WHERE TO SHOP

Every foodie needs a well-stocked larder!

City Market
735 NW 21st, 221-3007
This NW grocer is a must for any Portland foodie, which, in addition to lots of uncommon imports and arguably the best-looking produce section in town, is ground zero for Viande Meats and Sausage and also features a Pastaworks annex. Viande is the place to go for gourmet meat products in Portland, period. Foie gras? Check. House-made sausage? Check. Pastaworks specializes in fresh, handmade pastas, and they are definitely worth the splurge. And don't miss the cheese counter at City Market, which is staffed by knowledgeable employees who are more than happy to help you find the perfect pairing. The wine selection is outstanding as well, but you're SOL if you're looking for any Two Buck Chuck. Next time there's a clear day, grab a date and head here for the best picnic makings ever. MARJORIE SKINNER

Fubonn Supermarket
2850 SE 82nd, 517-8877
Part of the larger Fubonn Shopping Center, where you can find everything from cell phones to tea settings, Fubonn is the Eastside's answer to Uwajimaya. Though the two Asian supermarkets have quite a bit of crossover, Uwajimaya's Japanese emphasis is counterbalanced by Fubann's greater focus on Vietnamese and Chinese, as well as Malaysian, Thai, Indian, and even small sections for Mexican food and Russian pickled items. Fubonn arguably has a better selection of live seafood than Uwajimaya, though it is smaller and often has less fresh-looking produce than the cross-town competition. One thing not to miss are the super-cheap items from the deli and bakery that will make you want to seek out employment on 82nd just so you can go there every day for lunch, and pick up fresh noodles for dinner later on. MS

Food Fight! Grocery
4179 SE Division, 233-3910
It's debatable how much overlap can exist between foodies and vegans. The prevailing winds of foodie-ism are listing toward the carnivorous, as evidenced by ever-mounting peer pressure to snack on bone barrow and tripe. For vegans interested in bucking the trend, though, and embarking on a cruelty-free foodie lifestyle, a trip to Food Fight! should be step one. The well-stocked vegan grocery has an exhaustive assortment of staples, including vegan cheeses, soup stocks, and egg substitutes, as well as pre-made fancy treats like caviar and pâté. And really, where else in town can you find vegan haggis? ALISON HALLETT

Nicky USA, Inc.
223 SE 3rd, 234-4263, nickyusa.com
Expand your horizons beyond the ordinary supermarket meat finds with Nicky USA, a local source for sustainable wild game. A beef hamburger? Yawn. Switch it with buffalo. Chicken? Oh god, please no. How about quail? Squab? Pheasant? Experiment with other high-quality wild meats like rabbit, goose, duck, partridge—they can even hook you up with the occasional pig head, alligator, or kangaroo if you've got a serious case of derring-do. They make a point of emphasizing sustainability and education, culminating in the annual "Wild About Game" event, featuring guest chefs, Oregon wine pairings, and cooking demos. (This years event is over, but keep an eye out for 2007's in October.) In the meantime get your education started by ordering what you need on their website and they'll let you know when it's good to go (I suggest storing up on stew-makings for the winter). MS

Pastaworks
3735 SE Hawthorne, 232-1010
If you ever find yourself hosting a dinner party for people you need to impress, Pastaworks is the store for you. They feature a selection of surprisingly affordable fresh pastas (including a fresh ravioli with seasonally rotating fillings), an easy and cheap way to take a simple dinner to the next level. They'll slice the pasta to your specification, and you'll be surprised at how many mouths a pound of linguini will feed. Pastaworks also carries wines for every price range, an extensive selection of cheeses, and various other sundries (like fancy butter and olive oil) to dress up your table. AH

FOODIE FAVES

Say it with me: "I know a great little place..."

Apizza Scholls
4741 SE Hawthorne, 233-1286
The foodie street cred of this place cannot be underestimated. For people who like to talk about how much "char" a pizza's crust has, or who get off on analyzing the flavor notes of tomato sauce, Apizza Scholls is a little piece of pie-shaped heaven. For pizza-loving civilians, it's a damn good pizza joint, with honest pies, enticing toppings (clams and house-made bacon, yum!), and a few nice antipasti and salad options. And since alcohol can bring together even the most unlikely factions, foodies and non-foodies alike will agree that Apizza Scholls has a killer beer list. Get there early, though; the line starts forming before the place opens, and if they run out of dough before the end of the night, you're up shit creek. AH

Navarre
10 NE 28th, 232-3555
Because I'm always on a budget and can't find that blasted sugar daddy I've been searching for, I love Navarre. I can leave there full and tipsy for around $25, which is a great deal for a delicious, leisurely dinner. The food at Navarre is exactly what I'd prepare for myself if I had any cooking prowess; rotating tapas specials include beef in wine sauce, trout steamed in parchment paper, buffalo flank, and various salty, vinegary greens. Order four or five items, then olives, bread, and wine and you've got yourself one tidy spread. Navarre recently began serving breakfast and lunch as well, so you can get your fix any time. The pan d'epice with goat cheese and jam makes a perfect light breakfast, or go for the eggs bennie if you need something more substantial. They also do a nice sub sandwich, available by the half or whole with a nice assortment of fillings, and the Carolina pulled-pork sandwich is to die for. KATIE SHIMER

