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May 23rd, 2008
As you know, last weekend's weather was awesome! And while some overzealous Portlanders reached for their shorts a bit prematurely, we waited until it was actually hot enough to do so. The weekend was also full of firsts. First opportunity to wear some serious summer apparel, first chance to BBQ, first chance to drink summer drinks. But it has been so long since we had the opportunity to do any of it that we found ourselves overwhelmed with what to do first. Linen or seersucker? Chicken or beef? Pilsner or Mojitos? We were more indecisive than the Democratic electorate. Know any good super delegates? |
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Portland Picks for Men: |
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| 1 | Not Just for Betties Any More We love to hit local businesses whenever possible. We pray that we'll be able to find certain labels in small shops, thus saving us a trip to ye olde department store. We can usually meet our needs at the small men's stores that you've read (or will read) about in PPFM, but we never expected to find such fine choices at what used to be a women-only boutique. Enter Hot Box Betty. A Bend outfit that's made good in the big city, they started carrying choice men's apparel not long ago, and due to their limited space allotment for guy-gear, you'll find the cream of the proverbial crop. We immediately coveted a whole range of summer staples from the likes of John Varvatos, and denim by Citizens of Humanity. And they even had some sharp straw hats that we've trying to bring back for two years. (This looks like the year, BTW.) Normally, we feel blue when we're in a predominantly women's shop masquerading as co-ed with a half-assed selection of men's stuff, but Hot Box Betty is definitely not that shop. So head down there, and mention PPFM for 20% off! Hot Box Betty |
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| 2 | Opposites Attract How many times have you heard someone say “opposites attract”? Why do they say it? Because it's true. Whether it’s the ancient Asian concept of Yin and Yang or the punk chick dating the suit-and-tie guy, opposites come together to complement one another, and Teardrop Cocktail Lounge lives by this idea. Teardrop's drinks are a perfect example: they specialize in cocktails that contain house-made bitters (mixtures of alcohol, citrus and herbs) which give them a delicious bittersweet flavor. Some of our favorites include Sturm and Drang (6-year rye, orgeat, cynar, cherry bark bitters and lemon zest) and Nocturne (a strange but delicious mix of tequila, apple juice, cassis and lemon). The menu also follows the theme by pairing acidic or spicy with creamy or sweet ingredients to create culinary masterpieces. A perfect example: their lime-chicken tostadas, which mix tangy lime and fiery jalapenos with semi-sweet chocolate, almonds and cinnamon. So the next time you like you feel a bit off, head down to Teardrop. At least your taste buds will be balanced. Teardrop Cocktail Lounge1015 NW Everett St. Portland, OR 97209 503.445.8109 www.teardroplounge.com |
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| 3 | South of the Burnside Don't you hate it when someone tries to fancy up Mexican food? If it isn't thick, greasy and filled with carbs and fat, served up in wax paper or in a plastic basket, it's not authentic. Which is why El Grillo (pronounced el gree-yo, you Gringo) is a burrito joint right after our own cholesterol-soaked hearts. The burritos are heavy and dense, packed with beans, meat, guacamole, and rice, and constitute a full meal for just $5. But if you've got an appetite the size of a sombrero, check out the plates of enchiladas, quesadillas or the massive Burrito El Grillo, which will crush lesser men into chunky salsa. El Grillo is the ideal downtown spot for soaking up some accumulated alcohol during one of your evening bar crawls, or for filling up quickly and properly before hitting a concert or movie. If you crave juicy meat, don't miss out on the spiced pork and shredded beef, and if you prefer a whole other kind of meat, ask to use their bathroom. You'll be in for a pleasant surprise. El Grillo |
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| Gratuitous Photo of the Week: | |||
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Mandatory Gear: |
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| 1 | Smokin' The heat last week got us gearing up for summer, and nothing satisfies a summer hunger quite like a good old-fashioned barbecue. That's why we picked up a Traeger grill. The genius of this grill is that it burns wood pellets electrically, so you don't have to spend hours fanning flames or risk burning your eyebrows off. And this lightweight baby is not only a grill, it's a smoker. Top that! www.traegergrills.com |
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| 2 | Speak to Me With the weather turning nice we want to be outdoors and on the move while listening to our favorite tunes. For this, these Muji cardboard speakers are perfect. They're lightweight and collapsible, which makes them completely portable. Also, they're environmentally friendly, so we can help ensure that the outdoors we love so much will still be around. The fact that they cost less, look dope, and sound good are just icing on the cake. Rock on! |
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| 3 | Roll Up Let's face it, guys. We're just not ever going to be as adept at typing with our thumbs than the ladies. But with the G-Tech Wireless BlueTooth Fabric Keyboard, you can have a full keyboard in your pocket, ready to go at any time. Thin, light, and wireless, you can quickly open it up and transform your PDA or smartphone into a virtual office, even at the ballpark. (Or wherever you're playing hooky that day.) |
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| Brew of the Week: | |||
Despite the insinuation that you'll wake up with twins if you drink the right beer, you're more likely to wake up with a hangover. When you do, you'll need the softest "hair of the dog" delivery possible, and nothing is gentler on your stomach than the Silver Bullet. We always keep a standby sixer. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Run for a Cause! Nike 5K for Kids It’s time for the Nike 5K for Kids. Do the 5K course or the “Let Me Play” one-mile route, and 100% of the entry fee will be donated to Greater Portland-area schools’ physical education, play and athletic programs. You choose the school. Register online at www.nike5kforkids.com by May 30 or in person at NIKETOWN until June 6. What: Nike 5K for Kids |
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| 2 | Just in Time for Father's Day Grill-loving dads can submit their favorite grill recipe for a chance to win a Weber Grill, and have their recipe featured on the McCormick's Fish house menu through Father's Day. Fill out entry forms at any of the Portland-area McCormick & Schmick's restaurants or Joe's stores, or go online to enter the "King of the Grill" competition. What: McCormick & Schmick's “King of the Grill” grill-off |
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| 3 | Around the Bend Knock off work early today, pack a duffle, and head down to what is sure to be the most interesting weekend in Central Oregon for any music lover. At the Bend Amphitheater tonight, you'll get an earful of Built To Spill, tomorrow Death Cab and the Decemberists, and stick around Sunday for Modest Mouse, The National and the Breeders. What: A weekend of good music |
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We’ve been meeting fans of PPFM everywhere we go. Thanks for the support and keep telling your friends to sign up for their own free subscription at www.portlandpicksformen.com. |
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