Dining for a Healthier Planet

Sustainable Practices in local Portland hot spots

Adding to the sustainability trend that has captured the millennium, Portland restaurants join the movement with delicious and creative ways to improve the environment. They make sure to choose local food, which are devoid of chemicals and processed without negative effects from farming. In addition, bio-based disposables are used and energy is conserved in various ways. According to the Green Restaurant Association standards, Portland soon will be creating a more healthy environment while cutting costs and serving up delectable dishes.

Bamboo Sushi

a hip corner on the East Side, Bamboo Sushi brings a Sushi and Japanese salad selection with slightly sweet and spicy flavors. This restaurant carries old favorites that you may crave like California or tuna rolls, or something new like their fresh kaiso seaweed salad or Kobe beef burger, all available in a simple atmosphere that allows you to eat light and enjoy the fresh air (they open the front window in the summer time).

The extensive vegan and vegetarian additions on the menu cater to a diverse audience as well, whether you are interested in a meal, snack or quick lunch. Any choice is guaranteed to be grown or raised on Oregon and Idaho ranches. The fish are also caught without damaging the ecosystem.

To-go orders also encouraged. 310 S.E. 28th Ave, (503) 232-5255. Dinner 7 nights a week

5 – 10 p.m. Happy Hour M-F 5- 6:30 p.m.

Lovely Hula Hands

Located in the semi-funky neighborhood of NE Portland, Lovely Hula Hands delivers a creative twist in their decorative entrees, like the seasonal halibut garnished with fennel and snow peas, the quintessential idea of spring in a bowl. The appetizers are very different from what you would expect, from the halibut filled fritters with smooth, garlicky aioli to the curly endive topped with bacon and a poached egg that has a sunset colored yolk (like you just pulled it out from a hen). This can all be enjoyed outside under the covered patio on mismatched dishware, cultivating an individualistic spirit while not contributing to waste.

4057 N. Mississippi, (503) 445-9910. Dinner Tuesday through Sunday 5-10 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Lucky Labrador Brew Pub

This is a hang out joint that asks customers to have a pint while playing darts and talking with friends. They serve sandwiches with names like the Vegetarian’s Nightmare or the Rose Garden, cask conditioned (meaning made with solar power) ales and a few kinds of cookies. This is not your usual noisy pub scene where conversation is impossible; it is especially quiet at lunchtime. Food to-go is available.

Three locations: 915 SE Hawthorne Blvd, (503) 236-3555. Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to Midnight. Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m. 1945 NW Quimby Street, (503) 517-4352. Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to Midnight. Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m. 7675 SW Capitol Hwy, (503) 244- 2537. Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to Midnight. Sunday, Noon to 10 p.m. Outside Seating: closes at 10 p.m. Minors: Allowed until 9 p.m. except at Capitol Hwy. location until 10 p.m.

Wildwood

Pure would be the quality that best describes Wildwood’s cuisine because the menu relies on delicate flavors in their dishes. Sauces are minimal and subtle enough to enhance the natural flavor of one ingredient. For example, the oyster salad appetizer is dainty and fresh, which is surprising since the oysters are fried; but because the oysters have been gently rolled in soft cornmeal batter the outcome remains pure. The menu changes depending on availability since they only use food from local resources, but Wildwood guarantees you will often find a favorite, like fish and chips or a burger. Sitting inside, looking through the black window panes is reminiscent of being in an Italian bistro; the vibrant art on the walls transport the diner out of NW Portland.

1221

NW 21st Avenue, 503.248.9663. Lunch: Mon – Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Dinner: Mon – Thur 5:30-9:00 p.m., Fri and Sat 5:30-10 p.m., Supper: Sunday 5:30-8:30 p.m. The Bar is Open: 11:30 a.m. to close Mon-Sat and 4:30 p.m. Sunday.