In the Hood River Valley 15,000+ acres pears, apples, cherries and other fruit, will burst into blossom this month. It is a true sign of sping as we dust the snow off our back steps.
Blossom Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with a full plate of events from BBQs, to arts and craft shows, to antique sales.
You won't want to miss the Blossom Fest Quilt Show with some 80-100 beautiful handmade quilts will be on display, many for sale. Another can't miss event is the Dessert Party at the Apple Valley Country Store. A variety of desserts, jams and jellies, all made with fresh local fruit, will be available.
Start your day at one of the many Oregon Bed and Breakfasts near Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge with a breakfast prepared from fresh local products. Ginger baked pears, fresh Blueberry Scones, Apple Quiche, we're talking Northwest Culinary breakfasts!
With Nine Unique Inns in OBBG's Mt Hood Region to choose from this will only be one of the hard choices you'll face on a weekend of events for all the senses.
Take the scenic 35 mile Fruit Loop through the valley's orchards, forests, farmlands, and friendly communities.
Just want to sit back and relax? The Mt Hood Railroad travels through thousands of acres of orchards in blossom and has a layover in Parkdale and the Art and Music Festival. Enjoy live music and art in the park while taking in stunning views of Mt. Hood.
Visit us in the Hood River Valley at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inn and prove to yourself that spring has definitely arrived!!
We have three plum trees in the gardens of the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, an alternative to a Hood River Oregon hotel. The harvest has been Oregon Bounty style and the trees are loaded with fruit. We've been making cakes and pastries as they come off the tree for the couple of weeks. This Upside Down Cake has been well received by our guests at the breakfast table of the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.
Old Parkdale Inn Plum Upside Down Buttermilk Cake
Place 1/4 cup butter in 8" round baking pan and place in an oven preheating to 400º until melted. While it heats prepare about 10 plums by slicing them into wedges, getting about 8-10 wedges per plum. When the butter has melted swirl it around the pan. I use a pastry brush to make sure the sides are buttered too. Add 1/2 cup brown sugar, mix it well into the butter then arrange the plum wedges in rays around the pan.
Buttermilk Cake Batter:
1 cup flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ stick of butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
½ cup buttermilk
1 egg
½ tsp vanilla extract
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and set aside. In another bowl, cream the butter and ¾ cup of sugar together, then add the vanilla extract, egg and buttermilk and whisk till smooth. Add to flour mixture. Stir until just combined. Scrape the buttermilk cake batter onto the plum slices and smooth. Bake for around 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Cool for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto serving platter. We've been serving this Oregon Culinary Delight slightly warm with a dab of Greek yogurt and some sliced fresh plums as garnish
The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast is mid way between Hood River, the Columbia River Gorge and Mt Hood and is a unique inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. The inn, with Pacific Northwest decor, is at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood in the bountiful Hood River Valley, Parkdale, Oregon. The perfect base for outdoor adventure or a quiet retreat.
The 16th Annual Nez Perce Art in the Wallowa is coming up very quickly--Saturday of the first weekend in October 2012 to be exact. If you like contemporary Native American art then you don't want to miss this opportunity. Nez Perce Indian and nearly Columbia River Tribal Plateau artists will once again display and offer their work for sale at the historic Wallowa Lake Lodge in Northeastern Oregon.
Live and silent auctions take place in the afternoon of Saturday, October 4, 2012, from noon to 4 pm. Every year's different so it's worth to see what the artists are offering this year. Many of the artists are in attendance too.
In the evening at 6 pm, there'll be a dinner by reservation only in the dining room of the Wallowa Lake Lodge. Tickets for this dinner sell out quickly as fewer than 100 people can attend. The scrumptious dinner includes fresh salmon, local buffalo, local salad and vegetables, and cheesecake with huckleberry topping. A culinary tourism or locavore delight!
The afternoon reception, live & silent auction is free admission. Dinner tickets are $45 in advance and can be reserved through the Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center at 541-886-3101 or purchased through local vendors listed here
Entertainment during the dinner features Nez Perce storyteller Carlotta Kauffman who will perform "According to Coyote" a collection of Coyote stories collected and produced by her brother John Kauffman. This show was recently performed Dakota State University (see photo).