Pix Patisserie
3402 SE Division, 232-4407; 3901 N Williams, 282-6539
Dessert chef Cheryl Wakerhauser is building an empire of tastiness. Her creative, decadent desserts (including some of the best ice cream you will ever taste—try it in a beer float!) have gained the two Pix locations a rabid following, and there's rumored to be even more expansion on the way. Not only is the ice cream divine, but also any dessert involving chocolate will make you reprioritize your entire diet. Pix's popularity is driven by the quality and inventiveness of Wakerhauser's product, and bolstered by friendly service and a charming atmosphere. Fun theme events like a "Build Yo' Own Dessert" night, wine and beer pairings, and movie screenings are all just icing on the proverbial. AH

Sahagún
10 NW 16th, 274-7065
Sahagún, named after the 16th century author of a book on Aztec chocolate worship, is nestled between a porn emporium and a Jaguar dealership—though in pricing terms it's closer to its more upscale neighbor than the sex shop. Sahagún's luxurious chocolate justifies the extra expense. A luscious caramel ran me $2.50, but its salted hazelnut finish was so good I could hardly believe what I was eating, let alone the fact I'd hesitated to pay two and a half bucks for a chocolate barely larger than a Hershey's Kiss. Chocolatier Elizabeth Montes is likely to take on the national chocolate scene over the next year—her work is gaining increasing attention from specialists all over the world, and Portland is lucky to have her. Now's the time to stop by, sample her delicious wares, and show her you care. MATT DAVIS

Simpatica
828 SE Ash, 235-1600
The wait for brunch is long enough at Simpatica, so I really shouldn't be writing about it again. But ignoring Simpatica would be a crime against deliciousness, so here it goes: the catering arm of Viande Meats and Sausage, Simpatica serves a killer brunch on Sundays, featuring an ever-changing menu that might include chicken and waffles, asparagus crepes, or andouille sausage and prosciutto hash. A reservations-only dinner is offered on Fridays and Saturdays. See simpaticacatering.com for more info. AH

Tabla Mediterranean Bistro
200 NE 28th, 238-3777
Northeast Portland's Tabla offers a pretty unbeatable three-course meal for $24, which is not too shabby when you consider both the quality and quantity of the food it gets you. The prix fixe option includes an appetizer (try the steamer clams), a pasta dish (ravioli is where it's at), and small entrée. Throw in a three-course wine pairing for $15, and you've managed to do some fairly upscale wining and dining for under $40 (not including tip, of course—self-respecting foodies tip 20 percent, in full humble and appreciative recognition of the role that servers, bussers, dishwashers, and bartenders play in any dining experience). AH

Utopia Café
3308 SE Belmont, 235-7606
If there were a "best breakfast in town" competition and I was the judge, the Utopia Café would be crowned the winner. Their potatoes are prepared in big hot fluffy chunks that put others to shame. Their corned beef hash is made with huge pieces of meat and the aforementioned potatoes of perfection, tossed in a buttery sauce that will have you licking the plate. Other notables include the best tofu and vegetable scramble I've ever eaten, and the coronary-inducing Bacavo scramble made with bleu cheese, bacon, and avocado. If I have to die, I'd love to die with a bite of Bacavo scramble in my mouth. KS

Zell's
1300 SE Morrison, 239-0196
It's easy to forget about Zell's: tucked away on East Morrison, the classy yet welcoming little spot is just off the beaten brunch path. It seems like every time I go there, it's after a prolonged discussion of where to eat that finally, mercifully culminates in someone saying, "What about Zell's?" Zell's is just so loveable: An ever-appealing daily specials board supplements the menu, which is mostly standard breakfast fare dressed up with a fancy cheese here or an unusual veggie there. On a recent visit, I had a Reuben scramble, which quickly established itself as one of the best breakfasts I've ever eaten. I love you, Zell's! AH

GET YOUR FOREIGN ON

Any foodie worth her salt knows where to go for cheap, authentic ethnic food.

