Portland Review: Nothing Common at Clyde Common

Clyde Common, 1014 SW Stark Street, Portland, Oregon 97205

www.clydecommon.com

Where do I begin with Clyde Common? I took a visit over 1 month ago and the fond memory of that dinner still burns on in my mind. It was my first "taste" of Portland, and I have to say if this is what Portland has to offer, pack your travel bags because you owe Portland a visit.

Situated in the historic Ace hotel and next to one of Portland's iconic Stumpps Coffee shops, it feels right in line with "Portlandia." From the minute you walk in from the light drizzle of the late afternoon rain that is so symbolic of Portland, you'll find yourself immediately engulfed in the warmth and buzz of this restaurant. Wooden communal bench seating throughout, an open kitchen of chefs and cooks doing their craft while laughing, bantering, meditating, and a good looking bar stocked with knick knacks, accoutrements, and fine spirits. A chalkboard covered wall filled with scribbles show off the extensive bourbon and whiskey selection. There wasn't much not to love at first glance.

If you didn't already know walking in to Clyde Common that the bar itself is also iconic to Portland's craft cocktail scene, you will quickly realize it. Known as one of the originals to hit the scene bringing Portland's cocktail culture to its nationally acclaimed prowess, this bar still makes everything from scratch; from punchy house made ginger beer to smooth barrel aged bourbons. 

If you love to share, this place is for you. And be it known, some dishes come with a side of Manhattan. There are starters, small plates, boards, and entrees made for communal dining. Needless to say the seating arrangements are ideal. Some favorites included roasted sweetbreads with roasted summer squash, brown butter and hazelnuts which came with an unexpected, yet welcomed sipper of manhattan, a dish of vegetarian perfection with roasted cauliflower dressed with pine nuts, raisins, and sharp, salty, Cabot cheddar, and a hearty beef sugo with cavatelli, pickled peppers, and chèvre. Now, I am a sucker for anything with squid ink or fideos, so the fideos dish with squid, scallops, sausage and aioli was a clear choice to try. Amongst the many great dishes we had, it didn't speak to me say, the way the fideos at avec have touched my heart, but regardless, each dish came out with soul, plated beauty, and flavorful harmony. Savories shined more than sweets, but the sweets did not disappoint. Oh, and in case you forgot, did I mention the sweetbreads board came with a side of Manhattan?