One of the best ways to experience the seasonal, vegetable-focused menu at Tusk is to order the “Deluxe Edition,” a feast of dishes chosen by the chefs (including some special off-menu items), served family-style and shared by the table. Chef Sam Smith’s kitchen team has always welcomed dietary accommodations (gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc.), and has become a favorite of vegans and omnivorous eaters alike. To kick off 2020 on a plant-based note, Tusk will feature a vegan Deluxe Edition throughout the month of January, and the restaurant will also offer a special non-alcoholic beverage selection to pair with it (fresh-pressed juices and more). The menu is $45 per person, served family-style for the table (omnivores can add meat for $10 additional). Reservations are available at Tuskpdx.com
Sample menu*
Hummus and flatbread
Mezze (cracked olives, vegetables, dukka, pickles)
Squash salad with pears, puffed rice, urfa pepper, pistachios
Greens with crispy quinoa, cider vinegar, pepitas
Beet kibbe
Chickpea curry
Grilled mushrooms, garlic, crispy shallots
Saffron rice
Dessert
* As Tusk’s menu changes daily, this is just an example of what the vegan Deluxe Edition might look like
About Tusk
Tusk’s vegetable-driven, Middle Eastern-inspired menu is the creation of Submarine Hospitality Founders Joshua McFadden and Luke Dirks with Executive Chef/Partner Sam Smith. Smith’s time spent as opening sous chef at Philadelphia’s acclaimed Israeli restaurant Zahav, followed by his years as Chef de Cuisine at Ava Gene’s informs the ever-changing seasonal menus. All vegetables and most flours and grains are sourced directly from local farms Smith has built close relationships with over the years, and the dishes are meant to be shared in a convivial dining atmosphere. All flatbreads are baked in-house. The dessert program, helmed by pastry wiz Nora Mace, along with an inventive cocktail menu, are equally as seasonal. Tusk was named a FOOD & WINE Restaurant of the Year 2017, to Bon Appétit’s 50 Best New Restaurants, and has received praise from The New York Times, PUNCH, Portland Monthly, The Oregonian and others. Tusk is located at 2448 E. Burnside, Portland, Oregon, and open for dinner 7 nights a week, and brunch as well as a weekend happy hour on Saturdays and Sundays.