You can stay at the Wallowa Lake Lodge for this event, but we'd like to recommend that you check into one of three Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild members located nearby in Joseph, Oregon (10 minutes away) or Enterprise, Oregon (20 minutes away). All three of these Oregon bed and breakfasts are equipped with only private bathrooms that are either attached directly to your guestroom or are nearby. And by staying in Joseph or Enterprise you'll be able to enjoy more of the sights and sounds of this vibrant Pacific Northwest artistic community.
Make your reservations soon!
See you at this northwest culinary and artistic event!
It is spring in the Pacific Northwest. The rhubarb in the gardens of our inn, the Old Parkdale Inn, is just about ready to harvest and the Oregon strawberries should begin to come on soon. Put the two together and we get a favorite of our guests, Strawberry-Rhubarb Coffee Cake.
3 c fresh rhubarb, cut in 1-inch pieces
2 c fresh strawberries
sweeten with agave nectar (or one c sugar)
1/3 c cornstarch
Cook the strawberries and rhubarb for about 5 minutes. Combine the sweetener of your choice with the cornstarch and add to fruit. Cook until bubbly and thick. Set aside to cool
3 c flour
1 c sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1/8 tsp cinnamon
1 c butter
1 c buttermilk
2 eggs
1 tsp almond extract
Combine dry ingredients. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Beat wet ingredients together and add to flour mix, stirring just to moisten. Spread half the batter in a greased 9x13x2 inch baking pan. Spread the cooled rhubarb filling over this and spoon the remaining batter in small portions on top of the filling.
Make a topping by combining
3/4 c sugar, 2 cup flour, cut in 1/4 cup butter and then add 1/4 cup flaked coconut
Sprinkle over the coffee cake batter, bake at 350 degree oven for 40-45 minutes. The innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild truely enjoy turning your vacation into a culinary vacation. Coffee anyone?
It's that time of year again. A time when the Farmer's Markets in Oregon open and the Oregon Bounty begins to flows. Found some fresh organic strawberries at ours this week and it just gets better from here out!
What do you see in this photo? If you answered apples, mushrooms, potatoes, bread and greens, you would be right. I see a savory Italian Fritatta with Argula and mushrooms, herbed roasted potatoes, a rich and flavorful banana French Toast and Old Parkdale Inn’s famous Baked Fuji Apples.
Once a week we receive our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box delivered to our door by Hood River Organics. It's like Christmas every time, not knowing what gifts we will receive. Depends on what is being harvested on the organic family farms in the Hood River Valley and Columbia Gorge. This is exceptional Oregon Slow Food.
Some of the innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild belong to their local CSA and they also, along with most of our innkeepers, visit the farmers markets regularly, selecting the perfect ingredient to create a true Northwest Culinary experience for our guests. Many of us have gardens producing fresh herbs, vegies, and more.
As spring turns into summer the box gets heavier and the market stands overflow with more and more of the bounty our farms have to offer. Won’t be long before the berries and fresh herbs start arriving. Can’t you just taste them?
Culinary Tourists, listen up. You'd travel miles for the best Street-Food. Even plan whole culinary vacations around Street-Food. Well, you need only travel to Portland, Oregon for the very best in Street Food. #1 in the World in fact according to Budget Travel and US News Travel
"With more than 400 carts selling everything from Korean tacos to Carolina-style barbecue, Food Carts Portland is a microcosm of mobile meals, " according to Marisa Robertson-Textor.
Lunchtime crowds gather near SW 10th Avenue and SW Alder Street; later on, night owls head across the river to SE 12th Avenue and SE Hawthorne Boulevard for deep-fried cherry pies and savory crepes, served until 2 a.m.
Food Carts Portland has a list of cuisine categories, locations and maps. From Baked Potatoes to Vietnamese to Turkish to Sicilian, you'll find more than 50 different carts. "Like" Food Carts Portland on Facebook.
