The transformation of upscale Noisette into the cozy dinner house that is Le Vieux is finally complete. A wood oven crackles outside the entrance, offering a woodsy aromatic welcome. Inside the gilded interior has been replaced with homey pressed tin ceilings and dark wood details. The side patio has been enclosed with big windows, adding much-needed square footage to the snug space.
And tonight, diners can finally get a taste of what transplant chefs Annette Yang and Brian Leitner have had in store for Portland. Their opening menu features Moroccan touches — think lamb tagine, grilled hangar steak with harissa, and roasted beet salad with cinnamon and yogurt.
The seasonal, rotating, semi-themed menus will change every few weeks, ambling through various Old World Mediterranean cuisines. The next winter menu has a French streak, with dishes like pot au feu, cassoulet, and braised leeks.
They'll be closed tomorrow (Tuesday Dec. 30), since that's usually their day off. Then they'll be back open on Wednesday, even though it's New Year's Eve.
Le Vieux: 1937 NW 23rd Pl.
Hours: Dinner Monday-Thursday 5 p.m. to close, and Friday-Sunday 4 p.m. to close; Brunch Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Closed Tuesdays
