When I think about the month of May, a few things come to mind—Mother’s Day, my best friend’s birthday, and the opening of Portland’s farmer’s markets. For those who aren’t familiar with PSU’s Market, I would suggest getting acquainted. Nestled into the beautiful Portland State University campus, the downtown market spans the tree-filled park blocks (and is a nice walk or short street car ride away from the deLuxe).

In addition to the fresh fruits & veggies, you’ll find Portland’s famed Pine State Biscuits serving up some ridiculously tasty biscuits and gravy creations, Unbound Pickling pedaling their freshly pickled delights, and Alma Chocolates tempting us  with their decadent creations (and we give in)—and so much more. The market has nearly 150 vendors on its roster, which means you can indulge in anything from kimchi to farm-fresh flowers. Dig in!

Ciao,

Emily

I’m not sure how many people know that we have the most awesome bartending team in Stumptown. Don’t take my word for it—ask around. Mike Robertson and Kat Hand are making a name for themselves and the Driftwood Room is reaching far beyond our little berg. I recently sat down and chatted with them to get the lowdown. I got enough recon from them to fill a hundred blog posts, so check back for more in this series.

First of all, Mike had just returned from a think tank trip to Seattle for top bartenders around the country. Apparently, the concensus among these in-the-know mixologists was that there are currently three spots in the U.S. known for their innovation when it comes to all things liquor: New York (natch), San Francisco (historically rebellious) and, wait for it, Portland, Oregon. Yep. Spend a couple of hours at the Driftwood, and make sure to ask Mike and Kat for their newest find. It’s a revelation.

Cheers,

Brandon

Well, there’s so much going on in Portland in June, so many reasons to come visit the Rose City: The wild and fabulous Portland Pride Festival and Parade, the season opening of the Farmers Markets in all their fruit and floral glory, the foamy fun of the North American Organic Brewers Festival. But, anyone and everyone knows that June in Portland means one really big thing: Rose Festival.

Even if you’re not the type to brave the Waterfront Village—chock full o’ food booths, rides, live music, strollers and mullets—there is something for every walk of life during the two-week festivities. Check out the Dragon Boat Races, the ships during Fleet Week, the Starlight Run and, of course, the Starlight and Grand Floral Parades. And, I have a bit of soft spot for the Queen’s Coronation, don’t ask me why. Oh, there’s a lot more. That’s because it’s Portland’s Rose Festival.

Ciao,

Emily

What? You’ve visited Portland how many times and have never been to the ballet? Shame on you (and me). OK, I’ve actually never attended the Oregon Ballet Theater, but it’s about time to change all that.

The renowned company’s new show, Duets, began in April and will run just until May 2. The plot is familiar – two young people from opposite sides of the track, destined to fall in love – but the telling of the story is fresh and exciting. Guided by the legendary choreographer Twyla Tharp, I think we’re all in for something pretty special. Throw in a few Russian-inspired and samba-accompanied duets and it’s a not-to-be-missed show.

And, I don’t know about you, but all that exercise makes me hungry. Luckily, Baskin Robbins is just four blocks away, up SW Broadway, and I’m getting a double scoop.

Ciao,

Emily

This is tough. There are at least two big things happening in April in Portland that I really want to tell you about. But, I guess I write a lot about beer (at least that’s what my friends say), so you’ll have to check out the awesome Spring Beer Fest on your own. The other event falls into one of my favorite categories: Keep Portland weird.

There are all kinds of great film festivals in this town, including cool ads from around the world, international film fests, the African Film Festival, you name it. It’s a smorgasbord for your viewing pleasure. But now we’ve also got the Faux Film Fest. It’s pretty much all of the above, but it’s all fake. Fake travelogues, fake training videos, and the ever popular mockumentary. Not sure exactly what I’m getting myself in for, but it sounds weird, so I’m there.

See ya,

Brandon

Last week, some friends and I stopped in for the happy hour at Bamboo Sushi, a cool locale that serves up really killer sushi, among other dishes. My buddy had a Kobe beef flank, along with with some mushrooms and a tasty herb sauce up top (I sampled his and other friends’ meals; I couldn’t help it). Happy hour has some crazy-good deals (the Kobe was only $5.50). We shared some super-fresh sashimi, and also tried Bamboo’s signature cocktails.

I’m not only stoked on Bamboo because of the stellar food they serve up and it’s chill atmosphere, but I’m also really into the fact that this accessibly hip spot boasts the title of the only certified sustainable sushi restaurant in the world. Bamboo is a popular joint, so there can be a wait for a table, but it’s completely worth it.

Be sure to visit their Facebook Page as well.

Cheers,

Brandon

Lately, money has been tight for a lot of people. Maybe you’ve cut back on your daily lattes, or started cooking more meals at home. In some way or another, we’ve all been feeling the economic strain. But don’t we all deserve a little break? I know of a Portland hotel who is making it a lot easier to do just that by offering our modern luxury at a really great price.

This month, get 10% off your room when you reserve a pre-paid room at our best available offer. Want to relax for longer? The deal gets even better. If you choose to stay with us for two or more nights, we bump up the discount to 15% off our best available offer rooms. And hey, while you’re here, indulge in your much-missed latte and even enjoy a meal out at Gracie’s, our renowned restaurant that is situated right here in the hotel. You’ve earned it.

Ciao,

Emily

I just found out that coming up this Valentine’s weekend in Portland, Jake Oken-Berg and Echo Helstrom  will be giving a concert at the Aladdin Theater and I intend to be there.  It’s just the kind of musical night I love, when some of Portland’s best classical, jazz, and pop musicians will come together for a program that will run the gamut from chamber music to punk rock and some interesting in-between pieces with enough to please just about everyone.

You can’t beat the price ($10, in advance) and it’s an all-ages show. Justin Jude, the high plains preacher of dustbowl pop, will open the program, which starts at 8 p.m. If you’re looking for an evening of home-grown talent, with knock-your-socks-off live music, this is the place to be!

Happy listening,

Brandon

Wondering what to do for Valentine’s Day this year? Well, we have been busy taking reservations like crazy for our “My Chocolate Valentine” special hotel package, so get it while you still can. Along with your overnight accommodation, you’ll receive gourmet chocolates from the Two Tart Bakery and a bottle of Oregon Pinot Noir upon your arrival.

Intrigued? We’re including, in this fabulous evening, a gift certificate to Cacao for a before-dinner treat. That goes along with a food and drink voucher for our romantic restaurant, Gracie’s. If you want to cuddle up in one of our fantastic comfy beds (with our extra special pillow menu) and get in the mood with a romance, you can check out a movie at the front desk. We’ve got some great old classics to choose from, as well as some modern flicks. In the morning, head back to Gracie’s for complimentary mochas. Yum.

Ciao,

Emily

I would be bucking the stereotype if I didn’t tell you about this delectable event, and that sounds like too much effort so early in the new year. So, I’ll admit I’m one of those: Hi, I’m Emily and I’m a chocoholic. You can just bet you’ll see me at the World Forestry Center’s 5^th Annual Chocolate Fest.

It’s only two slim days, so to speak, but they are days filled with dark, milk, and white deliciousness. Of course there will be vendors, presentations and demonstrations. That’s all fine and good, but my time there will be spent doing what every chocolate lover should and will be doing: tasting. And if there is anyone out there who believes that it’s all about the same, it is time to learn a lesson. A sweet, sweet lesson.

Ciao,

Emily