Post #87891 by thejab on Fri, Apr 23, 2004 6:45 PM

*On 2004-04-23 17:49, Frenchy Polynesia wrote:*If you're looking for a NICE and reasonable place to stay, I'd recommend the Mallory. It's right downtown by Powells, and it supposedly has an old-school swanky ballroom/dining room. Reasonable rates, too.

Even if you don't stay at the Mallory, try and go to the Driftwood Room in the hotel. It's a beautiful, completely original mid-century bar/lounge, with no tacky sports posters in sight. Their cocktails are good, strong, and fairly cheap. Highly recommended!

Another option: I've stayed at the Mark Spencer Hotel in Portland twice and loved it. It's a couple of blocks from Powell's, it's on the trolley line, and it has a great rooftop garden where you can enjoy the lights of the city at night. Rates start at $69.

http://www.markspencer.com/

There are plenty of good new restaurants in Portland, but I'm partial to the old joints. For steaks, the Ringside can't be beat for old-style atmosphere, food, and service.

http://www.ringsidesteakhouse.com/

For seafood there's Jake's Famous Crawfish. It's been open since 1892. I was amazed by the list of daily fresh fish and shellfish. Our veteran waiter provided exceptional and friendly service.

Just a couple suggestions of the many good places to eat and drink besides the Alibi and Jasmine Tree. I miss Portland! And I really miss Henry Ford's! :(