A taste of New Orleans in the Pacific Northwest. That's what you'll find at this intimate bistro located in the northeastern section of the city. From classic Cajun and Creole favorites like seafood gumbo jambalaya and shrimp Creole, the menu is sure to please. You'll find a mix of meat, pasta and vegetable dishes as well as down home desserts that seem to come right from a homey, Southern kitchen, including bread pudding, butter cake and Creole pecan pie. Visit on Monday's and enjoy special discounts from their Mardi Gras Mondays Cheap Eats Menu. There's no better place to dine mid-day on Sunday's than at Acadia; live jazz music sets an invigorating tone for expectant brunchers.

Set in a renovated home, this coffee shop makes for a great stop-off any time of day. Professionals often drop in for a hot cup of java, while alternative types hang out, grooving to the music and leafing through the selection of magazines. Comfy furniture inside invites lounging, and the deck outside makes for good people-watching and is a great place to enjoy mild weather. To accompany your coffee drink, Anna Banana's also offers baked goods and sandwiches.

At the center of Broadway, you can find some of the best and brightest stars that Portland has to offer. ArtBar sits at the hub of this artistic center, located just inside the Portland Center for Performing Arts building. Schmooze with celebs and famous folks after seeing a show at Arlene Schnitzer Music Hall just down the block, but be sure to make your way there well in advance, because parking options are notoriously slim.

DOWNTOWN. Chang Sim runs this bento joint, which is <i>the</i> place to check out Portland's political powerhouses when they chow down at lunch, having made their escape from offices in City Hall just across the street. Politicos typically favor succulent chicken entrees for around five bucks, and local <i>Oregonian</i> writers often snoop around the place in hopes of catching wind of political spills.

Comfortable and easygoing, this neighborhood cafe makes for a great destination any time of day. Even so, it's well-known for its breakfast fare, and you may wait in line for the privilege of sampling the eggs Benedict. A wealth of great options makes sure any diner is pleased, and you can't go wrong with a plate of airy pancakes or a plentiful helping of scrambled eggs, studded with luscious morsels of whatever's fresh that day. Regular specials also make good alternatives. Located near NW 23rd Avenue, Besaw's simply offers good food in a great atmosphere.