Depending on the occasion, most people are guilty of having a “go-to” spot. For some, it’s the breakfast joint that promises to cure your hangover with the greasiest of delights. For others, it’s the kitschy coffee shop perfect for afternoon people watching. For those frantically hopping from bar to restaurant and back again, searching for that perfect post-work watering hole… The hunt is over.
Located in the heart of downtown Portland, just blocks up from the theaters on SW Broadway Street, sits the Ladd Carriage House, which was built in the 1880s and is home to Raven & Rose. Although the unique aesthetic of the building’s shell and the story behind it are enough to attract architect junkies, history buffs and curious passersby, it is the contents of the interior that will keep patrons coming back for more.
After entering through the main doors, one is faced with a difficult decision—to stay in the main dining room with its quaint bar or to journey up the building’s staircase to the Rookery Bar, an expansive space with vaulted ceilings dedicated to comfort, entertainment and, of course, cocktails. Fortunately, this decision, like all of the ones regarding food and beverage choice that you are sure to face at this establishment, has no wrong answer.
The dinner menu boasts of farm-to-table delicacies, which change regularly ensuring that only the freshest produce and best cuts of meat make their way onto your plate. With offerings that range from hanger steak, dry-aged ribeye and salmon to harder-to-find items like steak tartare, foie gras-stuffed quail and buttermilk-fried rabbit, palates ranging from traditional to adventurous are sure to be well sated.
Although a dinner date at Raven & Rose offers a truly luxurious experience, happy hour festivities are sure to impress as well. Since I shamelessly label myself as a lover of cheese and carbohydrates, it came as no surprise when I indulged in ordering the baked mac-n-cheese. With Belgian wheat beer taking the stage as the secret ingredient, I must admit, this mac-n-cheese put Mama’s recipe to shame.
And then there are the cocktails. Most Portland bars and restaurants can boast of a signature cocktail list, but few, if any in addition to Raven & Rose, can take their libations to the next level with liquors hand-chosen from around the world due to their unique flavor profiles. Bar director Dave Shenaut has traveled the world in search of the best booze to fill his bar, and along with the owner, Lisa Mygrant, and other staff members, tastes through single barrels of spirits to be bottled exclusively for Raven & Rose. While some spirits are chosen with a drink in mind, others stand-alone and inspire a new cocktail. The list of single-barrel cocktails pays homage to the previous owners of the estate, named after the historic people and events that have influenced the life of the Ladd Carriage House.
Sim’s Old Fashioned, crafted with Eagle Rare bourbon, muscovado syrup, Angostura and orange bitters is deliciously sweet without losing the integrity of the smooth bourbon. Looking for something with a seasonal kick? The Harvest Moon brings together Raven & Rose single-barrel apple brandy, lime, almond and bitters for a slightly sweet cocktail that will satisfy an apple pie craving without the sugar high. Be warned—I say with confidence that once you taste one beverage, you will want to experience them all. For you liver’s sake, along with your wallet, I recommend stifling that urge but planning to venture back for a second experience, or third or fourth.
Be it you are in the mood for a lavish meal, a casual happy hour complete with a game of pool, an upbeat night dancing to live Irish music or simply are looking to wind down with a crafty cocktail, head over to Raven & Rose. It’s sure to make your list of “go-to” dining and drinking locales.
Follow on Facebook: Raven & Rose
Track on Twitter: @RavenandRose
