Chef Liz Serrone’s Culinary Favorites in Portland

Portland, Oregon, known for its vibrant food scene and emphasis on local ingredients, has become a culinary haven for food enthusiasts and chefs alike. One prominent figure in this thriving culinary landscape is Chef Liz Serrone, the mastermind behind Gabbiano’s, a popular eatery offering delectable Italian dishes. In 2024, after navigating the challenges of a harsh winter ice storm, Serrone reflects on the successes of her restaurant and shares her favorite spots in the city, including dive bars, farmers markets, and culinary gems that define her Portland experience.

Thriving Amidst Challenges

Despite the tumultuous start to the year, Liz Serrone has found joy in her work at Gabbiano’s. “Even our slow days are busy,” she shares, highlighting the consistent flow of guests eager to enjoy signature dishes like Dungeness crab a la vodka, plate-sized chicken Parmesan, and fried mozzarella shots. The restaurant operates on a no-reservations basis, creating a bustling atmosphere that Serrone has embraced. “We’re getting hit, we’re grinding, we’re always ready for crazy service,” she adds with a smile.

Innovative Culinary Ventures

In April, Serrone expanded her culinary repertoire by crafting the menu for Gabbiano’s sister bar, Take Two, which features a Spaghetti Western theme. “It’s a dotted line to Gabbiano’s, but not a through-line,” she explains, emphasizing her intention to create a distinct dining experience. The menu showcases creative mashups, such as jalapeño popper arancini and pepperoncini-brined chicken wings drizzled with Calabrian chili honey. “I’m really hands-off. I’m back here running this, which is enough,” she says, indicating the trust she has in her team at Take Two.

Home Cooking with a Portland Twist

When it comes to cooking at home, Serrone often chooses to incorporate the fresh, local produce that Portland is renowned for. “I shop at the PSU Farmers Market for the restaurant, then do a lot of my own home shopping there,” she notes. During tomato season, she ensures that tomatoes feature prominently in her culinary creations. “I love cooking with Portland produce. We’re so spoiled with how much good produce we have here,” she adds, showcasing her appreciation for the local agricultural landscape.

Local Farms and Ingredients

Chef Serrone has established partnerships with local farms, such as Wild Roots Farm, which supplies the restaurant with seasonal greens like little gems in the summer and chicories in the winter. “They kill it,” she states enthusiastically. Additionally, Gabbiano’s utilizes padrón peppers from Sunrise Organic Farm, underscoring the chef’s commitment to sourcing ingredients from local producers.

Gastronomic Delights at Farmers Markets

While Serrone admits she typically avoids waiting in long lines, she makes an exception for the famous Enchanted Sun breakfast burritos at the farmers market. “Oh yeah, I am not a line gal, I don’t like lines, but some days I’ll wait in line for Enchanted Sun breakfast burritos,” she confesses, revealing her love for this local delicacy. It’s clear that the farmers market is a treasure trove of culinary delights for the chef.

Craving Comfort Food

After a busy week, Serrone often indulges in her favorite takeout from Cha Ba Thai on Alberta Street. “I love curry and rice,” she says, expressing her fondness for the comforting flavors of Thai cuisine. When it comes to burritos, she has a few go-to spots. “I love the chili relleno burrito from Muchas Gracias. It’s slutty, delicious. I order from La Bonita – old faithful,” she remarks, emphasizing her appreciation for quality takeout that keeps her satisfied after a long day.

Sweet Treats and Late-Night Cravings

When it comes to satisfying her sweet tooth, Serrone gravitates towards ice cream and gelato. “I love going to Cheese and Crack. They’re my favorite for soft serve sundaes,” she shares. The experience of walking to get her ice cream is as rewarding as the treat itself. “The sundaes are epic. I always think I’m gonna be able to finish a whole one and it never happens,” she laughs, highlighting the indulgent nature of her favorite desserts.

As a resident of Portland, Serrone enjoys the local dive bar scene, with Katie O’Brien’s being a neighborhood favorite. “I live a couple blocks away from Katie O’Brien’s. If I’m not quite ready to get into bed, I’ll walk over to Katie O’s,” she explains. The classic cheeseburger from this dive bar has won her heart. “I think it’s because it’s close to me. I’m a cheeseburger guy, I want cheeseburgers a lot,” she adds, showcasing her appreciation for reliable, comforting food.

Restaurants that Resonate with Chef Liz

For Serrone, dining out is not just about the food but also the experience. “Anytime I have friends from out of town, I take them to Kachka. I’d never had food like that before I came to Portland,” she notes. The authenticity and dedication to traditional recipes at Kachka resonate with her culinary philosophy. She also mentions Clyde’s as a go-to spot, where she can count on a consistently great meal in a relaxed environment. “I feel like things haven’t changed there for years. It’s always such a good meal,” she shares, emphasizing her love for places that prioritize quality and tradition.

Conclusion

Chef Liz Serrone embodies the spirit of Portland’s culinary scene through her innovative approach to food, dedication to local ingredients, and appreciation for comforting dining experiences. From bustling restaurants to cozy dive bars, her culinary adventures reflect a deep connection to the community and a commitment to quality. For anyone looking to explore the flavors of Portland, Serrone’s recommendations provide a delicious roadmap through this vibrant city. Whether indulging in a classic cheeseburger or savoring fresh produce from the farmers market, the culinary delights of Portland are sure to leave a lasting impression.