Start your Culinary Vacation at a Portland Bed and Breakfast where we serve up the very best in Oregon Slow Food, right from the Farmers Market to you. Then "graze" through Portland and see what we already knew, Portland has the "World's Best Street Food".
Eat Mobile, Portland’s Food Cart Festival, will be held at OMSI this year on Saturday April 28. Fifty different street food vendors will serve up samples of their creations to the throngs of fans who will eat it up while enjoying an adult beverages and some live music. All proceeds from the event go to Mercy Corp Northwest’s local economic development program which assists entrepreneurs in securing funds for small businesses, including food carts.
Just another reason to visit Portland, Oregon and regional member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. Get to know our State like a local. Select a Bed and Breakfast from where to start and end your trip. Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.
Like running shoes? Like Southern Oregon? The innkeepers of Bybee's Historic Inn just outside of Jacksonville, OR, would love to see you in April for the Pear Blossom Run!
Who: Anyone who wants to enter and support Jackson County High Schools, local school programs & the YMCA Annual Strong Communities Fundraising Campaign.
What: 36th Annual Pear Blossom Run
When: Saturday, April 14, 2012
Where: Medford, Oregon (not too far from Jacksonville, OR)
Why: Rogue Valley's #1 athletic event. Founded in 1977.
Details: Entry deadline is April 1, 2012. Register at the website, www.pearblossomrun.com or by calling (541) 324-8348
Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville, OR, is also a perfect Oregon wedding location. They also hold Pacific Northwest Culinary events featuring local chefs from the Jacksonville, OR, area. Give them a call at 541-899-0106 and book your group in for the Pear Blossom Run!
You just never know what's going to happen next when you visit an Oregon bed and breakfast.Vikki Lynn and Tina Marie of Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville, OR, don't let the grass grow under their feet! There's always something new and exciting going on at this authentic Oregon lodging. Here's a report about a recent Northwest culinary event at their inn, combined with a little bit of Victorian fun.
They write:
November 5th: Twenty-two members of Belles and Beaus of Jacksonville enjoyed and evening of Victorian tradition at the Bybee’s Historic Inn. Belles and Beaus is an organization that promotes history by dressing
in vintage clothing and accessories while reviving the traditions of the 1800’s. They pay attention to every detail including the clutches the ladies carried containing period appropriate items. After a gourmet dinner catered by Chef William Prahl of Deja Vu in Jacksonville, the ladies retired to the Parlor and the men remained in the dining room just as it was done in the Victorian era.
To finish off the evening everyone gathered in the parlor to play Victorian games. It was truly magical to have our 1857 circa home filled with guests representing that period.
If you're looking for a venue for your special event, consider Bybee's Historic Inn near Jacksonville, OR. Bybee's Historic Inn specializes as an Oregon wedding location. They also play host to various northwest culinary events in their dining room. You can find out more at their special events webpage and at their wedding events webpage.
Or give them a call at (541) 899-0106 to discuss your plans.
2010 Food & Wine Classic, Ashland Oregon from Dana Welsh on Vimeo.
There's a quirky little town on the Oregon side of the Columbia River, a half-hour drive north of Portland, that is trying to discover itself. St Helens Oregon has already been discovered by Hollywood, for one. Recently numerous scenes from "Twilight" were filmed here and each October Olde Towne recreated in the manner of the popular 1998 Disney movie, "Halloweentown".
Dozens of fishing boats might be waiting in the harbor for the tide to turn and the salmon to run. The local brewery, "Captured by Porches" is lodged behind the Plantation House and Captain Jack's karaoke bar in the heart of Olde Town, along with shops and restaurants and the Columbia Theatre. Sailors and kayakers with rentals from Scappoose Bay Kayaking, enjoy the calm waters of the narrow channel and farther out, oceangoing freighters and container ships traveled the main Columbia channel. The front steps of the 1905 Columbia County Courthouse — located immediately north of Columbia View Park — look out upon Plaza Square, which extends between Strand and First streets.
