Petite Provence Awards

Petite Provence Restaurant Review:

This always-crowded bistro comes into its own at breakfast and lunch and, of course, at Portland's favorite Sunday brunch time. A busy, friendly café vibe prevails, and everyone is very welcoming to young children. Tender croissants and indulgent pastries are appetizing on their own, but the large plates of French-inspired morning treats are generous enough to share. Among these, the most popular choice is the wild Northwest salmon hash bathed with a luscious lemon dill sauce. The runner-up is the ricotta cakes with poached eggs, bacon, asparagus and mushrooms, paired with potatoes and butternut squash. Choose from banana french toast or the "baked eggs a la francaise," which are poached eggs with hash browns, sautéed mushrooms and ham, topped with béchamel sauce. A croissant stuffed with vegetables is an unusual and tasty alternative to a sandwich. Accompany your meal with one of the excellent coffee beverages. Dinnertime is less crowded, and is ideal to gather with friends to share small plates such as charred octopus Provencal, Kobe beef sliders, or chicken in a Champagne-mustard sauce. There is a small yet adequate wine list. When the weather permits, outdoor tables allow watching the fascinating people parade down Alberta Street. Prices are extremely reasonable, but expect a wait on weekends.