Dig a Pony: This happening bar opened last week in southeast. Located in the space which was once Niki's Restaurant, Dig a Pony has given this place a chic makeover. The space is great anyway, with lots of windows and a fantastic view of the west side. There is a central U-shaped bar that is simply amazing. Over the center of the bar a fabulous back bar is suspended from the ceiling with steel cables. The staff was super friendly and enthusiastic about their bar. Drinks were generously poured. We didn't sample any food but are anxious to try the fried plantains and the jalapeno mac & cheese. There is a good vibe here. And if you're wondering about the name, one of the owners is a rabid Beatles fan and took the name from track 2 of "Let it Be."
Dig a Pony
736 SE Grand Ave.
http://www.digaponypdx.tumblr.com/
The amazing Dig a Pony bar (before completion)
The Sweet Hereafter: Located in the heart of Belmont, The Sweet Hereafter is the new baby sister to Alberta's Bye and Bye. A big fan of the Bye and Bye, I couldn't wait to visit The Sweet Hereafter. The space is smaller but designed very well. It is chic and cozy and like the Bye and Bye, the walls are adorned with the incredible art of the amazing Juan Casas. His work is brilliant and adds so much to the atmosphere. There is also a nice, relaxing patio in the back.
I was sad that the vegan chili was not on this menu but I found something better: The vegan Buffalo Sub. Spicy and wonderful, I cannot stop thinking about it. I also tried the Jamaican Bowl which was jerk-spiced tofu, brown rice, black beans and yummy coconut kale. The menu also boasts several fabulous sounding cocktails including the signature drink in a mason jar.
The Sweet Hereafter
3326 SE Belmont
Trader Vic's: This has been probably the most talked about opening in recent weeks. Trader Vic's has returned to Portland after being absent for 16 years. This time it is located in the Pearl District in the space that once housed Manzana. The space is hardly recognizable now. Immense wood tikis flank the entrance. The interior has thatched walls and ceiling and is perfectly "tiki-fied". Trader Vic's is all about the tropical drinks, each served in a different vessel and garnished differently. They are all beautiful and delicious looking. TV's is very loud and crowded but the opening has been long anticipated. I'm sure it will continue to be a bustling bar but the initial chaos should die down.
Trader Vic's
1203 NW Glisan
http://www.tradervicspdx.com/
This weekend we hope to see you out on the prowl!
-The Panther
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