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Veritable Quandary
Categories: Nightlife Restaurants American (New) Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Nightlife, American (New), Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
1220 SW 1st AvePortland, OR 97204
Neighborhoods: Southwest Portland, Downtown
(503) 227-7342
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11:30 am - 2:30 am
Sat-Sun 9:30 am - 2:30 am
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Tue, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Classy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
314 reviews for Veritable Quandary
Review Highlights
"did I mention the bacon wrapped dates."
(in 24 reviews)
"I started with the duck confit spring rolls."
(in 10 reviews)
"The osso bucco was rich and delicious."
(in 18 reviews)
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313 reviews in English
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Review from Lulu R.
Vancouver, WA
2/3/2012
I ate here this past weekend and it was so good I've been thinking about my delicious meal all week. The service was both attentive and genuine and the food was extraordinary.
We started with fresh squeezed juice and nice strong coffee. We enjoyed three different brunch entrees: Brioche french toast, eggs benedict with roasted pork loin and a butter lettuce salad with poached egg, bacon, pickled onion and buttermilk chive dressing. The food was elegantly presented and the flavors were fresh and delicous. The brioche french toast had a mascarpone butter that was to die for and candied walnuts and banana adorned the plate.....yum, yum, yum!!!
There are a lot of wonderful brunch spots in Portland, but VQ stands out for its quaint atmosphere, exceptional service and delicous food. I can't wait to go back! -
Review from Patti F.
2/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Wow. My first time here, came highly recommended - and I can see why. I sampled everything because that's the kind of reviewer I am - I'm a giver. Cocktails were well-crafted and tasty. Appetizers (both hot and cold) very generous portions, and amazing. At this point I must say I had the pleasure of the BEST razor clams I've had in my life. What makes them amazing? Ever had razor clams where you chew and chew, and there's neither a breakdown of the chew to something more manageable nor a way to politely remove it from your mouth? Well, I have. Except for here: melt-in-your mouth razor clams - and now I get why people say they are so great! Dinner portions are also generous - I had the ricotta gnocci which again, melted in my mouth. Wine list was good/quite extensive - if a little high priced, but no complaints here. Dessert, while I could barely stuff another morsel, I did opt for ONE toasted coconut truffle - and thankyouverymuch it was also amazing.
The only reason I'm going 4 and not 5 stars, is because if you have a reservation for dinner - and you come in through the bar: it isn't instantly apparent that you have to walk thru the bar to the podium (this was a winter visit so the patio wasn't open). This is especially the case if the bar is packed. Why is this even an issue? Because as we stood there wondering where to go, neither the bartender(s) nor the patrons did anything but stare at us. Would have been nice to have someone say, "yo' tard: the dining room is in the back, you have to go back there" (or something) -
Review from Jason E.
Portland, OR
1/27/2012
Pro: Always great food and service, deserts are excellent, everything here is excellent, I have eaten here many times and never been disappointed
Con: None, maybe a little pricey -
Review from Brian C.
Holt, MI
2/7/2012
Great staff and fantastic food. More unique creations would have taken it up one more notch.
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Review from Megan M.
Terrific dining experience. Great and attentive waiters and hosts. They took out coats into some enchanted coat room probably laced in gold and diamonds.
We started with wine and a beer. The wine was terrific and my beer, listen to this: an espresso chocolate stout. Yes, those were high-five claps & fireworks you heard in your head just then. It was terrific. Their wine & beer lists were impressive and I have full confidence in anything on that list.
For an appetizers we got the special, which was a brussel sprouts dish. It was one of the best things I have ever had in my mouth, don't be a pervert guys. But it's true.
Dishes were the crusted sturgeon and the ravioli. Both, you guessed it, were really good. The ravioli had almost too much flavor, almost. The sturgeon was not fishy and just the right consistency. We skipped the dessert because we were just that full.
So although I loved everything we had, I wouldn't go here unless it was a special occasion because formal settings make me paranoid. The setting is formal and some of the people that frequent probably laugh at you when they hit a puddle of water with their BMW or Mercedes and it splashes you. -
Review from Kymberli C.
