Chef Crush

LARRY @ Nostrana (503) 234-2427
1401 SE Morrison, Portland, Oregon, 97214

Why he’s dreamy:
Rustic and simple yet never boring Italian comfort food like Sunday roast lamb with mashed potatoes Bolognese and brussels sprouts with butter and bread crumbs, or pappardelle with chicken ragu and Castelveltrano olives. And let’s not forget those drippingly luscious pizzas from the wood-fired oven, crispy, thin-crusted treats that are totally worth crushing any day of the week!

ELI @ @ Castagna (503) 231-9959
1758 SE Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, Oregon, 97214

Why he’s dreamy:
We’re partial to the coquettish corn soup garnished with chanterelle mushrooms and creme fraiche as a starter, but you basically can’t go wrong with anything on this menu, especially the highbrow steak bordelaise with shoestring potatoes. What is it with tattooed, shaved-head studlies being such fantastic chefs? Plus, that fiscally fabulous three course meal for $30 makes us swoon every time.

PATRICK and JUSTIN @ 50 Plates (503) 228-5050
333 NW 13th Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97209

Why they’re dreamy:
Cutesy little “sammies” like the Roscoe’s- crispy fried chicken on a waffle with coffee maple drizzle- or the Lousy Hunter, fried green tomatoes, goat cheese, and relish…Perfect for taking the edge off your hunger while you scan the massive menu and devise a plan of attack. We recommend fortifying your strength with dirty rice beignets or comfy classics like mac ‘n’ cheese and chicken pot pie. You’re going to need the energy for flirting with these two hotties on your way out…

Brandon @ Yakuza (503) 450-0893
5411 NE 30th Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97211

Why he’s dreamy:
Completely unexpected salads like a recent spaghetti squash panzanella with ume-inflected dressing, not to mention flawless sashimi (kampachi + fresh ginger = YUM!). Delicious grilled morsels, sleek environs, and a charming staff only add to the crushtastic splendor. We could develop a serious love affair with this place…