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June 6th, 2008
Thanks to all of our readers who made with their suggestions last week for what they’d like to see more of in PPFM. Of the many, music was definitely the most recurring suggestion. The reason we don't normally feature shows is because of the power of polarization that music has. Let's say for instance we suggest a Fu Manchu show. Our older readers may not be interested and maybe even a little put off at the mention of something they haven't heard of. Let's say we recommend a more universally known group, like Loggins & Messina. Well then, our credibility would be shot with the music snobs (you know who you are). That said, we're gonna give it a try anyway, starting next week. Casual music lovers: When you see something you haven't heard of, google it. Music snobs: No angry letters when you see a Feist show listing. Deal? |
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Portland Picks for Men: |
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| 1 | Just the Two of Us We love our girlfriends, but sometimes we're bereft of activities that we can do together (outside the bedroom, that is). Luckily at Nolita, which offers an impressive selection of men's and women's clothing, the two of us can at least shop together. While Nolita carries many brands offered at other hip stores (True Religion and and J.Lindeberg to name two) we chose to focus on some of their more unique offerings. For example, items by Mike and Chris, who in addition to crafting amazing American-made hoodies, pullovers, shorts and pants, have an extensive line of leather ties and jackets. Another great line is Topo Ranch, which offers up hip track jackets, t-shirts and (the ever classic) button-up cowboy shirts. Our favorite though is Simon Miller, a men's-only jeans line with some of the dopest cuts we've ever seen. (And Nolita is the only store in town that carries them.. So head down with your girl and get some great clothes—for both of you. Don't forget to mention PPFM—you’ll receive $20 off any purchase of $100 or more. Nolita |
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| 2 | It's All Greek To Me For whatever reason, Greek food is a neglected foreign cuisine, routinely passed over for Italian, Chinese, and Mexican. Maybe that's because it's hard to do right, or maybe it just doesn't get the exposure it ought to. The latter certainly seems to be the case with Demetri's—right off Burnside, this is a stellar Greek restaurant that doesn't attract the crowds it deserves. The upside of that is while everyone else is wrestling to get the waiter's attention at some mediocre Italian restaurant, you'll be waited on hand and foot by the attentive and friendly servers at Demetri's. And while you're keeping the best-kept secret in town, you'll be rewarded with massive portions of food, from succulent rack of lamb to baked seafood in special sauces to delicious baklava for dessert. The décor is fancy without being ostentatious and the atmosphere refined without being snobby. In other words, it's the perfect spot for a first date. Best of all, won't she be impressed when you introduce her to the best restaurant she's never heard of before? Demetri's Mediterranean Restaurant |
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| 3 | It's A Small Bar After All… Sometimes it seems the neighborhood bar, that tiny hole in the wall with the worn-in furniture, the same old alcoholic regulars, and the bartender you know by name, is all but extinct. Nowadays, it's all about which place has the most taps, the largest food menu, and the snazziest, shiniest knickknacks. Well, thank God that Mbar is still around. It may be a little trendier than most neighborhood bars you've frequented, but not by much. The smallest bar in Portland seats 15 people, if you really squeezed them in, and offers only three beers on tap and a modest wine list. No food, no credit cards, no liquor, and no pop songs playing through the speakers—just smooth playing jazz. That may sound like hell to some of you, but then, they're not trying to please everyone. Stop in for a beer or glass of wine and you may just end up starting a conversation with a stranger, or grab one of the three tables outside for some of the best people-watching in the city. M Bar |
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Gratuitous Photo of the Week: |
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Mandatory Gear: |
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| 1 | Wild Kingdom Once every summer we get together with friends to raft the mighty Rogue River. Besides the sublime scenery, there are plenty of whiskey fueled acts that beg to be captured. Enter our favorite new toy, the Panasonic SDR-SW20 camcorder. This baby is shock resistant, dust proof and waterproof up to five feet, so it is sure to survive the trip. And just think: after blackmailing your friends with threats of You-Tubery, this baby will pay for itself in no time. |
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| 2 | The Good Book Younger folks sometimes don't know what it means to be a gentleman (we blame, you old-timers). And we don't mean antiquated observances displayed only by English Nobility, but rather the day-to-day behaviors—the little things, if you will. A book we've found helpful for years just got better. How to Be a Gentleman—In a Changing World is the updated version, complete with a thousand tidbits that you'll find useful (trust us!), plus more modern fare like cell-phone etiquette. |
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| 3 | Not So Kosher, But… We love us some lobster and shrimp. And if you're anything like us you love crawfish, which basically tastes like a mix of the two. This is why we love June… it is crawfish season! We know… we are not exactly on the bayou here. But there are companies down Louisiana-way that'll ship you live freshwater crawfish so you can have one hell of a bayou bash in your own backyard. Pray for sun! |
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| Brew of the Week: | |||
Alaskan Summer Ale |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Papa Can You Hear Me? Because we have a tough time picking gifts for Dad, we go with services. But if your old man is anything like ours, he is not stepping foot in any foo-foo spa or salon. HairM, that bastion of masculinity, is offering a Father's Day special that includes their famous Emperor's cut, a hot-towel shave, and a 30-minute massage. What: Great gift: Father’s Day specials at Hair M |
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| 2 | Triple Crown Bash It'll be hard to top North 45's Kentucky Derby Party, but since Big Brown is in contention to be the first Triple Crown winner in thirty years, they felt they would be remiss in not throwing a Belmont Stakes bash. The party will start at noon on their excellent patio and they'll have drink specials on (what else?) Crown Royal. What: Triple Crown Party at North45 |
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| 3 | Work Out with Your Lady (or Meet Some Girls!) Want to challenge and improve your body like never before? Want to work out with some hot, perspiring females? Power Outdoor Fitness is the newest co-ed boot camp to hit Portland. For one hour, 5 days a week, you'll run faster, jump higher and push harder than ever before. Join anytime—your first class is free. What: Power Outdoor Fitness co-ed boot camp |
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| 5 | Eco-Party for Your Hizzy Spend a couple of hours to learn about making your home more eco-friendly. Recycling alone doesn’t cut it anymore. Attend this discussion, facilitated by the Center for Earth Leadership (sounds hippie, isn’t hippie) to get some great tips. Come early for food & drinks & to check out the North Portland Tool Library (in the Firehouse). What: Eco-Party for home-improvement ideas |
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