Oregon Culinary

Innkeeper Jody Runge offers the following about her Portland Oregon lodging:  "Located in vibrant, hip Northeast Portland, A Painted Lady Inn offers a calm oasis in the heart of the city. Just steps from wonderful shops and fine restaurants, A Painted Lady will be your Portland home-away-from-home."

The secret?  Great public transportation via the Portland Max Line and the Portland Trolley will take you to anywhere in Portland Oregon's downtown core.  Visit the Portland Art Museum, the Portland Children's Museum and the Oregon Historical Society's Museum all from the comfort of the MAX line or the Portland Trolley.

And when the day is done, hit Portland's funky restaurant scene for a little bit of culinary tourism on your way home to A Painted Lady.  And vote for the inn in Pamela Lanier's 2012 Guests' Greatest Picks competition!

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 17^th.

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!

Matthew Domingo
FARM to FORK Co-Founder

Farm Dinners Celebrate Hood River Valley's Farmers, Winemakers and Food Artisans

Farm to Fork’s founders have created a traveling farm-to-table restaurant, local food fundraiser, andcommunity celebration rolled into one. Each dinner is set at the farm where much of the food on the menu was produced, and proceeds benefit food-focused non-profits. rm to Fork’s mission is to connect guests to local sources of produce, meat, seafood and dairy products, and to honor the talented farmers, food artisans, winemakers and chefs who contribute to Oregon’s growing culinary and winemaking reputation.

An enormously successful 2010 season in Southern Oregon has led FARM to FORK north to Hood River. On September 18th at Historic Kiyokawa Family Orchards, FARM to FORK will feature their first Hood River event in anticipation of an expanded dinner series in the Hood River Valley next summer.
 
“The Hood River Valley, and the greater Columbia Gorge is a rich and beautiful agricultural region,” says Matthew Domingo, FARM to FORK’s Event Director.  “We’re excited to meet the farmers and food artisans in the valley, share their stories, and support the work of local organizations like the Gorge Grown Network and the Hood River Valley Residents Committee.”

Dinners begin with a tour from the host farmer, and include local wine, a five-course meal, and producer discussions (suggested minimum donation: $75).  Proceeds benefit local farmers and organizations supporting small farms, food security and greater accessibility to local food. Proceeds for this dinner will benefit the Gorge Grown Food Network and the Hood River Valley Residents Committee. For more information on Farm to Fork’s September 18th Farm Dinner, and to purchase seats to the event, go to farmtoforkevents.com.

After you have purchased your Farm to Fork tickets, choose a Mt Hood bed and breakfast through the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild as your lodging option and you are sure to turn a simple weekend into an Oregon culinary vacation.   Beside two major bike rides this same weekend in the Gorge, we are going to be in the middle of Harvest.  Which means over 1500 riders and visitors to the Family Fruit Farms, which means Rooms will be hard to come by.  Not to mention this event is almost sold out!! 

As a bed and breakfast innkeeper I am always looking for unique breakfast recipes to serve guests, one that will provide a true Oregon Culinary experience.

I found one such recipe on Rogue Creamery's Facebook page.  You see I am a true fan of the Rogue Creamery both on Facebook and in really life. The Rogue Creamery, in Central Point, Oregon, is a “artisan cheese company, with people dedicated to the sustainability and the art and tradition of making the world’s finest handmade cheese“.  David Gremmel, cheesemaker at the Creamery, has created cooking videos which he has been posting on Facebook, along with recipes that include their cheeses. 

Pastry Crust for a 13 inch springform pan
1 cup ricotta cheese
8 oz Rogue Creamery Lavender Cheddar- shredded
2 eggs
2 Tbls butter
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
Bake pastry for about 10 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven. In a food processor blend the remaining ingredients until smooth. Pour into pastry shell and bake for another 20 minutes or until set. Serve topped with fresh fruit and herbs.

This simple tart, with it’s sweet almond crust, light, creamy texture and subtle hint of lavender received high compliments from our guests and has earned a spot on the Old Parkdale Inn’s Spring Breakfast Menu as has the Lavender Cheddar Panini Sandwich with Apples, Spinach and Red Onion which I served for breakfast today.  Good thing I started b buying Rogue Creamery Lavender Cheddar in bulk!

