Many say the opening party was the social event of the year -- people were literally lined up around the block to get in! Not too many complained however, as we were pampered by the staff who served us hot apple cider, lest we be chilled in the evening air. Entertained by Storm Large and Pink Martini, fed delicious morsels from the Urban Farmer restaurant and surrounded by unique art, I say it was a spectacular soiree the likes of which Portland has not seen for some time.

However, amidst all this luxury, I was struck by the blandness of the vanilla atrium; at first I wondered if I'd wandered into a Grand Hyatt or Embassy Suites hotel by mistake. And while the restaurant cures its own local meats and the hotel emphasizes its sustainability, I was surprised the party featured cheeses from Vermont (when there are many artisan cheeseries nearby) and a tequila bar (when there are 20 Oregon craft spirits from which to choose), so I don't think The Nines has completely embraced the notion of buying local.

That said, we're happy that the old Meier & Frank building has been preserved and that a first-rate tourist destination was created in the space. And I can't wait to have a dinner in the restaurant's private dining area surrounded by preserves.

-Vicky Hastings