Concord, CA
Vacationing during holidays is hard because a lot of places are closed or have holiday hours. We learned that the hard way because all the places we wanted to dine at on New Years was closed. Luckily, we stopped by VQ for brunch, and they were open! There was a sign on the door that said they would be closing at 3PM, so I'm glad we chose to come for brunch. The dining room was all filled and there were no tables available for the day but luckily they serve their full menu at the bar! The server was very friendly and offered recommendations. We went with the dungeness crab benedict and the softboiled egg with bacon over salad. Both were DELICIOUS! We devoured both entrees in seconds and almost forgot to offer each other a taste. They were THAT good. I would definitely come back next time for brunch again and even to try dinner as well! YUM!
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Review from Vi B.
12/17/2011
It's weird that I don't like this place, because I love so many other places just like it.
But the service was non-existent when I came here (seriously, the waitress kept walking past our table and almost seemed like she was pretending to ignore us). And the place is SO narrow it's difficult to navigate or find a table when it's full. The decor is nice on the outside (and just like any other bar / tiny restaurant on the inside), but there's nothing about it that makes me fall in love.
I'll most likely come back here if friends want to in the future for late-night desserts, but I don't expect to have a much better experience. -
Review from rochelle s.
Irvine, CA
1/4/2012
Came here to visit Portland & I can't wait to come back! The bf & I had brunch here on a cold rainy morning. But that didn't stop us from wandering the streets into this yummy place.
Ok to the point I ordered the brioche French toast which had succulent fresh fruits and the brioche was soft and buttery with a little bit of crunchiness! Just like how I like my French toast! ( I'm salivating as I remember it melting in my mouth )
My bf ordered the Montecristo...which was aaammmmazing! sweet salty with eggs is always good.. You can't mess that one up too much.
The service was great and really helpful. The place itself is super quaint. we will be back here soon as we visit again which should be real soon!! -
Review from Holy-foo' X.
Portland, OR
1/11/2012
When you got money, honey, to burn, & ain't particular about convenient parking!
Duck Spring Rolls. Seriously, though, what kind of a**hole comes in w/a look of expectancy and says, "Uh, yes, we'll have a platter of the duck spring rolls, a pitcher of your finest appletinis, and make it expensive. Make it RAIN, baby!" And how on planet EARTH does one order "Osso Bucco" without looking like a complete Douche-o-Baggo?
If There is a breed of humans frequenting such an establishment, which feels completely at home w/menu items such as are found at the Quandary, than color me just a teeny bit skeptical, what can I say. I DO sincerely enjoy the fact that this undeniably handsome little place is right around the corner from the County Pokey--- you know, just in case you just can't quite keep a lid on the histrionics and douche-baggery. Keep your drunken bravery up, You might just get on an episode of COPS AND land on the cover of Busted----- an enviable double whammy if ever there was one!
But don't take my word for it! Have a gander at their decadent online menus for brunch and dinner at ye olde Veritable Quandary.... and see if you disagree with me: if the menu is filled with items a large percentage of the customers is surely going to mis-pronounce, but then feel superior about paying the exorbitant charges, your d-bag co-efficient explodes through the roof, man. There's simply no way around it.
Despite the massive haphazards and pretense, the V.Q. still gets 3 stars (3.5, really) for being a very attractive place to congregate w/friends for a libation. The gorgeous patio lay-out is only really useful 3-4 months out of the year, but hey, it's been a really dry winter so far.... Also VQ has been around longer than many of the trend-bots making the scene there nowadays have even been alive. So that's pretty damn cool . in an ironical sort of way, of course.. -
Review from samantha G.
Chicago, IL
12/21/2011
Unfortunately I may not be able to give it the two-visit-test soon since I live in Chicago but next time I find myself in Portlandia I will revisit and perhaps add that next star.
I should note that I was there late for drinks and a midnight snack. And by snack I mean pizza.
Many of the appetizers sounded good but when we were told the ingredients of the pizza app of the day there was no question of what to order.
It consisted of:
Brie
Arugula
Prosciutto
Figs
Toasted Hazelnuts
If it had any 2 of those I would have ordered it but this was over-the-top greatness! It lived up to it's description and not a bite was left.
Once home I bought all the ingredients and made my own. Not the same since I can't make my own pastry-like flaky crust but I'd make it again since I don't live at VQ. -
Review from Forrest S.
Happy Valley, OR
12/16/2011
Good restaurant experiences are not a difficult thing to come by in Portland. My experience at Veritable Quandary was far beyond good, it was absolutely amazing, and something I have found myself thinking about often for the last week, hoping that I soon will have another chance to eat there. Until then I guess I'll just write about it.
