Restaurant Guide 2008

By COREY PEIN

An overwhelming consensus—i.e., The Oregonian (2005 Restaurant of the Year), Robb Report and WW's own readers (who voted it 2008's Best Place to Take a Date in the Pearl District)—favors this slick Peruvian restaurant, and for good reason. Appearance-wise, it's a pretty classy joint, with a nifty copper-topped bar and a truly open kitchen. Servers are attentive, although some come off as too cool for school. The food, mostly Alice Waters-influenced takes on Peruvian staples served either tapas-style—a standout is grilled asparagus with garlic olive oil—or as full entrees, tends toward thick sauces and strong, simple flavors: The butternut squash and Gorgonzola ravioli served with the adobo de cerdo (pork sauce) is a tasty example.

IDEAL MEAL: Try everything on the tapas menu and hit the cocktails (happy hour 4-6 pm daily).

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