The Tasting Kitchen

There are a number of reasons to go to The Tasting Kitchen. Because you want to visit Portland, chef Casey Lane's hometown, without having to visit Portlandia. Because though you can cook effortlessly from Sunday Suppers at Lucques, you also don't mind splurging on somewhat similar fare when it's done exceptionally well.  And, right, because the gorgeous setting, where the olive trees, communal tables and open space make you feel like you've crashed a well-to-do hippie's picnic. The restaurant focuses on a tight menu of seasonal dishes—summer's tomatoes were accentuated by the slightest bit of roasting to bring out their sweetness, and a buttery, succulent branzino presented head-to-tail was showered impeccably with lemons, olives and pine nuts. If you can, sit at the bar—it's tended by some of the most talented and friendliest folks in town. As if you need another reason to go.