FreeThink: a blog published by Maxwell PR
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Rave: We love ripe

Sitting at communal tables in an open kitchen and sharing platters of food with total strangers is the epitome of a community building opportunity - and when the food is nothing short of fantastic, it defines family supper at ripe.

Located in a nondescript building in an industrial north Portland neighborhood, this dining gem is understated and offers one menu nightly. Owners Michael and Naomi Hebberoy, recently hosted dinner for area event planners to come get comfy and learn about the latest buzz in Portland dining. I was lucky enough to be invited and had the opportunity to meet Lauren Glazer, the new event manager, and to sample offerings from new chef Troy Maclarty.

As a prelude to the evening, Michael shared a warm welcome and some background on the evolution of ripe. With wine in hand and introductions to my tablemates made, we got the truly unique eating experience on its way. Grilled Cascade natural hanger steak, morel mushroom and green onion bread pudding, roasted Outback Farms asparagus, panna cotta with rhubarb compote...is there more to say? Yes, yes there is.

The Hebberoys, along with chef Maclarty, are not only a tribute to the community (and the community's taste buds) they also support local organic farmers and gather most of the nightly menu's ingredients from farms within 100 miles of Portland. Their commitment to using organic, fresh foods has earned them a spot on Organic Style's Top 20 Green Restaurant list as well as a long list of local and national accolades. The dedication can be tasted in this food extravaganza and is a welcome step toward Portland's (and Maxwell PR's) sustainability goals.

If passing platters of food around a table of strangers is not your thing, there are options for you too. Michael and Naomi have expanded their collaborations into a "restaurant group," adding clarklewis and the Gotham Bldg Tavern. Call 503.235.2294 for reservations at any of the three locations.

Eat up - you'll be glad you did!

--Diane Noble, Diane@maxwellpr.com

posted on June 23, 2005


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  This spirited, open forum by Maxwell PR staff members, studio mates and colleagues features people who are, in our opinion, doing the right things to get people talking. You'll see us rave about organizations building communities and rant about those who are missing obvious opportunities. We sprinkle in a little marketing and PR rhetoric from time to time for extra vigor and enthusiasm, and will share observations and insight based on our own experience honing our craft every day.  
 

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