2008 Dinner Organizers

It's time to pick the months for 2008. Holly suggests we start with those who have not had a chance to pick a restaurant yet....ie, Alice S, Anne, Alice K, Michiko, Carol, Paul, Rebecca. Then there will be 5 left to fill.

January - Paul
February - Carol
March - Holly
April - Anne
May - Rosalinda
June - Romaine
July - Alice K
August - Kathy F.
September - Liz
October - Kathy M (Cheeseburger)
November - Jo
December (potluck & white elephant) - tbd

Carol's Bean & Grain Salad (December Potluck Recipe)

Grain and bean salad

2 cups cooked grain (I used brown basmati)
1 cup cooked beans (I used canned kidney beans)
1/4 cup roasted nuts or seeds (I used cashews, roasted in a dry frying pan)
1-2 cups chopped veggies

You can use either of these 2 dressings. I used the Lemon-Garlic, but used only 1 tablespoon olive oil, then added an extra 1/2 tablespoon of each the lemon juice and tamari. I've used the second dressing on something else but never on the grain and bean salad. If you use it, you shouldn't need to use all of it on the grain and bean salad.

Lemon-Garlic Marinade:
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon shoyu or tamari
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic (remove from marinade after 1 to 2 hours)

Mustard Cream Vinaigrette:
3 tablespoons brown rice or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons umeboshi vinegar
2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon tahini

Anne's Smoked Salmon Spread (December Potluck Recipe)

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
8-12 ounces smoked salmon, crumbled (I used an 8 oz. package of Tony's)
3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
3 drops hot pepper sauce (optional; I left this out)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill weed
2 tablespoons chopped green onion
juice of 1 lemon
sour cream or milk as necessary (I used about 1/4 c sour cream & a splash of milk so it would be dippable for veggies)

In a medium bowl, stir cream cheese until it is no longer in a hard form. Add salmon, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, dill, lemon juice, and onion; mix well. Thin with sour cream or milk to get the consistency you want. Refrigerate a few hours (or overnight) to meld flavors. Serve.

Holly's Famous Bean Soup (December Potluck Recipe)

Three Bean Soup

2 cans 15.5 oz petite cut tomato
1 can 8oz tomato sauce
1 can Rotel
1 can corn drained
1 can black beans undrained
1 can white beans undrained
1 can kidney beans undrained
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 envelope Original Hidden Valley Ranch mix
1 onion diced

Brown diced onions in big saucepan. Add all canned ingredients.

Open envelopes & stir into pot. Cook on med till bubbly, then turn to simmer for about 30 min, stirring occasionally to be sure bottom doesn't stick. You can add hamburger meat if so desired.

This can be a bit spicy with the Rotel in it, don't add if you don't like a bit of kick:)

Sue's Ambrosia (December Potluck Recipe)

Ambrosia is embarrassingly simple! It's also called Five Cup Salad

1 cup mandarin oranges
1 cup pineapple chunks ( I use pineapple tidbits)
1 cup coconut
1 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup sour cream ( I use "light")

Mix together 24 hours ahead, if possible. For a larger group, like ours, I used 2 cups of everything.

December Potluck & White Elephant Exchange

Its that time of year to think of cozy get-togethers so please come to the December 12th Potluck. Holly will be making her famous bean soup and I will make chicken-lime soup and have things like tea and coffee (which nobody drank last year.) So that leaves salad, fingerfood, beverages, bread, dessert, or whatever you think sounds good. If you reply to all then people can figure out what is left to bring, although I will do a recap a couple days beforehand for you-all.

Last year our house was pet-free which was nice for allergies but way too lonely for me. So this year we have 2 kitties (who will be hanging out upstairs only). So for those with allergies (sorry Kathy) I hope it is fairly allergen free but dont forget to take your pills.

Oh! And white elephants! Wrap up a "special" mystery gift to exchange...I have a gorgeous item for some lucky person already.

Where: Alice K's house; see the email for the address
When: Dec. 12th at 6:30.

Looking forward to seeing all of you!

