Gustav’s Bier Stube

• Gustav’s Bier Stube website 

• Location: All over Portland/Vancouver

• Price to fill up two people (minus booze): $25

There are several Gustav’s around, but I prefer the original, ‘way up on Sandy Blvd. on the NE side of town, if you can get in (it’s crowded, but the line moves pretty fast).

This is NOT the place to go if you’re on a diet or vegetarian, and I have a tendency to put on a deerstalker and warble “a-huntin’ we will go” when I see the decor (early Bavarian hunting lodge). But Gustav’s is a great place for hofbrau fare (i.e., roasted and grilled meat of just about any description). It’s also got one of the most affordable happy hour menus in town.

Me, I go there for the red cabbage, which is delicious. Never tried their desserts, but from the looks of them they’ll clog whatever open artery you have left. And, for a change, this European restaurant won’t break your wallet.