Noshwellmenu

When Yaletown’s Jonker Street shuttered its doors, it briefly left a gap in Southeast Asian cuisine within the neighbourhood. But this was quickly rectified when the restaurant reopened with a new look, new name and new concept: The Fresh Bowl.

Portland’s Pok Pok is one of those joints. Storied hole in the wall restaurant of somewhat-mythic serendipitous beginnings; and legendary —- yet off putting — lineups formed by ravenous, loyal fans. But really, it’s just some non-Asian dude, a chef taking a vacation in Thailand, with the epiphany of importing some really authentic food from the streets and pubs of Southeast Asia to the rainy, Pacific Northwest. Judging by Pok Pok’s popularity, Chef Andy Ricker is onto something.

Gastown’s own Steamworks Pale Ale is a feisty brew with an orange, copper tinge, spicy notes and a bitter finish wrapped in some nice packaging. Available at BC Liquor Stores and Steamworks Brewery.

If Portland is one thing, it is honest. At least when it comes to their food; there is no posing or posturing. Take Lardo, for example — a Southwest Washington Street restaurant that unabashedly celebrates all things pork — if you couldn’t already tell by its name. They certainly don’t hide their admiration for the pig and all the glorious types of sandwiches it makes. There’s even a Puffy-esque sign in bright lights declaring its customer to “Pig Out”.

Podnah’s Pit Barbeque in Portland brings Texas style barbeque to the Pacific Northwest. Their menu features a selection of traditional barbeque meats, all slow smoked daily with genuine oak hardwood.