- Alice K


Who's bringing what:

• Her famous bean soup - Holly
• Chicken lime soup - Alice K
• Rice & bean salad - Carol
• Bread & cheese - Renee
• Appetizer - Atsu
• Smoked salmon spread & veggies - Anne
• Ambrosia fruit salad - Sue
• Homebaked bread - Alice S
• Salad - Mary
• Dessert & wine - Romaine
• Gingerbread - Paul
• Fruitcake - Michiko
• Tea & coffee - Alice K

-----------------------------Who was There-----------------------------

Who was there? Alice K, Sue, Atsu, Holly, Rosalinda, Liz, Carol, Renee, Romaine, Mary, Paul, Cheeseburger (Kathy M), Alice S, Anne

And here are the PICTURES!

Equinox

Equinox Restaurant
830 N Shaver
(503)460-3333
Directions

Hello Dinner Group!

Sorry this is getting out so late, but I ran into a little road block!
As some of you know, I have been planning to have the 2nd Wednesday dinner for November at Bombay Cricket Club. However, after talking with the restaurant they just were not able to commit to accommodating such a large group during their rush hour dinner time. If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it. Reservations is a must!

So, sorry to disappoint you BUT, I really think you will like the new place I picked. It's called Equinox Restaurant and Bar. As you can see from their menu (www.equinoxrestaurantpdx.com/dinner) they have a variety of cuisine and everyone can find something to enjoy!

Please get your RSVP to me by end of day Monday the 12th so that I can call the restaurant with the final number. Unfortunately I won't be there, as I will be leaving for vacation on Tuesday morning (that's why I need the count early).

Cheers!!

Cheeseburger
aka Kathy M

ps: I can't wait to read the reviews!!

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Romaine, Carol, Atsu, Rosalinda, Rebecca, Liz, Alice K., Paul, Holly, Mary, Michiko, Anne

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 4.3
  Prices: 3.6
  Service: 4.1
  Ambiance: 4.1
  Parking: 3.1
  Overall: 4.1
  (7 respondents)

Jarra's Ethiopian Restaurant

Jarra's Ethiopian Restaurant
1435 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Phone: (503) 230-8990
Directions

Hello Everyone,

It's my turn this time and I thought it would be fun to try something a little different -- so it's Ethiopian food for October.

I myself have not been to this restaurant but have received 3 good first hand references.

Please RSVP back to me to let me know if you will be there.

I am looking forward to seeing you all again soon!

xxoo
- Romaine

Time 6:30 pm.

"In Short
For decades the corner of Hawthorne and 14th has been the bastion of P-town's spice scene. Exotic flavors and textures beckon loyal locals and curious neophytes, tired of the typical restaurant routine. Sans forks, light-hearted patrons scoop up some seriously spicy dishes using their hands or the house-made injera bread. Veggies and carnivores alike adore the heady flavors of legume-centric meals. Lamb and beef are treated equally well, with heat and complex savor. "

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Paul, Rosalinda, Cheeseburger (Kathy M), Liz, Alice K, Morgan (Alice K's friend), Romaine, Carol (Romaine's friend), Atsu, Renee, Holly

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 3.3
  Prices: 3.7
  Service: 4
  Ambiance: 3.3
  Parking: 4
  Overall: 3.7
  (3 respondents)

It's Time!

It's time to update our Second Wednesday email distribution list. Send your current email address to me atand I'll compile a new list and send it back to everyone.

Cheers!

- Anne

Podnah's Pit BBQ

Podnah's Pit
1459 NE Prescott
(503) 281-3700
Directions

"I am here and planning our wednesday dinner on 9/12/07. we haven't had bbq for a while and i love it. So, we will try a bbq resturant this time. So come all to:

Podnah's Pit
1459 NE Prescott

Time 6:30 pm.

Please let me know if you are able to attend."

- Jo

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Jo, Atsu, Mary, Rosalinda, Holly, Alice K, Anne, Alice S, Kathy F, Paul, Romaine, Liz, Michiko

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 3.7
  Prices: 3.2
  Service: 3.7
  Ambiance: 2
  Parking: 2
  Overall: 3.5
  (6 respondents)

To see pictures, go to Holly's album

The Berlin Inn

3131 SE 12th Ave
(503) 236-6761
Directions
Website



Summer is a time for fresh fruits and veggies, lots of salads and light meals. Well, I'm going to shake things up with my suggestion for the August dinner .... German food!!

