Surprise

Saturday night I took the cow out for an evening on the town. It was a surprise agenda and he was so good he did not even asked where, what, or why...he simply needed to know how to dress. We ventured off about 6:45.
Once we were parked on the North Park Blocks, I held up my hand and told him to pick between finger number one, two or three. The cow picked number three - which equated to Vino Paradiso. We sat and each enjoyed a flight of Prosecco with a small plate of cheese samples. My favorite was the Point Reyes Blue - Yum. This location was chosen because on our first visit to Portland we enjoyed a quiet evening with friends here and did not get kicked out.
The cow then had the option of number one or two. He chose number one. This location was Powell's Books. We walked in and I told him to pick any book his little heart desires. If you live with an avid reader I hope you know the struggle of trying to find the right book for them. This location was chosen....well I think that is obvious.
It was now close to 8:30 and number two would have to wait. I had made dinner reservations at Fratelli - an Italian kitchen. I chose this location because the chef was previously employed at French Laundry - a restaurant that we have both pined to enjoy but have not made that leap to shell out the cash and now a plane ticket to experience.
The place is small, warm and cozy. We ordered a bottle of wine and took a look at the Valentines menu. We both went with the Valentines 2006 option. It goes something like this: Primi-A valentine trio: bound aspargus with shaved parmesan, creamy seared truffle risotto, and fresh pear, fennel and mint salad. Secondi-Coriander rubbed tuna with fresh watercress and Dungeness crab. Dolci- Honey blossom ice cream profiteroles with a warm and spiced chocolate sauce. It was absolutely delicious and just the right portions.
After dinner it was off to number two (Apothek) for a digestif. I chose this location because the cow likes the music and the minimalist ambiance.
It was super fun thinking of the destinations and I knew that no matter what he chose first or last it would all work out.