A big group of us (8) tried Beast and were very happy that we did! I had heard various negative things about the chef/owner, Naomi, but I found her very pleasant (she answered the phone when I made our reservation and also visited our table after our meal). That should teach me to listen to local Portland gossip! Most of us at the table got the full Prix Fixe menu (4 courses) and were also served a very good amouse bouche, a Gruyere gougere. Everything was excellent (especially the short ribs and the pudding cake!), and our server was very attentive. The atmosphere is very soft, warm and romantic, which I would recommend for a romatic evening except for that fact that there are only two tables and it's all communal seating. (We had a table to ourselves, but I think you probably have to have 8 in your party to get a whole table to yourself.) We were there for almost three hours, and the leisurely-pace was fine with us, but the chairs are a bit uncomfortable (we were forewarned, however, about it on the Beast website). The menu changes often, so we are planning on going back again to taste their new offerings!
Pros: Delicious and Interesting Food, Cozy Ambiance, Great Service
Cons: Short Wine List, Uncomfortable Chairs
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