Aladdin's Café
6310 NE 33rd, 546-7686
Recently, I discovered the hidden little Aladdin's Café, and now the entire food landscape in my neighborhood has changed. I have a new option! An exciting option! A Lebanese option! Aladdin's food is as good as any you'll get at Nicolas', with standouts being their incredible dolmas, smooth creamy hummus, and stellar, chunky baba ghanouj. So skip the crowds and check out this incredibly affordable, mellow little Northeast utopia. KS

Dalo's Kitchen
4134 N Vancouver, 808-9604
Dalo's Kitchen pretty much belongs in bizzaro world, but that's part of what makes it great. Located in a small section of a seemingly extinct corporate park between N Williams and Vancouver, it's hard to find, but worth it once you do. Their Ethiopian fare is top-notch, with hearty bean dishes, fresh vegetable salads, and a smoky berbere sauce that goes great with lamb. If you're on a budget, though, skip the meat and get a veggie platter for around $5—which is a serious godsend when you're broke and hungover. KS

Edelweiss
3119 SE 12th, 238-4411
This subtly located deli and store is like a wormhole into Germany, where you can stay for a sandwich in the small café area, or just load up on authentic German goodies (hello, sausage, hello, bratwurst) that'll stick to your ribs all winter long (as well as making enviable fare at any BYO BBQ in the summer—check out the mournful expression on the dude grilling his pathetic tofu dogs on the grill next to you: priceless). To go with your meat, check out the selection of German beers, plus a hefty stock of European chocolate. Need some vegetables in your diet too? Why, that's what sauerkraut is for, dear. MS

Foti's Greek Deli
1740 E Burnside, 232-0274
A great choice for a quick lunchtime grab (souvlaki, gyros, and other Greek classics alongside burgers—including one of the best veggie burgers in town), Foti's is also a Greek grocery where you can pick up Mediterranean staples from bulk feta to olive oil, and giant cans of dolmas. Plus, check out the European selections of beer and wine, and intriguing munchies from puff snacks to pickled vegetables. Family owned and super friendly, go here next time you are preparing a Greek dish and add a dash of authenticity to your kitchen while supporting an old school mom 'n' pop. MS

Got Pho?
3634 NE Sandy, 235-4411
My new house is located about six blocks away from Got Pho?, and I could not be happier about this. Forgive them the stupid name and focus instead on the delicious pho, and you will be rewarded for your tolerance. The addictive Vietnamese soup is a tried-and-true way of fighting winter angst—nothing, but nothing, beats a steaming bowl of fragrant broth, rice noodles, and cow. Got Pho? serves about 10 combinations of beef cuts, as well as versions featuring shrimp, chicken, and tofu, all garnished with a heap of sprouts and basil. Not only that, but they stay open until nine—even on Sundays. AH

Pok Pok
3226 SE Division, 232-1387
Pok Pok has long ceased to be one of the city's best-kept secrets: What started as a walk-up window in a converted garage is well on its way to becoming a full-service dining room. Pok Pok serves up Northern Thai street food, and unless you've already eaten there (or been to the region), it's unlikely you've tasted food like this before. Chef Andy Ricker fell in love with the cuisine after a visit to Thailand in 1988, and has been perfecting his technique ever since. Try the spicy-sweet papaya salad, shredded pork, or the amazing coconut rice. The best bet, though, is to bring a buddy and share as many dishes as you can—that way no one misses out on any of Pok Pok's distinctive, mouthwatering flavors. AH

BAKERIES

Luckily, foodies don't diet, so carbo-load it up at these local favorites.

Ken's Artisan Bakery
338 NW 21st, 248-2202
There's a reason so many of the city's fanciest restaurants rely on Ken's to fill their bread baskets—Ken's knows how to knead, rise, and bake every loaf just right, usually with local and organic ingredients. There's no reason to feel guilty for sneaking into Ken's for a baguette—they're baked twice a day, so you can always get a fresh one—and eating the entire thing for lunch. (PS—when on NE 28th, visit the new Ken's Artisan Pizza. If you don't mind waiting for a table, you'll be rewarded with some of the city's best pizza.) AMY JENNIGES

Petite Provence
4834 SE Division, 233-1121
Get. Here. Early. Seriously, by noon, the massive pastry cases at Petite Provence—a newly opened spin-off of a Lake Oswego venture—are tellingly bare. That's because smart people who woke up much earlier than you snapped up all the delicious croissants, scones, breads, brioches, and other amazing pastries. But don't fret—sit down, instead, for crêpes, eggs, or other incredible breakfast items (or, even better, come back for dessert!). AJ

St. Honoré Boulangerie
2335 NW Thurman, 445-4342
I'd dare say that St. Honoré's rush hour never ends—on the weekends, this place is packed with Francophiles from all over the city, who eagerly wait in line for ficelles, baguettes, quiches, tarts, and café au laits, and spend more time scouring for a seat (thankfully, the outdoor seating is well covered, so sidewalk-dining season is extended considerably). During the week, the bakery's also a hotspot for lunchtime sandwiches, or provisions for a delicious dinner. AJ

Saint Cupcake
407 NW 17th, 997-3674
Cupcakes have staged a comeback in recent years—they're the hipster treat of choice, showing up at dance parties and art openings across the city. It's hard to say whether Saint Cupcake was the driving force behind the cakey confection's resurgent popularity, or simply in the right place at the right time, but there's no doubt that they chef up some of the best in town. It's all about their cream cheese frosting; so don't miss the "big top" cupcake, featuring a tower of brightly colored frosting atop a scrummy chocolate chip cupcake. AH