Beech Street Parlor

I realize it's been almost a year since my last update, and that's an anniversary I didn't really want to get to, so...

Tonight I tried a new bar (perhaps a seemingly small event to revive a blog over, but at the same time it's as good an event as any other!)!  Ellen and I went to the Beech Street Parlor (corner of NE Beech and MLK, www.beechstreetparlor.com).  I read about it in an email from Portland Monthly and it sounded decent enough.  My advice is to go for the atmosphere and house infused cocktails and not stay for the food.

The food isn't bad, it's just not great and a little overpriced.  Ellen had the herbed gnocchi with eggplant and tomato which was pretty good but it was kind of a joke that it was under the 'bigger' section of the menu and not the small plates.  I had the Parlor Bacon Sandwich with pickled eggs and frisee, which was alright.  The bacon was a little hard and the pickled eggs a little bland.  Also, the fries that came with it were straight out of the cafeteria.  But the drinks...

The owners put a lot of time into infusing various libations with various fruits and beans and they all turn out great.  I had a ginger bourbon old fashioned and it was quite tasty.  As was the marionberry gin I mixed with 7-up.  The chalkboard also listed rasberry tequila and coffee vodka (which I really wanted to try but didn't get to).  Plus some others that I can't remember.  They also have a full bar, wine, and local beer.

If this place becomes known for anything, it'll be the atmosphere and decor.  It's in an old Victorian home and has been completely remodeled.  The first floor interior is designed to mainly accentuate the large wooden bar.  It's very warm, wood, dark colors and dark lighting.  And the upstairs is even better.  It's more of a lounge feel, with a few different rooms that would make great places to enjoy a few drinks with some friends.

Overall I think this place would be great for starting an evening out, either before dinner at another place or pre or post show.