Genoa [CLOSED]

In a food-obsessed city with a seemingly revolving door of innovative restaurants, there are a select few capable of holding true Portland establishment status.

Genoa restaurant is one of those rare culinary delights that has withstood the storms of time and trends since 1971 to retain its rightful place to this day as a fine dining establishment that continues to set the bar high.

Last night, I had the honor of dining with some of Portland's great food bloggers over an absolutely mind-blowing dinner hosted by Little Green Pickle.

Our evening began with two delectable amuse bouche...

tuna tartare on the left with the MOST amazing poached egg with caviar dish on the right...

House made pasta stuffed with braised beef, prosciutto and house made mortadella to the left and a chickpea and pomegranate salad on the right...

I highly recommend the wine pairing when you dine at Genoa. They were fantastically spot on with each course.

I opted for the Roasted Rainshadow Farm game hen with caramelized brussel sprouts.

I chose to finish this opulent meal with a rich chocolate cake with gelato. The dessert on the right is a panna cotta, ordered and enjoyed by the fabulous Missy Maki.

Just when I thought I could not fill my belly any further, Genoa sent each of us home with a cannoli. The fact that I refrained from tearing into it on the drive home speaks volumes to just how stuffed I was, because you all know I never shy away from Second (or third) Dessert!

Genoa restaurant is a Portland gem that absolutely cannot be missed. I cannot stress this enough: you must go. It is a lovely spot for special occasions or a night out with good friends. The service is delightful, their timing impeccable, the wine pairings carefully thought-out, the food outstanding with a touch of that Portland creative flair.

Many thanks to Little Green Pickle for a memorable Portland food experience.