Swim into Street and Co.

Portland is home to over 365 restaurants.  The city is a foodie’s paradise, as there’s no shortage of amazing eateries.  My favorite place for high end dining in town is Street and Co.  On average I eat there twice a year with my family to celebrate a birthday or special occasion.

The Atmosphere

Located on one of Portland’s cobblestone streets lined with brick buildings, you almost feel like you’re walking back in time, as no cars are allowed down the drive after a certain hour.  Upon entering the restaurant one walks down a narrow hall before arriving at the hostess stand.  The place is dimly lit but when seated it’s bright enough, so you don’t have to struggle to read your menu.  The staff is friendly and professional.  ⅓ of the restaurant is reserved for walk-ins starting at 5 pm.  If you choose this option, the earlier you go the better.  Especially in the summer, I recommend making a reservation, so you don’t have to fight with tourists for a table.

The Menu

The menu at Street and Co. changes weekly.  The chef works with the highest quality, freshest ingredients available.

Start off with a couple “Tastes.”  Tastes are 2-3 bite dishes providing you with, well, just a taste.  How does “Marinated Organic Zucchini with Dill, Local Feta and Heirloom Tomato” sound?

Next move to Salads and Appetizers.  I recommend picking an appetizer that comes in a broth.  Street and Co. bakes their own bread and it’s delicious when soaked in, for example, a white wine sauce.  I ate at Street and Co. in May and had the best salad of my life.  Arugula with blood orange wedges, pecorino romano cheese, and prosciutto.  Delicious.

Entrees are all served “in the pan.”  Talk about fresh! You’re served in the same dish your meal is cooked in.  I’m very much a creature of habit and always order the same thing for an entree – Sole Francaise.  It’s a house specialty and is always on the menu.  Lightly coated sole cooked in a lemon butter of sorts, the fish practically melts in your mouth.

Have Your Cake, and Eat it Too…but not at Street and Co.

Street and Co. does offer dessert, but after sitting in the same spot for an hour and a half, I’m usually ready for a change of scenery.  Right across from Street and Co. lies the Bar of Chocolate.   It’s an intimate spot with an impressive drink list and the best cheesecake I’ve ever had, among a plethora of other desserts.  Whether you’re looking to top off the night with an espresso or experience a peanut butter martini, you won’t be disappointed.