A delightful Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member inn, The Nob Hill Riverview B&B, sits on a hilltop overlooking Olde Town and features a wonderful view of Mount St. Helen. The perfect place to relax and unwind. From the moment you step inside you will find that the Inn is elegantly appointed and restored for your comfort. You will feel pampered after a restful night's sleep and awake to the inviting aroma of homemade organic food being prepared for your breakfast. A true Northwest Culinary treat for that romantic getaway and a unique inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild.
The Prospect Historic Hotel B&B Inn - Motel and Dinner House along with Bybee’s Historic Inn will be card stops for the Poker Run on Friday June 17th.
For over a quarter century the Medford Cruise has been all about automobiles, good times and good people. The Poker Run is a great opportunity to join in the fun, cruise with classic cars and win some great prizes. Approximately 90 cars will be participating in the run and the poker game. All of the proceeds benefit local youth organizations.
Both of these authentic Oregon Nationally Registered Historic Inns will be open for tours and a chance to stretch your legs on their magnificent grounds. Refreshments will be provided by each of the Inns.
William M. Bybee, a prominent figure in the development of Jacksonville and the surrounding area built the Bybee House circa 1857. Now run by innkeepers Vikki Lynn and Tina Marie, the six-guestroom house has been restored to all of its original elegance and is known as Bybee's Historic Inn. The Inn hosts a ‘Historic Characters’ Dinner on the third Friday of each month. (This is happening after the Poker Run)
Albion Boothby built the Prospect Hotel (originally called the Boothby House) circa 1888, as a stop over for visitors to Crater Lake. Known as the Prospect Historic Hotel and Dinner House, Karen and Fred Wickman have enhanced the traditions set by the Boothbys in providing an elegant yet relaxing stay along with hearty meals, both for breakfast and one of their fantastic dinners. The Signature Prime Rib has been called “The Best in Southern Oregon” and is one of the Northwest culinary delights of Southern Oregon.
The Medford Cruise Poker Run Cars will start showing up at the Prospect Historic Hotel around 10:30 to 11am on Friday June 17th and come by Bybee’s Historic Inn around 12:00 to 12:30pm.
If you wish to see a lot of really great classic cars, stop by either Inn on Friday and ENJOY the VIEWING!
The May 2011 issue of Sunset Magazine features the "Top 50 Hotels Under $150" for travelers seeking room for a weekend night where the Sunset staff would really want to be.From the article:
So we set out to find rooms—weekend rooms—for under $150 per night*. Call us cheap, but for that price we also want our own bathroom, no bedbugs, and rooms, or at the very least lobbies, with a dash of personality. And each one of these hotels is in a place we really want to go. (*All hotels have an under-$150 rate for at least 1 weekend through late spring and summer. Rates do not include tax.) What follows is our list of the best.
24. Chehalem Ridge B&B, Newberg, OR. With a view that it shares only with the hawks, this modern cottage has 4 cozy but unfancy rooms within striking distance of dozens and dozens of Willamette Valley wineries. Breakfast is a multicourse affair that on nice days is served out on the deck. $140; chehalemridge.com 
Innkeeper Kristin Fintel's comment: "
And Chehalem Ridge B&B is only one of ten properties that Sunset selected in the Northwest! Kudos to Kristin & Curt!
What the Sunset staff didn't tell you is Kristin is well-versed in the kitchen, creating a variety of breakfast meals that suit individuals who are gluten-free or avoid eating such common foods as eggs, dairy, soy, corn, nuts, or even sugar. Or course, if you're not food sensitive, her breakfast cuisine features the best the Northwest can offer. And, the price of breakfast is included with your room. Will you find that level of service in most hotels?
If you're looking for a Northwest culinary experience at an authentic Oregon bed and breakfast, look no further than Chehalem Ridge B&B in Newberg. And maybe you'll see the Sunset staffers enjoying the view.
Sakura Ridge - The Farm and Lodge, is a working orchard and Oregon bed and breakfast located on the west slopes of the Hood River Valley. You'll feel like you are sitting on top of the world as you enjoy panoramic views of the valley and majestic Mt Hood from your private patios or the extensive decks.
