In idler times, I used to keep a running list of new Portland restaurants I hoped might open one day. An Indonesian option or two. More and more interesting dim sum. A casual alternative from the excellent, expensive, exclusive Japanese chef’s counter Nodoguro. I longed to see what “Top Chef” finalist Gregory Gourdet might come up with on his own, free from the corporate vibe at downtown’s Departure.
And I wondered whether Han Oak might one day take over the Clyde Common space, seeing as chef Peter Cho’s biggest claim to fame before moving to Portland was running the kitchen at another Ace Hotel restaurant, New York City’s The Breslin.