Mirakutei ramen in Portland, Oregon

Whenever we visit a “big city” these days we try to find the best ramen they offer. Ten years ago such a thing would be impossible in the USA, but there are now decent ramen shops in some places. Portland is one of them. This time we tried Mirakutei (味楽亭). The waitresses were all Japanese. The cooks were Mexican, but the ramen was still authentic.

Three of us had the, above pictured, Tonkotsu Ramen. One other went with the Original. Everyone was satisfied. The Original is your more typical Japanese ramen. The Tonkotsu is subtle but still wonderful.

Mirakutei is east of the river on Burnside.

Posted on March 29th, 2014 under Japan, Oregon. Tags: food, Nikon 24-120mm f/4 VR G lens, Nikon D600, portland, ramen, reviews. Comments Off on Ramen in Portland

Photomerged panorama of Portland, Oregon from the Pittock Mansion

Portland was clear and cold during the 2+ days we were there this past weekend. Even though I’ve been to Portland many times, this was the first time I can remember Mt. Hood being visible (although I have seen Mt. Hood from the air and from Salem before). I did a quick Google search on “Portland’s best views” or something similar and the Pittock Mansion came up. Getting there is easy from downtown Portland, but I’m guessing you can only see Mt. Hood from here this clearly a small percentage of the time. Apparently the Pittock Mansion was the ending point for one of the Amazing Race seasons, but I don’t think I watched that season as it didn’t look familiar. Unfortunately, a private party was happening inside so we could only see the outside of the mansion.

Posted on November 26th, 2013 under Oregon. Tags: mt. hood, Nikon 24-120mm f/4 VR G lens, Nikon D600, panorama, photomerge, portland. Comments Off on Portland panorama

The short walk to Bridal Veil Falls along the Historical Columbia River Highway features this view as you cross a wooden bridge.

Posted on March 4th, 2013 under Oregon. Tags: autumn, Nikon 18-200mm VR II, nikon d7000, portland. Comments Off on Walk to Bridal Veil Falls

Columbia River Gorge – Oregon-Washington border

I took today’s photo from the Crown Point Vista House in Oregon. Across the river is Washington. I believe the island in the middle of the river is Reed Island State Park. Someone correct me if I’m wrong.

Posted on February 26th, 2013 under Oregon. Tags: Nikon 18-200mm VR II, nikon d7000, portland. Comments Off on Columbia River

Voodoo Doughnut Menu – Portland, Oregon

Next time you are in the mood for Vegan Cock-N-Balls or Triple Chocolate Penetration, this is the place to go to have your desires met. The menu prior to 2010 looked like this.

Posted on February 10th, 2013 under Oregon. Tags: Nikon 18-200mm VR II, nikon d7000, portland, signs. Comments Off on Voodoo Doughnut Menu