmosphere that encourages guests to linger (just like in France). So, get a big café au lait served in a boule and linger awhile.

Location: 2335 NW Thurman

Carafe

Paris native and head chef Pascal Sauton serves up a classic French bistro fare using local, seasonal ingredients—all paired up with a great assortment of local and foreign wines. Furnished with a familiar catalogue of Parisian café decor and serving up simple, flavorful cuisine, this restaurant will quickly make you forget you’re in still in Oregon.

Plus, with all main courses priced under $20 and a nightly prix fixe menu for $25, you’ll also be able to experience Parisian cuisine affordably. 

Location: 200 SW Market Street

Le Bouchon

Another French-run restaurant with traditional French fare, Le Bouchon has a mostly native, French-speaking staff that serves up flavorful, simple dishes in a cozy space. There are always sure to be a few savory specials of duck and rabbit (ah, French comfort food) and/or another specialty regional dish. It’s definitely à la francaise without being pretentious (or overly expensive).

Location: 517 NW 14th Avenue