Photo by Leah Harb

YOUR PERFECT PICNIC
Here are three simple ways to make your alfresco dining even more relaxing and delicious this year.

Find an Oasis
Avoid the crowds at Multnomah Falls and Washington Park and head over to the more secluded Grotto, which has walkways and benches where you can sit and share a quiet lunch. For a romantic vibe, stroll through Hoyt Arboretum on the Holly Trail to a viewpoint where, on a clear day, you can see Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Rainier. And if you want to be surrounded by nature but still get the best views of the city, dine atop a volcano at Mt. Tabor Park.

The Grotto | 8840 NE Skidmore
Hoyt Arboretum | 4000 SW Fairview Blvd.
Mt. Tabor Park | SE 60th & Salmon

Bring a No-Fuss Gourmet Feast
Foster & Dobbs Authentic Foods has just made your life easier (and your relationship stronger) by creating Picnics To Go (above). They pack a backpack with cheeses and salamis, mixed dried fruit and nuts, olives, crackers, chutney and mustard, Two Tarts cookies, and wine glasses. Pick it up, have fun, and drop off the pack when you’re done.

$40 for two, $70 for four | Foster & Dobbs Authentic Foods | 2518 NE 15th Ave. | 503-284-1157

Top It off with a Rosé
This is the time of year when wild-man winemaker John Paul of Cameron Winery releases his subversively titled Vino Pinko with a portrait of Che Guevara on the label. Or, you might have one of last summer’s surprise hits, Elk Cove Vineyards’ Pinot Noir Rosé. These wines are red-hot for summer sipping, both retailing for about $15 a bottle.

Cameron Winery Vino Pinko | Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir Rosé | Available from most Oregon wine retailers

- By Kathleen Bauer of goodstuffnw.blogspot.com