Le Pigeon
Le Pigeon is Portland's revered gem. Run by an insanely talented and two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Gabriel Rucker, the restaurant is responsible for making a name for Portland as a city of culinary excellence. Although much of the menu spells out a pronounced French foundation, surprises are many, as chef Rucker continues to improve upon classic menu fixtures (such as the beef cheek bourguignon) and experiment with flavor profiles and international influences in the starter department.
Perhaps the best part of it all is the "casual fine" dining experience Le Pigeon successfully pulls off by always keeping 10 seats at the bar counter around the open kitchen available to walk-in guests. These go fast, however, so do reserve in advance to take full advantage of the dinner: there are 5- and 7-course tasting menus that are perfect for a well-rounded acquaintance with chef Rucker's food. If you choose to keep it low-key, there's always the welcome surprise of a delicious $17 burger.
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