I've been wanting to try The Berlin Inn at 3131 SE 12th and Powell Blvd, just east of the Ross Island Bridge. It's a German Restaurant, Bakery and Wine Stube. I read about it in an Oregonian restaurant review. (It was given a "B" rating). The review said: " The Berlin Inn serves dinners that are excellent introductions to the cuisine that's the original comfort food: potato pancakes, tomato soup, pot roast, pork loin, schnitzels, wursts, dumplings, noodles and red cabbage -- dishes that support characteristic herbs and spices such as juniper berries, dill and carraway seeds, and flavors that are sweet-and-sour and briny". They also warn to be prepared to take home a doggy bag!

The menu highlights Fondues, Salads, Hot Sandwiches, Mittag Essen (Smaller Plates), Abendessen (Larger Entrees), Single Schnitzel Plates, and "Light and Luscious European Desserts Made from Scratch".

I've made the reservation for 6:30 p.m.on August 8th, with a starting number of 12. I can increase or decrease that number as your RSVP's come in.

- Sue

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Sue, Romaine, Holly, Kathy F, Cheeseburger, Liz, Alice K, Renee, Mary, Atsu, Atsu's mom, Anne

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 3.4
  Prices: 2.7
  Service: 4.4
  Ambiance: 3.4
  Parking: 3.8
  Overall: 3.5
  (6 respondents)

Picnic at Tomahawk Bay

This month is our summer potluck! The one last year was so amazing, we outdid ourselves on the incredible food! It will be held at Tomahawk Bay Marina Picnic ground on Hayden Island, Wed. July 11th at 7:00pm. We have a later start time to allow traffic to hopefully clear.

Here are directions to the venue at Columbia Crossings Tomahawk Bay Moorage:
From the South (Portland)
- Drive North on Interstate 5 to Exit 308
- Bear right on the off-ramp to enter Tomahawk Island Drive.You will pass many Marinas but don't be tempted, keep going East. Don't go to Tomahawk Bay Marina.
- Continue East 1.25 miles, and through a very sharp s-curve
- Turn Left into Tomahawk Bay parking lot.

From the North (Vancouver)
- Drive South on Interstate 5 to Exit 308
- Stay in the left lane of the off-ramp and turn left at the light onto Center Ave
- Follow Center Ave under I-5 and East to the first stop sign
- Turn right onto Tomahawk Island Drive. You will pass many Marinas but don't be tempted, keep going East. Don't go to Tomahawk Bay Marina.
- Proceed East 1.25 miles, and through a very sharp s-curve
- Turn Left into Tomahawk Bay parking lot.

There is a big open lawn area and some shops there along with the leasing office. Park in the parking lot by the offices and we will be at the picnic ground right in front of the parking lot.

If you haven't yet, email Renee and sign up for a dish. cci'ng the group. Categories are:

1. Appetizers
- Pea pods, chips and guacamole (Alice K)
- Chinese BBQ'd pork spareribs (Paul and Rebecca)

2. Salads
- Tuscan white bean (Renee)
- Pasta salad (Cheeseburger)
- Veggie salad (Mary)
- Fruit salad (Susan)

3. Desserts
- Cake (Liz)
- (Kathy F.)
- (Holly)

4. Beverages
- white wine (Renee)
- white wine (Alice K)
- cold drinks (water, fruit juice, spritzer, beer) (Rosalinda)
5. Add your own category.........:-)
- Bbq'd chicken (Anne & Alice)
- tableware (Cheeseburger)
- ice (Renee)

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Renee, Holly, Liz, Cheeseburger, Rosalinda, Rebecca, Paul, Alice K, Sue, Atsu, Mary, Anne

How was it? Great!!!


To see more pictures, go to Holly's album.

 
 

Malay Satay Hut

2850 SE 82nd Ave
(503) 771-7888
Directions
Website



This month we are going to Malay Satay Hut, a Malaysian restaurant. It is located in the Fubonn Market Building, between Division and Powell, on the east side of 82nd. There is a left turn signal if you travel southbound on 82nd.

Please let Atsu know if you can attend.

