In PDX: Grain & Gristle

A few Saturday nights ago we tried a new-to-us restaurant. We sat on the couch for about an hour clicking through list after list of Portland restaurants & just couldn't settle on anything! We wanted somewhere different, somewhere we've never been & also somewhere that wouldn't break the bank. So we chose Grain & Gristle. When we walked in the lady that greeted us wasn't too friendly. We asked how long the wait would be outside & she said " we don't give time estimates, or anything like that". Okay. We sat at the bar, tried to order a drink & got snapped at by the bartender. He asked if we were on the wait list, so we said yes. We got the stink eye & were scolded for not stating our name. It was awkward & uncomfortable. I'd be lying if I said we weren't re-thinking our restaurant selection at this point... but we just quietly sipped our beers & waited for our name to be called.

Once we were finally seated outside, all was right with the world because we had a fantastic server! She explained the menu, gave us recommendations & always had a smile on her face. And after we finished our meals, we were very glad we chose this place - because it was plate-licking delicious. Seriously. I should also add that we had a total of four beers, two appetizers & two entrees - the total came to just barely over $50. Pretty good if you ask us!

^ Messy hair, don't care ^

- Photos © Holly Copeland -

*In PDX is a series where I feature local Portland establishments. If you would like your business to be featured, please contact me here.