If you didn’t know, Portland is full of foodies, but there were even more in town last week for our first culinary tour.  The International Association of Culinary Professionals recently held their annual conference here in Portland to provide information and inspiration to food lovers from around the world.  Chefs, critics, gourmands and gourmets descended upon Portland for a taste of what our local cuisine has to offer.  Pedal Bike Tours gladly contributed to the event by organizing a custom culinary tour for fifteen attendees.  During our tour, both guides and participants got much more than just a taste of some of the excellent eats available in North Portland.

The first stop was Toro Bravo, an award winning Spanish inspired tapas restaurant on Russell St.  After overwhelming the convenient Toro Bravo bike corral, our group settled down for a delicious sampling of various treats including paella, smokedpork rillettes, and “Kisses,” brandy soaked prunes stuffed with foie gras.  Chef/owner John Gorham patiently fielded questions as we feasted and sipped refreshing sangria

Next we were off to Grand Central Bakery for a brief presentation by Piper Davis, head baker and co-author of the cookbook, “The Grand Central Baking Book.”  Afterwards we gathered together for strawberry rhubarb pie and coffee.  For those with room a plate of “Green Goat” sandwiches beckoned.  This smart combination of hazelnut arugula pesto, chevre, and roasted beets puts even bigger smiles on the faces of those who indulged.

Our bike mob continued on to Mississippi Ave. for a stop at The Meadow.  Owner Mike Bitterman offered samples of his artisan chocolates and gourmet finishing salts.

We then rode on to local taqueria Por Que No where owner Bryan Steelman greeted us as we sat down to try various Por Que No favorites such as Oaxacan style pollo tamales, crispy and juicy carnitas, and the surprisingly delectable veggie tacos.  A mixture of fresh strawberry and pineapple juice helped to wash it all down.

Though we were all filling up fast on great food, the best was yet to come as we hopped on our bikes and headed to Ned Ludd, a modest North Portland restaurant owned and operated by Jason French and Ben Meyer.  Opened in December 2008, Ned Ludd offers handcrafted food from a wood-fired oven.  Jason and Ben are inspired by traditional European and American immigrant foodways.  As Jason spoke to our group about various aspects of the restaurant and menu, it was obvious that both chefs are extremely passionate about every aspect of their food and space.  With a focus on sustainability, community, and local produce, as well as a commitment to preparing food the right way as opposed to the easy way, Ned Ludd is truly the perfect Portland eatery.  Samples included pastured pork chops with porky smothered kale and the popular mac ‘n’ mornay appetizer.

Our final stop was Lincoln Restaurant on the corner of Williams and Shaver.  Lincoln offers a comfortable, contemporary atmosphere with simple dishes elemental in style, flavor and presentation.  Co-owner David Welch welcomed us as we enjoyed dessert, Jenn Louis’s dreamy Rhubarb Pavlova with rhubarb, meringue and whipped cream. A fine end to several great meals.

With our bellies full, the group slowly made its way back to the shop before concluding the tour.  Our participants were clearly sated.  Thanks so much to the folks from the IACP who came with us!  We had just as much fun.

Now you can come, too!  Pedal Bike Tours is pleased to announce the Bites by Bike Culinary Tour as part of our regular tour offerings.  So come ride and taste with us!