After completing my first loop around the Dine with Design tent, my camera was drawn to Erik Van Kley of Little Bird Bistro and headlining chef Gabriel Rucker (below) of sister restaurant Le Pigeon in Portland, Oregon. Chef Rucker’s unyielding precision and pace was matched by a warm and welcoming banter with anyone waiting for this rich, sweet bite. Perhaps most surprising was the unflappable grace this 2011 James Beard Rising Star Chef award-winner displayed while answering the query, ” So, who’s catering this event?”

Admittedly, I have a bit of fascination with tattoos.

These foie gras profiteroles are so popular you can track them down on your next trip to PDX. I overheard they remain a constant on the dessert menu at Le Pigeon.

If you’re wondering about the title of this blog post, just know that I have been watching a little too much Portlandia.