Add spice, eat Montage

Quite a few Lewis & Clark students are familiar with Montage, the quirky Cajun-themed restaurant located under the East side of the Morrison Bridge. But, having recently rekindled my love for this amazing eatery, I’ve decided to inform all of you who have yet to experience Montage. In possibly the creepiest location in Portland lies one of the most popular and highly-rated restaurants the city has to offer.

On my latest journey under the bridge, I was introducing my two favorite Scots to an amazing tradition in restaurants and other establishments across Portland: Making your patrons feel awkward. To conserve space, you are usually seated next to complete strangers on long tables. And if you’re looking for a nice quiet place for romantic conversation, this is not the joint for you, because the room is extremely acoustic, and the waiters sporadically scream out orders for oysters. You’ll also be treated to carefree waiters spilling water all over your table.

All of this is part of the charm of Montage.

The most popular dishes are most likely the many varieties of Mac and Cheese they offer, including Spicy Mac, Old Mac, and my favorite, Spold Mac. Other excellent options include traditional jambalaya, and Cajun treats like Alligator meat and Frogs’ Legs (expensive, but I recommend them). Every time I visit Montage, I make sure to order one of my favorite Southern treats: Cornbread. There aren’t too many places in Portland that serve high-quality cornbread.

For those of you who are 21 and over, I recommend checking out the new Lounge next door to the restaurant. The room is a bit quieter, and you can still order dinner there. Plus, there’s BOOZE!  Definitely try one (several) of their incredible cocktails, my ultimate personal favorite being the Cucumber Limeade, a drink my friends and I have struggled and failed to recreate at home.

After dinner, make sure to check out some of the excellent desserts. But, as some of my friends will argue, the best part of dinner at Montage comes after you eat. If there are any leftovers that you want to take home with you, your waiter or waitress will gladly wrap it up in the shape of various animals, kitchen appliances, and even drug paraphernalia. On my most recent visit, I received my very own tin foil and macaroni bong. You cannot imagine the joy I felt!

Though the trek over (and under) the bridge may be a bit difficult for those without cars, it’s definitely worth it.

Montage is located under the Morrison Bridge on SE 3rd Ave. They are open for dinner from 6pm-2am on weekdays, and 6pm-4am on weekends.