I came here with my girlfriend and her parents on what turned out to be a stellar meet the parents date. We started out with duck confit spring rolls and bacon wrapped dates. The spring rolls were fantastic, and I would have been happy to sit there and eat a few orders of those, but then I would have missed out on all the other great dishes. I hate dates and anything that has dates in it. Or at least I did until I have the bacon wrapped dates. They were sweet, savory and salty, and a total surprise. I loved them. Next was the artesian cheese plate, that came with an assortment of nuts, fruit, quince jam and three amazing cheeses, that aside from brie, I can't recall the name of right now. Quince jam with cheese and bruschetta is my new love.
My girlfriend and I shared a Ceasar salad and a roasted wild mushroom and baby spinach salad with buttermilk blue cheese and pancetta vinaigrette . The Ceasar salad was very good, but the mushroom salad was amazing. I am not a huge mushroom fan, but this salad may have changed my mind. I would go there for this salad alone.
For dinner I ordered the pork chop with collard greens, biscuit and maple butter. I am not a big pork chop fan, but it sounded good and with how good everything else had been, why not give it a shot? So I guess pork chops can be good. Tender and moist even. Wow, they managed to yet again take something I wasn't a big fan of, and make it great. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed my biscuit and maple butter and collard greens. I love how my pork came with a little roasted apple on the side. Delicious. My girlfriend and her mom both had the ravioli, which was very good, and her dad had the blackened Hawaiian Walu, which, having lived in Hawaii the last nine months, I thought I had tried it all. Apparently not. This was better than any of the fish I had on the big island, and I had a lot of fish there. It was buttery, super moist and just melted in your mouth. I can only pray they still have this when I come back. Everyone agreed that it was a phenomenal dinner.
Just when I thought I couldn't eat anymore, we had dessert. Bittersweet chocolate hazelnut galette and a cream cheese cranberry tart. At this point, I was already stuffed, but there is always room for dessert, especially when it is this good. The galette, was extremely rich and chocolatey, and I loved every bite, but the tart was easily my favorite. Much lighter than the galette, it was reminiscent of a cranberry cheese cake. I think I ended up eating half of the dessert. I am not ashamed.
The service was stellar. Our server was incredibly knowledgable, friendly and attentive. Our drinks were always full, our food came out very well paced. Not too fast, not too slow, and in spite of their amazing service, I never felt bothered or rushed even though the place was packed. The best service I have had in a long time, possibly ever. Kudos to the staff, you all do an amazing job.
I loved my first experience here and will definitely be back. A superb meal, that made for an even more memorable evening. -
Review from Jessica M.
San Jose, CA
11/22/2011
Can not believe I have not reviewed this place yet!!
Well, I went here for the first time in September...after living in Portland for a while and having a cowroker recommend it, it was bookmarked in Yelp for years after...
So on my trip back...staying at the hotel just a block or so away, I had to do it!!
Wish I had done it a LOT sooner. I am so sad that I missed years of amazing cheeses and deserts and drinks and things.
I wish I could recall all the details of the perfectness that was VQ but let me just tell you, GO GO GO GO GO. If you can....GO GO GO GO GO. -
Review from Scott M.
10/7/2011
If you (1) eat meat, (2) visit VQ, and (3) do NOT order the osso bucco, you have just made the biggest food-related mistake of your life.
Osso. Bucco. It was the **single best thing** that I ate over our 11 day vacation across the state of Oregon. Unbelievably rich, flavorful, decadent ... a literal taste explosion in each and every bite (6 stars out of 5 - this score is not a typo). The portion size was massive but I wasn't about to leave a single bite behind.
We also shared a delicious ricotta gnocchi appetizer (4.5 stars) and my wife loved the blackened opah entree. The sea salt caramel truffles were pretty tasty (4 stars) but after such huge portion sizes, we could have EASILY just ordered one to share. The wine-by-the-glass selection was solid and fairly priced, but I must say that the Malbec option was simply awful. I'd never once refused a wine after ordering/tasting ... until this one. Fortunately, our waitress took no offense and gladly helped us find a more palatable wine.