The Farm grows organic dark sweet cherries and delicate pears many of which make it to the amazing breakfasts served at the Lodge along with many other organic fruits and vegetables grown organically in the extensive gardens. A true Northwest Culinary experience.
From the Coast, Portland, Mount Hood and The Gorge, Willamette Valley, Southern Oregon to the Rogue River Valley or Central Oregon to the High desert of the East the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild offers unique and comfortable accommodations.
Get to know our State like a local; stay with one of our near 100 hosts in any one of our many regions. Experience romantic getaways, historic treasures, and tucked away rustic retreats. Whether your trip is for a quiet escape to a quaint rural or coastal town, for a World Class City experience or for a new spin on business travel, you can be assured of combining gracious hospitality with ambiance by staying at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn
On March 31st, 2003, we arrived in Parkdale and began our journey as innkeepers of the Old Parkdale Inn, a Mt. Hood Bed and Breakfast. It was something I had dreamed about doing for quite awhile and some days I still pinch myself and some days I ask myself what am I doing!Today I begin my 9th year. My, time certainly flies when we are having fun! And I am having fun. Oh, I admit there are days when it gets a little rough, say mid September when we have had a constant turnover of guests experiencing Oregon. But those guests are amazing and I wouldn't trade them for the world. Some have become friends, almost family, they have returned so many times.
The Old Parkdale Inn is nestled in the Hood River Valley on the northern slope of Mt. Hood. We are the perfect base for outdoor adventure and quiet retreats. Our grounds have been recognized as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat and we look forward to spring and the arrival of the many birds that frequent our feeders.
Located in the heart of the Fruit loop, a scenic 35 mile driving tour past family farms, fruit stands, wineries, and friendly communities, we anxiously await the show of blossoms ready to open in the acres of pears, cherries and apples.
On Blossom Fest Weekend, April 15/16, businesses along the Fruit Loop open after their winter nap and celebrate spring with art shows, music, and of course, food.
As a Certified Green Lodging member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild you can rest assured you will experience accommodations fulfilling your sustainable travel needs. Our inn has three artistically decorated guest rooms, all with private bath, eco friendly products, a modern kitchen and dining room where we serve up a hearty Northwest culinary breakfast. The Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast, , the Hood River Valley blossoms, Mt. Hood. Is there a better way to welcome spring?
No other experience brings you that elusive thing we call home as quickly as waking up to the warm and comforting aromas of breakfast. Imagine these drifting up the stairwells and down the halls. Coffee being freshly ground and sweet and savory delights. You know that something wonderful awaits your arrival at the breakfast table. Any possibility might exist. You may be surprised with fresh scones with homemade jams, gnocci with fresh herbs, a 3” high savory custard, or perhaps a French crepe, an Italian fritatta, or a Spanish Tortilla. No matter the experience, you can be assured that the Innkeepers of The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild take Breakfast very seriously.
Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Innkeepers include farmers, winemakers, fruit growers, cheese mongers, and ranchers. Your culinary experience will differ depending the region of Oregon you are visiting. Whether we serve locally grown produce, fresh farm eggs and cheese, sustainably raised meats or the wine your host may serve in the afternoon, we regard ourselves stewards of the land.
There are countless Food, Wine and Beer Festivals to celebrate Oregon's Bounty in every corner of our fine state. Regional orchard and farm loop offers you as visitors to the Northwest the chance to take a culinary vacation through the rural landscape, the coast and the urban areas. By staying with our member innkeepers, you will have an insider guide to the foods and beverages of the region.
Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast - A Culinary Vacation through Oregon
Week One ~ Cheese Week
Week Two ~ Travel Oregon Fish Week
Travel Oregon Wanderfeast Beer Week ~ Week Three
Wanderfeast Week Four ~ Fall Fruits Week
Artisan Spirits Week Five ~ Travel Oregon Wanderfeast
Wanderfeast Week Six ~ Shellfish Week
Meat Week from Travel Oregon's Wanderfeast
It's All About the Nuts in Wanderfeast Week Eight
Mushrooms ~ A Staple in Northwest Culinary Fall Dishes
Oregon Bounty Wanderfeast Week Ten ~ Wine
Travel Oregon and the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild invite you to come along for a Wanderfeast Vacation. Design your own Wanderfeast and possibly win a Culinary Vacation of a lifetime. And even if you don't win we encourage you to create your own Oregon Culinary experience by visiting the member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild and plan an Oregon culinary vacation like no other. Our innkeepers take breakfast seriously, serving freshly ground coffee, more often than not roasted locally, along with sweet and savory delights created from the very best of what our Oregon producers have to offer. For information about Wanderfeast, 10 weeks, 10 chefs and 10 very special culinary tastes of Oregon visit the Travel Oregon Website.
Another week....another feast! Wanderfeast, a celebration of food, foodies, and your chance for an authentic Oregon Culinary Vacation. From the wine crush in Applegate Valley to the chanterelles hiding in the Coast Range to the fish and game that frolic in every nook and cranny of Oregon, ten top chefs will chase after ten of Oregon’s finest epicurean products. It’s ten weeks of foodie bliss, from one end of Oregon to the other. And you’re invited to come along. For information about this week's Wanderfeast and spirits of Oregon visit the Travel Oregon Website
Oregon is home to some pretty fabulous fungi: hobbit-like morels, earthy porcinis, the elusive truffle. If you know what you’re looking for, a day in the forest during the fall can yield a bounty of wild mushrooms. This week we find mushroom-crazy chef Leather Storrs from Noble Rot among the firs in the foothills of Oregon’s Coast Range, sleuthing for chanterelles.
Design your own Wanderfeast and possibly win a Culinary Vacation of a lifetime. And even if you don't win we encourage you to create your own Oregon Culinary experience by visiting the member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild and plan an Oregon culinary vacation like no other. Our innkeepers take breakfast seriously, serving freshly ground coffee, more often than not roasted locally, along with sweet and savory delights created from the very best of what our Oregon producers have to offer.
The Blueberry Buckle Coffee Cake is so easy and is always a favorite summer culinary treat at the 
Oh my, where do I begin?I was born in SoCal on a warm dry day in 1961. Ok...skipping ahead a few years.... I watched as my grandmother pounded the heck out of a steak. She was a tiny thing but man could she pound the heck out of that beef. And, she was one of those kinds of women that could pull a few items out of her pantry and prepare a feast. Now my Jewish grandmother on my mom's side, another important influence in the kitchen, she told a totally different story. Couldn't understand a word of it sometimes, but I got the picture cause when she was mad or wanted me to behave, she spoke "Yiddish" and yes...then I behaved. So, when the word, "nosh" came up for this tour, how more fitting could it be?!
NOSH: A Yiddish word meaning to snack, eat a light meal, a small bite, nibble or munch!
Between my grandmothers', my mother's innate ability to improvise and improve on any recipe she tried, my firefighting awesome cook of a husband and my yearning desire for "really good" food, I have only learned from the best how to cook and now I am learning where to find the best food in Oregon. My personal journey, my quest, my "foodie" exploration and just like Albany, I love to share!
Thus...the Albany Nosh Tour! Bursting at the seams and wanting to run down First Ave.
screaming..."do any of you know what you have here in this sweet town???" I didn't want to be known as "debbie...that crazy lady that runs down First Ave. screaming," so...with the help of some of my AVA buddies, we created the "Albany Nosh Tour!" And, like most of us here in Oregon, perhaps a motto of sorts...we came up with..."Albany...we love to share!" And, we did just that yesterday!Beginning with our ride over to Novak's for our first stop, we were overwhelmed by the most delicious Hungarian chicken dish and a plethora of pastries. The Novak family made us feel like family and even brought in Joseph and Matilda to make us feel even more at home. After enjoying what I considered a "meal," we loaded up the trolley and headed to our 2nd stop...Calapooia Brewing Co. Burger's, ruben's, fries, tots and three or four paddles of their beer in the garden and we could have stayed all evening! A great quick tour of their brewery of which they brew beer and send out to five different cities in Oregon, puts Albany on the map of one of the best places to brew beer! Told ya we like to share!
