Queso: Austin lives in Portland

Standard

Last week I had the privilege (and duty) to participate in my first SXSW Interactive Festival. It was a week filled with innovation, meet and greets, celebrity sightings (most notably Grumpy Cat, Mindy Kaling, Edward Snowden–by satellite, Snoop Dogg and George Takei) and tons of amazing food. I only visited Austin one other time, when I was introduced to the amazing signature dish of Texas: queso.

Continue reading

Orange Balsamic Beet Salad

Standard

Yes, even in winter there is the possibility of a bright, spring-like salad. During a recent discovery of Buyers’ Best Friend, I walked away with some basil infused olive oil and orange balsamic vinegar and have been eager to test them out.

Continue reading

Indulge at Sparrow Cafe

Standard

Oh, Haight-Asbury, the great joys you bring to my senses. From vintage shops to naked men wearing nothing but gold sequent socks (and not on their feet), to an impressive array of food options, you never disappoint me.

During my recent Christmas trip to San Fran, my mom and I ventured to the Haight for some shopping and brunching. Continue reading

Artichoke, Spinach and Blue Cheese Dip

Standard

2013-11-20 13.44.09

Oh, yeah, this is one is brilliant for a quick appetizer or as a spread. I love serving this as a fondue cheese feature with Granny Smith apples, boiled potatoes, peppers, sugar peas and other vegetables. Continue reading

Ladies Weekend to McNeil Point

Gallery

IMG_2431

There’s something to be said about female empowerment, and a group of independent women backpacking through the wilderness one August weekend. McNeil Point is a hiking shelter on the side of Mt. Hood, and can either be a hefty day hike or a multi-day trip. My lady friends and I decided to commune with nature, and make a weekend excursion out of the 8 mile trail. Continue reading

Beet and Chevre Salad

Standard

Beets and I have been at odds with each other for years. While my parents have insisted that it is an amazing root, I have not seen eye to eye with them… until now. Continue reading