Boulevard Cafe - aka The Crab Bowl
Historic bistro gets facelift, celebrates 20+ years
Since 1986, the Boulevard Cafe, also known as the legendary Crab Bowl, has served the Southwest Portland area. Not only a great selection of well-prepared food and beverages is available here, but a relaxed and friendly environment for neighbors to gather.
Victor Mosso, the genial proprietor of this historic bistro, is celebrating over two decades as the restaurant's "host with the most" by revamping the already impressive menu and remodeling the upstairs bar area with a retro '50s motif. The idea is to breathe new life into this classic landmark establishment with an eye towards the future.
Mosso was bred to fulfill his professional calling. Raised in the tiny Eastern Oregon town of Stansfield, his family owned and lived above the town's dynamic saloon known as the Jesse James Club. The innovative venue was designed to serve the workers building the nearby McNary Dam and boasted a 300-seat capacity showroom that featured high quality traveling acts of the era. A vintage photo shows Mosso's father signing the "amazing $10,000 hat," which had been autographed by many early Hollywood stars. Mosso still collects glossy promotional 8x10s of celebrities that he plans to display in the soon-to-be renovated upstairs lounge to be renamed after his family's glorious former venue.
Currently, the Boulevard Cafe is changing its already wide ranging food fare to accommodate nearly any appetite. Led by main chef "British Dave," who is assisted by the new, 20-year-old "East Coast phenom" cook Colin Evans, Mosso's staff is already creating new offerings as well as revamping some of the classic menu mainstays.
The amazingly fresh seafood is always a good choice, including the ginger-dusted wild sockeye salmon and pan-seared Alaskan halibut. Those seeking traditional fare should enjoy the grilled Black Angus rib-eye steak dinner or perhaps the center-cut bone-in pork chop finished with apple cider reduction. Other flagship items, such as the classic fish & chips, the ever-popular captain's platter and the aptly named "most excellent burger" are joined by an array of pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups, salads and appetizers to complete the plethora of possibilities. Check out the daily specials or the "early riser" breakfasts offered exclusively on Saturday and Sunday mornings starting at 7 a.m.
The renovation of the upstairs bar area has already begun. Retro furnishings, lounge lighting and theatrical decorations, along with displayed vintage photos, posters and other memorabilia will highlight the projected '50s theme. Karaoke is featured seven nights a week, led by alternating hosts Lady Di and KJ Master. Mosso promises to "kick the Karaoke up to exciting new levels" with new song choices, contests and other innovations in the months ahead.
As the weather warms, the adjacent outside patio deck will become a hub of activity. Occasional live music events might also make their way into the summer schedule.
Reasonable prices and friendly service are two more reasons to visit the Boulevard Cafe. Still in its original location at 7958 S.W. Barbur Blvd., this notable eatery is easy to find and worth the trip. The locals will tell you that the "surfs up" and welcome you to the neighborhood.