5 stars overall. Amazing flavors, huge portions, beautiful ambiance, and such genuinely friendly service. Honestly, I can't think of any aspect where they didn't exceed our expectations. I am simply ecstatic that we decided to visit VQ before leaving Portland. Bring your appetite! -
Review from Katie C.
Portland, OR
12/26/2011
Fantastic restaurant. As a celiac, I need to be very careful how my meals are prepared and to watch out for any hidden gluten. The servers and chef are very knowledgeable; each time I have eaten there they have gone out of their way to make me feel comfortable and to serve a meal that meets my dietary needs. Beyond that, the food is also delicious!
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Review from A. M.
Hanford, CA
1/28/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Fabulous breakfast menu. Especially the catfish is highly recommendable.
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Review from Brad C.
Chicago, IL
I made it in for brunch while I was in Portland and was really impressed. Overall good service and excellent food. But the one thing that stood out for me at Veritable Quandary was their bloody mary. If you're in for brunch don't pass this up, its perfect after that long night of drinking.
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Review from Ken W.
Aliso Viejo, CA
11/2/2011
Holy schmoley.
The chef rocks it big time.
Everything is perfection. The views are stunning. Drinks are excellent. Staff are wonderful.
Fresh, tasty, delicious.
We got lucky without a reservation and got our favorite table.
Want an exceptional food experience? Get a reservation and eat here!
Again,..I must explain that I can't give a 5 star because that is utter perfection and those must be saved for the times when Angels drop from the ceiling and heaven opens up and the Cristal Champagne flows unending. Oy! Are my expectations too high? Hahaha! -
Review from John G.
La Mesa, CA
12/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Horrible service. We left.
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Review from Tyler A.
10/3/2011
Shut up, no way these are appetizers cuz they were GIMONDO. Well, I guess that is it. It's a veritable quandary how they can make the apps so damn big and cheap then you have room to eat an entree.
BUT alas, need not fear because I ALWAYS persevere.
First of all, can I say I was glad to see some ladykind behind the line? Gotta love me some lady chefs!
I started with the duck confit spring rolls. I ate it all by myself... I think. Crunchy mix of sweet duck, sweet potatoes was just perfection. It came with a large slaw-like salad which I also devoured. I was stuffed but hey, I had a HUGE bowl of pasta coming I had to eat.
I ordered the seasonal ravioli. The butter alone should have taken my life but alas, I survived and finished my plate. Yes, insanity how much I can eat. I washed it all down with my bourbon :)
I left overstuffed but mesmerized by the delicate flavors and the very hearty portions. Often times when restaurants are at a certain price point, their plate sizes grow while servings shrink but at VQ, both are proportionately large and match the price tag.
I say that is value for money!Listed in: And I just jizzed in my pants
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Review from tran l.
Aliso Viejo, CA
10/22/2011
Excellent selection of...wine and beer. We arrived at 9pm for a late dinner on a Friday night, and both the dining and bar rooms were at maximum occupancy. We enjoyed cocktails at the bar while waiting for a table (15minutes max). Loved the ambience (classy, but not pretentious, intimate, but also very pleasantly social).
Portions were large--Consider sharing. We loved the Prosciutto/Brie/Black Fig pizza, yum! We were already starting to feel full from the drinks and pizza. My BF ordered the white cheddar burger (a bar menu item, but our server was awesome in allowing him to order an item off the dining room menu). I had the Rockfish, Hawaiian style with Green Basmati rice (Original menu item was Opah, but they sold out earlier in evening). All in all, fantastic food, clean presentation, and good value. Would visit again. -
Review from Sam S.
Portland, OR
12/28/2011
"Veritable Quandary" you never forget that name especially when it's one of the best restaurants in PDX. I ordered the crispy duck confit... heaven on a plate. It was just so good I mean there is no other word to describe it, you just have to try it. Service was exceptional and staff was super friendly. I will definitely recommend to my friends and colleagues. One of my favorite restaurants ever.
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Review from Lauren T.
While visiting Portland, I decided to come here for some eggs benedict. The restaurant is very nice and decorated very posh. My bf and I sat in bright room that brought in some light on a drizzly Portland day.
