Looking for the perfect weekend spot to unwind and indulge? As a small business owner constantly on the go, I cherish weekends for relaxation, family time, and exploring new culinary experiences. Join me as I embark on a gastronomic journey, sharing my favorite restaurant finds. Today, we’re diving into the vibrant Portland food scene, starting with a standout destination: Ecliptic Brewing.
Over the past decade, I’ve explored countless restaurants, sharing my experiences across various posts. But now, I’m dedicating Saturdays to these culinary adventures. Weekends are for leisurely exploration, savoring long lunches and dinners, and discovering hidden gems like Ecliptic Brewing. If you’re seeking a place to enjoy delicious food, excellent beer, and great company, look no further.
Ecliptic Brewing: Where Craft Beer Meets Culinary Excellence
I previously featured Ecliptic Brewing in my article for TravelAge West on Family-Friendly Breweries in Portland. It’s a truly special place that deserves a dedicated spotlight.
Located in North Portland’s trendy Mississippi arts and shopping district, Ecliptic Brewing opened its doors in 2013. It’s the brainchild of John Harris, a revered figure in Oregon’s brewing industry with a distinguished career at McMenamins, Deschutes, and Full Sail.
Ecliptic Brewing is more than just a brewery; it’s a celebration of Harris’s two passions: exceptional craft beer and the wonders of astronomy. The brewery’s decor and beer names subtly reference astronomical themes, creating a unique and engaging atmosphere.
The brewery boasts a spacious, light-filled industrial setting, thoughtfully divided into a bar area and a larger section that caters to families. Outdoor seating is also available, welcoming furry companions.
Beyond the 14 Ecliptic beers on tap, the bar offers a tempting selection of inventive cocktails. During a recent visit, I had the pleasure of trying the Pine Flip, a creative concoction aptly named for its ingredients and the bartender’s impressive shaking skills.
PINE FLIP: Douglas Fir Brandy, egg white, agave, Pollux Imperial IPA
The Outstanding Brewery Menu: Beyond Traditional Pub Grub
What truly sets Ecliptic apart from other Portland craft breweries is its exceptional food menu. While the beer is undoubtedly superb, the cuisine goes far beyond typical pub fare. Ecliptic offers a diverse and innovative menu that complements its impressive beer selection, making it a standout dining destination.
Note: Ecliptic’s menu changes regularly to showcase the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. While some dishes featured here may not be available during your visit, this provides a glimpse into the culinary delights you can expect.
I highly recommend starting with the steamed mussels ($13). The tomato-garlic broth harmonizes beautifully with the mussels, creating a rich and flavorful broth perfect for dipping the accompanying grilled bruschetta.
While Ecliptic often features a Romaine salad, I was particularly captivated by the endive salad on this occasion. The combination of Asian pears, camembert toast, and maple-mustard vinaigrette created a delightful symphony of flavors.
The Fried Green Tomato, topped with bay shrimp and dill, was another standout dish. I’ve been dreaming about recreating this at home ever since! The well-seasoned bay shrimp and dill topping perfectly complement the crispy fried tomato.
The Pan-Roasted Chicken dish, which often features seasonal variations, was another highlight. On this visit, it was served with a delightful combination of corn, zucchini, cojita cheese, and a vibrant red pepper vinaigrette. The chicken skin was beautifully crisped, and the meat was tender and flavorful.
The Red-Wine Braised Brisket was a rich and satisfying dish, accompanied by savoy cabbage and pickled rutabaga. It’s elevated comfort food at its finest.
However, I’ve saved the best for last. The Sweet and Spicy Drumsticks with chicken confit and celery salad ($9) were an absolute showstopper! They tasted as sticky, sweet, and delicious as they looked. A must-try appetizer that will leave you wanting more.
Is There a Kids Menu at Ecliptic Brewing?
Yes! Ecliptic Brewing offers a dedicated kids menu with familiar favorites like burgers and fries, as well as more adventurous options like trout sticks and finger steaks.
Dessert at Ecliptic Brewing: Don’t Miss the Churros!
For dessert, I wholeheartedly recommend the churros. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly sweet, they’re the perfect ending to a delightful meal.
The Beer: A Stellar Selection
Of course, no visit to Ecliptic Brewing is complete without sampling their impressive selection of beers. With 14 beers currently available, ranging from pale ales to ESBs to stouts and even a sparkling ale, there’s something to suit every palate.
My personal favorite is the Phobos Extra Red Ale. This rich red ale is crafted from eight different malts, giving it a smooth caramel flavor. It’s named after the Martian moon that orbits the red planet!
This is an accessible red ale that pairs well with almost anything on the Ecliptic menu. I speak from personal experience!
If you prefer a classic Pacific Northwest ale, I recommend the Pyrocon Pale Ale. It’s the most approachable beer on their menu, making it a great choice for a casual beer session without a full meal.
Plan Your Visit to Ecliptic Brewing
Address: 825 North Cook Street, Portland, Oregon 97227
Phone: 503-265-8002
Hours:
Sun – Thurs: 11am – 10pm
Fri – Sat: 11am – 11pm
Explore More Portland, Oregon Restaurants:
- Olympia Provisions – Portland Charcuterie Restaurant
- Farmhouse Kitchen – Portland Thai Restaurant
- Canard Restaurant – French Bistro in Portland, Oregon
- Departure Restaurant – Asian-Fusion Downtown Portland Restaurant