Ah...Taste of Italy at Pizza King! A quick cooking lesson with fresh garlic, lemon zest, peppers and parmegano reggiano mixed in "orchetta" pasta and yummm! Ruby you are the best and that authentic "bellini" with the fresh berries, the peaches, the Prosecco and wow...is there life after you have had the best Italian food? And yes...by this time we are beginning to get really full but we don't want to be done yet! So, we board the trolley again and head to P'Shaws and enjoy a quick bite of local jams, sweets and a nice browse of Pam's shop of handmade, homemade and all regional goodies!
The last trolley stop took us to Sybaris! From here we walked the rest of the tour. Believe me when I say...we really needed it. But, not till we have had Matt's most delectable dish! Thank you Matt and Janel for helping put Albany on many maps and for drawing visitor's from all over the world as they come to enjoy our sweet town and your most divine Pacific Northwest cuisine! What a treat and gorgeous as always!Rolling almost literally down the "avenue," we entered Vault 244 and were lead through Lane's very trendy, very cool and very inviting bistro. Hauled in to the new banquet room at the rear of the restaurant, we were awestruck at our "taste!" Almost too pretty to eat and drink, Lane gave us a quick run down on the new renovations and the much anticipated outdoor seating options. That is set to be open this week by the way. Thanks to Lane, his head chef and mixologist (that's my name for the guy that makes the cool drinks) for a very unforgettable taste!
Moving on to Clemenza's again owned my Matt and Janel and at no surprise another perfect taste of Prosciutto wrapped fruit in a balsamic glaze and oh my...yum doesn't even begin to describe this taste. In awe, in amazement and in for another treat, we then headed to First Burger where couldn't possibly "taste" another bite...but man...that Frito chili pie was soooo good! But, we needed our cupcakes! Well...I did anyways and knowing that Jessica's Rocket Queen Cupcakes were waiting for us at Boccherini's along with a nice iced latte', we shook a leg and rubbed our bellies and headed on in for the perfect ending of very perfect taste!
And that it was!
Thanks to all our restaurateurs, our chef's, our owner's of these delish dining digs in Albany! We are here because you are here and have helped make our town a destination location for travelers, trekkers, writers, photographers and local folks that just plain love "really good" food!
And...if you are visiting Oregon this season, join us for our next "nosh" in Albany, OR on July 31st! For info: call the Albany Visitor's Assn. at 541-928-0831! And...if you are looking for that most awesome Oregon B & B to perfectly round out your perfect Oregon visit, check out The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild at www.obbg.org!
Guests at the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast have been treated to the Rogue Creamery Lavender Cheddar Spring Tart several times now much to their delight. This past weekend at our inn located in the Hood River Valley we served the Rogue Creamery Panini with Apples, Spinach and Red Onion. I sauted the onion in a little butter to soften the flavor for a perfect breakfast sandwich. Yummy!! Enjoy and visit the Rogue Creamery on Facebook, like, and stay tuned to more of the yummy recipes utilizing their superb cheeses.
LAVENDER CHEDDAR PANINI WITH APPLES, SPINACH AND RED ONION
2 thick slices rustic 9 grain bread
6 slices Rogue Creamery Lavender Cheddar
6 thin slices Braeburn apple
6 leaves fresh organic spinach
…3 slices red onion rings
Layer slice of bread with 3 slices of cheese and the remaining ingredients. Top with 3 more slices of cheese and bread. Drizzle bread with olive oil and place oil side down on a pre-heated panini press. Drizzle more oil on top of bread and close panini press. Grill until cheese is melted and bread is a golden brown. Serve with sweet mustard or jam and lots of fresh fruit.
You'll find that the innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild take extra steps to seek out the freshest ingredients from our Oregon farms so we can serve up the very best Oregon Culinary breakfast treats.
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