Chef Crush

BEN and AARON @ 23Hoyt (503) 445-7400
529 NW 23rd Avenue @ Hoyt Street, Portland, Oregon, 97210

Why they’re dreamy:
The seared sea scallops appetizer with butternut squash puree, sauteéd chantrelles and brown butter-caper vinaigrette actually makes a perfectly-sized light entree, especially when paired with a happy hour deal or two. It’s nice to eat (and drink!) like a princess, especially on a (volunteer) blogger’s salary, so we appreciate being able to mix and match off both menus. And of course if we feel like splurging, there’s always the trout with grilled baby octopus, mint, capers, olives, tomato, preserved lemon and olive oil potatoes…

Also, we have to mention that Aaron has been our most requested chef crush ever, with a total of five different readers taking the time to suggest we crush him. Must be quite the Casanova, hmm? *wink* You gals can lay off already…We got him for you, ok? Hehehe!

KYLE @ Roux (503) 285-1200
1700 N. Killingsworth Street, Portland, Oregon, 97217

Why he’s dreamy:
Tasso-wrapped sea scallops with roasted pepper puree, lemon zest, and fried capers really get our hearts thumping, and deliciously simple fried green tomatoes make a wonderful Summertime starter alternative to a boring old salad. Moist snapper with toasted almonds, salted lemon, and sauteed savory spinach fill us up without weighing us down. In fact, this gorgeous chef crush has quite a way with seafood of all types and comfort food faves as well. Warning: Beware the “Bourbon Street Sour,” especially at happy hour when they serve them in mason jars. Danger, danger!