cycling rocks

Once or twice a year, treat yourself to your city; as if you came in from out of town and want to see the sights. Saturday was my birthday, so it was primetime for us to do this again here in Portland.

After a healthy breakfast of Kashi’s and fresh strawberries, we ventured out to the Oregon Zoo. It was hot and a bit crowded (crowded from the holiday weekend no doubt), but we were sure to start digging into the zoo food. I had a western bacon cheeseburger with chips and Heidi had a regular cheeseburger with fries. The chips were homemade there in the kitchen and well worth the, ahem, cholesterol.

A couple hours later we were pooped out and heading back to the “hotel” (home that is) for a nap. It feels like we’re on vacation again eating and sleeping whenever we want.

Tonight’s dining is a surprise. Heidi had me take the freeway up to Northwest Portland, then backtrack to the valet parking on Broadway in front of none other than El Gaucho’s; one of Portland premier chop houses.

It’s easy to go overboard ordering here. Everything looks so great. I ended up with Rib Eye ala Oscar (a large med rare cut with king crab pieces on top) and a dry baked potato. Heidi ordered a baseball cut ala Gaucho (lobster on top). We shared asparagus, clams and table side made Caesar’s Salad. Quite indulgent. I couldn’t finish it all.

We were considering going down the street to Harrison’s so I could celebreate more with scotch and cigar; but El Gaucho, as I quickly found out, has a great cigar room. Indulge more. Excellent scotch. Excellent cigar.

Indulge more! We headed out to Papa Hayden’s on NW 23rd for a finale of rich dessert and espresso. It’s been a long time since I’ve eaten desserts. I couldn’t believe how sweet everything was. Too sweet I think.

It’s been a while since I’ve ridden. A couple weeks probably. I might have to finish off this great weekend with a decent ride.

Sunday, September 3rd, 2006 at 8:53 am.
Filed under Cycling.
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