Of course, most people go there for the cocktails and the hipster scene. It’s the sort of place where you’ll run into artists, musicians, media types and the youthful contingent of the Portland City Council on a regular basis. Once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why the place is so popular.
The White Heart spins DJ music most weekend nights, offers live music on occasion and plays host to a never ending cycle of parties and events. When needed, its jukebox fills the lounge with tunes. And the walls sport an always-revolving display of local art (which changes for each First Friday Art Walk).
From the concrete bar to the red leather seating to the velvet couch, this Congress Street establishment exudes a sexy, cosmopolitan vibe. (A look that comes courtesy of the Urban Dwellings design duo.) In the warm months, the sidewalk seating is always filled and sometimes the staff even opens up the front wall of windows, giving the place the feel of a restaurant in Boston or New York.
But back to the food.
I swear I’m addicted to the stir fry ($8), which comes with a choice of tofu, chicken or veggies. Sautéed in a spicy sauce and severed over rice, this is a proven winner for vegetarians and carnivores alike. On my most recent visit, I paired this with a glass (okay it was two) of the refreshing, citrusy Villa Narcisa verdejo ($7).
My husband opted for the steak and spuds ($9), a combo of creamy potatoes and beef strips drizzled in a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce. He washed this down with a couple bottles of Newcastle Brown Ale ($5). We began the meal with the mixed greens ($4) dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. You can order it up with chicken, tofu or steak for $8.
Other favorites on the menu include the pizzette and soup (both change weekly) and the mini-teriyaki burgers. One of the best things about the food (after the flavor) is the portion size. Everything on the menu works as an appetizer, which means whether you’re starving or just in need of a snack you can easily create a perfect sized meal.
The bar offers an excellent selection of mixed drinks, beer and wine. Prices run the gamut from the $2.50 PBRs to the $85 bottles of Veuve Clicoquot. Look to score half priced bottles of wine on Mondays, $3 well drinks on Wednesdays and $2 bloody Mary’s during Saturday and Sunday brunch.
If you plan to hit The White Heart for dinner, be sure to head there early if it’s the weekend (the place generally becomes packed after 7 p.m.) or check it out on a weeknight. But, be warned, should you visit once, it may become a habit that’s hard to break.