Eggs Benedict on Alonso's House Made English Muffin: House Smoked Pork Loin, Hollandaise & Crispy Potatoes $14 with a Bloody Mary. I like my Bloody Marys to look like a liquid salad. It did not disappoint it was very good. The eggs benedict was awesome. The house made english muffin was fluffy and complimented the rest of the dish. I enjoyed my breakfast, but to an extent. It was a bit pricey compared to the incredible food I've had in Portland and seemed a bit hoity toity. If you get over the pretentious atmosphere, I found the place served good food.Listed in: Portlandia
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Review from Drew G.
Seattle, WA
12/8/2011
Went here and had the Duck Confitte. Was excellent and great service!
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Review from Jacque R.
San Francisco, CA
12/10/2011
Really nice place. Summers are great cuz then you can sit outdoors and enjoy all that PDX has to offer.
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Review from natasha v.
Portland, OR
1/22/2012
It was a fabulous experience. Wine is absolutely terrific and the food is just... no words... um 5-star!! Lets just say my date really impressed me! I will be back!
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Review from Brett N.
Rancho Cordova, CA
8/25/2011
I was simply overwhelmed by food at this place. I even decided to read all the bad reviews before writing this to see if in any way I could give less than 5 stars. Nothing. Flawless foodie perfection.
I don't live in Portland, and probably just as well because I'd overdose on osso bucco. But even when I tried other things, I was only infactuated until the next time I ordered the osso bucco.
I've been here 4 times now in the last 3 years. Every opportunity to get to Portland will result in my visit to this place as long as they keep this up.
The appetizers are AMAZING. The duck confit spring rolls are fresh, light and so tasty. One thinks of wasabi as harsh and spicy, but this was pure creamy tangy heaven! The bacon wrapped prawns are cooked to perfection and the bacon is thick and tasty with no hint of grease. Here's the funny part. The VEGETABLES ARE AMAZING!!! They were carmelized somehow and yet weren't really cooked or soggy. They were so delicious! This is the first, and probably only time I've ever had memorable veggies.
The raviolis and salmon were also incredible, but then there is the osso bucco. Ah... :) The osso bucco. These two words - said with a smile to your server will result in a magnificent piece of the most tender and flavorful meat surrounded by incredibly delicious risotto and veggies. The shank is baked in an incredible sauce. The sauce is a thousand subtle flavors all blended to make a very smooth and refined flavor with just a touch of sweetness to bring out the flavor of the meat.
The sauce is so wonderful! After finishing the meat, I mixed the sauce with the leftover risotto and put it a top a piece of the table bread. What a perfect finish...
They also have an excellent selection of micro-brews from local breweries, as well as a fairly extensive wine list. We opted to bring our own bottles (Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape - thank you Al!) and the corkage fee was very reasonable.
Did I say finish! NO! WAIT, THERE IS MORE! Is it my birthday??? :)
The chocolate nocello souffle! If you want it, you should order it in advance and have your server keep it in the back of her mind since it takes a while to prepare. I learned this the first time!
Now the best part of going with someone else is TWO DESSERTS! The salted chocolates and the chocolate souffle, and although I brought my own port (picked up down in McMinnville), I suggest ordering one of theirs, they've got a great selection.
Or finish with a cappuccino, theirs are delicious.
Service is top notch. In fact the last time I was there, we were treated like the only table in the house.
Reservations strongly recommended. The tables up by the top window are the best at night. Quiet, spacious, out of the way and comfortable seating.
The Osso Bucco Reigns Supreme! -
Review from Well-Traveled I.
Sherwood, OR
7/22/2011
Went here for a lunch with a friend. Service was efficient, but, as someone else pointed-out, not obtrusive. Tight space near the bar but it's not a large building - but just to make you aware if you plan on eating lunch there and expecting a quiet, romantic meal.
For lunch, reservations are required at the back area; we sat in a booth in the bar area. Ordered the House Made Fettuccine (Prawns, Dungeness Crab, Sea Scallops, Basil, Chives, Cream, Lemon Zest). Good balance of noodles and seafood; scallops were superb as was the rest of the seafood, but the scallops tasted like pillows of seafood goodness. Lemon added a nice kick (although, afterwards, had a little too much of a lemon aftertaste).
Definitely will go back for dinner; the freshness of the ingredients was completely palpable - felt like they walked into their garden and brought it right to the table. -
Review from Bryan E.
Portland, OR
12/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Good food, good service and surprising for not being a big place accompdating to larger groups. We had a brunch for my.wife 30th birthday with a group of 12 and they were great. We will definitely be back.
