Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Let's Go To Oregon


Truffle amuse bouche at the Oregon Truffle Festival

As much as I love my Euro travels one place I have always wanted to visit is the great American Northwest. And I think I may have just found a good cause: The Oregon Truffle Festival. The aim of this tribute to culinary gold is part business and part pleasure. Oregon's truffles are considered by many chefs to rival Europe's best but the cultivation here is in its relative infancy. At this event growers, hunters and chefs meet with wine representatives, marketers and the public in tastings, dinners and luncheons. There will be cooking classes, tastings, a truffle foray and demonstrations by truffle-hunting dogs (they don't use pigs anymore) all aimed at the promotion of the local truffle trade.


The amazing truffle

A Grand Truffle Dinner will be prepared by five of the Northwest's top chefs and highlights the three day event. Entry fees range from $15 to over $1,000 for a full package of events.

Dates: January 30 - February 1, 2009
For information call: 503.296.5929
or visit: Oregon Truffle Festival















Portland's White House B&B

While up in the area, and with the Obama swearing-in all the rage, why not stop in at another White House? The former summer residence of lumber baron Robert Lytle, this impressive Greek revival mansion boasts European chandeliers, gilt-gold ceilings, a grand staircase and fourteen massive columns. Sounds almost like the real thing, without the crowds.


Wedding Stairway - Portland's White House B&B

An extensive collection of fine porcelain, 18th and 19th century oil paintings, a parlor complete with grand piano and a gaming room will keep your evenings occupied before you plop down on your over sized feather bed. Rooms also feature private baths and wifi. Breakfast is served at one vast dining room table and features such delights as egg souffles and Belgian waffles with locally cultivated blackberries. Who know? They may even throw in a truffle or two!

Prices: $125 - $225 per night
Portland's White House Bed and Breakfast
1914 Northwest 22nd Avenue
Portland, OR
Telephone: 800.772.7131


Carolina Room - Portland's White House

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