by Stephanie C. on When my coworker (from Kentucky!) said this was the BEST pulled-pork sandwich she'd had in the city (and she does NOT give the label lightly), I knew I had to try it. There's a real NW/ Portland atmosphere - wood-panelled lounge interiors that suggest more of an old cigar club, mixed with chic modernist furnishings that keeps everything feeling bright and energetic. Nice island for stand-up drinking that also separates the low-key dining area. Everything is organic, all the meat is home smoked and the breads freshly baked in-house. We got: 1) the Brisket Sandwich and a side of spicy cheesy grits - portions were a little petite considering the price, but all was forgotten when I bit into the simply HEAVENLY flavors. I'm still savoring the tenderness of the meat. 2) the Ribs - HUUUUGE portions and terrific and full flavor - my bf was all-about the barbecue sauce, but I was happy just tearing into the meat, which FELL off the bone. He also got just about the most perfect Brussel Sprouts I've ever tasted and a buttery biscuit that I considered getting more of if I wasn't totally full. Really, one of the most delicious dining experiences (comfort food or otherwise) I've had in a long time. I believe they only serve food Wed.-Sat.
by Rubie R. on I also caught the Shaq sighting. We were there around midnight and I suspected he didn't want to take pictures with girls because girls kept getting refused but a guy managed to snag a picture with him. According to Shaq's friend, they weren't "supposed to be there." They were pretty lame, though, on three counts. 1. They came to this club. 2. They came early. 3. They were on their cell phones looking disinterested the whole time. This was the first time I'd been and I must've went on the wrong night because I was expecting Hip Hop but got an eclectic song choice mashed on top of odd techno beats that inevitably killed the original songs. Ugh. Needless to say, I didn't stay long. And unsurprisingly, neither did Shaq & Co. We left at the same time and inadvertently ended up following them half the way to the bus stop. Oh, and the bouncers were pretentious.
by Vida Traff on I am not a fan of cosmo/lava. It is entirely too crowded and the crowd that it attracts is not quite my style. The Lava side is better and the bartenders are great. There is often a line and that just isn't worth it. The music is the same music they have been playing for the past 4 years.