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Review from Kat A.
Portland, OR
8/29/2011
Veritable Quandary = Indubitable Bewilderment!
Went here for my birthday, and though it's definitely got that terribly snooty feel, the wait staff is very nice and the food is killer.
Both me and my man ordered duck, and let me tell you, I felt crushed by it's almighty duck-ness! Plus tasty drinks that were perfectly boozed, and bacon wrapped dates as a starter!
Bacon wrapped anything is a winner. I'd eat bacon wrapped books if Powell's wised up and sold them, but VQ is definitely a winner on all their flavor profiles!
Great place to treat your respective lady or gent to a classy meal! -
Review from Megan L.
8/14/2011
It's been too long VQ...oh how I have forgot how much I love thee.
Tonight we stopped in for coffee and dessert! We were lucky enough to get a seat outside and enjoy the lovely Portland summer night (without rain)
I had the Creme Brulee...it was divine!!!!! the coffee was delicious too!!
My aunt had the Tiramisu....not the best I have had. The almond liquor was a little too over-powering. It was a it much!
The wait staff was friendly and helpful.
I will be back next time for the chocolate suffle!!! -
Review from Lindsey F.
Scottsdale, AZ
6/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Yes, I'm sure this restaurant has dining options at its finest. Yes, I'm sure the culinary masterpieces are out of this world. But yes, I fully admit that I am writing this review based on two things alone: the burgers and the ambiance: two serious loves in my life.
Coming into Portland, I was told that the burger at VQ was delectable, delicious and divine. OK, maybe not in those words exactly but I interpreted it that way. So after a leisurely walk around the river, we made our way to VQ so I could experience this heavenly burger.
Upon walking in, I noticed a warm interior of dark woods surrounding the bar and booths. Then once past the bar, I saw the adorable and intimate dining room situated within a sun room with plenty of windows to overlook the river and green setting. Since the weather was a little cold, the patio was closed, but it looked like it would be a great option as well. I absolutely love the ambiance here! The tables were intimately set up but in a way that was private enough so we weren't joining a stranger's conversation. The light came into the restaurant just perfectly and it was the quintessential location for a leisurely lunch.
We did lunch there on a Saturday so they were featuring a tasty looking brunch menu. If I had the option to have a stomach that never got full and a waist that never consumed calories, I would have eaten everything off the menu, but since that doesn't exist, I went for the burger. After all the hype, I just had to!
The burger is a gourmet beef masterpiece. It comes on a sourdough bun that's been dipped and heated in butter upon butter. The burger is juicy and lean. The Swiss cheese oozes off the burger and combines with the mayo concoction just perfectly. It's also fat-free...in my dreams at least. I forced myself to only eat half of it and accompanied each bite with some delicious french fries. I'm happy I only ate half because I left feeling blissfully satisfied but not overly full (the three mile walk to the park that followed helped to digest it as well).
I will definitely add this restaurant to my list of loves for my next visit to Portland. It's in an unassuming location right in the heart of what appears to be a business district, but don't let that fool you. Once you walk inside, you've entered a hidden gem.Listed in: Portland!
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Review from dan h.
6/15/2011 2 photos
Seems like most of the recent reviews of this place have been for their brunch. My review will actually be about dinner at VQ. Listen up. It might be good. Ok, it was definitely good. My review? We'll see how good that is.
First off let me say that dan h. doesn't normally come to a place like this. Not that I couldn't do it. Just wouldn't be the smartest thing for me to do because this place isn't inexpensive. I was invited out. I don't want anyone to think that I have unlimited amounts of money just pouring out of my pockets. It is a dream, but not a reality.
Originally the plan was to sit outside on the nice patio, but the weather was only so so and the folks I was with thought it was a bit too cold to sit outside. I had no problem with that. We got a nice table inside the dining room area overlooking the patio. The restaurant was packed on a Tuesday evening. Always a good sign.
The people I was meeting were already inside when I arrived. Upon finding them and sitting down I was immediately greeted by our server asking if I wanted something to drink. I hadn't had time to look at the menu yet so I asked her to come back in a bit. She was very attentive throughout the evening.
