They've remodeled, re-vamped and redone their digs up on NW 23rd. One of many McMenamins here in Portland has a very different look since I last visited a few winters ago. Located in the old Campbell which now houses multiple residential condos, it still has that historic and charming look. An apparently popular 23rd hangout is now furnished with simple dark wood benches and stools and a little more light and space.
To set it a part from the other local McMenamins in the Alphabet District, Blue Moon and the Taproom, The Ram's Head has added some new menu items. Particularly aimed towards the healthy vegan yummies. Truffle fries, Coffee-Roasted Duck Carnitas and Dry-Fried Brussels Sprouts have been added as well as a new Curry Seafood Bowl.
The Ezell and I started with some Truffle Fries and the Prawn Wontons. As yummy as those sound- our fries, paired with a black garlic aioli, came a bit on the floppy side. The flavor was still yummy and bold especially with the aioli. Our first round of wontons were presented uncooked and still frozen on the inside. The chef promptly brought out another batch- cooked and crispy and explained that he was training a new cook.
When our Island Friend joined us we enjoyed the brussels sprouts- tangy and delicious, a couple of The Grateful Veg Burger and a Roasted Beet Salad. The burger, a "vegan hemp patty, walnut-pomegranate spread" paired with the oh so magical Cajun Totes, was filling but a bit bland. It did provide another nice meal as leftovers. The highlight of the evening, besides the wonderful company of a girls night!- our handful of hard cider's and brews.
I have never been a fan of McMenamins, except for maybe the movie theaters and Edgefield, and even with this new makeover, the new Ram's Head is nothing to hoot and holler about. A fun place to enjoy during the summer time to kick it with your canines no doubt. But in the end, still a McMenamins in my eyes.
http://www.mcmenamins.com/RamsHead
Tip of the Day: When eating, always be sure to pair with something delicious like a robust cab or a light hoppy brew! Don't waste.
