So I have memories of Newport Bay restaurant stretching into the edge of my existence. I remember going there for a cup of clam chowder between stops at Claire's and Nordstroms at the age of 12. In fact, I believe I paid for my first own sit down meal there with jenny quan at Washington Square. I had father's day brunch in hillsboro. My old college roommate served an obscene amount of coconut prawns back in the day. You and I both know that there is nothing spectacular about Newport Bay, but at least it is something familiar.
When Seattle's Restaurants Unlimited bought out all of Pacific Coasts restaurants I witnessed another part of my childhood fade away.
Marina, frankly, is a damn shame. It is set in one of the most perfect places in portland. You can sit outside and overlook the skyline while the bridges move up and down. You can watch the walkers, bikers, and cars cross the river at a rhythm so unlike the serenity of the lazily bobbing boats. The view allowed you to observe the world rather than participate in it. it is like a moving painting.
I was in good spirits yesterday because after 6 days of work, i was ready to relax and make the most of my 1 day of rest. Alexis suggested Newport Bay restaurant, and i agreed since i had not been there in a long time. we just stopped in for a snack and a sip(gulp).
I really have little with which to judge but i'll do it anyway.
Pomegranate Mojito: tart. but not good tart.
"shrimp" cocktail: it was an ice cream scoop of bay shrimp on a sad piece of lettuce. i'm sorry baby shrimp, i think 40 of you died in vain. It was like eating non-food. Seriously, if you are going to name a restaurant MARINA, you should probably get your concept straight and throw in some actual pieces of real seafood
calamari: it was deep fried squid, with a red pepper aioli. i probably should have not ordered this for it quickly became too heavy. 10 points for having tentacles.
hornitos margarita: :( rose's lime? aka pine-sol. it tasted warm.
Their price point is definitely at the level where you should know what the fuck you are doing. they don't. like i said, no one actually cooked anything for me to actually judge their food, but if their appetizers and cocktails are any indication then i'll go elsewhere.
a damn shame. its a beautiful view.
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