Wednesday, March 17, 2010

french fix for less

Were I inspired to draw a venn diagram depicting the relations between great value, great food, great atmosphere, and great service an infinitesimal intersection would exist consisting of rare and wonderful spots like Chez Machin.

I love that it's so easy to affordably eat well in P-town, that its possible to do so without sacrificing great service and atmosphere rocks that much more.

Chez Machin is part creperie, part bistro, part francophile hideaway. Lost amidst a sea of intriguing Hawthorne shops and restaurants, it's one of those places that I would've continued to  pass by were it not for yelper Cam T.

Upon entering there's an overwhelming (but not in any way annoying) cuteness to the place. Checkboard table clothes, little wooden seats, richly painted walls. It seems like things end there, but pass through a punk rock pretty neon glow passage way and you'll discover a hidden back patio perfect for a private party or quiet brunch.

Crepes here are divided in Savory and Sweet. But the menu also includes ravioli and boeuf bourguignon. I've yet to have a dish I didn't enjoy (btw nutella and banana is always a great way to end a meal here).

What sets Chez Machin apart is the great service. While I'll still eat at places with crappy service if they have amazing food, there's no such problems here. The lovely and down to earth staff works it out, whatever comes up. Walk in with a large party during a busy time (kind of lame on my part), they make a few moves and voila. Have a picky person in your group who asks ten too many questions? Again not a problem. Want recommendations on how best to enjoy what this cozy eatery has to offer? Consider it done.

Everyone's got their go to spots, when it comes to places I'd take friends or family, this is definitely one of mine. Brunch, lunch, dinner, date, party, whatever, count me in, if it's at Chez Machin I'm there.

Chez Machin
3553 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 736-9381
Monday 11am-close
Tuesday 11am-close
Wednesday 11am-close
Thursday 11am-close
Friday 11am-close
Saturday 9am-close
Sunday 9am-close
Generally close at 9pm on weekdays and 10pm on weekends.

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