Par·a·gon: [par–uh-gon, -guhn] a model or pattern of excellence or of a particular excellence.
The dictionary definition of Paragon Restaurant’s name does it incredible justice considering their ambiance, cuisine, and beverage lists are nothing short of excellence. Those who sit inside will be impressed by the industrial, yet comfortable décor but I recommend, if possible, grabbing a table on the patio during a warm summer day.
With a seasonal cocktail list reminiscent in length of a best-selling novel, wine ranging from exotic locations in South America and Europe to local barrels, and an offering of draft and bottled craft brews sure to make the biggest beer sommelier giddy, Paragon stands out in Portland’s Pearl District – an area in the city teeming with delicious eateries.
The creative mastermind behind the bar is the critically acclaimed Bob Brunner, “who has been featured in dozens of nationally recognized publications including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, Santé, and the Wall Street Journal for his inventive cocktails.” His prowess is made evident with the first sip of a mixed delight – the Happy Hour menu breaks down the extensive cocktail list making the decision a bit easier offering a refreshing Berry Infused Collins, Cooler or Drop with delicious house-infused vodkas, a Trace Whiskey Sour for the bourbon lovers, or those looking for a bubbly surprise can order a Fever, which combines Limoncello with sparkling wine and pomegranate juice for a sweet palate cleanser. If none of these beverages strike your fancy, fear not because with the vast number of house infused liquors, seasonal fruit juices and purees, wines, and beers there is sure to be a drink to satisfy more than your thirst.
If you thought the task of choosing a beverage was hard, be prepared because your decisive journey has yet to conclude. Be it you’re visiting for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu boasts of enticing comfort foods done in a manner unpretentiously surpassing one’s expectations for this misrepresented genre of cooking. Although each dish is as laden with calories as it is flavors, a trip to this restaurant is well worth a cheat day or an extra hour spent at the gym. If you are in the mood for something simple yet delicious, go for the grilled cheese, tomato soup and greens – the sandwich compresses Tillamook cheddar between two half-inch thick pieces of soft, warm French bread that soak up the house made soup perfectly.
Most items on the menu are rather straightforward and will not have you searching your smartphone to discover that Taleggio is, in fact, a type of cheese. What the meals lack in exotic ingredients they make up for in a taste that will result in a contented sigh. The Wild Mushroom Risotto, heavy yet delicious, with herbed mascarpone, truffle oil and micro arugula is a delicious treat for the vegetarian of the group while the rest of the menu boasts of a central meat impeccably paired with vegetables and spices. In true go-getter fashion, the meal should be drawn to a close with the Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée… the saying is, “go hard or go home,” right?
Paragon Restaurant – 1309 Hoyt St., Portland – paragonrestaurant.com
Follow on Facebook: Paragon Restaurant
Track on Twitter: @ParagonPortland