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Atsu, Kathy F, Rosalinda, Paul, Alice K, Liz, Holly, Mary, Sally (Mary's friend) and Romaine.

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 3.8
  Prices: 3.5
  Service: 4.3
  Ambiance: 3.8
  Parking: 4.8
  Overall: 3.8
  (4 respondents)

Chapel Pub

430 N. Killingsworth Street
(503) 286-0372
Directions
Website

Our next second Wednesday dinner will be at the Chapel Pub on 5/09/2007 at 6:30 pm. Holly and Cheeseburger and Rosalinda once worked for Uniservice Corporation who owned The Little Chapel of the Chimes (funeral home and crematory) --- now the Chapel Pub! It should be interesting to see what the McMenamin brothers have done to the place!

The menu will not be unpredictable - burgers, sandwiches, fries, beer and wine. :)

Please let Rosalinda know if you can attend - the Chapel Pub does not take reservations but it would be nice to let them know ahead of time how many of us to expect. Thanks!

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Atsu, Michiko, Rebecca, Holly, Cheeseburger, Liz, Paul, Rosalinda, Alice S, Mary, Alice K, Anne

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 3.5
  Prices: 4.3
  Service: 3.3
  Ambiance: 4
  Parking: 4.3
  Overall: 3.5
  (4 respondents)

PDX Vox Choir

Sue and Renee are having a great time in the PDX Vox Choir and would like to let everyone know about their performance on June 15th at 8pm. It will be at a location in SE; Renee will send more information later.

If you'd like to know more, here is the link: http://www.pdxvox.com

They'd love to have anyone interested there to cheer them on!

Fife

4440 NE Fremont St
(971) 222-3433
Directions



Website



Dinner will be at Fife on Wednesday 4/11/07 at 6:30 pm. Check out the website above, and keep in mind the menu constantly changes and may be a bit different than shown.

Please let Liz know if you can attend ASAP so she can secure our reservation with a number - look forward to seeing you there!

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Atsu & friend Michiko, Mary, Liz, Rosalinda, Paul, Alice K, Rebecca, Holly

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
  Food: 4.8
  Prices: 3.8
  Service: 4.8
  Ambiance: 4.3
  Parking: 3.3
  Overall: 4.5
  (4 respondents)

Two Brothers Cafe

829 S.E. 39th Ave.
(503) 232-3424
Directions

Dinner on the 14th will be at Two Brothers Cafe, which specializes in Balkan food. It's on the northwest corner of 39th and Belmont. The Portland Tribune (portlandtribune.com) did a review of it on Jan. 19.

Dinner will be at 6:30. Please RSVP to Kathy F.

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there? Kathy F, Atsu, Rosalinda, Renee, Sue, Anne, Holly, Paul, Rebecca, Alice S, Alice K, Liz, and Mary.

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
Food: 3.7
Prices: 4.1
Service: 4
Ambiance: 2.9
Parking: 3.2
Overall: 3.9
(7 respondents)

Sweet Basil Thai

3135 NE Broadway

(503) 281-8337

Directions

Website

Our Feb 7 gathering will be at Sweet Basil Thai at 6:30pm-reservation under Holly. Note that this one is on the first Wednesday to avoid conflict with Valentine's Day.

-----------------------------The Results-----------------------------

Who was there?: Mary, Atsu, Romaine, Liz, Paul, Renee, Holly, Cheeseburger (Kathy)

How was it? (1 is worst, 5 is best):
Food: 3.67
Prices: 2.67
Service: 2.67
Ambiance: 3.67
Parking: 2
Overall: 3.33
(3 respondents)

Taqueria Nueve

January 10, 2007
28 NE 28th (just N of Burnside)

Who was there?: Mary, Holly, Atsu, Kathy M (Cheeseburger), Jo, Liz, Paul, Alice S, Anne, Kazushi (visiting A&A).

How was it?:

2007 Dinner Organizers

For 2007, we're going to take turns selecting and reserving the monthly dinner spot:

January - Mary
February (1st Wednesday) - Holly
March - Kathy F
April - Liz
May - Rosalinda
June - Atsu
July - Renee
August - Susan
September - Jo
October - Romaine
November - Cheeseburger
December (White Elephant) - Alice K