We ordered a bottle of wine. Another person in our party had a cocktail and I had a beer (Everybody's Brewing Common Ale for those of you keeping track). The wine was presented, tasted and poured and we continued on with our conversation. After a bit our server came back and we ordered our food. I started out with the Duck Confit Spring Rolls ($9) and for my main course I had the Alaskan Halibut with Creamy Quinoa, Local Asparagus, Pea Shoots & Wild Mushroom Jus ($30).
First off, the spring rolls were plentiful. They give you 4 in an order and if your appetite isn't as big as mine, you can easily share this dish with another person and be quite satisfied. These came on top of a wasabi ginger sauce which had the perfect amount of wasabi. I enjoy wasabi with my sushi and like it when it is so powerful that the pain overtakes my face. For a dish like this, you don't need that spice. There was the perfect amount of wasabi and cream that you noticed the spice, but it didn't alter the taste of the spring rolls. Just a really nice start to the meal.
Next up was the halibut. The quinoa really made this dish. I haven't had much of an opportunity to eat quinoa and the folks I was with had never had it nor heard of it. They ended up ordering a side of it to see what it was all about and really loved it. I wholeheartedly agreed on that. The fish itself was cooked perfectly. I loved the pairing of a nice mild fish with asparagus and mushrooms. Another perfect dish.
From beginning to end and everything in between this was a 5 star meal. We all agreed on this. Now I guess I need to come back for the brunch that everyone else seems to be reviewing. -
Review from Laura G.
Portland, OR
11/8/2011
Went in on a lunch break for a burger, it was my first time there. I always get annoyed when a place wants to charge you $2.50 for a substitution, but after the waitress convinced me how amazingly fresh the 4 pieces of lettuce were going to be, I acquiesced. Burger came with nothing on it... Now, this is a $14.50 burger right? You can't add a little tomato, or a piece of onion, or anything?
I ask the waitress for a slice of tomato (didn't come on the salad either) she said she would "find out". When she finally returned 15 minutes later, I was almost done with the burger so it didn't matter. After another 20 minute wait for someone to take my plate and give me the bill I leave my card on the table as a "hint" to the waitress (and manager) that keeps walking by without looking over.
She takes my card, runs it, and I get the slip. The burger is now $16.50 because they charged me $2.00 for a slice of tomato. Really? When I asked the waitress why, her response is, "Well, its a heirloom tomato", then she shrugged and walked off. Wow.
Oh and by the way, the burger was dry, under seasoned, and not particularly memorable, except for that delicious tomato. -
Review from Nicole S.
Portland, OR
6/11/2011 7 Check-ins Here
Breakfast is a meal for champions, this charming little spoot has character, good booze and great food. I have been here several times for brunch, yet never for lunch/dinner so this review is strictly regarding bar menu/brunch items.
The menu has a little bit of everything so regardless of your mood you can find something. I'm a mood eater, I tend to go sweet when I'm grumpy, savory when I'm happy and fatty when I'm pissed and I don't know if I'm allowed to mention some of my other moods on Yelp but you get the point. Since I frequent this place on Sunday afternoons when there is not a lot to be unhappy about I've mostly sample the savory dishes. None have disappointed, each is very unique to the VQ for example their take on Chilaquiles with Queso Fresco is very American-modern. The Blackened Catfish is not what you would expect, slightly sweet and uber buttery and a little smokey bite.
On the weekends there is usually a wait to sit in the dining room but the front area is first come first serve and you can also sit at the bar and eat. Plus you get to see all the fun and unique drinks they have to offer go out.
I often find my fat, slightly buzzed ass waddling out of there a very happy girl. -
Review from Brook E.
Chicago, IL
8/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
We came here for fourth of July evening dinner as it seemed like it was the only nice place open in downtown Portland. We had an hour long wait without reservations, but they were very kind to seat us in a comfortable waiting area and to let us order cocktails.
The food was tasty, more upscale fair, but I didn't find anything on the menu that seemed particularly unique or special. Think nicer entrees with upscale ingredients like scallops, or pork tenderloin. Usually when going out to a nice meal, I'm looking for something unique, so that was disappointing for me. However, this would be a perfect "nice restaurant" to take an unadventurous out-of-town diner. -
Review from Rebecca R.
Madison, WI
8/7/2011
I travel a lot for work, and always look for locally owned 'farm to table' restaurants.
