One last restaurant in Portland - and it's dinner.

Le Pigeon, while named after, a, well, pigeon, is an upscale Portland restaurant that specializes in French cuisine.

Often hailed as a must-try, this restaurant draws a line so I was here early before they opened to assure we'd get a seat (and be finished in time to catch the bus back to Seattle!).

Bon Appetit said it's the restaurant that put Portland on the culinary map. Specifically, the beef cheeks bourguignon is legendary.

Half civilized French bistro and half culinary crack den, where your darkest desires are realized (think foie gras torchon with buttermilk pancakes or sweetbreads with blue cheese are indulged) (Travel + Leisure).

Once the restaurant was open, we were seated around the open kitchen, which is always fun to get a little show with your dinner.

The menu draws on French inspiration and has just a few entrees that span various proteins: pork, chicken, lamb, beef, fish and even a burger.

First, a bite of bread. Not bad.

After a bit of a wait, my entree came out: Beef Cheek Bourguignon - green garlic and fregola “mac n cheese” pickled escargot, carrot pesto salad. So tender, and I loved the little fregula texture. The pickling gave some nice acidity, and the rich broth soaked everything. Such a well-thought out dish. Very good.

And, a little sweet bite to end on!



Grade: A