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:  "The rumors are true! Sunset Magazine Loves Us! We are listed as #24 of the West's best hotel deals. I might quibble with the word un-fancy (is "doily-free so hard to type?), but we appreciate the love non the less."

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

The Oval Door Bed and Breakfast, a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, is a newly built early 20th century farmhouse-style home located on a tree-lined residential street in the heart of downtown Eugene, Oregon.  Six guestrooms are decorated for your pleasure and comfort with a private bath, ceiling fans and individually controlled heaters, and air conditioning.

Easy walking distance to many fine Eugene restaurants, Hult center, downtown shops, and only 12 blocks to the University of Oregon.  Guests may enjoy a good book in the library, or by the fireplace in the living area.  The wrap around porch with swing is a great place to hang out in the summer time. Tea, hot cocoa, beer, wine and soda are comlimentary along with our famous home made cookies!  

You'll be treated to a fantastic gourmet breakfast served at guest's convenience by the owners who are accomplished chefs.  A true culinary experience where dietary needs are happily accommodated.

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

Romantic weekend getaways are just around the corner with Valentine's Day Weekend.  Roselyn, innkeeper at the romantic bed and breakfast R.R. Thompson House in Carlton, offers some specific Valentine's Weekend recommendations for exploring Oregon Wine Country:

• Celebrate Valentine's Day in the Willamette Valley and experience the quiet beauty of Oregon's premier wine country in winter.  Tasting rooms and wineries will bring out the cupid in you with special events which are hard to resist.  What could be better than a glass of Pinot Noir wine coupled with Pinot Noir brownies?  Monks Gate Vineyard near Carlton, Oregon tempts with this offering Valentine's Day weekend.  Linda bakes these irresistible treats herself and will offer them to visitors of the vineyard/tasting room on Saturday, February 12 and Sunday, February 13.  (Tasting fee applies).
• Monks Gate is just one of dozens of wineries in the Valley planning special events during Valentine's Day weekend.    The theme at Coelho Winery in Amity will be "The Perfect Aphrodisiac," with the staff offering a selection of wines paired with "sweet and savory aphrodisiacs."  On Sunday, February 13 at 3 p.m., Vintage Voices, a jazz ensemble, will perform classic love songs in the tasting room.  (Reservations requested, charity donation to YCAP.)
• "Fine Wine and Lasting Love" is the theme at Raptor Ridge Winery, Newberg, where the staff is waiting to show off their new winery and tasting room. 
• At Cana's Feast, partake in a "wine country-style" Valentine's dinner on February 12.  Chef Lisa works magic in the kitchen where she mixes skill and heart for fantastic culinary offerings. 
• Check out the Willamette Wines website for more special events. 

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.

It's about the beach, history, glass floats in the sand, music performances, making your own dishes and even your own candy – it’s not just about the holidays and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Lincoln City lights up for the season in more ways than just the Christmas lights strung along the buildings.

With so much to see and do on the Oregon Coast, consider Oregon Coast lodging at a member inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in and near Lincoln City.  From a quiet romantic getaway to a fun family retreat, the inns in and near Lincoln City await.

Through Memorial Day 2011. Finders Keepers on the Beach: Glass Floats on the Beach. Weather permitting, every day colorful hand-blown glass floats are placed on the beach.  If you find a float, bring it to the Lincoln City Visitors Center at 540 NE Hwy 101 to receive your certificate of authenticity and a biography of the artist who made the float. 800-452-2151 or 541-996-1274 or www.oregoncoast.org

Through December 11. “Kennewick Man on Trial” traveling exhibit at the North Lincoln County Historical Museum. The exhibit uses text, photos, maps, and historic illustrations, to explore the science as well as the ethical and legal ramifications of the 1996 discovery of the “Kennewick Man” remains. Free admission. Lincoln City, Oregon. 541-996-6698.

December 11. Hands-on Cookies & Candies cooking class. Cost: $50. 1 – 4 p.m. Culinary Center. Lincoln City, Oregon. 541-557-1125, 800-452-2151 or www.oregoncoast.org/culinary

December 11. Birding Field trip, hosted by Lincoln City Audubon at the Nestucca Wildlife Refuge. Walk will include a variety of habitats such as pastures, grasslands, and tidal marsh. Binoculars and guide books will be provided. 9 – 11 a.m. 541-992-0440. Near Pacific City, just north of Lincoln City.