VQ scores 5 stars on service (Ryan the bartender offered to top off my cocktail) and a solid 4 stars on food.
I walked to VQ immediately after checking into my hotel on a Sunday morning, after 11 am. There was plenty of seating at the bar, but the dining room was reserved.
I ordered the Crab Eggs Bendict. The crab was plentiful and fresh, the English Muffins were homemade (!!) and the Hollandaise was tasty without being heavy. (They use sparkling wine, which may explain.)
The brightest part of the dish were the cherry tomatoes which - because they were picked in season and organic - actually tasted like tomatoes should: bright and semi-sweet.
(Note: if you eat at VQ when tomatoes are not in season, don't expect to get them with your Bennie.)
The benedict also came with a square of hashed browned potatoes, which was nothing special (and was unneeded, in my opinion.)
Overall, a delicious first taste of Portlandia. And since it's a short walk from downtown, it's accessible to those who - like true Portlanders - value walking or biking over driving. -
Review from Bill H.
Marco Island, FL
8/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Very friendly service. I sat at the bar and had dinner. I didn't feel like I was being rushed out of there. The bar tender recommended the osso buco. It was delicious! I also had the bacon-wrapped dates. Yum! Yum.
I'm definitely a fan! -
Review from Julie H.
San Francisco, CA
5/1/2011
I promise that this is not a review influenced by Bloody Marys, Mimosas or any other brunch'ish cocktails. The enthusiasm contained within is 100% authentic. I am Julie H and I authorize this review.
Veritable Quandary is hands down the best brunch I have had in Portland. It is 100% on the Julie H Top 10 Brunch list of all time and has some very lofty company: Foreign Cinema in San Francisco, Bouchon in Las Vegas, etc.
To start, I was able to make reservations, totally unheard of for brunch but made me so happy. Why don't more places do this?
I ordered the Orange Juice which even surpassed my grandmother's fresh squeezed version of my childhood. It arrived in a crystal white wine glass. I was at first, disappointed by the quantity but it was so good, that I was completely citrusy stated by the end of the glass.
The King Crab Benedict was ordered by both myself and my friend and despite both being big talkers, we ate, almost in silence out of reverence for the culinary masterpiece sitting in front of us. The poached egg yolks were literally the color of our orange juice and cooked to perfection. The crab was delicately seasoned and the hollandaise sauce was to die for. Perfect. Not too much. I didn't get that "gosh, I shouldn't have done that" feeling that typically proceeds an Egg's Benedict nosh.
The service was fabulous, the ambiance perfect (we sat in the sunny atrium room), the bathrooms clean and the pressed and starched linen napkins lovely.
The only thing I feel they could improve is their tea selection. While Tazo is indeed local, they have become totally ubiquitous and the addition of Steven Smith teas would be such an upgrade and really much more in line with the rest of their menu.
I will 100% be returning.
And did I mention they take reservations? Yes, I know I did but I am so excited about this that I can not help but re-state.
Cheers!Listed in: Stumptown. aka Portland
-
Review from Melanie L.
Portland, OR
8/27/2011 4 Check-ins Here
I've been here... 3-4 times? I've had brunch there [I remember it being delicious, I don't remember what I had.] I've had the Bacon Wrapped Dates, a very delicious steak dish, a Peach Blackberry tart, a salted caramel truffle, um... did I mention the bacon wrapped dates?
Love:
* The atmosphere. It's sort an urban garden courtyard. My inner posh Brit really enjoys that.
* Service for dinner has been literally excellent, we went for a fancy dinner before seeing Les Miserables, and our server was attentive, and mindful of our time, without rushing us. They make sure your glass is never empty, you're never sitting with dirty dishes, and you have clean cutlery between every course.
* The food is incredible. All good. No complaints. Um, just FYI though, you can share a truffle, they are so rich. You won't be able to finish one.
Not so love:
It is super pricey. Happy Hour prices are what I'd normally like to pay at dinner time. :)
Recommend: Reservation -
Review from Tat I.
Bellevue, WA
8/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Gave it a first try for lunch today. I planned to visit here the last time I was in Portland, but was closed for holiday.
Tried the crab benedict. It was very flavorful. They other plates my firnds ordered looked great, too. I also liked the sweet potato fries that came with the pulled pork sandwich. It was fired to be really crispy, but yet had the sweetness of the potato. Sinfully good.
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