As I strolled through the streets of Portland, my senses were immediately captivated by the city’s vibrant energy. This wasn’t my first time in the city, but every visit feels like uncovering a new layer of its eclectic charm. My destination this time? Wine and Growl, a local favorite that had been whispered about among craft beverage enthusiasts.
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, Wine and Growl doesn’t boast a flashy exterior. Instead, it beckons with an understated elegance, a promise of something truly special inside. The moment I walked in, the atmosphere embraced me—a cozy warmth that felt like coming home after a long journey. Wooden tables, dim lighting, and shelves lined with bottles that seemed to tell stories of their own. This place wasn’t just about drinking; it was about savoring every drop.
The Heart of Wine and Growl: The Craft Beverage Selection
The selection at Wine and Growl is nothing short of impressive. As someone who appreciates the nuances of a well-crafted drink, I was eager to dive into their offerings. The staff, knowledgeable and passionate, guided me through the menu. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a beer aficionado, there’s something here to delight your palate.
I started with a glass of their featured red wine—a Pinot Noir from a local vineyard. It was smooth, with hints of cherry and a subtle earthiness that lingered on my tongue. The wine was perfectly balanced, a testament to the care taken in its selection. Next, I decided to explore their craft beer options. Wine and Growl isn’t just about wine, after all. Their rotating taps offer a curated selection of local brews, each with its own distinct character. I opted for a pale ale that was crisp, refreshing, and had just the right amount of hoppy bitterness.
The Pairing Experience: Elevated Pub Fare
But what’s a good drink without something to pair it with? The food at Wine and Growl is a revelation. Their menu, though concise, is thoughtfully crafted to complement the beverages. I couldn’t resist trying their charcuterie board—an assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and pickled vegetables that was as visually stunning as it was delicious. The saltiness of the meats and the creaminess of the cheeses played perfectly against the acidity of the wine.
For my main course, I was served Spicy Chicken Meatballs, a dish that immediately caught my eye. These weren’t just any meatballs; they were a delightful fusion of flavors. The meatballs, springy and tender, were bathed in a Spicy Tomato Curry Sauce that packed just the right amount of heat. The sauce was rich and aromatic, with spices that transported me straight to a vibrant Asian market. Topping it off was a dollop of Lemon Yogurt that added a refreshing tang, balancing the spice beautifully. Crispy Fried Onions were sprinkled generously over the top, adding a satisfying crunch with every bite. It was an unexpected and delightful twist to my evening, a dish that perfectly exemplified the creative culinary spirit of Wine and Growl.
A Taste to Take Home: Spicy Chicken Meatballs Recipe
After enjoying this dish at Wine and Growl, I couldn’t resist the urge to recreate it at home. The combination of flavors was too good not to share, so here’s a recipe that captures the essence of those Spicy Chicken Meatballs. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.
Zesty Chicken Meatballs
Get ready to wow your guests with these Zesty Chicken Meatballs! Perfect for game day or any gathering, these baked delights are packed with flavor and paired with a tangy buffalo ranch dipping sauce. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these meatballs will be the star of your appetizer spread. Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleaser!
4
meatballs15
minutes30
minutes320
kcal45
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Chicken Meatballs
1 pound ground chicken
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
3/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
3 tbsp honey
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Buffalo Ranch Dipping Sauce
1/4 cup ranch dressing
2 tbsp buffalo wing sauce (such as Moore’s or Frank’s)
2 tbsp honey
- Alternative Ingredients:
Ground Turkey replaces ground chicken
Maple Syrup replaces honey
White Vinegar replaces apple cider vinegar
Greek Yogurt Ranch replaces regular ranch dressing
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top if available. Lightly coat the rack or foil with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all spices are well incorporated into the chicken mixture.
- Shape the seasoned chicken mixture into small balls and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Continue until all the mixture is used up.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
- While the meatballs are baking, mix together honey and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until well combined.
- After the initial baking time, remove the meatballs from the oven and generously brush each one with the honey-vinegar glaze.
- Return the glazed meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until fully cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, combine ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and honey. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Transfer the baked meatballs to a serving platter and serve with the prepared buffalo ranch dipping sauce.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- aluminum foil
- wire rack
- Mixing Bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 2mg
A Community Hub
What struck me most about Wine and Growl was the sense of community. This wasn’t just a place to grab a drink; it was a gathering spot for locals who appreciate good food, good drink, and good company. As the evening progressed, the room filled with laughter and conversation. People from all walks of life came together, united by a shared love for the finer things in life.
I chatted with a couple who had been regulars since the place opened. They told me how Wine and Growl had become their go-to spot for date nights and how they loved introducing friends to its charm. It’s easy to see why—there’s a welcoming, unpretentious vibe here that makes you feel like you’re part of something special.
Final Thoughts
As I left Wine and Growl that night, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. In a city brimming with culinary hotspots, this place stands out not just for its exceptional drinks and food, but for the experience it offers. Wine and Growl is a love letter to Portland’s craft beverage scene, a place where every sip, every bite, and every moment is meant to be savored. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s a spot that’s well worth your time. I know I’ll be back—there’s still so much more to explore.
