Blue Fin

First thing you should know before reading this review: I hate fish. Why am I then reviewing a sushi bar? Because there is more to sushi than raw fish.
Blue Fin opened a little over a year ago and during this time last summer, I spent many days perched in front of their carousel. By far my favorite item was their Avocado and Crab plates. In fact, it was the main reason for my visits.

But for some reason, the chefs there became less and less willing to make them for me. By the end of summer our waitress was having to cajole the chefs. Finally, my husband and I had had enough. Why patronize an establishment that refuses to prepare what is on their menu?
Last Saturday, our moratorium ended… and I’m glad it did. Not only were we satiated with 4 plates each of the Avocado and Crab, but we were thrilled with some of their new creations: the baked Sesame balls, the breaded and fried Teriyaki Chicken and a new favorite… Crab Stuffed Mushroom caps.

The price per plate is very reasonable and especially on their $1.50 per plate Saturdays. All in all I recommend Blue Fin for your sushi cravings.

My final word: One of the best in town.

Black Angus

415 East 13th Street
Vancouver, WA 98660
(360) 695-1506

Last night I had a craving for steak. Having not found a great steakhouse in Portland, I decided to take a chance on an establishment that’s known for its steak: Black Angus. It was a bit of a drive coming from downtown PDX to Vancouver, but for good food… I’m willing to travel.
The décor is western with each booth having 5 foot high walls surrounding it, giving it a nice feel of privacy. The music did not fit the feel, décor or ambiance of the restaurant… but don’t get me wrong, I love pop music from the 80’s.
Our waiter was friendly and prompt, but it did take 15-20 minutes just to get our drinks served. The manager even came by to apologize. Apparently the bartender was new. Looking over the menu, there was a nice variety of steaks to be had. I chose the New York Strip, Center-cut which comes with fresh vegetables and choice of side: Idaho Baked Potato; Steakhouse Fries; Whipped Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Rice Pilaf. Wanting none of these, I asked for a double serving of fresh vegetables, with a side of Grilled Fresh Asparagus ($1.99) and Sautéed Fresh Mushrooms on top ($1.99). My husband ordered a half-order of the BBQ Baby Back Ribs, the veggies and the garlic mashed potatoes.
I was disappointed right away when our food arrived. My double order of fresh vegetables was actually a single order of veggies, being the same size as what my husband was given… and it was a small order at that. My side order of asparagus was 5 stalks and the sautéed mushrooms were 6 button mushrooms cut in half. Hardly worth the extra $4 for the pair. My steak, which was supposed to be cut butterfly and cooked medium-well, was not butterflied and was undercooked. All this could have been forgiven if the meat wasn’t 50% fat and gristle.
My husband enjoyed his Baby Back Ribs, fully expecting them to be fatty... and they were. The meat was very tender and falling off the bone. He also enjoyed the BBQ sauce that came with them.
All in all, for $75 it was hardly a value. My search for a the great Portland Steakhouse continues, as I will never be going back to the Black Anus… I mean, Angus.

My final word: Avoid unless you are Jack Sprat’s wife.