For Foodie Friday today, I continue my new series highlighting a Portland Drink and a Bite of food that I think not only is best in class within Portland, but is a classic representation of the character of Portland. Of course, that Portland Drink and a Bite Highlight is also delicious, and unique.
My pick this week is the Smoke Signals cocktail at Laurelhurst Market. This is a famous cocktail highlighted by Portland Monthly back in 2013 but that has been on the menu since 2008. It is comprised of Rye Whiskey, Sherry, Pecan, Lemon, and (super cool!), smoked ice. That’s right, smoked ice, they smoke ice! The smoky nutty whiskey drink is unique and one of my top 5 favorite cocktails in Portland. I can’t go to Laurelhurst without having one.
With the illustrious Kevin Ludwig behind the bar though, definitely feel free to expand to other offerings. And then, for the bite at this steakhouse and full service butcher shop helmed by Chef Benjamin Bettinger and Sous Chef Patrick McKee, of course we turn to meat. You can’t go wrong with anything involving beef in this joint, but my favorite is the ribeye (the one pictured below is from a visit where it was served with avocado and pickled jalapenos – the accompaniment varies) which I’ve been having for years and is big enough to share for 2 or is one very manly meaty dinner for one.
Don’t forget to order that famous side of Mac and Cheese with a Potato Chip Crust! That oozy melty gooeyness…
Although I realize it’s chilly January, my favorite thing at Laurelhurst Market besides the food and drink is their outside bar that you can enjoy the breeze and setting sunshine along with your steak – something you won’t find at most steakhouses.
And, I love how Laurelhurst Market operates as a neighborhood joint with obvious regulars alongside the bar with me rather than going for the usual fancy feel that appeals to corporate expense accounts. Laurelhurst Market is also open for lunch and dinner everyday, so you don’t have to wait for dinner to get your local meat enjoyment on.
Have you been to Laurelhurst Market, what are your thoughts? What is your favorite Portland steakhouse?
I really need to move my blog reading times to the afternoon because now I want a ribeye steak and it’s not even 9am! That looks and sounds SO good right now! I love Laurelhurst Market, but haven’t been in a couple of years. I need to get back there!
Ribeye with pickled Jalapeño and avocado is perfect and I love mac & cheese. Now I can’t work because I’m hungry! LOL
I have STILL never been here, but that cocktail has re-inspired me to go.
I truly love Laurelhurst Market, but I just can’t stomach their smoked cocktail. Its wayyyyyyyy too artificially and overly smoky for me (this coming from someone who runs a BBQ catering company!!). BUT, I do agree with all your other points. They do a mean mean steak that’s for sure! Mmm. If you want a really good smoked cocktail come over to my pad someday, I’ve got one that will knock your socks off 🙂
I’ve never been there before, but that cocktail sounds amazing! I will have to try one next time I’m in town!