Visit Oregon: Buttercup Ice Creams and Chowders

In the tiny city of Nehalem, about 90 minutes from Portland, is Buttercup Ice Creams and Chowders.  This shop specializes in two foods on opposite ends of the spectrum, but in the same category of comfort foods.

While waiting for our chowder, we saw lots of regulars (one of even gave us chowder recs) in addition to visitors, with equal amounts of guests ordering their homemade ice cream and chowders.

PB&J Ice Cream

The Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream was one of the best I've had in a long time - and probably ever.  It was so creamy, with a delightful peanut butter taste that was not overwhelming, with ribbons of jelly throughout.  Every time I look at the photo I wish I had some to eat! 

NW Clam Chowder

They offer four types of chowders.  We got the NW Clam Chowder, which consisted of clams, bacon, cream, dill, garlic, lemon, Nehalem Bay seasoning, sherry, Yukon Gold potatoes, celery, onions, grilled prepped peppers, and tomato butter.   You can opt to add cod, prawns, or calamari for an additional fee (we added cod). 

It was full of fish and veggies, and I thought the flavors were very balanced.  Although I prefer thicker, creamier chowders, this chowder sure hit the spot on such a chilly and rainy day.  

If you find yourself in the city of Nehalem, stop in at Buttercup Ice Creams and Chowders!

Buttercup Ice Creams and Chowders
35915 N Hwy 101

Nehalem, OR 97131

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Monterey Bay Canners

A couple of weeks ago a friend texted me to see if I was available to meet her for dinner at the last-minute, and she suggested Monterey Bay Canners.  The last time I went to Monterey Bay Canners was almost six years ago (you can read my post here - thank goodness my picture-taking skills have improved!), so I was eager to dine there again.

Complimentary Dinner Rolls

Chicken Caesar Salad

New England Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl

Garlic Cheese Bread

Small New England Clam Chowder

Banana Fritters

We met on a Friday night, and it was very crowded.  Fortunately I made reservations and we were seated right away.

We both opted for clam chowder.  I had the small bowl of chowder, and ordered some garlic bread to share.

The small bowl was actually quite a generous serving.  The bread bowl was just overflowing with chowder!

We both loved the chowder.  It was creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.  The garlic bread was very garlicky and cheesy - simply delicious!

Even though my friend and I were quite full from the chowder, we couldn't pass up dessert.

The banana fritters were served with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and a chocolate drizzle.  The bananas fritters were fried up perfectly - they were not oily, just crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.  The slightly crunchy bananas paired perfectly with the vanilla ice cream!

Our server was very friendly, but service was slow at times - I'm assuming because of how crowded it was.

However, my friend and I were both happy with our meals, and I will hopefully revisit Monterey's with the family soon!

Monterey Bay Canners
98-1005 Moanalua Rd

Aiea, HI 96701
(808) 483-3555

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