Chocolate and Candy Making 101. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Litehouse Chocolates. Lincoln City, Oregon. 541-614-0660.

December 19. Gift of Music at Salishan Lodge. Gleneden Beach, Oregon (just south of Lincoln City). 541-764-2371.

December 25 - January 1. Glass Sand Dollars, Glass Crabs on Beach. 100 hand-crafted glass sand dollars and glass crabs along with 100 glass floats will await discovery along the 7.5 miles of Lincoln City beaches, weather and ocean permitting. 541-996-1274, 800-452-2151.

December 26 - January 1. Oregon Coast Whale Watch Week. 541-765-3407 or http://www.whalespokenhere.org

When was the last time you were charged for a cup of coffee at a Bed and Breakfast? WiFi?  A biscotti?  A sip of sherry? I'm thinking never!  This is becoming the norm as we see the ever-increasing hotel add-on fees.  Mark Orwoll, trusted travel journalist, recently published a story in Travel & Leisure Magazine about the world's most outrageous hotel fees.   Heather Tyreman, my colleague and fellow blogger for the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild, blogged about this same topic some time back in "Hotels vs Bed and Breakfasts: Pros and Cons and the Doily Factor".  Read her blog, the Travel & Leisure Magazine article, there's more add-on fees mentioned there, and then this one and we hope you'll decide to choose a B&B next time you travel.
 

• Early Check-In Fees can set you back $50:  Orwoll says, "Hotels used to go out of their way to accommodate early-arriving guests. Now you just might have to pay for the privilege at some properties". Your cost: fees average $20–$50.  While B&Bs can't always guarantee early check-ins, we do our best to accommodate guests who request an early check-in or late check-out in advance with no added fees.
   
• Fees for in-room coffee and tea?  Are you kidding?  Some hotels are kindly placing an electric coffeepot on your dresser along with an assortment of tea bags and instant coffee. "Watch out," says Orwoll. "That amenity, which used to be gratis, is becoming a new source of revenue for hotels", insists Orwoll.  Your cost: $2–$5 for a tea bag or a packet of coffee.  Next time you travel choose a B&B where morning coffee usually appears before 7am and you hold a bottomless cup, many times with complimentary biscotti or cookie to go along with it.
   
• Maid service costs more than a tip:  Cleanliness is next to Godliness at today's B&Bs. Chance are if you read a review for any B&B guests will comment on how clean the guest room was.  Innkeepers are dedicated to offering the greenest and cleanest of rooms, and while they gratefully accept tips, they won't charge an extra housekeeping fee.
   
• Free wi-fi?  Many budget hotel chains routinely offer free Internet connection but so many luxury brands don't.  Your cost: $10–$20 (or more) a day.  Yet, according to BedandBreakfast.com, the most comprehensive online B&B directory and reservation network worldwide, more than 87 percent of B&Bs offer a free wi-fi connection. 
   
• No Mini-Bar fees here:  "It's bad enough that you have to pay ten times or more the normal price for mini-bar items", maintains Orwoll, "but what's worse is the growing practice among hotels to add an extra charge to replace items you took. And it gets worse: hotels are increasingly using mini-bars armed with sensors that detect—and charge your room bill—if you so much as move an item!"  Your cost:  $3-$5.  A recent survey by BedandBreakfast.com revealed that more 95 percent of B&Bs offer either complimentary afternoon or evening refreshments or a complimentary wine and cheese reception.

It's out of the hat.  There are just no words to describe what it’s like to spend the harvest season following your taste buds on a Culinary Travel Vacation through Oregon.  If you could put all of Oregon on a plate, the flavors would combine into one of the most delicious ambrosias you’ve ever tasted.  Sample the Flavors of Oregon, one bite, sip or scent at a time.  Start you Culinary Vacation at a member inn of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild then head out and get to know the artisans, brewmasters, winemakers, and growers of Oregon.

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.  Many have home gardens and hens or have fresh produce delivered via their local growers and/or Community Supported Agriculture Groups.

There are many Oregon Food and Wine events planned through the rest of the year.  Wine and Brew Tasting, Mushroom Foraging and Bar-b-Ques are but a few of the many upcoming Oregon culinary experiences.  Contact an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild Innkeeper and plan your getaway today.